Rohradapter

Abstract

Pipe adapter (10) for connecting two pipe ends, comprising a first connecting element (12) which can be connected to a first pipe end of a first pipe and a second connecting element (14) which can be connected to a second pipe end of a second pipe, characterized in that the connecting elements (12, 14) each comprise a connecting section (16, 18) for connecting to the respective pipe end and each comprise a coupling section (20, 22) for connecting the connecting elements (12, 14) to one another.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pipe adapter for connecting two pipe ends, which comprises a first connecting element which can be connected to a first pipe end of a first pipe and a second connecting element which can be connected to a second pipe end of a second pipe.

[0002] Pipe adapters of this type are known.

[0003] EP 3 689 077 A1 discloses a pipe adapter for connecting two pipe ends or one pipe end to a borehole. The pipe adapter comprises a pipe with a first pipe section having a first pipe end and a second pipe section having a second pipe end. A central section is provided between the first pipe section and the second pipe section. The pipe adapter is formed as a single piece.

[0004] A disadvantage of conventional pipe adapters is that they cannot be used flexibly in different installation situations. Due to their one-piece design, the two pipe ends to be connected must be at a minimum distance to position the pipe adapter. Subsequently, at least one of the pipes must be axially displaced.

[0005] Especially when carrying out repairs on pipes that have already been laid, the known pipe adapters are of limited use.

[0006] The invention is based on the object of creating a pipe adapter of the generic type which is simple in design and which can be used flexibly in different installation situations.

[0007] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a pipe adapter having the features recited in claim 1. Because the connecting elements each comprise a connecting section for connecting to the respective pipe end and a coupling section for connecting the connecting elements to one another, it is advantageously possible to design the pipe adapter in at least two parts and to complete it on site to form the complete pipe adapter. This makes it possible, in particular, to use pipe adapters when connecting two pipe ends of two pipes whose pipe ends are spaced closer together than the entire overall length of the pipe adapter. On site, the at least two connecting elements can each be connected to one pipe end of a pipe and then connected to one another using their coupling sections.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling sections comprise coupling elements for force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection of the connecting elements to one another. These coupling elements are preferably designed in the manner of a bayonet lock. This allows for the simple partial assembly of each of the connecting elements, so that they can then be easily connected to one another.

[0009] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting sections of the connecting elements have different diameters for connecting pipes of different diameters. This makes it easy to connect a connection point between two pipes of different diameters to the pipe adapter on site by selecting, inserting, and connecting the appropriate connecting elements. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling sections of the connecting elements have an identical diameter, so that additional intermediate elements for adapting the different diameters are not required.

[0010] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention provides for the connecting sections to be arranged eccentrically to a longitudinal axis of the respective connecting element. This makes it easy to connect two pipe ends of two pipes that are not only spaced apart from each other but are offset from each other along their longitudinal axes. Depending on the degree of eccentricity between the connecting section and the longitudinal axis of the connecting element, a different offset can be easily accommodated.

[0011] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the pipe adapter comprises at least one intermediate ring, which has a first coupling element for connecting to the first connecting element and a second coupling element for connecting to the second coupling element. This advantageously makes it possible, by using at least one or possibly more intermediate rings, to connect pipe ends of two pipes that are spaced apart from one another. The intermediate rings can be easily connected on-site to the respective connecting elements. The coupling elements of the intermediate rings are designed in the manner of a bayonet lock.

[0012] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention provides for the first connecting element and the second connecting element to be of identical construction, at least in the area of the coupling sections. This makes it easy to design the connecting elements in such a way that differently constructed connecting elements do not have to be used to create a pipe adapter, but rather they are selected exclusively according to the diameter and position of the pipes to be connected. Due to the identical construction, particularly of the coupling sections, these can always be securely connected to one another in a force-fitting or form-fitting manner.

