PIPE CONNECTOR AND ARRANGEMENT OF A PIPE CONNECTOR WITH AT LEAST TWO PIPES

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pipe connector having the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such pipe connectors are used, for example, in kitchen construction to connect pipes in a piping system. This system can be used, for example, to transport vapors or fumes drawn in by an extractor hood to a wall box and thus out of the kitchen. A pipe connector is known, for example, from EP 2 759 779 A1 or DE 29 44 984 A1. DE 10 2016 220527 A1 discloses an elbow element for a ventilation system.

[0003] Typically, the pipes to be connected with the pipe connector are inserted into the connector to create a fluid connection between the pipes. However, this can lead to leaks and leaks, especially if the pipes to be connected are not precisely aligned. This can cause steam or vapors to escape from the kitchen.

[0004] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a pipe connector with improved leakage sealing. Furthermore, an arrangement of a pipe connector with at least two pipes connected thereto is provided. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] According to the invention, the pipe connector has a flexible region arranged between the first and the second insertion opening and made of a deformable, compressible or expandable and / or elastic material, so that the first receptacle can be displaced translationally and / or rotationally relative to the second receptacle, wherein the flexible region has or is at least partially a bellows.

[0006] The flexible section prevents stresses in the pipes, the pipe connector and in particular at the connection point between a pipe and the pipe connector caused by misalignment or twisting of the pipes to be connected, so that loosening of the connection and / or connection gaps are effectively prevented. The pipe connector can bridge a pipe misalignment thanks to the flexible section. This results in improved sealing against leaks. The flexible section can consist of or comprise a plastic. The flexible section can be or comprise an elastomer, e.g. a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The flexible section can comprise or consist of PVC, polyethylene (PE) and / or polypropylene (PP), for example. The flexible section can comprise or consist of rubber, e.g. natural rubber and / or silicone rubber.The flexible area can comprise or consist of silicone and / or a silicone-containing material. Alternatively or additionally, the plastic can be, for example, a shape-memory polymer. If the pipe connector is released, the flexible area can be provided to return to a predetermined shape, i.e., any deformation of the flexible area caused by the connection can be reversed.

[0007] The pipes to be connected can be flat ducts, round pipes, or the like. It can also be provided that the pipe connector can connect a flat duct to a round pipe or the like. The corresponding receptacles of the pipe connector can be adapted to the geometry and / or cross-section of the pipes to be connected. It can also be provided that more than two pipes can be connected to one another with the pipe connector. The pipe connector can have a corresponding number of receptacles for this purpose. The pipe connector can have a substantially rectangular and / or flat shape. The pipe connector can have a substantially round shape.

[0008] At least one of the pipes to be connected can be made of or comprise a plastic, sheet metal, metal, or metal alloy. Especially with sheet metal pipes, a pipe connector according to the invention can ensure improved leak tightness due to the increased rigidity compared to conventional plastic pipes.

[0009] The pipe connector can be made of or comprise a plastic, such as ABS or PVC. Alternatively or additionally, the pipe connector can be made of or comprise a metal or sheet metal. The pipe connector can have a Shore A hardness of 30-50. With this Shore A hardness, the pipe connector can have better pipe insertion behavior or make inserting a pipe into the pipe connector easier.

[0010] The pipe connector can have at least one holding element, which can be configured to fix a pipe inserted into the first and / or second receptacle at least in sections or at specific points with the pipe connector. The holding element can preferably be arranged at least in sections on or near the stop. Thus, a pipe connector with a flexible region as described above can also have a corresponding holding element. The holding element can be formed integrally with the stop. The pipe connector can have multiple holding elements. The holding elements can be regularly spaced from one another. Thus, the spaced-apart holding elements can be individual or separate elements. In particular, it can be provided that a holding element is not formed by a groove or the like that runs completely around the inside of the pipe connector.This can improve the flow through the pipe connector, as there is no circumferential separation edge due to the holding element, while at the same time ensuring a good connection between the pipe and the pipe connector. A holding element can, for example, have a width of 1 / 50 to 1 / 10 of the inner circumference of the pipe connector or receptacle, an inner side of the pipe connector or receptacle and / or the stop. However, it can also be provided that at least one holding element is designed to be circumferential at least in sections over a wide area on, at or with the stop. In this case, a holding element can, for example, have a width of more than 1 / 10 (but preferably less than 1 / 1) of the inner circumference of the pipe connector or the receptacle and / or the stop. If the first and / or the second receptacle is substantially rectangular or has a substantially rectangular shape, e.g.For flat ducts, it can be provided that retaining elements are arranged only on the two longer sides. The retaining element can protrude into the first and / or second receptacle. It can be provided that the retaining element does not extend over the entire first and / or second receptacle from the stop to the first and / or second insertion opening, but only partially protrudes into the respective receptacle. This can result in an improved, stable and resilient connection of the pipe connector to a pipe, and thus an improved seal against leakage. "Sectionally arranged retaining element" can mean that the width of the retaining element arranged on or near the stop can correspond to a fraction of the inner circumference of the pipe connector, the inner circumference of the first or second receptacle, or the stop, corresponding to a section.It can also be meant that a holding element is arranged on or near a section of the stop, wherein at least one further holding element can be arranged on or near at least one further section of the stop. The pipe can thus be or will be fixed in sections or at specific points by the holding element. The holding element can, for example, have a width of 1 / 50 to 1 / 10 of an inner circumference of the pipe connector or receptacle and / or the inside of the pipe connector or receptacle and / or an inner circumference of the stop. It can be provided that exactly one holding element is arranged on one, several or all of the insides of the pipe connector. The holding element can be designed in one piece with the stop. The holding element can be or have a clamp or the like, or be clamp-like. It can be provided that more than one holding element is arranged on the stop.For example, exactly two (or more) retaining elements can be provided per stop. The retaining elements can be arranged and / or distributed symmetrically along the stop, e.g., relative to a symmetry axis of the pipe connector. The two or more retaining elements can reduce concave deflection of the pipe connector and / or a pipe accommodated. Furthermore, the tightness can also be increased. A symmetrical arrangement of a plurality of retaining elements can be equally effective.

