Quick connector with locking clip

Abstract

The invention relates to a quick connector (10) for connecting fluid lines, comprising a housing (30) with a main passage (32) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) and an outer surface, a holder (34) which is attached in the region of a head section (35) of the housing (30) and is supported by the housing (30), wherein the holder (34) has a locking device configured to establish a secure connection between a connecting nozzle (60) which can be inserted axially (A) into the main passage (32) of the housing (30) and the quick connector (10), wherein the locking device comprises a first locking element (31) and a second locking element (33), wherein the second locking element (33) has an open position (P1) and a closed position (P2),wherein the second locking element (33) is moved from the open position (P1) to the closed position (P2) by inserting a connecting piece (60) into the main passage (32) and engages in the closed position (P2) when the connecting piece (60) is inserted and connected to the locking device of the holder (34). According to the invention, the holder (34) comprises a locking clip (20, 40) configured to form at least one camera control area (X) displaced axially (A) from the head section (35), wherein the locking clip (20, 40) has at least one visual information (27, 47) suitable for automatic camera control and is arranged in the camera control area (X) displaced axially to the head section (35), wherein the at least one visual information (27, 47) is only fully detectable in the axially displaced camera control area (X) ifwhen the connecting piece (60) is properly connected to the locking device and the second locking element (33) is in the closed position (P2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a quick connector for connecting fluid lines according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Quick connectors, also known as QCs, are specialized connectors widely used in industries such as automotive. Their primary purpose is to quickly and securely connect fluid lines (such as fuel, oil, coolant, or air lines). These quick connectors can be used, for example, to create changes in the direction of fluid flow within fluid lines or to link different systems together.

[0003] In the prior art, mounting brackets with locking mechanisms for such quick connectors are known, which can securely connect fluid lines or connection fittings of fluid lines and are supported by a housing of the quick connector. For this purpose, the mounting brackets are generally attached to the housing of the quick connector in the area of ​​a head section. Due to the design, the head section has a larger outer diameter than other parts of the quick connector.

[0004] Furthermore, safety clips or clamp arms are known in the prior art for verifying the proper connection using visual or manual inspection methods within a camera inspection area. For this purpose, a data matrix can be positioned, for example, on the housing head section or directly on a locking element (e.g., a slider). This data matrix is ​​only visible for visual inspection within the camera inspection area if the connecting piece that can be inserted into the quick connector is properly inserted and connected. Otherwise, the data matrix may be partially obscured by the clamp arms or inspection arms, thus indicating an "improper" connection of a connecting piece.

[0005] WO 2022 / 169797 A1, for example, concerns such a quick connector for joining fluid lines. The described quick connector is used to connect fluid lines in vehicles, as well as in industrial manufacturing, aircraft, shipping, and agriculture, and features a data matrix for performing the camera inspection described above to ensure a proper connection. The fluid line quick connector also has a holder with a primary and a secondary locking mechanism. The described data matrix can, for example, be in the form of a quick-response code (QR code). When the secondary locking mechanism is in the open position, the data matrix is ​​partially or completely obscured.When the secondary locking mechanism is in the closed position, partial or complete obstruction is not present and the data matrix can be properly detected in the camera control area created in the head section.

[0006] However, such established systems often have limitations, particularly regarding automation, visibility, and connection integrity. In particular, the poor visibility of the visual information or data matrix and the control areas hinders the use of automated camera inspection systems. A significant disadvantage is that both the clamping elements and the visual information for visual inspection are all located directly on or in close proximity to the head section of the quick connector housing. This prevents the head section from being captured, for example, as a reference element during automated camera inspection.Detecting the head section of the housing can be crucial for reliable inspection and data acquisition, as this section typically protrudes more noticeably than the rest of the housing due to its larger diameter. Obscuring this area with other elements unfortunately hinders the camera's ability to detect the data matrix. Simultaneously, capturing the head section can provide information about the quick connector's spatial orientation. Furthermore, positioning the camera's inspection area and the data matrix within this head section is inconvenient because this area is often obscured by other cables and components (for example, in a vehicle's engine compartment), which can interfere with visual inspection.

[0007] The object of the invention is to overcome these and other disadvantages of the prior art and to provide an improved quick connector with a locking clip that enables simple and reliable visual inspection of the connection. The quick connector is intended to be particularly suitable for automated camera inspection systems and to facilitate simplified testing with such systems.

[0008] The main features of the invention are specified in the characterizing part of claim 1. Embodiments are the subject of further claims 2 to 18.