[0013] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting sections of the connecting elements are smaller in diameter than the diameter of the pipe ends of the pipes to be connected. This makes it possible to insert the connecting elements with their connecting sections into the pipe ends. This allows for particularly simple assembly without additional clamping elements or the like.

[0014] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting sections comprise at least one sealing element, which is preferably arranged over the outer circumference of the connecting section. This advantageously makes it possible to easily achieve a tight connection of the pipe ends using the pipe adapter according to the invention.

[0015] Furthermore, in a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the pipe adapter comprises at least one securing element which is assigned to the coupling sections of the connecting elements. This advantageously makes it possible for this connection to be secured against accidental loosening when the two connecting elements are connected by force and / or form, preferably in the manner of a bayonet lock. Without actively removing the securing element, uncoupling of the connecting elements is therefore not possible. This secures the connection point created by the pipe adapter between the pipe ends of the pipes to be connected against accidental opening. In particular, when installed in the ground, accidental loosening of the pipe adapter due to earth movement or the like can be avoided.

[0016] Further preferred embodiments of the invention emerge from the remaining features mentioned in the subclaims.

[0017] The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 a pipe adapter in a schematic perspective view and in a sectional view; Fig. 2 a connecting element of the pipe adapter in a schematic perspective view and a sectional view; Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 sectional views of the pipe adapter in further embodiments; Fig. 5 and Fig. 12 an intermediate ring for a pipe adapter in a schematic perspective view and a sectional view; Fig. 6 to 11 different design variants of connecting elements for pipe adapters, each in schematic perspective view and sectional view Fig. 13 a pipe adapter with locking element.

[0018] Fig. Figure 1 shows a pipe adapter, designated overall by 10. The pipe adapter 10 comprises a first connecting element 12 and a second connecting element 14. The connecting elements 12 and 14 each consist of a connecting section 16 and 18, respectively, and a coupling section 20 and 22, respectively.

[0019] The connecting sections 16 and 18 are each surrounded by a sealing element 24 in the form of a sealing sleeve. The sealing element 24 is made of an elastic material and is pushed onto the connecting sections 16 and 18, respectively. The outer diameters of the connecting sections 16 and 18 and the inner diameters of the sealing elements 24 are coordinated in such a way that, after pushing the sealing elements 24 onto the connecting sections 16 and 18, they are self-clamping.

[0020] The coupling sections 20 and 22 comprise coupling elements 26 and 28, respectively. According to the illustrated embodiment, each of the connecting elements 12 and 14 has four coupling elements 26 and four coupling elements 28, respectively, which are arranged evenly around the circumference of the connecting elements 12. The number of coupling elements 26, 28 can also be fewer or more than four. The coupling elements 26 of the connecting element 12 can be connected to the coupling element 28 of the connecting element 14 in a force-locking and / or form-locking manner, similar to a bayonet lock. The connection to form the complete pipe adapter 10 is achieved by rotating the connecting elements 12 and 14 relative to one another.

[0021] The structure and mode of operation of the coupling sections 20 and 22 are explained in more detail in the following figures.

[0022] The Fig. 1 pipe adapter 10 shows the following function: The pipe adapter 10 is used to connect two pipe ends of two pipes. The pipes with their pipe ends are in Fig. 1 not shown. The pipe adapter 10 therefore initially consists of the two connecting elements 12 and 14, each with sealing elements 24 pushed on. The connecting element 12 is then first inserted into a pipe end of a first pipe until an end face of this pipe end comes into contact with the coupling section 20.

[0023] Depending on the installation situation of the pipes to be connected, the second connecting element 14 is then inserted into the pipe end of the second pipe.

[0024] Subsequently, the coupling sections 20 and 22 are brought into engagement with one another and then connected to one another in a force-locking and / or form-locking manner by turning them - by 90° according to the embodiment shown.