[0011] The pipe connector has a flexible region arranged between the first and second insertion openings, made of a deformable, compressible, or expandable and / or elastic material, so that the first receptacle can be displaced translationally and / or rotationally relative to the second receptacle. Thus, a pipe connector with a retaining element as described above can also have a flexible region. The flexible region can be made of or comprise a plastic and / or rubber.

[0012] The holding element can have a T-shape, L-shape, C-shape, or similar shape, wherein a web of the holding element can form a pipe end receptacle with the inside of the pipe connector for receiving a pipe end of a pipe inserted into the first and / or second receptacle. The web can be arranged in the respective receptacle and / or protrude into it. The pipe end receptacle can provide or become an enlarged contact surface for a received pipe end in the pipe end receptacle. By receiving the pipe end in the pipe end receptacle, a stable and secure connection between the pipe and the pipe connector can be provided or become an enlarged contact surface.

[0013] At least one of the at least one sealing lip can be arranged in the pipe end receptacle. However, all of the sealing lips can also be arranged in the pipe end receptacle. The at least one sealing lip can preferably be arranged on an inner side of the pipe connector and / or on the web. This allows good and tight contact between the pipe end and the sealing lip, and thus a good seal, to be achieved when the pipe end is received in the pipe end receptacle. If the pipe connector has multiple sealing lips, at least two of the sealing lips can have different heights and / or thicknesses. If the pipe connector has at least three sealing lips, two of the sealing lips can be spaced apart from one another at different distances.

[0014] The retaining element and / or the web can have a compression guide on a side facing the inside of the pipe connector, so that a cross-section of the pipe end receptacle is tapered at least in sections in the insertion direction of the pipe end. This can ensure a secure fit of the pipe end in the pipe end receptacle and improve the seal. However, it can also be provided that the compression guide runs along the entire retaining element, so that the cross-section of the pipe end receptacle is tapered in the insertion direction not only in sections but across the entire pipe end receptacle.

[0015] The pressure guide can be inclined at least in sections relative to the inner side at an angle α 109 . The angle can be 0° ≤ α 109 ≤ 20°. The angle can be 0° ≤ α 109 ≤ 15°. The angle α 109 can cause self-locking when a pipe end is inserted into the pipe holder.

[0016] The retaining element can have a clip element, so that when the pipe is received in the pipe end receptacle, the retaining element can be releasably connected to the pipe via the clip element with a corresponding complementary connecting element of the pipe end and / or the pipe. This can provide a good seal and a secure connection of the pipe to the pipe connector, whereby the connection can be easily released.

[0017] The pipe connector can have at least one locking element, preferably arranged on the inside of the first and / or second receptacle, which is designed to releasably connect the pipe to the pipe connector using a locking lug of a pipe inserted into the receptacle. In at least one embodiment, the holding element can be or have the locking element, wherein it can be provided that no holding element is arranged on or near the stop. However, the locking element can also be provided in addition to the holding element, for example in, on or near the holding element arranged on the stop. In this case, the locking element or the locking connection can additionally support and / or reinforce the connection of the pipe to the pipe connector by means of the holding element.

[0018] The pipe connector can have at least one pipe connector clip element arranged in the first and / or second receptacle, preferably on the inside. With the pipe connector clip element, the pipe connector can be detachably connected, preferably clipped, to a pipe inserted into the first and / or second receptacle.

[0019] The pipe connector can have at least one, preferably at least two, axes of symmetry about which the pipe connector and / or the holding element can be axially symmetrical, mirror-symmetrical, or rotationally symmetrical. In particular, it can be provided that the pipe connector has no specific and / or preferred connection direction and / or flow direction. This can result in easier and faster assembly of the pipe connector or the pipe system to be assembled. At least one axis of symmetry can run perpendicular to the flow direction. It can be provided that the holding element is symmetrical or has at least one axis of symmetry. The axis of symmetry of the holding element can be aligned such that the pipe end receptacles formed by the holding element and / or the pressing guide of the holding element are symmetrical.

[0020] The ratio or quotient of a height to a depth of the pipe connector can be greater than or equal to 1.25, preferably greater than or equal to 1.5. The ratio or quotient of a width to a depth of the pipe connector can be greater than or equal to 2.5, preferably greater than or equal to 3. The ratio or quotient of a diameter of the pipe connector to a depth can be greater than or equal to 1.5, preferably greater than or equal to 2. This can result in a narrow pipe connector while simultaneously providing good sealing or connection of the pipes.