[0009] In a quick connector for connecting fluid lines, comprising a housing with a main passage extending along a longitudinal axis and an outer surface, a bracket which is attached in the region of a head section of the housing and is supported by the housing, wherein the bracket has a locking device configured to establish a secure connection between a connecting piece that can be inserted axially into the main passage of the housing and the quick connector, wherein the locking device comprises a first locking element and a second locking element, wherein the second locking element has an open position and a closed position, wherein the second locking element is moved from the open position to the closed position by the insertion of a connecting piece into the main passage and engages in the closed position,When the connecting piece is inserted and connected to the locking device of the bracket, the invention provides that the bracket includes a locking clip configured to form at least one camera control area axially displaced from the head section, wherein the locking clip has at least one visual indicator suitable for automatic camera control and is arranged in the camera control area axially displaced from the head section, wherein the at least one visual indicator is only fully detectable in the axially displaced camera control area if the connecting piece is properly connected to the locking device and the second locking element is in the closed position.

[0010] The invention is characterized in particular by the special locking clamp, which ensures axial spacing between the camera inspection areas and the head section of the quick connector. The axial displacement provided by the locking clamp according to the invention advantageously ensures a sufficiently large distance to the head section to improve visual inspection. At the same time, the visual information can also be spaced radially from the housing, rather than being arranged directly on the outer surface of the housing as in the prior art. This allows for further improvement of the camera inspection. Overall, this design enables more precise visual inspection by automated camera systems, since the inspection area and the visual information are positioned independently of mechanical influences and obscuring elements in the insertion area and head section area, respectively.This improves operational reliability, as full visibility of the visual information is only guaranteed when the connection nozzle is properly connected to the locking device. At the same time, the head section of the housing, which is generally larger than other sections, is advantageously easily detectable during automated camera inspections.

[0011] The locking clip is a mechanical component that can preferably be formed either separately or integrally with the mounting. The locking clip serves to provide at least one camera control area and at least one piece of visual information within that area in a position sufficiently axially offset from the head section. It has at least one structure suitable for displaying or providing visual information and can move synchronously with the movement of the second locking element between an open and a closed position. The locking clip can, for example, be made of plastic.

[0012] The camera monitoring area is a region essentially defined by the locking clip and its visual information, and can be captured by one or more camera positions. This area is axially offset from the head section of the housing and, at this offset position, forms a visual cover with an angle or viewing angle for a camera circumferentially around the quick connector housing.

[0013] Visual information is defined as an optically recognizable feature provided within the camera control area(s). It can be formed, for example, by color markings, geometric patterns, machine-readable codes such as QR codes, or data matrices, and serves for the automated verification of the connection status.

[0014] The axial displacement refers to the positioning of the camera control areas along the longitudinal axis of the housing in a direction away from the head section of the housing, so that the control areas are outside the immediate insertion area of ​​the locking device of the bracket in order to improve the visual inspection capability.

[0015] A connection is considered "proper" within the meaning of the invention if the connecting nozzle of the fluid line to be connected to the quick connector is fully inserted into the main passage, the second locking element is securely engaged in the closed position, and the visual information is fully visible in the provided camera control areas.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the locking clamp can form at least two camera inspection areas axially offset from the head section, wherein the locking clamp can provide at least one visual indicator for each camera inspection area, thus enabling visual inspection for a secure connection between the connector and the quick connector from at least two camera positions. Providing at least two axially offset camera inspection areas by means of the locking clamp advantageously allows simultaneous inspection from different viewing angles, ensuring the integrity of the connection. This multiple inspection can reduce the risk of detection errors and facilitate integration into automated production lines, as cameras can be positioned more flexibly.

[0017] Preferably, the at least two camera inspection areas, which are axially displaced from the head section, can be arranged in a mirror-image configuration opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis. This mirror-image arrangement of the camera inspection areas relative to the longitudinal axis ensures symmetrical and uniform coverage of the visual inspection areas. This improves camera inspection, as blind spots are minimized and inspection areas can be used optimally. Preferably, the locking clamp can be designed to enable a visual inspection for proper connection by providing at least one visual indicator in both mirror-image camera inspection areas.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one or at least two camera inspection areas axially displaced from the head section can each have a viewing angle of at least 130° to 150°, in particular at least 140°, wherein the camera inspection areas and the viewing angles can be formed circumferentially around the housing. This results in a total viewing angle of approximately 280° for camera inspection. The specification of a viewing angle of at least 130° to 150°, in particular approximately 140°, ensures broad coverage of the visual information, which increases the probability of error-free detection by cameras. The possibility of designing this angle circumferentially around the housing simultaneously optimizes visibility even in spatially restricted mounting situations.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one or at least two visual pieces of information on the safety clip can be designed to be captured simultaneously from at least two camera positions. Simultaneous capture of visual information from at least two camera positions ensures redundant inspection, further increasing the reliability of the automated inspection. This can be particularly valuable in applications where the consequences of errors could be critical.

