FLUID CONNECTOR ELEMENT

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting element, in particular for connecting vessels and for creating a fluid connection between vessels or elements connected to the connecting element. State of the art

[0002] Particularly in the medical field, it is known in the art that liquid solutions or medications are drawn from a storage container using syringes and administered to patients. It is known that the liquid is drawn directly into the syringe via the needle and then administered directly to the patient.

[0003] It's also known that a connector is placed on the storage container, to which the syringe can then be attached to draw the liquid from the storage container into the syringe. If the syringe is subsequently removed, liquid can still leak from the syringe, which is particularly disadvantageous for very expensive medications. This also poses a risk of contamination, as leaking medications or liquids can be lost, which is considered a disadvantage in the medical or healthcare field.

[0004] It is also known that infusion solutions, in particular, can be connected to a cannula via tubing, whereby medications can also be dosed into such tubing or cannulas. This is then achieved via a connecting element, which is subject to the same disadvantages as already described above. Such connecting elements for creating a fluid connection are known, for example, from US 2011 / 276035 A1, DE 20 2004 014 130 U1, and WO 98 / 11931 A1. Description of the invention, task, solution, advantages

[0005] The object of the invention is to create a connecting element that allows for a secure connection and yet, if the connection is not established, provides a secure and tight seal for the connected vessel. The object of the invention is also to create an elastic spring element that allows for a secure seal while simultaneously being simple in design.

[0006] This is achieved with the features of claim 1. The dependent claims define additional features of preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0007] Individual features of the invention are described below. This initially relates to a connecting element with a housing having a first receiving space with a first connection element and a first displaceable valve element arranged therein, and with a second receiving space with a second connection element and a second displaceable valve element arranged therein. The first and second receiving spaces are fluidly connected to one another, wherein the first valve element is displaceable against the force of a first force accumulator and the second valve element is displaceable against a second force accumulator, wherein the first valve element is displaceable between two positions.wherein in the first position a fluid connection between the first receiving space and the first connection element is interrupted by the first valve element and in the second position a fluid connection between the first receiving space and the first connection element is opened by the first valve element and wherein the second valve element is displaceable between two positions, wherein in the first position a fluid connection between the second receiving space and the second connection element is interrupted by the second valve element and in the second position a fluid connection between the second receiving space and the second connection element is opened by the second valve element.

[0008] This ensures that the first receiving space can be connected to a vessel that can be connected to the first connection element, and that the second receiving space can be connected to a vessel that can be connected to the second connection element. If the respective connection element is not connected, the connection element is closed accordingly by means of the valve element arranged therefor. This ensures that the connecting element creates a fluid passage when a vessel is connected to both connection elements. If only one vessel is connected, the connection element to which no vessel is connected is closed. This ensures that the vessel is closed in this operating state even with the connecting element arranged.

[0009] A container can be understood as a syringe, a bottle, a tube, a bag or something similar in which a liquid can be contained.

[0010] Furthermore, a connecting element is described with a housing having a first receiving space with a first connection element and with a second receiving space with a second connection element with a second displaceable valve element arranged therein, the first and the second receiving space are fluidly connected to one another, wherein the second valve element is displaceable against a second force accumulator, wherein the second valve element is displaceable between two positions, wherein in the first position a fluid connection between the second receiving space and the second connection element is interrupted by the second valve element and in the second position a fluid connection between the second receiving space and the second connection element is opened by the second valve element, wherein the first receiving space is fluidly connected to the first connection element.

[0011] Furthermore, a connecting element is described with a housing having a first receiving space with a first connection element and a first displaceable valve element arranged therein and with a second receiving space with a second connection element, the first and the second receiving space are fluidly connected to one another, wherein the first valve element is displaceable against the force of a first force accumulator, wherein the first valve element is displaceable between two positions, wherein in the first position a fluid connection between the first receiving space and the first connection element is interrupted by the first valve element and in the second position a fluid connection between the first receiving space and the first connection element is opened by the first valve element, wherein the second receiving space is fluidly connected to the second connection element.

[0012] In one embodiment, it is advantageous if the housing is formed in at least two parts. The two parts are advantageously pressed together, positively connected, clipped, welded, glued, or otherwise connected. It is particularly advantageous if the two housing parts are advantageously connected to one another, in particular, if they are not detachably connected in a non-destructive manner.

[0013] It is also advantageous if the housing is designed in one piece, wherein the housing can consist of several housing parts which are connected to one another, in particular in a way which cannot be detachably connected to one another in a non-destructive manner.

[0014] With compression, a connection can be made cost-effectively without the need for additional components. Furthermore, no foreign material interferes with the fluids flowing through the connecting element. Adhesive bonding also ensures a reliable, tight connection.

[0015] Furthermore, it is expedient if the first receiving space is formed by a first and a second housing part, and the second receiving space is formed by the second housing part. The two housing parts are connected to one another in such a way that the receiving space is created between the two housing halves. This can advantageously be achieved by the two housing parts having a base with a circumferential wall, which are joined together in such a way that the two circumferential walls abut one another and the two bases are arranged at a distance from one another, thus creating a volume between them for the reception of or flow through of a liquid.

[0016] It is advantageous if the first connection element is arranged or formed on the first housing part, and the second connection element is arranged or formed on the second housing part. It is particularly advantageous if the two connection elements are located opposite each other, resulting in a substantially linear flow pattern. This allows for a favorable geometry, and the pressure drop remains low even with a straight flow pattern, which reduces or minimizes the actuation forces, for example, when drawing up a syringe.

[0017] It is advantageous if the first receiving space has an approximately circular cross-section and is delimited by a circumferential wall, wherein the receiving space is delimited by two approximately flat wall regions, wherein the first connection element is arranged or received on one of the two walls and a fluid connection to the second receiving space is provided in the other wall. The receiving space is thus advantageously approximately cylindrical with a circumferential peripheral wall and two approximately opposite walls. It is advantageous if the peripheral wall is a cylindrical wall that can be supported against a corresponding wall of the other housing part in order to achieve good sealing.