[0021] The pipe connector can have at least two sealing lips between the stop and the first receptacle and the second receptacle, whereby the distance between the two sealing lips can be less than the length of the sealing lips. When a pipe is inserted into the pipe connector, the respective sealing lips can overlap. This can result in a better seal.

[0022] The bellows can be or have a bellows.

[0023] The flexible region and / or the bellows can have contours. The contours can be or have folds. The contours can be sinusoidal or angular, for example. If the contours are angular, the flow through the pipe connector can be improved compared to sinusoidal contours. It can be provided that the height of the contours is greater than the distance between the contours. If the contours are angular and the height of the contours is greater than their respective distance from each other, the flow through the pipe connector can be further improved. The flexible region and / or the bellows can have at least one outward-facing contour. It can be provided that the flexible region and / or the bellows has exactly three outward-facing contours. Such a number of three contours can enable comparatively good mechanical stability while simultaneously providing flexibility. In particular, with three compared to, for example,With five contours, "evasion behavior"—that is, relative movement of the contours to one another—is improved, and pressure losses can be reduced. Furthermore, force introduction into the flexible area can be improved with three contours compared to, for example, five. Central force introduction from the pipe insertion area (socket) to the flexible area can result in improved behavior under pressure load, thus minimizing "evasion."

[0024] The outside of the pipe connector can be or have a stiff and / or hard material with a first modulus of elasticity. The inside of the pipe connector can be or have a soft and / or flexible material with a second modulus of elasticity compared to the material of the outside. The first modulus of elasticity can be greater than the second modulus of elasticity. The modulus of elasticity can in particular mean the modulus of elasticity of the respective materials. The pipe connector can be manufactured in a two-component construction and / or have such a design. The stiff and / or hard material can give the pipe connector a high level of stability. The soft and / or flexible material can achieve or create a good seal. The hard material can be or have a plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic, or a metal or sheet metal.The soft material can be or comprise an elastomer, for example, a thermoplastic. The soft material can be or comprise a TPE and / or a silicone. The silicone can be or comprise a silicone-containing substance.

[0025] In at least one embodiment, the pipe connector can have a first, preferably circumferential, stop arranged between the flexible region and the insertion opening of the first receptacle on the inside of the pipe connector, and a second, preferably circumferential, stop arranged between the flexible region and the insertion opening of the second receptacle on the inside of the pipe connector, wherein the pipe connector can have at least one first holding element arranged at least in sections on or near the first stop on the inside, and at least one second holding element arranged at least in sections on or near the second stop on the inside. It can be provided that exactly two (or more) holding elements can be arranged on both the first stop and the second stop.

[0026] The pipe connector can have at least two sealing lips arranged on the inside of the first and / or second receptacles. This allows for very good leak tightness. The pipe connector can meet at least the second-highest tightness class (Class C). It can also be provided that the sealing lips are arranged on, near, and / or fluidically upstream of the receptacle.

[0027] The first receptacle and / or the second receptacle can have a preferably circumferential insertion bevel on an outer edge, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the receptacle can be tapered at least in sections in the region of the insertion bevel. The insertion bevel can be or have a chamfer. The insertion bevel allows a pipe to be easily and conveniently inserted into the receptacle, particularly if a press fit of the pipe in the receptacle is provided.

[0028] According to the invention, an arrangement is provided comprising a pipe connector as described above and at least two pipes connected to the pipe connector via the first and second receptacles, wherein a. the longitudinal axes of the two pipes can be aligned relative to one another at an angle between 1° and 15°, and / or b. the pipe ends of the pipes connected to the pipe connector can have a distance and / or offset along the longitudinal axis of one or both pipes, which can be 1 to 5 cm, preferably 1 to 2 cm, greater or lesser than one or the depth of the pipe connector, and / or c. the two pipes can have a distance and / or offset substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipes from one another, for example in the direction of extension of one or the height of the pipe connector and / or one or the width, which can be between 1 to 5 cm, preferably between 1 to 2 cm.

[0029] The pipe connector thus allows, in particular, the connection of two pipes that are not precisely aligned without stress occurring in the connector or the connection. This provides a long-lasting, secure, and non-loosening connection. The pipe connector features a flexible section that compensates for any offset or distance between the two pipes.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, according to the invention, one or the arrangement of a pipe connector and at least two pipes connected to the pipe connector via the first and the second receptacle is provided, wherein a. an outer cross-section and / or outer circumference of the pipes can be larger than an inner cross-section of at least one of the receptacles, so that at least one pipe can be fastened to the pipe connector with a press fit in the at least one receptacle, and / or b. at least one of the receptacles can have at least one or the locking element on an inner side and at least one of the pipes can have at least one or the complementary locking lug, wherein the at least one pipe can be releasably fastened to the pipe connector in the at least one receptacle by the locking connection formed by the locking element and the locking lug, and / or c. at least one of the receptacles can have at least one or the pipe connector clip element on an inner side (118), wherein the at least one pipe can be clipped to the pipe connector in the at least one receptacle via the pipe connector clip element, and / or d.the holding element can form a pipe end receptacle with an inner side of the pipe connector on, at or in at least one of the receptacles, wherein the pipe inserted into the receptacle is received with one or the pipe end in the pipe end receptacle, wherein the pipe can be connected to the pipe connector via the pipe end and the pipe end receptacle (positively or non-positively), and / or e. the holding element can have at least one or the clip element and at least one of the pipes or a pipe end of at least one of the pipes can have an element complementary to the clip element, wherein the pipe can be detachably connected to the pipe connector via the clip element and the complementary element.