[0020] According to another preferred embodiment, the locking clip can be provided as a separate component attached to the quick-connect bracket, with the locking clip moving between the two positions along with the second locking element. The locking clip as a separate component offers advantages in terms of manufacturing and assembly flexibility. It can be manufactured independently of the bracket and integrated later. Its movement with the second locking element ensures that the visual information is also "moved" between the open and closed positions, indicating a proper connection within the camera's field of view.

[0021] Preferably, the locking clip and the second locking element of the holder can have complementary connection structures to create a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection between the second locking element and the locking clip. The complementary connection structures between the locking clip and the locking element ensure a secure, easy-to-implement, and cost-effective mechanical connection. The connection structures can preferably be formed by corresponding longitudinal grooves on both elements.

[0022] In a further alternative preferred embodiment, the locking clip can be formed integrally with the quick-connect holder, wherein the locking clip is formed on the second locking element and can move with the second locking element between the two positions. The integral formation of the locking clip with the holder reduces the number of components and thus the manufacturing and assembly costs. At the same time, the risk of connection defects is minimized, since the one-piece design eliminates fewer potential sources of error. Preferably, the locking clip can be formed integrally with the holder and made of the same material. For example, the holder and locking clip can be made of one polymer or, alternatively, comprise two different polymers with different elastic properties and stiffnesses.It is advantageous for certain sections of the locking clip to be spring-loaded or flexible in order to provide visual information, for example by springing certain elements out, when moving from the open position to the closed position.

[0023] Preferably, the movement of the locking clip and the second locking element can be a perpendicular movement to the longitudinal axis.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment, the retaining clip and the holder can be designed such that the retaining clip can be automatically assembled in an OEM process. In its disassembled, as-delivered state, the retaining clip is in the open position, and in its assembled state, it can be in the closed position after the insertion of a connecting piece. Automating the assembly of the retaining clip in the OEM process increases efficiency and advantageously reduces production costs. The defined positioning in both the disassembled and assembled states simplifies assembly and reduces the effort required in final production. During the process, the retaining clip only needs to be moved from the open to the closed position by inserting a connecting piece.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment, the locking clip can have at least one axially extending longitudinal arm, preferably two opposing axially extending longitudinal arms, to enable the axial displacement of the camera monitoring area and the visual information from the head section of the housing. The locking clip can have a base body that is form-fitting to the outer geometry of the second locking element and that can form the longitudinal arms. The longitudinal arms of the locking clip allow for targeted axial displacement of the monitoring areas. This facilitates the integration of the monitoring areas into existing production lines and significantly improves the visibility of the visual information because the base body can be mounted on and fixed to the second locking element.In this embodiment, the base body, fixed to the second locking element, ensures that the entire locking clip can move synchronously from the open to the closed position of the second locking element. The form-fitting base body also increases assembly accuracy. Preferably, the opposing longitudinal arms can be formed directly on the sides of the locking clip at the level of the base body and extend directly from the base body in the axial direction, such that the head section remains freely detectable. This can lead to a significant reduction in the susceptibility to errors during visual information acquisition and visual inspection, because the freely detectable head section can be captured and used during automated camera inspection.Preferably, the axial displacement provided by the retaining clip can be many times greater than the axial extension of the outer surface of the head section.

[0026] Preferably, the locking clamp can have at least one control arm extending substantially in the radial direction, and preferably two radially extending and opposing control arms, through which visual information can be provided to the camera control areas, the control arms being formed at the end regions of the longitudinal arms. The radial control arms provide precise visual information that is easily detectable by cameras. Their symmetrical arrangement minimizes blind spots and enables comprehensive monitoring from various camera positions.

[0027] Preferably, two opposing radial control arms can be arranged axially spaced from the head section on the longitudinal arms of the locking clip, each of which can have a half-bridge. In the open position, the half-bridges of the control arms can be almost abutting each other, while in the closed position they can be spaced apart at a predefined reference distance. Preferably, the half-bridges can extend from the radial control arms at an angle towards the longitudinal axis to almost abut each other in the open position. The half-bridges of the control arms are mechanically robust and provide clear visual information in the closed position. This method is simple yet effective, optimizing both manufacturing and functionality.Furthermore, mirror-image camera control areas are easy to implement because the displacement of the control arms and half-bridges during the movement from the open to the closed position is easily detectable in both mirror-image opposite areas, provided that the visual information is arranged sufficiently far axially and / or radially from the housing or head section.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one visual indicator of the locking clip can be formed by the spacing of the half-bridges of the control arms in the closed position. The control arms can be flexibly designed and arranged on the longitudinal arms such that they rest against the outer surface of the housing in the open position and can be moved apart by moving the locking clip into the closed position to form the spacing to be detected by the camera. The flexible design of the half-bridges and / or control arms allows for precise control of the visibility of the visual information.This increases the reliability of the control and ensures that the function of the safety clamp and its individual elements is guaranteed even under load, for example by spreading control arms apart to provide a predefined spacing as visual information.