[0018] It is particularly advantageous if the first connection element has a hollow cylindrical element and the first valve element has at least one cylindrical region which is displaceably received in the hollow cylindrical element. It is advantageous if the essentially cylindrical element is made of an elastic material so that it can rest against the wall of the hollow cylindrical element and seal there. If the valve element is displaced by the application of force, an edge of the cylindrical element is moved into or over a region in which, for example, there is a deviation of the hollow cylindrical contour or a groove is present, so that a fluid connection is created between the connection element and the receiving space.

[0019] Furthermore, it is expedient for the valve element to have spring arms projecting from the cylindrical region. The cylindrical region can have spring arms on one side, advantageously at least three spring arms, which project evenly from the vertical, such as the edges of a tetrahedron. It is advantageous for the spring arms to be evenly distributed. More than three spring arms, such as four or five or more, can also protrude.

[0020] It is advantageous if the second receiving space has an area with a circular cross-section that is delimited by a circumferential wall, wherein the receiving space is delimited by two approximately flat wall areas, wherein the second connection element is arranged or received on one of the two walls and a fluid connection to the first receiving space is provided in the other wall. The wall for creating a fluid connection to the first receiving space is advantageously formed by the same element that also forms the wall of the first receiving space, which creates the fluid connection to the second receiving space. It is advantageous if the respective wall is located on an element and the respective opposite wall is a plate, disk or similar. The fluid connection is then advantageously brought about by at least one, advantageously a plurality of openings.

[0021] It is also advantageous if the first receiving space has a circular cross-section with outwardly projecting pockets and is delimited by a circumferential wall with a variable radius, wherein the receiving space is delimited by two approximately flat wall regions, wherein the first connection element is arranged or received on one of the two walls and a fluid connection to the second receiving space is provided in the other wall. By forming the circumferential pockets, the volume of the receiving space is reduced without impairing the function of the receiving space. This is particularly advantageous for expensive liquids because the liquid remaining in the receiving space is lost.

[0022] It is particularly advantageous if the number of pockets corresponds to the number of spring arms of the valve element. This is advantageous because the spring arms can be securely accommodated and no additional dead volume is created.

[0023] It is particularly advantageous if a spring arm of the valve element is arranged in each pocket.

[0024] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a pin protrudes from the other wall, which engages with the second connecting element. The pin is advantageously a flat or cylindrical web that engages with a sleeve of the second connecting element. The pin advantageously has a thickened area at its end, against which the sleeve rests at the end.

[0025] It is also advantageous if one wall with the connecting element as a second valve element can be displaced against the force of a force accumulator and thereby a fluid connection between the connecting element and the mandrel projecting into the connecting element can be released.

[0026] It is further advantageous if the second force accumulator is an elastic element which is arranged in the second receiving space.

[0027] It is expedient if the second force accumulator is an elastic ring, such as preferably an elastic oval ring or O-ring.

[0028] According to the invention, it is advantageous if the spring arms projecting from the cylindrical region or cylindrical body are designed as straight or single- or multiply-bent or curved spring arms. This bending allows for a better contact surface, and the arms better serve the function of displacing the cylindrical region or body in the vertical direction against the elastic spring force of the spring arms.

[0029] It is particularly advantageous if the spring arms of the first valve element are arranged at an angle of 120° to each other in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region. For this purpose, it is advantageous if three spring arms are provided.

[0030] In one embodiment, it is also advantageous if the spring arms have a first region arranged at an angle of approximately 25 to 30°, preferably 27°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region. This region advantageously adjoins the cylindrical region directly.

[0031] It is also advantageous if the spring arms have a second region arranged at an angle of approximately 35 to 40°, preferably 37°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region. This second region follows the first region.

[0032] It is also expedient for the spring arms to have a third region arranged at an angle of approximately 75 to 80°, preferably 77°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region. This region follows the second region and forms the region that rests on a wall, such as the floor, of the receiving space.

[0033] Furthermore, an elastic spring element is described with a cylindrical body and spring arms protruding therefrom, wherein the spring element is made of an elastic material. In particular, three spring arms protrude from the cylindrical body, wherein the preferably three spring arms are arranged at an angle of 120° in the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the cylindrical body.

[0034] It is advantageous if the projecting spring arms are designed as straight or single- or multiple-bent or curved spring arms. Bending or curving allows the spring arm to be better supported while still achieving favorable spring characteristics for the suspension of the cylindrical section.

[0035] It is advantageous if the spring arms of the first valve element are arranged at an angle of 120° to each other in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region. It is particularly advantageous if three spring arms are provided.

[0036] It is particularly advantageous if the spring arms have a first region which is arranged at an angle of approximately 25 to 30°, preferably 27°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region.

[0037] It is also advantageous if the spring arms have a second region which is arranged at an angle of approximately 35 to 40°, preferably 37°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region.

[0038] It is also advantageous if the spring arms have a third region which is arranged at an angle of approximately 75 to 80°, preferably 77°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region.

[0039] It is also advantageous if the cross-section of a spring arm is round, oval or polygonal.

[0040] It is particularly advantageous if the cross-section of the spring arm is oval, with the cross-section in a plane through the perpendicular bisector of the spring element having a smaller diameter than the direction perpendicular to it. This allows for favorable bending behavior of the spring arms.

[0041] It is also expedient if the cylindrical body has a first circumferential sealing lip at an end region adjacent to the transition to the spring arms.

[0042] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cylindrical body has a second circumferential sealing lip at one end opposite the transition to the spring arms. This improves the sealing effect.

[0043] It is also advantageous if the first sealing lip is designed as a circumferential shoulder. The shoulder transitions from a larger diameter area to a smaller diameter area.

[0044] It is particularly advantageous if the second sealing lip is designed as a lip protruding from the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. The lip protrudes radially from the cylindrical body.