[0031] Arrangements with any combination of these connections or connecting elements are also possible and conceivable.

[0032] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures. Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a pipe connector not belonging to the invention; Fig. 2 shows the Fig. 1shown embodiment of a pipe connector not belonging to the invention; Fig. 3 an embodiment of a pipe connector according to the invention; Fig. 4 another embodiment of a pipe connector not belonging to the invention; Fig. 5 another embodiment of a pipe connector according to the invention; Fig. 6 schematic representations of two embodiments of a holding element; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a holding element and a pipe end; Fig. 8 schematic representations of sealing lips; Fig. 9 an arrangement of a pipe connector according to the invention with two pipes connected thereto; Fig. 10 an exemplary pipe that can be connected to a pipe connector according to the invention; Fig. 11 schematic examples of different arrangements of two pipes connected to a pipe connector (not shown); Fig. 12 a further embodiment of a pipe connector according to the invention; and Fig. 13 a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a pipe connector according to the invention.

[0033] An embodiment of a pipe connector 100 not belonging to the invention is shown in Figure 1 and 2 shown, wherein the pipe connector 100 has a not in Figure 1 and 2shown flexible region 106. The pipe connector 100 has a first receptacle 114 for receiving a first pipe or pipe end and a second receptacle 115 for receiving a second pipe or pipe end. A stop 103 is arranged between the two receptacles 114, 115 on the inner side 118 of the pipe connector. The stop 103 can in particular be arranged circumferentially. The stop 103 can thus determine a defined insertion depth of one or more pipes 112 in the pipe connector 100. A pipe 112 can, for example, be inserted through the first receptacle 114 into the pipe connector 100 until the pipe 112 or its pipe end contacts the stop 103. The stop 103 can thus serve as a stopper. Between the stop 103 and the receptacle 114, 115 and / or the insertion opening of the receptacle, at least one or a plurality of sealing lips 102 are arranged on the inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100.The sealing lips 102 are preferably arranged circumferentially. In the case of the device shown in . Figure 1 and 2 In the illustrated embodiment of the pipe connector 100, three sealing lips 102 are arranged between the insertion opening of the first receptacle 114 and the stop 103, as well as between the insertion opening of the second receptacle 115 and the stop 103. The sealing lips 102 fluidically seal pipes 112 inserted into the pipe connector 100. If the pipes 112 are inserted into the receptacle 114, 115 of the Figure 1 If, for example, two pipes 112 are inserted into the pipe connector 100 shown, the two pipes 112 are fluidically tightly connected to one another. The plurality of sealing lips 102 of the pipe connector 100 achieves a particularly good seal. For example, the Figure 1 The pipe connector 100 shown with its three sealing lips 102 meets the requirements regarding leak tightness and fulfills at least the second highest sealing class, class C.

[0034] The pipe connector can have a Shore A hardness between 30 and 50. This can make it easier to insert a pipe into the pipe connector, or the pipe connector can have improved insertion behavior.

[0035] The pipe connector 100 can have at least one holding element 101. The holding element 101 can be arranged on or near the stop 103. It can be provided that the holding element 101 is formed integrally with the stop 103. The holding element 101 can be L-shaped, T-shaped, C-shaped, or the like, or have a corresponding shape. With the holding element 101, a pipe 112 inserted into the pipe connector 100 can be pressed and / or pushed against the inner wall of the pipe connector 100. It can also be provided that a pipe end of a pipe 112 inserted into the pipe connector 100 is or becomes clamped to the holding element 101 and the inner wall of the pipe connector 100. The retaining element 101 can be arranged on the inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100 such that an inserted pipe 112 or its pipe end is pressed against the sealing lips 102. The pipe connector 100 can have a plurality of retaining elements 101.The respective holding elements 101 can generally be spaced apart from one another. Exemplary embodiments of the holding element 101 are described further below in the . Figures 6 and 7described in further detail. It can be provided that the pipe connector has a plurality of holding elements 101. In this case, the holding elements 101 can be regularly spaced from one another, for example along the stop 103. However, it can also be provided that at least one holding element 101 is designed to be completely or at least partially circumferential on, at or with the stop. It can be provided to arrange exactly one holding element on at least one or more inner sides of the pipe connector. The ratio of the width of the holding element 101 to the inner circumference of the pipe connector 100, to the inner side 118 of the pipe connector, on which the holding element 101 can be arranged, or to the inner circumference of the stop 103 can be between 1 / 50 and 1 / 10. The holding element 101 can therefore be narrow compared to, for example, the width of the receptacle 114, 115 of the pipe connector 100.