[0029] Preferably, two opposing control arms can be arranged axially spaced from the head section on the longitudinal arms of the locking clip, each of which may have a recess. In the open position, the recesses of the control arms are located outside a predefined reference area, and in the closed position, they move into the predefined reference area and may remain within it. The recesses in the control arms thus advantageously provide a precise means of monitoring the closed position. The unambiguous positioning within a reference area facilitates the automation of visual inspection. The recesses move with the control arms of the locking clip and therefore function as a visual reference that can indicate whether the clip is in the open or closed position.

[0030] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one visual indicator of the locking clip can be formed by the positioning of the recesses of the control arms within the respective reference area. The control arms can have reinforcements that are form-fitting to the outer surface of the housing and can bear against the outer surface of the housing in both the open and closed positions. As the locking clip moves from the open to the closed position, these reinforcements act as end stops, precisely positioning the recesses within the reference areas to be detected by the camera. The reinforcements of the control arms ensure stable guidance of the locking clip and simultaneously prevent mechanical damage. This results in stable end stops for both positions (open and closed).This increases the durability of the quick connector while ensuring that the visual information is positioned precisely.

[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment, the housing can have at least one additional visual information element, preferably two additional visual information elements, positioned axially relative to the head section, wherein each of these additional visual information elements can be formed by a data matrix, in particular by a QR code. The additional visual information, such as QR codes, extends the functionality of visual inspection to include digital capabilities. This data is particularly useful, for example, for traceability and quality assurance in networked manufacturing systems.

[0032] Preferably, the at least one additional visual indicator can be arranged on the outer surface of the housing in the area of ​​the spacing of the half-bridges such that the half-bridges of the control arms of the locking clip can at least partially obscure the at least one additional visual indicator when the second locking element and the locking clip are in the open position. The half-bridges and control arms can move and completely remove the at least partial obscuration when the second locking element and the locking clip are moved to the closed position. The half-bridges and / or control arms, which obscure the visual indicator in the open position and reveal it in the closed position, ensure reliable safety monitoring. This allows for a clear distinction between the open and closed positions.

[0033] According to a further preferred embodiment, a bridge element can be arranged adjacent to the control arms, wherein the bridge element can be arranged at the ends of the longitudinal arms, such that the bridge element connects the ends of the longitudinal arms together and the control arms are arranged axially adjacent to the bridge element.

[0034] Preferably, the control arms can have guide elements facing the housing in order to contact the housing via a reduced contact area during movement between positions and to achieve improved sliding guidance.

[0035] Furthermore preferably, a ring element can be formed on the base body of the second locking element, which is essentially form-fitted to an annular end face of the head section and comes into contact with this annular surface in the closed position.

[0036] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one additional visual indicator, preferably the two additional visual indicators, can each be arranged on the outer surface of the housing within the reference area for positioning the recesses such that the control arms of the locking clip can at least partially obscure the additional visual indicators when the second locking element and the locking clip are in the open position. The control arms of the locking clip can then move and completely remove the at least partial obscuration of the additional visual indicators when the second locking element and the locking clip are moved to the closed position. Positioning the visual indicators within the recesses provides additional security and facilitates visual inspection, particularly in the closed position.This optimizes the function of the control arms and minimizes the risk of misinterpretations. The cutouts can be square, and the additional visual information, preferably the QR code, can be printed on a complementary image area to the square cutouts, so that the QR code is only visible when the locking clip is in the closed position and otherwise remains at least partially obscured by the control arms.

[0037] Preferably, the visual information can have fluorescent properties to improve recognition even in poor lighting conditions.

[0038] Preferably, the retaining clip can be made of a temperature- and corrosion-resistant material.

[0039] Preferably, the visual information and / or the image surface serving for further information can be structured in such a way that they can be highlighted by an external lighting system.

[0040] Even more preferably, the visual information and / or the image area for further visual information can contain optical filters to reduce unwanted reflections.