[0025] The locking of this connection is then carried out by Fig. 12 closure elements shown in more detail, each in the Fig. 1 recognizable free space 30 between adjacent coupling elements 26 and 28, respectively, preferably clipped in. As a result, unscrewing, ie releasing the positive and / or non-positive connection between the connecting elements 12 and 14, is only possible by intentionally removing the locking elements from the free spaces 30.

[0026] The pipe adapter 10 is therefore very flexible in its use. For example, in pipes already laid underground where a joint between two adjacent pipes needs to be repaired, only a relatively small amount of clearance is required for the insertion of the pipe adapter 10.

[0027] When laying new pipes, the pipe adapter 10 can first be completed and then the two pipe ends are placed onto the sealing elements 24.

[0028] In Fig. 2 shows a single connecting element 12. The same parts as in Fig. 1 are provided with the same reference numerals and are not explained again.

[0029] Based on the illustration in Fig. 2 illustrates the structure of the coupling section 20.

[0030] The coupling section 20 has a circumferential annular collar 32 from which the coupling elements 26 extend axially. Four coupling elements 26 are provided, which are arranged evenly over the entire circumference of the annular collar 32. On their side facing away from the annular collar 32, the coupling elements 26 have a shoulder 34, which leads to the formation of a free space 36 between the shoulder 34 and the annular collar 32.

[0031] Within this free space 36, each coupling element 26 is assigned a guide section 38. The guide section 38 has a guide surface 40 and a locking lug 42 on the side opposite the guide surface 40.

[0032] Fig. 2 illustrates that the connecting element 12 has a sealing ring 44 on its upper end face.

[0033] The connecting elements 12 and 14 - as in Fig. 1 - are of identical construction. This means that connecting element 12 and connecting element 14 have exactly the same structure as in Fig. 2 using the connecting element 12.

[0034] To assemble the connecting elements 12 and 14 into the pipe adapter 10, they are first inserted into one another with the coupling sections 20 and 22 facing each other. The coupling elements 26 initially move axially into the area left free between the guide element 38 and the adjacent coupling element 26. The respective guide surfaces 40 thereby come into contact. By subsequently rotating the connecting elements 12 and 14 relative to one another, the guide elements 38 initially move into the respective free spaces 36 of the respective associated coupling element 26 of the other connecting element. The rotation continues until the coupling elements 26 and 28 of the two connecting elements 12 and 14 rest against one another. In this position, the guide elements 38 have completely penetrated the respective free spaces 36 and engage behind the associated coupling elements 26 of the other connecting element with their locking lugs 42.

[0035] The sealing ring 44 or, if applicable, the sealing rings 44 ensure a tight connection between the two connecting elements 12 and 14.

[0036] Fig. 3 shows a pipe adapter 10 in a modified embodiment.

[0037] The connecting element 12 shows the structure already explained in the previous figures.

[0038] The connecting element 14 is designed here as a sleeve 46. This means that the connecting section 18 of the connecting element 14 is not inserted into a second pipe end of a second pipe, but rather surrounds it from the outside. The sleeve 46 is provided with an internal sealing element 48. The coupling section 22 of the sleeve 46 is again designed identically, as already explained with reference to the present figures.

[0039] Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a pipe adapter 10. The connecting element 12 has the Fig. 2 explained structure.

[0040] The connecting element 14 is again designed as a sleeve 46.

[0041] In the Fig. 4, the connecting element 14 is smaller in diameter than the connecting element 12. This means that with the Fig. The design variant of the pipe adapter 10 shown in Figure 4 allows pipes with different nominal diameters to be connected to one another.

[0042] How Fig. 4 further illustrates, a longitudinal axis 50 of the connecting element 14 is arranged eccentrically to a longitudinal axis 52 of the connecting element 12.

[0043] The resulting distance a between the longitudinal axes 50 and 52 makes it possible to connect pipes by means of the pipe adapter 10 which are not only spaced apart from one another but also have a lateral offset.