[0045] Further advantageous embodiments are described by the following description of the figures and by the subclaims. Short description of the drawings

[0046] The invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of at least one embodiment with reference to the drawings. They show: Fig. 1 shows a section through a first embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, Fig. 2 shows a further section through the connecting element, and Fig. 3 shows a view from above of the connecting element, Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the connecting element, Fig. 5 shows an exploded view of a connecting element, Fig. 6 shows a section through a further embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, Fig. 7 shows a side view of a connecting element according to Figure 6 , Fig. 8 a top view of the connecting element according to Figure 5 or 6 , Fig. 9 a section of a further embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, Fig. 10 a side view of a connecting element according to Figure 9 , Fig. 11 a top view of the connecting element according to Figure 9 or 10 , Fig. 12 an exploded view of the connecting element according to Figure 9, Fig. 13 a section of a further embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, Fig. 14 an exploded view of the connecting element according to Figure 13 , Fig. 15 a section of a further embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, Fig. 16 an exploded view of the connecting element according to Figure 13 , Fig. 17 a representation of a detail of the connecting element according to Figure 9 in the closed state, Fig. 18 a representation of a detail of the connecting element according to Figure 9 in the open state, Fig. 19 a representation of a detail of the connecting element according to Figure 6 , Fig. 20 a representation of a detail of the connecting element according to Figure 9 , Fig. 21a view of the elastic spring element from above, Fig. 22a section of the elastic spring element along line AA of the Figure 21 , Fig. 23 a section of the elastic spring element along line BB of the Figure 22, and Fig. 24 an enlarged detailed view of the upper area of ​​the elastic spring element according to Figure 22 . Preferred embodiment of the invention

[0047] The Figures 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a connecting element 1 according to the invention, each in section along the lines AA and BB of the Figure 3 . This shows Figure 1 the section along line BB and the Figure 2 the section along line AA.

[0048] The connecting element 1 is formed with a housing 2. The housing 2 consists of at least two housing parts 3, 4. In the embodiment of the Figure 1 The housing 2 consists of two housing parts 3, 4, which are connected to each other. In further embodiments, the housing can also be formed in one piece or in multiple parts with more than three housing parts.

[0049] The first housing part 3 has a base 5 with a circumferential wall 6 projecting therefrom at an angle of 90°. The base 5 is provided with the connecting element 7. For this purpose, the connecting element 7 is attached to the base 5 as a connecting piece. It is advantageously connected to the base in one piece. An element to be connected can be inserted into the opening 8 of the connecting element 7. For fixing, a thread 9 is provided radially outside the connecting piece in the wall of the piece, by means of which the element to be connected can also be screwed to the connecting piece.

[0050] The second housing part 4 is formed with a base 10, from which an upwardly projecting circumferential wall 11 extends in one direction. A circumferential wall 12 is provided in the opposite direction, also projecting from the base 10. The base 10 has openings 13 to allow fluid communication between the two sides of the base 10. In the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of openings is provided, although only one opening could also be provided. Preferably, four openings 13 are provided. Advantageously, a number of four openings 13 are provided, which are separated by a cross-shaped web.

[0051] As in the Figures 1 and 2As can be seen, the two housing parts 3, 4 are inserted into one another in the area of ​​the circumferential walls 6, 11 and preferably pressed together. The walls 6, 11 are designed such that the axial extent of the walls 6, 11 is approximately the same length and the inner radius of the wall 6 approximately corresponds to the outer radius of the wall 11, so that they can be inserted into one another and pressed together.

[0052] Alternatively, the wall 6 of the first housing part 3 can also be arranged radially inward of the wall 11 of the second housing part 4.

[0053] Pressing may be advantageous for connecting the two housing parts 3, 4 in the area of ​​the walls 6, 11. Gluing, welding, clipping, etc. may also be used.

[0054] The housing forms a first receiving space 14 in the region of the connection of the two housing parts 3, 4, wherein the receiving space 14 is formed by a circumferential wall 11, a bottom 5 of the first housing part and a bottom 10 of the second housing part.

[0055] The connecting element is provided at the top of the base 5 of the first housing part 3, as already described above. If an element to be connected to the connecting element 7, such as a syringe or the like, or a nozzle attached to it, is inserted into the connecting element 7, fluid communication should be possible between the element to be connected and the receiving space 14. If no element to be connected is inserted into the connecting element, the connecting element 7 should be closed and sealed.

[0056] This is achieved with a valve element 15. The valve element 15 has a cylindrical portion 16 from which spring arms 17 protrude downwards. The cylindrical portion is advantageously formed as a single piece with the spring arms, and the spring arms protrude radially outward and downwards from the cylindrical portion 16 at an angle of approximately 45° to the vertical.

[0057] When three spring arms are present, the spring arms 17 form an arrangement resembling the edges of a tetrahedron. A cross-shaped groove 18 is provided at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 16, which serves to ensure a fluid connection between the connecting element 7 and the receiving space 14.

[0058] In the Figures 1 and 2In the positions of the valve element 15 shown, a fluid connection between the connecting element 7 and the receiving space 14 is closed and sealed. If an element is inserted into the connecting element 7 from above, the cylindrical region 16 of the valve element 15 is compressed and pushed downwards so that the spring arms 17 are supported in the corners of the receiving space 14 and deform elastically. This will continue until a fluid connection is established between the cross-shaped channel 18 and a rounded portion 19 in the region of the connecting element. A fluid connection can then be established between the element to be connected and the receiving space 14. Instead of the rounded portion, grooves or channels can also be provided in the wall of the connecting element, which allow a fluid connection from a certain predeterminable position of the valve element.

[0059] If the element to be connected is removed from the connecting element 7, the elastic, malleable valve element 15 relaxes again and the cylindrical region 16 is pushed upwards again, so that the connecting element 7 is sealed again.

[0060] In the lower region of the connecting element 1, a mandrel 20 is provided radially within the cylindrical wall region 12. At its end, the mandrel 20 carries a thickened element 21 that is preferably inserted into an opening 22 of the mandrel 20 or is preferably formed integrally with the mandrel 20. The mandrel 20 can preferably be formed integrally with a web that separates the openings 13.