[0041] Further features, details and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the wording of the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic exploded view of a quick connector according to the invention with a first embodiment of a locking clip; Fig. 2a a schematic representation of the in Fig. 1. The locking clip shown is in an open position on the quick connector; Fig. 2b a schematic representation of the in Fig. 1. The locking clip shown is in a closed position on the quick connector; Fig. 3a a detailed view of one through the in Fig. 1 shown safety clip created camera control area; Fig. 3b a schematic representation of two mirror-image camera control areas stretched opposite each other on the quick connector; Fig. 4 a schematic exploded view of a further second embodiment of a quick connector according to the invention; Fig. 5a a schematic representation of the in Fig. 4 locking clips shown in an open position on the quick connector; Fig. 5b a schematic representation of the in Fig. 4 locking clips shown in a closed position on the quick connector; Fig. 6a a detailed view of one through the in Fig. 4 shown safety clip created camera control area; Fig. 6b a schematic representation of two mirror-image camera control areas stretched opposite each other on the quick connector; Fig. 6c a schematic front view of the in Fig. 4 shown safety clamp and two mirror-image camera control areas with identical viewing angles mounted on the quick connector; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of the in Fig. 4 shown safety clip and further visual information (QR code) on the housing in an open position (top) and closed position (bottom) on the quick connector.

[0042] The generally in Fig. 1 and Fig. Four quick connectors, designated 10, are equipped with a housing 30 that has a main passage 32 along a longitudinal axis L. The housing 30 carries a bracket 34 which is attached in the area of ​​a head section 35 of the housing 30.

[0043] The bracket 34 is equipped with a locking device which provides a secure and proper connection between a connection nozzle 60 of a fluid line and the quick connector 10.

[0044] The locking device comprises a first locking element 31 and a second locking element 33, wherein the second locking element 33 is moved from an open position P1 to a closed position P2 by the insertion of the connecting nozzle 60 and engages in the closed position P2.

[0045] The bracket 34 includes a special locking clamp 20, 40 which forms at least one camera control area X offset in the axial direction A from the head section 35. The locking clamp 20, 40 has at least one visual indicator 27, 47 located in the camera control area X and suitable for automatic camera control. The visual indicator 27 is only fully detectable if the connecting piece 60 is properly connected to the locking device of the bracket 34 and the second locking element 33 is in the closed position P2.

[0046] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate a first embodiment of a retaining clip 20 of the quick connector 10 according to the invention, whereas Figures 4 to 7 show a further second embodiment of a retaining clip 40 of the quick connector 10 according to the invention. Where expedient, individual features of the retaining clip 20 can be applied to the retaining clip 40, and vice versa.

[0047] The retaining clip 20, 40 can form at least two camera control areas X displaced in the axial direction A from the head section 35 (see in particular Fig. 3b). The locking clamp 20, 40 can have at least one visual information 27, 47 for each camera control area X, thereby enabling visual inspection for a secure or proper connection between the connector 60 and the quick connector 10 from at least two camera positions (see Fig. 3a).

[0048] The at least two camera control areas X can be arranged opposite each other in a mirror image with respect to the longitudinal axis L (see below). Fig. 3b). The at least two visual pieces of information 27, 47 of the safety clip 20 can be designed so that they can be captured by at least two camera positions simultaneously.

[0049] The locking clip 20, 40 can be provided as a separate component, which is attached to the bracket 34 of the quick connector 10. The locking clip 20, 40 can move with the second locking element 33 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L between the two positions P1 and P2.

[0050] The retaining clip 20, 40 and the second locking element 33 can be used as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 shown complementary connection structures 29, 49 and 39 to create a form-fit and force-fit connection between the second locking element 33 and the locking clip 20, 40.

[0051] Alternatively, the locking clip 20, 40 can be formed integrally with the holder 34 of the quick connector 10. It can be formed directly on the second locking element 33 and move with the second locking element 33 between positions P1 and P2.

[0052] The locking clips 20, 40 shown can be automatically assembled in an OEM process. In their disassembled delivery state, they can be in the open position P1, and after the insertion of a connecting piece 60, in the assembled state, they can be in the closed position P2 (see figure). Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b and Fig. 5a, Fig. 5b).

[0053] How to find out, especially in Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 detects, the locking clamp 20, 40 can have at least one longitudinal arm 23, 43 extending in the axial direction A, preferably two opposing longitudinal arms 23, 43. These longitudinal arms 23, 43 can implement the axial displacement or removal of the camera control areas X and the visual information 27, 47 from the head section 35 of the housing 30. The locking clamp 20, 40 can further comprise a base body 22, 42 on which the longitudinal arms 23, 43 can be formed.

[0054] The locking clamp 20, 40 can have at least one control arm 28, 41 extending in the radial direction R, preferably two opposing control arms 28, 41. These control arms 28, 41 can be formed at the end regions of the longitudinal arms 23, 43 and provide the visual information 27, 47 in the camera control areas X.