[0044] The Fig. The pipe adapter 10 shown in Figure 4 further comprises an intermediate ring 54. The intermediate ring 54 has a coupling portion 22' that is complementary to the coupling portion 20 of the connecting element 12. Furthermore, the intermediate ring 54 has a coupling portion 20' that is complementary to the coupling portion 22 of the connecting element 14.

[0045] The design and operation of the coupling sections 20' and 22' correspond to those already described in Fig. 2 explained in more detail.

[0046] The intermediate ring 54 shows in the Fig. The following two functions are shown in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0047] First, the intermediate ring 54 serves to reduce the diameter of the connecting element 12 to the diameter of the connecting element 14. Furthermore, the overall length of the pipe adapter 10 is increased by the intermediate ring 54 in accordance with its longitudinal expansion. This allows pipe ends that are at different distances from one another to be connected to one another in a simple and advantageous manner using the pipe adapter 10.

[0048] Depending on the distance found, either intermediate rings 54 with different lengths or several intermediate rings can be connected to one another in the manner shown.

[0049] Fig. 5 shows an intermediate ring 54 in a schematic perspective view and in a sectional view. In Fig. Figure 5 clearly shows how the intermediate ring 54 enables a reduction in the nominal diameter from the connecting element 12 to the connecting element 14. For this purpose, the intermediate ring 54 has a connecting plane 56 from which the coupling section 22' and the coupling section 20' extend. The connecting plane 56 has a through-opening 58 through which the reduction in the nominal diameter occurs.

[0050] In the Fig. 5 it becomes clear that the coupling section 20' is arranged eccentrically to the coupling section 22'.

[0051] In further embodiments not shown, the connecting section 20' can also be aligned coaxially to the connecting section 22'.

[0052] Furthermore, according to further embodiments not shown, it is possible for the connecting plane 56 to be formed by a tubular section, so that intermediate rings 54 with different lengths can be used.

[0053] Furthermore, it is possible that the intermediate ring 54 does not contain a reduction in the nominal diameter, but rather the coupling section 20' and coupling section 22' are of the same size. In this case, the intermediate ring 54 can, for example, Fig. 1, as an extension of the pipe adapter 10. Such an intermediate ring 54 is shown as an example in Fig. 12. The central region 55 of the intermediate ring 54 can have different lengths. This central region also offers the possibility of providing additional elements there, such as a fire protection insert element, which is capable of sealing off the pipe section in the event of a fire. It is also possible to make the central region 55 at least partially transparent. This allows for visual inspection. In a further variant, the central region 55 can be telescopic, meaning different lengths can be easily realized. Finally, the central region 55 can also have a closable cleaning opening for access to the interior of the pipe.

[0054] The Fig. 6 to 11 show different embodiments of connecting elements 12, each in a schematic perspective view and a sectional view.

[0055] According to Fig. 6, the connecting element 12 is designed as a closing element. This means that the connecting element 12 is, for example, Fig. 1, is completed with a connecting element 14 to form a pipe adapter 10. The connecting section 16 is formed here by an internal thread 60 within a cover plate 62. This makes it possible to connect a further element having a corresponding complementary external thread, either a pipe, faucet, or the like, to the connecting element 12 of the pipe adapter 10 from the outside of the pipe adapter 10.

[0056] In the Fig. 7 to 10 show further different embodiments of a connecting element 12.

[0057] The same parts as in the previous figures are provided with the same reference numerals and are not explained again.

[0058] It becomes clear that the connecting elements 12, but also the connecting elements 14, can be designed in a variety of ways. Fig. 7 shows a variant in which the connecting section 16 is designed as a spigot end.

[0059] Fig. 8 shows a variant in which the connecting section 16 is designed as a sleeve.

[0060] Fig. 9 shows a variant in which the connecting section 16 is surrounded by a sealing sleeve (sealing element 24).

[0061] Fig. Figure 10 shows a variant in which the connecting element 12 has a sealing sleeve designed as a socket. This means that the connecting section 16 is itself formed by the sealing sleeve (sealing element 24). An additional clamping band 25 is provided, which enables a secure connection of the sealing sleeve to the pipe end.