[0061] The valve element is a sleeve-shaped element 23 which merges into a base 24, the sleeve-shaped element 23 being approximately hollow-cylindrical in shape and resting with its axially lower edge region on a shoulder of the element 21. A force accumulator 25, preferably in the form of an annular elastic element, is arranged between the base 24 and the base 10 of the housing part in order to act upon the sleeve-shaped element 23 against the element 21. This creates a seal between the receiving space 26 and the connecting element 27, which is formed by the sleeve-shaped element 23 with the base 24 and the peripheral wall 12. The sleeve-shaped element 23 is preferably cylindrical or at least slightly conical in shape, so that the upper opening is larger than the lower opening, which is resting on the element 21.

[0062] If an element to be connected with a circumferential collar is inserted into the area 27 from below, the sleeve-shaped element 23 with the base 24 is pushed axially upwards, against the force of the energy accumulator 25 and the shoulder 28 of the sleeve-shaped element 23 lifts off a shoulder of the element 21 and allows a fluid connection between the element to be connected through the channel 29 in the sleeve-shaped element 23 to the receiving space 26. Since there is a fluid connection between the receiving space 26 and the receiving space 14 through the openings 13, a fluid connection can be created between two elements to be connected which are connected to the connecting elements 7 and 27.

[0063] Preferably, the elastic elements 15 and 25 are made of an elastomeric material, and the housing elements 3, 4, as well as the sleeve-shaped element 23 and the element 21, are made of a non-elastomeric, rather dimensionally stable, material, such as a thermoplastic. Element 15 and element 25 can preferably be made of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or high-temperature curing silicone rubber (HTV) or room-temperature curing silicone rubber (RTV), and the housing parts, as well as the sleeve and the end element 21, can be made of acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene (PE), or similar.

[0064] The element 21 can, as shown, be inserted into an opening in the mandrel 20. Alternatively, the element 21 can also be created by hot-pressing the mandrel by deforming the mandrel accordingly. If necessary, it can also be molded onto the mandrel.

[0065] It may also be advantageous if an elastomeric material is provided between the element 21 and the sleeve-shaped element 23 in the region of the shoulder of the element 21, such as a disc which may also be provided as a vulcanized material, in order to achieve a better seal between the element 21 and element 23.

[0066] As an alternative to designing the force accumulator 25 as an elastomeric ring, it can be designed, for example, as an oval ring or O-ring, or even as a differently designed force accumulator, such as a spring force accumulator. The spring arms 17 of the cylindrical element 15 can also be designed differently, for example by a central elastic extension that extends the element 15 in the axial direction. The extension can also be provided in addition to the spring arms. It could also be advantageous if the element, which has previously been designed as asymmetrically, is made symmetrical by providing two identical or essentially identical components or regions, so that, for example, the valve element 15 is arranged accordingly on both sides of the base 10 in order to close two receiving spaces arranged on both sides of the base 10 with identical valve elements.Accordingly, the alternative arrangement of two valve elements according to 23, 24 could also be provided, arranged on either side of the wall 10. This could provide an identical valve unit arranged on both sides of the wall 10, which would also be easy to manufacture due to the identical components.

[0067] The Figure 3 shows the connecting element 1 in a top view, in which the base 5 is visible as a disc-shaped base, from which the connecting element 7 protrudes upwards in a circular ring. The valve element 15 with the cross-shaped fluid connection groove 18 can be seen in the central opening of the circular connecting element 7.

[0068] The Figure 4 shows the connecting element 1 according to the invention in a three-dimensional schematic representation and the Figure 5 shows the connecting element 1 in an exploded view.

[0069] As can be seen, the housing parts 3, 4 form the housing for receiving the valve elements 15, 23, which can close off the receiving spaces 14, 26.

[0070] In Figure 5 At the top, the housing part 3 can be seen, which defines a substantially cylindrical space area 14 and has the connecting element 7 as a connecting piece at its upper end. A thread 9 is provided on the outer edge or on the outer wall of the connecting element 7 for screwing to an element to be connected. This element to be connected is in Figure 4 schematically shown as element 50.

[0071] The valve element 15 is formed with a cylindrical body 16 and spring arms 17, which protrude obliquely to the vertical. In the embodiment of the Figure 5similarly aligned by the edges of a tetrahedron. The housing 4 has a receiving space, which together with the receiving space 14 of the housing part 3 forms the receiving space. Below the wall 10, referred to as the base, a further receiving space 26 is defined, into which the elastic element 25 and the sleeve-shaped element 23 are inserted before the thickened end 21 of the mandrel 20 is inserted.

[0072] The Figures 6, 7 and 8 show a further embodiment of a connecting element 101 according to the invention, respectively in section, in a side view and in a view from above.

[0073] The connecting element 101 is formed with a housing 102. The housing 102 consists of at least two housing parts 103, 104. In the embodiment of the Figure 6 the housing 102 consists of the two housing parts 103, 104, which are connected to each other.

[0074] The first housing part 103 has a base 105 with a circumferential wall 106 projecting therefrom at an angle of 90°. The base 105 is provided with the connecting element 107. For this purpose, the connecting element 107 is attached to the base 105 as a connecting piece. It is advantageously connected to the base in one piece. An element to be connected can be inserted into the opening 108 of the connecting element 107. For fixation, a thread 109 or similar is provided radially outside the connecting piece 107 in the wall of the piece, by means of which the element to be connected can also be screwed or connected to the connecting piece 107.

[0075] The second housing part 104 is formed with a base 110, from which an upwardly projecting circumferential wall 111 extends in one direction. A circumferential wall 112 is provided in the opposite direction, also projecting from the base 110. The base 110 has at least one opening or a plurality of openings 113 to allow fluid communication between the two sides of the base 110. In the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of openings 113 are provided, although only one opening could also be provided. Preferably, four openings 113 are provided. Advantageously, a number of four openings 113 are provided, which are separated by a cross-shaped web.