[0036] The pipe connector 100 and / or the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115 can have an insertion bevel 105. The insertion bevel 105 can be or have a chamfer. The insertion bevel 105 can be arranged on an inner side of the insertion opening of the respective receptacle 114, 115. The insertion bevel 105 can facilitate the insertion of a pipe 112 or its pipe end into the pipe connector 100. The insertion bevel 105 can be arranged circumferentially. It can be provided that the outer dimensions of the pipe 112 and the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115 are dimensioned such that a press fit or clamp fit results when the pipe 112 is inserted into the pipe connector 100. In this case, the insertion bevel 105 can facilitate the assembly or insertion of the pipe section 112 into the pipe connector 100.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, the pipe 112 can be connected to the pipe connector 100 via a snap-in connection. For this purpose, the pipe connector 100 can have a suitable snap-in element 107 or a corresponding connecting element, which can be connected or snapped into place with a complementary snap-in lug 117 of the pipe 112. This allows the pipe 112 to be easily and releasably attached to the pipe connector 100. The pipe connector 100 can also have a plurality of corresponding snap-in elements 107 or connecting elements, which can each be regularly spaced from one another. The snap-in element 107 and / or the connecting element can be arranged on an inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100. The snap-in element 107 and / or the connecting element can be arranged on or near the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115 or their inlet openings. An exemplary tube 112 and / or tube end with a corresponding locking lug 117 is shown in Figure 10Alternatively or additionally, the pipe connector 100 may have at least one Figure 1 or 2 shown pipe connector clip element. The pipe connector clip element can be arranged in the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115. Preferably, the pipe connector clip element can be arranged on an inner side of the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115. If the pipe connector 100 has several pipe connector clip elements, these can be arranged circumferentially, preferably equidistantly, in the first receptacle 114 and / or the second receptacle 115. The pipe connector clip element can Figure 10 correspond to the locking lug 117 shown or be shaped and / or designed like this.

[0038] The pipe connector 100 can be used as in Figure 1 and 2shown have at least one axis of symmetry. The pipe connector 100 and / or the holding element 101 can be mirror-symmetrical, axially symmetrical, and / or rotationally symmetrical, or have a corresponding shape. In particular, it can be provided that the pipe connector 100 has no preferred connection direction, alignment, orientation, or flow direction. This can facilitate the assembly or connection of a pipe 112 to the pipe connector 100.

[0039] The pipe connector 100 can have a groove 108 on an outer side. The groove 108 can be arranged circumferentially. The groove 108 can serve, for example, as a handling element or grip element for easier assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the pipe connector can also have a haptic element 104, which can serve as a handling element or grip element. It can be provided that the haptic element 104 has a visual and / or tactile or palpable type designation or code of the pipe connector 100, which can include, for example, information regarding dimensions, material, or other properties of the pipe connector 100. This makes it particularly easy to select the right pipe connector during assembly. The haptic element can indicate a preferred flow direction through the pipe connector.

[0040] The pipe connector 100 can have a ratio of a width b 100 and / or height h 100 to a depth t 100 such that b 100 / t 100 ≥ 2.5 and / or h 100 / t 100 ≥ 1.2, preferably b 100 / t 100 ≥ 2.5 and / or h 100 / t 100 ≥ 3. This can result in a pipe connector 100 that requires little space. A plurality of sealing lips 102 can nevertheless achieve a good seal or leak-tightness.

[0041] The pipe connector 100 can be used as in Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the pipe connector 100 can be configured to connect essentially rectangular pipes 112 to one another in a fluid-tight manner. In particular, the pipe connector 100 can be configured to connect flat channels to one another in a fluid-tight manner. For this purpose, the width b 100 and the height h 100 of the pipe connector or the respective receptacles 114, 115 can be suitably selected.

[0042] A pipe connector 100 belonging to the invention has, as in Figure 3shown a flexible area 106. The Figure 3 The pipe connector shown may contain at least one, several or all of the elements referred to Figure 1and / or 2. The flexible region 106 can be arranged between the first receptacle 114 and the second receptacle 115. The flexible region 106 can enable a relative displacement, for example a translational or rotational displacement, of the first receptacle 114 to the second receptacle 115 or vice versa. For this purpose, the flexible region 106 can consist of or comprise a suitable material, for example a soft and / or deformable plastic. The flexible region can be compressible and / or expandable. The flexible region 106 has a bellows, for example a folding bellows, or is a bellows, for example a folding bellows. Thus, with such a pipe connector 100, even pipes 112 that are not exactly aligned with one another, for example at an angle and / or offset pipes 112, can be conveniently connected to one another.For example, the pipe connector 100 can use the flexible area 106 to connect two pipes 112 that are aligned at an angle of up to 15° to one another. Alternatively or additionally, the pipe connector 100 can also be used to bridge an offset between two pipes 112, for example of one to 2 cm in any direction, e.g. in the vertical direction. Alternatively or additionally, during assembly, length differences of, for example, 1 to 3 cm can be compensated for by the flexible area 106, e.g. by stretching or compressing, if, for example, one or both of the pipes 112 to be connected have been cut too short and / or too long. Pipes 112 arranged with a corresponding offset are shown in FIG. Fig. 11 The flexible region 106 can thus reduce and / or avoid stresses in the pipe connector 100, the pipes 112, and the corresponding connection points and connecting elements.

[0043] In the Figure 3 In the embodiment of a pipe connector 100 shown, the flexible area 106 is arranged symmetrically in the middle between the first receptacle 114 and the second receptacle 115. The Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment also has two stops 103 and two holding elements 101. The respective stops 103 and holding elements 101 are arranged on the inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100 adjacent to the flexible area 106. The holding elements 101 can be arranged as in Figure 3 shown L-shaped. Of course, such a Figure 3 However, the symmetrical arrangement shown is not absolutely necessary.