[0062] Fig. Figure 11 shows a variant in which the coupling elements 26 additionally have radially projecting fastening tabs 64. These have a through-hole 66. This configuration of the connecting element 12 makes it possible to equip a borehole in a monolithic wall with the connecting element 12. The connecting element 12 is screwed to the wall using fastening means, such as screws. A further connecting element 14, which is connected to a pipe end, is then attached to the coupling elements 26 in the manner already described.

[0063] In Fig. 13 is another complete pipe adapter 10, according to the already Fig. 1. It is clear that a closure element 68 is inserted, in particular clipped, into the free spaces 30. This prevents the coupling elements 26 and 28 from moving away from their Fig.13, the closed position shown may inadvertently enter an open, possibly only partially open, position. Unscrewing the pipe adapter 10 is only possible after removing the locking elements 68.

[0064] The various variants of the connecting elements 12 and 14, respectively, explained in the preceding figures, can be combined with one another depending on the existing or desired installation situation of the pipes to be connected or the pipe to be connected with a borehole. This allows for simple and flexible on-site response to different pipe diameters, different pipe spacings, and different offsets of the pipes to be connected.

[0065] The invention thus also relates to a so-called kid, that is, a set of various of the previously explained connecting elements 12, 14 or intermediate rings 54. Reference symbol 10 pipe adapters 12 first connecting element 14 second connecting element 16 connecting section 18 connecting section 20 coupling section 20' coupling section 22 Coupling section 22' coupling section 24 Sealing element 26 Coupling element 28 Coupling element 30 free space 32 ring collars 34 Shoulder 36 open space 38 Guide Section 40 guide surface 42 locking lug 44 Sealing ring 46 sleeve 48 Sealing element 50 Longitudinal axis 52 Longitudinal axis 54 intermediate ring 56 connection level 58 passage opening 60 internal thread 62 end plate 64 mounting tabs 66 passage opening 68 locking element QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] EP 3 689 077 A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Pipe adapter (10) for connecting two pipe ends, comprising a first connecting element (12) which can be connected to a first pipe end of a first pipe and a second connecting element (14) which can be connected to a second pipe end of a second pipe, characterized by that the connecting elements (12, 14) each comprise a connecting section (16, 18) for connecting to the respective pipe end and a coupling section (20, 22) for connecting the connecting elements (12, 14) to one another. [2] Pipe adapter (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that the coupling sections (20, 22) have coupling elements (26, 28) for non-positively and / or positively connecting the connecting elements (12, 14) to one another. [3] Pipe adapter (10) according to claim 2, characterized by that the coupling elements (26, 28) are designed in the manner of a bayonet lock. [4] Pipe adapter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the connecting elements (12, 14) have connecting sections (16, 18) with different diameters for connecting pipes with different diameters. [5] Pipe adapter (10 according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the longitudinal axes (50, 52) of the connecting elements (12, 14) are arranged eccentrically to one another at a distance (a). [6] Pipe adapter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connecting elements (12, 14) are assigned first sealing elements (24) assigned to the connecting sections (16, 18) and / or second sealing elements (44) assigned to the coupling sections (20, 22). [7] Pipe adapter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the pipe adapter (10) comprises at least one intermediate ring (54) which has first coupling elements (26) for connecting to the first connecting element (12) and second coupling elements (28) for connecting to the second connecting element (14). [8] Pipe adapter (10) according to claim 7, characterized by that the intermediate ring (54) has a connecting plane (56) from which coupling sections (20', 22') extend and the connecting plane (56) has a through opening (58). [9] Pipe adapter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first connecting element (12) and the second connecting element (14) are of identical construction, at least in the region of the coupling sections (20, 22). [10] Pipe adapter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one securing element (68) is assigned to the connecting elements (12, 14).

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