[0076] As in the Figure 6As can be seen, the two housing parts 103, 104 are inserted into one another in the region of the circumferential walls 106, 111 and preferably pressed or glued together. The walls 106, 111 are designed such that the axial extent of the walls 106, 111 is approximately the same length and the inner radius of the wall 111 approximately corresponds to the outer radius of the wall 106, so that they can be inserted into one another and pressed, glued, or welded together. The wall 106 is radially inside the wall 111.

[0077] Pressing may be advantageous for connecting the two housing parts 3, 4 in the area of ​​walls 6, 11. Gluing, welding, clipping, etc. may also be used. The connection between flange 150 and the top side 151 of wall 111 can also be made. This can also be done by welding.

[0078] The housing forms a first receiving space 114 in the region of the connection of the two housing parts 103, 104, wherein the receiving space 114 is formed by a circumferential wall 106, a bottom 105 of the first housing part and a bottom 110 of the second housing part.

[0079] The connecting element 107 is provided at the top of the base 105 of the first housing part 103. If an element to be connected to the connecting element 107, such as a syringe or the like, or a nozzle attached thereto, is inserted into the connecting element 107, fluid communication should be possible between the element to be connected and the receiving space 114. If no element to be connected is inserted into the connecting element 107, the connecting element 107 should be closed and sealed.

[0080] This is achieved with a valve element 115. The valve element 115 has a cylindrical portion 116 or a cylindrical body 116, from which spring arms 117 protrude downwards. The cylindrical portion 116 is advantageously formed as one piece with the spring arms 117, and the spring arms 117 protrude radially outwards and downwards from the cylindrical portion 116 at an angle to the vertical. The elastic spring element is inserted into the Figures 21 to 24 explained in more detail. The spring arms are in the embodiment of the Figures 6 to 8 angled or have kinks. If there are three spring arms 117, the spring arms 117 form an arrangement approximately resembling the edges of a tetrahedron.

[0081] At the upper end of the cylindrical portion 116, a triangular groove 118 is provided, which serves to ensure a fluid connection between the connecting element 107 and the receiving space 114 when the cylindrical element 116 is pressed downwards.

[0082] In the Figure 6In the position of the valve element 115 shown, a fluid connection between the connecting element 107 and the receiving space 114 is closed and sealed. If an element is inserted into the connecting element 107 from above, the cylindrical region 116 of the valve element 115 is subjected to downward pressure or is compressed and pushed downward, so that the spring arms 117 are supported on the bottom of the receiving space 114 and deform elastically. This will continue until a fluid connection is established between the channel 118 and a rounded portion 119 in the region of the connecting element. A fluid connection can then be established between the element to be connected and the receiving space 114. Instead of the rounded portion, grooves or channels can also be provided in the wall of the connecting element, which allow a fluid connection from a certain predeterminable position of the valve element.

[0083] If the element to be connected is removed from the connecting element 107, the elastic, malleable valve element 115 relaxes again and the cylindrical region 116 is pushed upwards again, so that the connecting element 107 is sealed again.

[0084] In the lower region of the connecting element 101, a mandrel 120 is provided radially within the cylindrical wall region 112. At its end, the mandrel 120 carries a thickened element 121 into which a pin 122 of the mandrel 120 is preferably inserted or preferably formed integrally with the mandrel 120. The element 121 is preferably secured by hot stamping the pin.

[0085] The mandrel 120 may preferably be formed integrally with a web which separates the openings 113.

[0086] A sleeve-shaped element 123 is provided as the valve element, which merges into a base 124. The sleeve-shaped element 123 is approximately hollow-cylindrical and is supported with its axially lower edge region on a shoulder of the element 121. A force accumulator 125, preferably an annular elastic element such as an O-ring, is arranged between the base 124 and the base 110 of the housing part in order to apply pressure to the sleeve-shaped element 123 against the element 121. This creates a seal between the receiving space 126 and the connecting element 127, which is formed by the sleeve-shaped element 123 with the base 124 and the peripheral wall 112.

[0087] If an element to be connected with a circumferential collar is inserted into the area 127 from below, the sleeve-shaped element 123 with the base 124 is pushed axially upwards, against the force of the energy accumulator 125 and the shoulder 128 of the sleeve-shaped element 123 lifts off a shoulder of the element 121 and allows a fluid connection between the element to be connected through the channel 129 in the sleeve-shaped element 123 to the receiving space 126. Since there is a fluid connection between the receiving space 126 and the receiving space 114 through the openings 113, a fluid connection can be created between two elements to be connected which are connected to the connecting elements 107 and 127.

[0088] Preferably, the elastic elements 115 and 125 are made of an elastomeric material, and the housing elements 103, 104, as well as the sleeve-shaped element 123 and the element 121, are made of a non-elastomeric, rather dimensionally stable, material, such as a thermoplastic. Element 115 and element 125 can preferably be made of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or high-temperature curing silicone rubber (HTV) or room-temperature curing silicone rubber (RTV), and the housing parts, as well as the sleeve and the end element 121, can be made of acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene (PE), or similar.

[0089] The Figure 7 shows the view of the connecting element 101, where the Figure 8 shows that the receiving space 114 with the cover 105 is round in section.

[0090] The Figures 9, 10, 11 and 12show a further embodiment of a connecting element 201 according to the invention, respectively in section, in a side view and in a view from above.

[0091] The connecting element 201 is formed with a housing 202. The housing 202 consists of at least two housing parts 203, 204. In the embodiment of the Figure 9 the housing 202 consists of the two housing parts 203, 204, which are connected to each other.

[0092] The first housing part 203 has a base 205 with a web 206 projecting therefrom. The base 205 is provided with the connecting element 207. For this purpose, the connecting element 207 is attached to the base 205 as a connecting piece. Advantageously, it is connected to the base in one piece. An element to be connected can be inserted into the opening 208 of the connecting element 207. For fixation, a thread 209 or similar is provided radially outside the connecting piece 207 in the wall of the piece, by means of which the element to be connected can also be screwed or connected, such as plugged on, to the connecting piece 207.