[0044] The Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment of a pipe connector 100 also has, as with reference to the Figures 1 and 2described sealing lips 102, insertion bevel 105 and locking element 107. The dimensions, in particular height h 100 , width b 100 and / or depth t 100 , can essentially correspond to those of the Figures 1 and 2 shown embodiment.

[0045] Figures 12 and 13 show a further embodiment of a pipe connector 100 according to the invention. The Figures 12 and 13 The pipe connector shown may contain at least one, several or all of the elements referred to Figure 1 , 2and / or 3. The pipe connector 100 can have two or more holding elements 101 per stop 103. It can be provided that the pipe connector has exactly two holding elements 101 per stop 103. This allows a good compromise between not too complicated manufacturing and good connection and tightness between the pipe connector 100 and a pipe accommodated therein to be achieved. For example, a concave deflection of the pipe connector 100 and / or a pipe accommodated therein can be reduced. It can be provided that the two or more holding elements 101 can be distributed and / or arranged symmetrically and / or evenly along the respective stop 103. In the case of the Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, the two holding elements 101 per stop 103 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the pipe connector 101, in particular in the direction of the width b 100 .

[0046] For example, in Figure 12As shown, the pipe connector 100 and / or the insertion bevel 105 can have at least one recess 120. The recess can be arranged such that it is aligned with the holding element 101. The recess 120 can serve to facilitate the insertion of the pipe, e.g., clips or fastening elements of the pipe. However, it can also be provided that the recess 120 itself serves as a fastening means or is designed for this purpose.

[0047] The pipe connector 100 can include at least one spacer 119. The spacer 119 can be arranged on an outer side of the pipe connector 100. The spacer 119 can be or include a rubber element and / or a rubber coating. The spacer can, for example, space the surface of an installed pipe connector from the surface of a wall, a kitchen element, a pipe, another pipe connector, or the like.

[0048] Figure 13shows a cross-sectional view of a pipe connector according to the invention, which, for example, corresponds to one of the Figure 3 or Figure 12 shown embodiment. The flexible region 106 is a bellows, e.g. a folding bellows, or has such a bellows. The flexible region 106 can have folds 121. The folds 121 can be contours or correspond to such. It can be provided that the pipe connector as in Figure 13 shown can have exactly three folds 121. The folds can be as shown in Figure 13 shown point outwards. The folds may be sinusoidal. However, it may be intended that the folds are as shown in Figure 13shown are angular and / or may have a square shape. If the folds are angular, the flow through the flexible area can be improved compared to sinusoidal folds. In particular, a pressure drop in the flow can be reduced. The distance between two folds can be smaller than the height of the folds, see e.g. Fig. 13 . This can result in small radii of curvature of the folds. This can further improve the flow, in particular the pressure drop can be further reduced. At least one embodiment of the pipe connector 100 has, as shown in Figure 13As shown, the pipe connector 100 has exactly three outward-facing folds 121. However, it can also be provided that the pipe connector 100 has more or fewer than three folds 121. A number of three folds 121 can provide a good compromise between flexibility and stability. Compared to, for example, a pipe connector with five folds, a pipe connector with three folds can have lower pressure losses due to reduced "deflection" of the flexible area 106. In addition, a better force introduction from the pipe insertion area or the sleeve to the flexible area 106 can result.

[0049] It can be provided that the flexible region 106 is connected to the pipe insertion regions or sleeves, e.g., welded or glued. However, it can also be provided that the flexible region is formed integrally with at least one or all of the pipe insertion regions or sleeves.

[0050] Section A of the Figure 13shows an enlargement of the sealing area. The sealing area can have at least two, in some embodiments exactly two, sealing lips 102. One, several or all sealing lips 102 can be arranged on, at and / or fluidically in front of a pipe end receptacle 116. In some embodiments, it can be provided that at least one of the sealing lips 102 is arranged in the pipe end receptacle 116. Sealing lips 102, holding element 101 and pipe end receptacle 116 are described further below with reference to Figures 6 to 8 described further.

[0051] The Figures 4 and 5 The further embodiments of a pipe connector 100 shown in the drawings differ from those shown in the Figures 1 to 3 The embodiments shown are characterized, among other things, by the fact that round tubes can be connected to them, whereby Figure 4 a pipe connector 100 not belonging to the invention and in Figure 5a pipe connector 100 belonging to the invention is shown. The pipe connector 100 of the Figure 5 has a flexible area 106. The Figure 5 The pipe connector 100 shown may have at least one, several or all of the Figures 1 to 3 described features, or may only differ in its shape (round versus square / flat). The ratio of the diameter d 100 to the depth t 100 may be d 100 / t 100 ≥ 1.5, preferably d 100 / t 100 ≥ 2. An exemplary round connector may have a diameter d 100 = 150 mm and a depth t 100 = 60 mm. It may be provided that the Figure 4 pipe connector 100 shown for a round pipe and / or the one shown in Figure 5 illustrated pipe connector 100 with flexible area 106 as in the Figures 1 to 3 depicted and described one or more (not included in the Figures 4 and 5shown) holding elements 101. It can also be provided that the Figures 1 to 3 described and illustrated corresponding embodiments do not have holding elements 101. Likewise, embodiments are conceivable which have a first receptacle 114 for a flat duct and a second receptacle 115 for a round duct or a round tube, or vice versa.