[0055] How to use the in Fig. As can be seen from the first embodiment shown in Figure 1, the control arms 28 can have half-bridges 26 which are almost touching each other in the open position P1 and are spaced apart from each other at a defined reference distance in the closed position P2 (see Figure 1). Fig. 3a).

[0056] The visual information 27 can be formed by the spacing of the half-bridges 26 in the closed position P2. The control arms 28 can be spring-loaded and, in the open position P1, rest against the outer surface of the housing 30, in order to be spread apart by the movement into the closed position P2 and thus create the spacing.

[0057] How to find out especially in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b and Fig. 3b detects that a bridge element 24 can be arranged adjacent to the control arms 28, positioned at the ends of the longitudinal arms 23 of the locking clamp 20. The bridge element 24 can connect the ends of the longitudinal arms 23, thus increasing the stability of the locking clamp 20. The control arms 28 can be positioned axially adjacent to the bridge element 24, enabling precise positioning and the provision of visual information 27.

[0058] The control arms 28 can have guide elements 25 facing the housing 30 (see Fig. 1) These guide elements 25 can contact the housing 30 via a reduced contact area during movement between the open position P1 and the closed position P2. This can ensure improved sliding guidance, minimize wear, and guarantee precise movement of the retaining clip 20.

[0059] A ring element 21 can be formed on the base body 22 of the retaining clip 20, which is essentially form-fitted to an annular end face of the head section 35. In the closed position P2, the ring element 21 can rest against the end face of the head section 35, thus creating a stable and positive-locking connection and increasing the mechanical stability of the quick connector 10 or the seating of the retaining clip 20 on the quick connector 10.

[0060] How to in the Fig. As can be seen in the further embodiment shown in Figure 4, the control arms 41 of the locking clip 40 can have recesses 46 which, in the open position P1, lie outside a defined reference area and are moved into this area in the closed position P2. The visual information 47 can be formed by the displacement or positioning of the recess 46 in the reference area when the locking clip 40 and the second locking element are in the closed position P2.

[0061] The control arms 41 can have reinforcements 45, 48 which are form-fitted to the outer surface of the housing 30 and come into contact with the outer surface of the housing 30 in the open position P1 and in the closed position P2, in order to precisely position the recesses 46 in the reference areas to be detected by the camera by means of end stops when the locking clip 40 moves from the open position P1 to the closed position P2.

[0062] Especially in Fig. Figure 6c shows how the lower reinforcements 48, with their form-fitting contact surfaces, bear against the outer surface of the housing 30 when the retaining clip 40 is in the open position P1. Similarly, the upper reinforcements 45, with their form-fitting contact surfaces, can bear against the outer surface of the housing 30 when the retaining clip 40 is in the closed position P2.

[0063] Fig. 4 and Fig. 7 highlights a further optional extension of the control capability. The housing 30 can display additional visual information 50, such as QR codes. These can serve for traceability and quality assurance, and also

[0064] The half-bridges 26 of the control arms 28 can partially obscure the visual information 50 when the locking clamp 20 is in the open position P1, and fully expose it when position P2 is reached.

[0065] Description of the figures for claim 18: The recesses 46 of the control arms 28 can partially obscure the visual information 50 and fully expose it when moving into the closed position P2.

[0066] The at least two camera control areas X can have a viewing angle α of at least 130 degrees to 150 degrees, in particular at least 140 degrees. These viewing angles can be formed in the circumferential direction U around the housing 30.

[0067] The housing 30 can have at least one, preferably two, further visual information 50, which are axially displaced relative to the head section 35. This visual information 50 can, for example, be formed by data matrices, preferably by QR codes. It can be positioned on an image area (white background, usually square) on the housing 30, which is partially obscured by control arms 28, 41 when the locking clip 20, 40 is in the open position P1, and becomes fully visible when the closed position P2 is reached.

[0068] The control arms 41 can have recesses 46 which, in the open position P1, lie outside a defined reference area and, in the closed position P2, are moved into the reference area (see Figure 1). Fig. 7) The recesses 46 can correspond in shape to the additional visual information 50, which is applied to complementary image surfaces. The squaring of the recesses 46 and the image surfaces of the additional visual information 50 can enable even more precise visual control of the position of the retaining clip 20, 40.

[0069] The visual information 27, 47 may exhibit fluorescent properties. This property can improve the detection of the visual information 27, 47 even in poor lighting conditions and increase the reliability of automatic camera control.

[0070] The retaining clip 20, 40 can be made of a temperature- and corrosion-resistant material. This choice of material ensures the functionality of the retaining clip 20, 40 even under extreme conditions such as high temperature or humidity and increases the service life of the quick connector 10.