[0093] The second housing part 204 is formed with a base 210, from which an upwardly projecting circumferential wall 211 extends in one direction. A circumferential wall 212 is provided in the opposite direction, which also projects from the base 210.

[0094] The base 210 has at least one opening or multiple openings 213 to allow fluid communication between the two sides of the base 210. In the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of openings 213 are provided, although only one opening could also be provided. Preferably, four openings 213 are provided. Advantageously, a number of four openings 213 are provided, separated by a cross-shaped web.

[0095] As in the Figure 9 As can be seen, the two housing parts 203,204 are connected to each other in the area of ​​the surrounding wall 211 and the bath 205, preferably by welding.

[0096] The housing forms a first receiving space 214 in the region of the connection of the two housing parts 203, 204, wherein the receiving space 214 is formed by a circumferential wall 211, a bottom 205 of the first housing part and a bottom 210 of the second housing part.

[0097] The connection element 207 is provided at the top on the bottom 205 of the first housing part 203.

[0098] The valve element 215 is arranged in the receiving space 214 and has a cylindrical region 216 or a cylindrical body 116, from which spring arms 217 protrude downwards. The cylindrical region 216 is advantageously formed as one piece with the spring arms 217, and the spring arms 217 protrude radially outwards and downwards from the cylindrical region 216 at an angle to the vertical. The elastic spring element is inserted into the Figures 21 to 24 The spring arms 217 are in the embodiment of the Figures 9 to 11 angled or have kinks. If there are three spring arms 217, the spring arms 217 form an arrangement approximately resembling the edge arrangement of a tetrahedron.

[0099] In the Figure 9In the position of the valve element 215 shown, a fluid connection between the connecting element 207 and the receiving space 214 is closed and sealed. If an element is inserted into the connecting element 207 from above, the cylindrical region 216 of the valve element 215 is subjected to downward pressure or is compressed and pushed downward, so that the spring arms 217 are supported on the bottom of the receiving space 214 and deform elastically. This will continue until a fluid connection is established between the channel 218 and a rounded portion 219 in the region of the connecting element. A fluid connection can then be established between the element to be connected and the receiving space 214. Instead of the rounded portion, grooves or channels can also be provided in the wall of the connecting element, which allow a fluid connection from a certain predeterminable position of the valve element.

[0100] If the element to be connected is removed from the connecting element 207, the elastic, malleable valve element 215 relaxes again and the cylindrical region 216 is pushed upwards again, so that the connecting element 207 is sealed again.

[0101] In the lower region of the connecting element 201, a mandrel 220 is provided radially within the cylindrical wall region 212. At its end, the mandrel 220 carries a thickened element 221 into which a pin 222 of the mandrel 220 is preferably inserted or is preferably formed integrally with the mandrel 220. The element 221 is preferably secured by hot stamping the pin.

[0102] The mandrel 220 may preferably be formed integrally with a web which separates the openings 213.

[0103] A sleeve-shaped element 223 is provided as the valve element, which merges into a flange 224. The sleeve-shaped element 223 is approximately hollow-cylindrical and is supported with its axially lower edge region on a shoulder of the element 221. A force accumulator 225, preferably an annular elastic element such as an O-ring, is arranged between the flange 224 and the base 210 of the housing part in order to apply pressure to the sleeve-shaped element 223 against the element 221. This creates a seal between the receiving space 226 and the connecting element 227, which is formed by the sleeve-shaped element 223 with the base 224 and the peripheral wall 212.

[0104] If an element to be connected with a circumferential collar is inserted into the area 227 from below, the sleeve-shaped element 223 with the flange 224 is pushed axially upwards, against the force of the energy accumulator 225 and the shoulder 228 of the sleeve-shaped element 223 lifts off a shoulder of the element 221 and allows a fluid connection between the element to be connected through the channel 229 in the sleeve-shaped element 223 to the receiving space 226. Since there is a fluid connection between the receiving space 226 and the receiving space 214 through the openings 213, a fluid connection can be created between two elements to be connected that are connected to the connecting elements 207 and 227.

[0105] Preferably, the elastic elements 215 and 225 are made of an elastomeric material, and the housing elements 203, 204, as well as the sleeve-shaped element 223 and the element 221, are made of a non-elastomeric, rather dimensionally stable, material, such as a thermoplastic. Element 215 and element 225 can preferably be made of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or high-temperature curing silicone rubber (HTV) or room-temperature curing silicone rubber (RTV), and the housing parts, as well as the sleeve and the end element 221, can be made of acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene (PE), or similar materials.

[0106] The Figure 10 shows the view of the connecting element 201, where the Figure 11shows that the receiving space 214 with the cover 205 is circular in cross-section with outwardly projecting pockets 250. This means that the cross-section has a larger diameter in the area of ​​the pockets and a reduced diameter between the pockets. This results in a smaller volume in the receiving space 214.

[0107] The Figures 13 and 14 show a further embodiment of a connecting element 301 according to the invention, respectively in section and in an exploded view.

[0108] It can be seen that the connecting element 301 differs from the connecting element 201 in that the sealing unit with mandrel 220, sleeve 223 and spring ring 225 is not provided, but only a tubular nozzle 302.

[0109] The remaining identical components are already being Figures 6 to 11 described, so reference is made to this description.

[0110] The Figures 15 and 16show a further embodiment of a connecting element 401 according to the invention, respectively in section and in an exploded view.

[0111] It can be seen that the connecting element 401 differs from the connecting element 201 in that the sealing unit with the spring element 215 is not provided.

[0112] The remaining identical components are already being Figures 6 to 11 described, so reference is made to this description.