[0052] Figures 6 and 7 show embodiments of holding elements 101 according to the invention. The respective holding elements 101 are not limited to a T-shape shown in the figures, but can also be L-shaped, C-shaped or the like or have a corresponding shape.

[0053] The holding element 101 can be as shown in the Figures 6 and 7shown have at least one web 111. The web 111 can protrude over an inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100 and form a pipe end receptacle 116 with the inner side 118. The height h 111 of the web 111 above the inner side 118 can correspond to a thickness, e.g. the wall thickness, of the pipe 112. If a pipe 112 is inserted into the pipe connector 100 through an insertion opening of the receptacle 114, 115, the pipe end can be or will be received in the pipe end receptacle 116. The holding element 101 can have a pressure guide 109 so that when the pipe end is inserted into the pipe end receptacle 116, the pipe end is guided to the inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100. The pressure guide 109 and / or the holding element 101 can have a defined pressure point 110.Depending on the dimensions of the pipe end receptacle 116, for example the height h 111 of the web or the height h 110 of the contact point 110 above the inner side 118, the pipe end can be pressed against the inner side 118 and / or frictionally received in the pipe end receptacle 116. For example, the height h 111 and / or the height h 110 can be smaller than the wall thickness of the pipe 112. Preferably, the height h 110 of the contact point 110 can be smaller than the height of the web 111, compare, for example, the . Figures 6 and 7 The pressure guide 109 can be adjusted as shown in the Figures 6 and 7shown by way of example, run obliquely at an angle α 109. The angle α 109 can be between 1° and 20°, preferably between 1° and 15°. The angle α 109 can also be selected such that a self-locking of a pipe end inserted or received in the pipe end receptacle 116 results. The holding element 101 can be designed in one piece with the stop 103. The holding element 101 can be designed symmetrically about at least one axis of symmetry, e.g. X 101 . The pipe connector 100 can be designed symmetrically about at least one axis of symmetry, e.g. X 101 . At least one axis of symmetry of the holding element 101 can coincide with or be identical to at least one axis of symmetry of the pipe connector 100.

[0054] It can be provided that one, several, or all of the sealing lips 102 are arranged on the inner side 118 of the pipe connector 100 under the web 111 and / or in the pipe end receptacle 116. Thus, the pipe end can be guided by the retaining element 101 to the sealing lips 102 and / or pressed against them, resulting in a particularly good seal.

[0055] How schematically to exemplify in Figure 7As shown, the pipe 112 and / or its pipe end can alternatively or additionally be or be clipped to the holding element 101 or be or be connected with a clip connection and / or snap connection. The holding element 101 and the pipe 112 or the pipe end can have suitable complementary connecting elements 113 for this purpose. The complementary connecting element can, for example, be or have a connecting groove 113 in the pipe 112 or the pipe end, into which a clip element 110 of the pipe 112 can engage. The clip element 110 can, for example, be or have the contact point 110. The depth t 113 of the groove 113 can, for this purpose, be suitably adapted to the geometry of the contact guide 109, the contact point 110 and / or a suitable connecting element of the holding element 101. It can be provided that the tube 112 or the tube end has a distance d 113 to the inner side 118 when clipped to the holding element 101, so that the tube 112 orthe pipe end is not held in the pipe end receptacle 116 in a force-fitting manner, but only via the clip connection. This allows the pipe 112 to be easily separated from the holding element 101 again. The distance d 113 can be small enough to nevertheless result in a good leakage seal or fluidic seal with the sealing lips 102. Alternatively, the respective dimensions, e.g. h 110 , h 111 , α 109 , t 113 , d 113 and / or of the pipe end receptacle 116 or the like, can be dimensioned such that, in addition to the clip connection, a force-fitting connection, a form-fitting connection and / or self-locking of the pipe 112 or the pipe end in the pipe end receptacle 116 results.

[0056] As shown schematically in Figure 8As shown, the sealing lips 102 can be dimensioned in such a way, in particular have a height or length h 102 , and be spaced from one another at a distance d 102 , that they overlap one another at least partially and / or in pairs when the pipe 112 is inserted into the pipe connector 100. In particular, the ratio d 102 / h 102 can be < 1. However, it can also be provided that the respective distance d 102 varies depending on the pair of sealing lips or is selected such that at least one, some or all of the sealing lips 102 do not overlap when the pipe 112 is inserted. It can be provided that at least two, several or all of the sealing lips 102 have the same or different heights h 102 , h 103 , h 104 . Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that at least one, several or all of the distances d 102 , d 103 between the corresponding sealing lips are the same or different.It can be provided that at least two, several, or all sealing lips 102 have a different or the same thickness and / or are made of the same or different material. The height, thickness, and spacing can be selected appropriately so that the sealing lips 102 provide a good seal.

[0057] Even if in Figures 6 , 7 and 8 While three sealing lips 102 are shown, the pipe connector 100 can also have a different number of sealing lips, e.g., one or more than one sealing lip 102 or exactly two sealing lips 102. The embodiments described and shown in the figures can obviously be adapted as appropriate.