[0071] The visual information 27, 47 and the further visual information 50, or their image areas, can be structured in such a way that they can be highlighted by an external lighting system. This highlighting can improve the visibility and recognition accuracy of the visual information 27, 47 and 50, especially in challenging optical environments.

[0072] The visual information 27, 47 and the other visual information 50, or their image surfaces, can contain optical filters. These filters can serve to reduce unwanted reflections and increase the accuracy of camera control. This helps to avoid misinterpretations and optimize visual inspection.

[0073] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can be modified in many different ways.

[0074] All features and advantages arising from the claims, the description and the drawing, including design details, spatial arrangements and process steps, can be essential to the invention both individually and in various combinations. Reference symbol list A Axial direction R Radial direction U circumferential direction L Longitudinal axis X Camera control area α Viewing angle (camera control area) P1 open position (second locking element) P2 closed position (second locking element) 2 open ending 3 open ending 10 quick connectors (Quick Connector “QC”) 20 safety clips 21 Ring element (locking clip) 22 Base body (safety clip) 23 longitudinal arms 24 Bridge element (connecting ends and longitudinal arms) 25 guide element 26 half-bridges 27 visual information (spacing of the half-bridges) 28 control arms (for visual information spacing) 29 Connection structure (positive locking locking clip / holder) 30 housings (quick connectors) 31 First locking element (slider) 32 Main Passage 33 second locking element 34 Bracket (locking device) 35 Head section (housing QC) 37 connection pins (offset by 90° to the longitudinal axis, 90° QC) 39 Connection structure (positive locking locking clip / holder) 40 safety clips 41 control arms (for visual information displacement / position) 42 Base body (safety clip) 43 longitudinal arms 45 reinforcements (plant surfaces closed position P2) 46 cutouts (for visual information on displacement / position) 47 Visual information (displacement / positioning of the cutouts) 48 reinforcements (installation surfaces open position P1) 49 Connection structure (positive locking locking clip / holder) 50 additional visual pieces of information (data matrix, QR code) 60 connection nozzles (fluid line) 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] WO 2022 / 169797 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Quick connector (10) for connecting fluid lines, comprising a housing (30) with a main passage (32) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) and an outer surface, a holder (34) which is attached in the region of a head section (35) of the housing (30) and is supported by the housing (30), wherein the holder (34) has a locking device configured to establish a secure connection between a connecting nozzle (60) which can be inserted axially (A) into the main passage (32) of the housing (30) and the quick connector (10), wherein the locking device comprises a first locking element (31) and a second locking element (33), wherein the second locking element (33) has an open position (P1) and a closed position (P2),wherein the second locking element (33) is moved from the open position (P1) to the closed position (P2) by inserting a connecting piece (60) into the main passage (32) and engages in the closed position (P2) when the connecting piece (60) is inserted and connected to the locking device of the holder (34), characterized by, that the holder (34) comprises a locking clip (20, 40) configured to form at least one camera control area (X) displaced axially (A) from the head section (35), wherein the locking clip (20, 40) has at least one visual information (27, 47) suitable for automatic camera control and is arranged in the camera control area (X) displaced axially to the head section (35), wherein the at least one visual information (27, 47) is fully detectable in the axially displaced camera control area (X) only when the connecting piece (60) is properly connected to the locking device and the second locking element (33) is in the closed position (P2). [2] Quick connectors according to claim 1, characterized by, that the locking clamp (20, 40) forms at least two camera control areas (X) displaced from the head section (35) in the axial direction (A), wherein the locking clamp (20, 40) has at least one visual information (27, 47) for each camera control area (X), thereby enabling visual inspection for a secure connection between the connector (60) and the quick connector (10) from at least two camera positions. [3] Quick connectors according to claim 2, characterized by , that the at least two camera control areas (X) displaced from the head section (35) in the axial direction (A) are arranged in a mirror-image arrangement opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis (L). [4] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the at least one or the at least two camera control areas (X) displaced from the head section (35) in the axial direction (A) each have a viewing angle (α) of at least 130° to 150°, in particular of at least 140°, wherein the camera control areas (X) and the viewing angles (α) are formed in the circumferential direction (U) around the housing (30). [5] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the at least one or the at least two visual information elements (27, 47) of the safety clip (20, 40) are designed in such a way that they can be captured by at least two camera positions simultaneously. [6] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the locking clip (20, 40) is provided as a separate component which is attached to the holder (34) of the quick connector (10), wherein the locking clip (20, 40) moves with the second locking element (33) between the two positions (P1, P2). [7] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the locking clip (20, 40) and the second locking element (33) of the holder (34) have complementary connection structures (29, 49, 39) to create