[0113] The Figures 17 and 18 show the sealing of elements 123 and 121, or 223 and 221, against each other. Element 221 is connected to mandrel 220, for example, by hot stamping. For this purpose, the protruding part of finger 222 is hot stamped to form a lens 222a.

[0114] The lower edge 450 of the element 223 has an angle of approximately 2° to 4°, preferably 3°, to the horizontal, so that the element 223 first rests with its inner edge 451 against the surface 452 of the element 221.

[0115] In Figure 17 the fluid connection is closed or interrupted and in Figure 18 the fluid connection is permitted because element 223 is lifted off from element 221.

[0116] The Figures 19 and 20 show two embodiments of the seal between the connecting element 107 or 207 and the cylindrical region 116 or 216 of the spring element 115 or 215.

[0117] In Figure 19The cylindrical region 116 of the elastic spring element 115 in the connecting element 107 is shown in detail. The connecting element 107 has a diameter taper at its upper end region 500, so that the diameter in the upper end region 500 is smaller than in the underlying region 501. The transition 504 occurs with a predetermined radius at 502. The elastic element 115 also has a radius change at its cylindrical region 116, with the radius being smaller in the upper region than in a lower region. The radius difference is formed by a shoulder, which can essentially be considered a rectangular step 503.

[0118] If the cylindrical portion 116 of the elastic element 115 is in its upper position, the step 503 abuts against the transition 504 and seals against the transition 504.

[0119] The Figure 20shows a substantially internally tubular connecting element 207 with a substantially straight tubular region 511, which merges into a widened region 510 in the lower region.

[0120] The elastic spring element 215 has on its cylindrical region 216 in the upper region a sealing lip 513 projecting in the radial direction and in the lower region a step 512 for increasing the diameter.

[0121] In a position of the cylindrical portion 216 in its upper position, the sealing lip 513 seals against the tubular connecting element 207 and the step 512 seals against the widened portion 510 of the connecting element 207.

[0122] The Figures 21 to 24 show the elastic spring element in different views. In the top view according to Figure 21The cylindrical region 216 can be seen, which has a structure on its upper side that shows a triple passage, or a passage with three recesses 530 that converge approximately in a star shape. The recesses 530 are each separated from one another by elevations 531.

[0123] Three spring arms 217 protrude from the cylindrical region 216, wherein the spring arms 217 enclose an angle of 120° to each other.

[0124] They preferably lie in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region 216.

[0125] The projecting spring arms 217 are advantageously designed as straight or single or multiple bent or curved spring arms 217. In the embodiment of the Figures 21 to 24 the spring arms 217 are bent.

[0126] For this purpose, the spring arms 217 have a first region 533 which is arranged at an angle α1 of approximately 25 to 30°, preferably 27°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region 216.

[0127] Furthermore, the spring arms 217 have a second region 534 which is arranged at an angle α2 of approximately 35 to 40°, preferably 37°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region 216.

[0128] The spring arms also have a third region which is arranged at an angle α3 of approximately 75 to 80°, preferably 77°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region 216.

[0129] The first region 533 adjoins the cylindrical region. This is followed by region 534, and this is followed by region 535.

[0130] The Figure 23shows the surface 550 of the cylindrical region 216 in a side view. The structure of the surface 550 with the depressions 530 and the elevations 531 can be seen.

[0131] The cross section of the spring arms is oval according to Figure 24 . The axis 540 in the short direction points toward the cylindrical region 216, and the axis 541 in the long direction is perpendicular to it. This makes the spring arms 216 easier to deform in the direction of movement of the spring arms 217 than perpendicular to it, which increases lateral stability against twisting. Alternatively, the cross-section can also have a round or other shape.

[0132] With regard to the cross-sections of the spring arms, they can all be designed identically. One of the spring arms can also be designed differently than the others, for example, with a larger or smaller cross-section. Alternatively, all spring arms can be designed differently, such as with a larger or smaller cross-section.

[0133] This means that when the cylindrical area is subjected to pressure from above, from the direction of the inlet opening, by the connecting element, the cylindrical area can tilt laterally at least slightly in its final position. This has the advantage that the end face of the cylindrical element allows good flow through the connecting element, even with a smooth design without channels.

[0134] Furthermore, an embodiment is disclosed which, in modification of the embodiment of the Figures 1 or 2is mirrored on the floor 10 and has the upper part of the device and the lower part of the device duplicated.

[0135] The same applies to an embodiment which is one of the embodiments of the Figure 6 substantially corresponds, but with a mirror image with respect to the base 110, so that the upper part or the lower part is duplicated.

[0136] The same applies to an embodiment which is one of the embodiments of the Figure 9 substantially corresponds, but with a mirroring with respect to the bottom 210, so that the upper part or the lower part is duplicated.

Claims

1. A connecting element (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) for creating a fluid connection between two elements to be connected, with a housing (2, 102, 202) having a first receiving space (14, 114, 214) with a first connector element (7, 107, 207) and a first displaceable valve element (15, 115, 215) located therein, and having a second receiving space (26, 126, 226) with a second connector element (27, 127, 227) having a second displaceable valve element (23, 123, 223) located therein, the first and second receiving spaces (14, 114, 214, 26, 126, 226) are fluidically connected to one another, wherein the first valve element (15, 115, 215) is displaceable in opposition to the force of a first force accumulator when one of the elements to be connected is inserted into the first connector element, and the second valve element (23, 123, 223) is displaceable in opposition to a second force accumulator when the second one of the elements to be connected is inserted into the second connector element, wherein the first valve element (15, 115, 215) is displaceable between two positions, wherein a fluid connection between the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) and the first connector element (7, 107, 207) is interrupted by the first valve element (15, 115, 215) in the first position, and a fluid connection between the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) and the first connector element (7, 107, 207) is opened by the first valve element (15, 115, 215) in the second position, and wherein the second valve element (23, 123, 223) is displaceable between two positions, wherein a fluid connection between the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) and the second connector element (27, 127, 227) is interrupted by the second valve element (23, 123, 223) in the first position, and a fluid connection between the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) and the second connector element (27, 127, 227) is opened by the second valve element (23, 123, 223) in the second position, wherein the first connector element (7, 107, 207) has a hollow, cylindrical element and the first valve element (15, 115, 215) has at least one cylindrical region (16, 116, 216) for sealing the first connector element that is displaceably accommodated in the hollow, cylindrical element and wherein the first valve element (15, 115, 215) has resilient arms (17, 117, 217) projecting from the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216) so that the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216) is pushed into the first position again from the second position if the first element to be connected is removed from the first connector element and the elastically deformable valve element relaxes.