a form-fit and / or force-fit connection between the second locking element (33) and the locking clip (20, 40). [8] Quick connectors according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that the locking clip (20, 40) is formed integrally with the holder (34) of the quick connector (10), wherein the locking clip (20, 40) is formed on the second locking element (33) and moves with the second locking element (33) between the two positions (P1, P2). [9] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the retaining clip (20, 40) and the holder (34) are designed such that the retaining clip (20, 40) can be automatically assembled in an OEM process, wherein the retaining clip (20, 40) is in the open position (P1) in a disassembled delivery state, and wherein the retaining clip (20, 40) is in the closed position (P2) in an assembled state after the insertion of a connecting stub (60). [10] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the locking clip (20, 40) has at least one longitudinal arm (23, 43) extending in the axial direction (A), preferably two opposing longitudinal arms (23, 43) extending in the axial direction (A), in order to implement the axial displacement of the camera control area (X) and the visual information (27, 47) from the head section (35) of the housing (30), wherein the locking clip (20, 40) has a base body (22, 42) which is shaped to fit an outer geometry of the second locking element (33) and forms the longitudinal arms (23, 43). [11] Quick connectors according to claim 10, characterized by, that the locking clamp (20, 40) has at least one control arm (28, 41) extending substantially in the radial direction (R), preferably two control arms (28, 41) extending in the radial direction (R) and opposite each other, by which the visual information (27, 47) is provided in the camera control areas (X), wherein the control arms (28, 41) are formed at end regions of the longitudinal arms (23, 43). [12] Quick connectors according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by , that axially spaced apart from the head section (35) two opposing control arms (28) are arranged on the longitudinal arms (23) of the locking clamp (20), each having a half-bridge (26), wherein the half-bridges (26) of the control arms (28) are almost touching each other in the open position (P1) and are spaced apart from each other at a predefined reference distance in the closed position (P2). [13] Quick connectors according to claim 12, characterized by, that the at least one visual information (27) of the locking clip (20) is formed by the spacing of the half-bridges (26) of the control arms (28) in the closed position (P2), wherein the control arms (28) are flexibly designed and arranged on the longitudinal arms (23) such that they are in contact with the outer surface of the housing (30) in the open position (P1) and are moved apart by moving the locking clip (20) into the closed position (P2) in order to form the spacing to be detected by the camera. [14] Quick connectors according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by, that axially spaced apart from the head section (35) two opposing control arms (41) are arranged on the longitudinal arms (43) of the locking clamp (40), each having a recess (46), wherein the recesses (46) of the control arms (41) are located outside a predefined reference area in the open position (P1) and are moved into the predefined reference area in the closed position (P2) and are located within the predefined reference area. [15] Quick connectors according to claim 14, characterized by, that the at least one visual information (47) of the locking clip (40) is formed by the positioning of the recesses (46) of the control arms (41) in the respective intended reference area, wherein the control arms (41) have reinforcements (45, 48) which are form-fitted to the outer surface of the housing (30) and which, on the one hand, in the open position (P1) and, on the other hand, in the closed position (P2), bear against the outer surface of the housing (30) in order to precisely position the recesses (46) in the reference areas to be detected by the camera by means of end stops when the locking clip (40) moves from the open position (P1) to the closed position (P2). [16] Quick connectors according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the housing (30) has at least one further visual information (50) axially displaced to the head section (35), preferably two further visual information (50) axially displaced to the head section (35), wherein the further visual information (50) is each formed by a data matrix, in particular by a QR code. [17] Quick connectors according to claim 10 or 11 and claim 16, characterized by, that the at least one further visual information (50) in the area of ​​the spacing of the half-bridges (26) is arranged on the outer surface of the housing (30) such that the half-bridges (26) of the control arms (28) of the locking clip (20) at least partially obscure the at least one further visual information (50) when the second locking element (33) and the locking clip (20) are in the open position (P1), wherein the half-bridges (26) and control arms (28) move the at least partial obscuration and remove it completely when the second locking element (33) and the locking clip (20) are moved into the closed position (P2). [18] Quick connectors according to claim 10 or 11 and claim 16, characterized by, that the at least one further visual information (50), preferably the two further visual information (50), are each arranged in the reference area for the positioning of the recesses (46) on the outer surface of the housing (30) such that the control arms (41) of the locking clip (40) at least partially cover the further visual information (50) when the second locking element (33) and the locking clip (40) are in the open position (P1), wherein the control arms (41) of the locking clip (40) move the at least partial covering of the further visual information (50) and remove it completely when the second locking element (33) and the locking clip (40) are moved into the closed position (P2).

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