2. The connecting element according to claim 1, characterised in that the housing (2, 102, 202) is implemented in at least two-piece form, wherein the two housing parts (3, 103, 203, 4, 104, 204) are advantageously connected to one another, such as, in particular, are connected to one another so that they cannot be separated non-destructively.

3. The connecting element according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the housing (2, 102, 202) is implemented in one piece, wherein the housing (2, 102, 202) can be composed of multiple housing parts (3, 103, 203, 4, 104, 204) that are connected to one another, such as, in particular, are connected to one another so that they cannot be separated non-destructively.

4. The connecting element according to claim 1 through 3, characterised in that the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) is composed of a first and a second housing part (3, 103, 203, 4, 104, 204), and the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) is composed of the second housing part (4, 104, 204).

5. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first connector element (7, 107, 207) is located or formed on the first housing part (3, 103, 203) and the second connector element (27, 127, 227) is located or formed on the second housing part (4, 104, 204).

6. The connecting element according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) has a circular cross-section and is delimited by a surrounding wall (11, 111, 211), wherein the receiving space (14, 114, 214) is delimited by two approximately flat wall regions (5, 105, 205, 10, 110, 210), wherein the first connector element (7, 107, 207) is located or accommodated on one of the two walls (5, 105, 205) and a fluid connection to the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) is provided in the other wall (10, 110, 210).

7. The connecting element according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) has a circular cross-section with outwardly projecting pockets (250) and is delimited by a surrounding wall with changeable radius, wherein the receiving space (14, 114, 214) is delimited by two approximately flat wall regions (5, 105, 205, 10, 110, 210), wherein the first connector element (7, 107, 207) is located or accommodated on one of the two walls (5, 105, 205) and a fluid connection to the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) is provided in the other wall (10, 110, 210).

8. The connecting element according to claim 7, characterised in that the number of pockets (250) corresponds to the number of resilient arms (17, 117, 217) of the valve element.

9. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a resilient arm (17, 117, 217) of the valve element (15, 115, 215) is located in each pocket (250).

10. The connecting element according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the projecting resilient arms (17, 117, 217) are implemented as straight resilient arms or as resilient arms with one or multiple bends or curves.

11. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the resilient arms (17, 117, 217) of the first valve element (15, 115, 215) are arranged at an angle of 120° with respect to one another in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216).

12. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the resilient arms (17, 117, 217) have a first region that is arranged at an angle of approximately 25° to 30°, preferably 27°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216).

13. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the resilient arms (17, 117, 217) have a second region that is arranged at an angle of approximately 35° to 40°, preferably 37°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216).

14. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the resilient arms (17, 117, 217) have a third region that is arranged at an angle of approximately 75° to 80°, preferably 77°, to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical region (16, 116, 216).

15. The connecting element according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second receiving space (26, 126, 226) has a region with a circular cross-section that is delimited by a surrounding wall (12, 112, 212), wherein the receiving space is delimited by two approximately flat wall regions (10, 110, 210, 24, 124, 224), wherein the second connector element (27, 127, 227) is located or accommodated on one of the two walls (24, 124, 224) and a fluid connection to the first receiving space (14, 114, 214) is provided in the other wall (10, 110, 210).

16. The connecting element according to claim 15, characterised in that a pin (20, 120, 220) that engages the second connector element (27, 127, 227) projects from the other wall (10, 110, 210).

17. The connecting element according to claim 15 or 16, characterised in that the wall (24, 124, 224) with the connector element (27, 127, 227) as second valve element (23, 123, 223) is displaceable in opposition to the force of a force accumulator (25, 125, 225), and a fluid connection between the connector element (27, 127, 227) and the pin projecting into the connector element can be opened by this means.

18. The connecting element according to claim 17, characterised in that the second valve element (23, 123, 223) is implemented as a sleeve-like element, which transitions into a floor (24), or from which a flange projects.

19. The connecting element according to claim 17 or 18, characterised in that an axial edge region of the sleeve-like element (23) braces against a shoulder of the element (21).

20. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second force accumulator (25, 125, 225) is an elastic element that is located in the second receiving space (26, 126, 226).

21. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second force accumulator (25, 125, 225) is an elastic ring, preferably such as an elastic O-ring.

22. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that an elastic spring element (15) with a cylindrical body (16) and resilient arms (17) projecting from the cylindrical body (16) is provided as a first valve element, wherein the spring element (15) with its cylindrical body (16) and the resilient arms (17) is made of an elastic material.

23. The connecting element according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cross-section of a resilient arm (17) is round or oval or polygonal.

24. The connecting element according to claim 23, characterised in that the cross-section of the resilient arm (17) is oval, wherein the cross-section in a plane through the mid-perpendicular of the spring element (15) has a smaller diameter than the direction perpendicular thereto.

25. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 24, characterised in that the cylindrical body (16, 116, 216) has a first circumferential sealing lip (512) at an end region adjacent to the transition to the resilient arms (17).

26. The connecting element according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 25, characterised in that the cylindrical body (16, 116, 216) has a second circumferential sealing lip (513) at an end region opposite the transition to the resilient arms (17).

27. The connecting element according to claim 25 or 26, characterised in that the first sealing lip (512) is implemented as a circumferential shoulder.

28. The connecting element according to claim 25, 26 or 27, characterised in that the second sealing lip (513) is implemented as a lip protruding from the cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body (16, 116, 216).