[0058] Figure 9shows an exemplary arrangement of a pipe connector 100 according to the invention with two pipes 112 connected thereto. In the exemplary arrangement, a first pipe connector 100 connects a pipe 112 arranged essentially in a horizontal direction to a horizontal deflection piece 112. A vertical deflection piece 112 is connected to the horizontal deflection piece 112 by a further pipe connector 100. A pipe 112 running essentially in a vertical direction is connected to the vertical deflection piece 112 by a third pipe connector 100. The respective pipes 112 are thus connected to one another in a fluidically sealed manner by the pipe connectors 100. As shown by way of example in Figure 9As shown, at least one or all of the pipe connectors 100 have a flexible region 106. For example, the pipe 112 may have an offset or twist in the horizontal direction relative to the horizontal deflection piece 112, which can be compensated for by the flexible region 106.

[0059] Figure 11 shows, by way of example and schematically, two pipes 112 arranged relative to one another, which are connected by a pipe connector 100 according to the invention. The pipe connector 100 is in Figure 11 not shown. In Figure 11 a) The two tubes 112 are arranged at a distance d 190 between their mutually facing tube ends. The two tubes 112 are aligned with each other in such a way that their longitudinal axes (indicated in the figure by the dashed horizontal lines) coincide, see Figure 11 a). The dimension d 188 can correspond to a characteristic dimension of a first pipe 112, for example a width, a height or a diameter. The dimension d 189 can correspond to a characteristic dimension of a second pipe 112, for example a width, a height or a diameter. The dimensions d 188 and d 189 can be dimensioned such that the pipes 112 can be accommodated in a receptacle 114, 115 of a pipe connector 100. The two pipes 112 are fluidically connected to a pipe connector 100 (not shown in the figure) and via this to each other. The pipe connector 100 can, for example, correspond to a Figures 1 to 5 The distance d 190 between the two pipe ends can correspond to one or the depth t 100 of the pipe connector 100. The Figure 11 b) The arrangement shown differs from that of the Figure 11 a)in particular in that one of the two tubes 112 is pivoted or rotated relative to the other tube 112 by an angle α 190. The pipe connector 100 connecting the two tubes 112 has, as described above, a flexible area 106 which can compensate for the corresponding angular offset of the two tubes 112. The Figure 11 c) The arrangement shown differs from that of the Figure 11 a) in particular in that one of the two tubes is offset relative to the other tube 112 by a distance d 191. The offset can be oriented perpendicular to one or both longitudinal axes of the tubes 112, as shown. The pipe connector 100 connecting the two tubes 112 has, as described above, a flexible region 106 that can compensate for the corresponding offset of the two tubes 112. The Figure 11 d) The arrangement shown differs from that of the Figure 11 a)in particular in that one of the two tubes 112 or tube ends is offset relative to the other tube 112 or tube end along one or both longitudinal axes of the tubes 112. The offset d 193 of the two tubes relative to each other can be as in Figure 11 d) shown in such a way that the distance between the two pipes d 192 can be smaller than the distance d 190 and thus possibly also smaller than a depth t 100 of the pipe connector 100. The offset d 193 of the two pipes relative to each other can also be designed in such a way that the distance between the two pipes d 192 can be greater than the distance d 190 and thus possibly also greater than a depth t 100 of the pipe connector 100 (not shown in Fig. 11shown). The pipe connector 100 connecting the two pipes 112 has, as described above, a flexible area 106, which can compensate for the corresponding offset of the two pipes 112 by compression or extension. Of course, the arrangements of two or more pipes 112 that can be connected with a pipe connector 100 are not limited to the Figure 11 shown examples. In addition, any combination of translation and rotation, e.g. any combination of the Fig. 11 shown examples, possible. List of reference symbols:

[0060] 100Pipe connector 101Holding element 102Sealing lip 103Stop 104Haptic element 105Insertion bevel 106Flexible area 107Locking element 108Groove 109Pressure guide 110Clip element 111Bridge 112Pipe section 113Complementary connecting element 114First receptacle 115Second receptacle 116Pipe end receptacle 117Locking lug 118Inside 119Spacer 120Recess 121Folds h100Height of pipe connector b100Width of pipe connector t100Depth of pipe connector d100Diameter of pipe connector d102Spacing of sealing lips d103Spacing of sealing lips h102Height of sealing lips h103Height of sealing lips h104Height of sealing lips h110Height of contact point h111Height of web t113Depth of groove d113Distance between pipe section d188Characteristic dimension of pipe d189Characteristic dimension of pipe d190Distance between pipe ends d191Offset d192Distance between pipe ends d193Offset α109Angle of contact guide α190Angle of pipes X101Axis of symmetry A-section

Claims

1. Pipe connector (100) for connecting at least two pipes (112) used in kitchen construction, wherein the pipe connector (100) has a first receptacle (114) with a first insertion opening for inserting a pipe (112) and a second receptacle (115) with a second insertion opening for inserting a pipe (112), wherein the pipe connector has at least one, preferably circumferential, stop (103) which is arranged between the first and the second insertion opening on an inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100) and which defines a maximum insertion depth of a pipe (112) into the first and / or second receptacle (114, 115), wherein the pipe connector has at least one, preferably circumferential, sealing lip (102) which is arranged on the inner side (118) of the pipe connector between the first or the second insertion opening and the stop (103), characterized in that the pipe connector (100) has a flexible region (106) which is arranged between the first and the second insertion opening and which is composed of a deformable, compressible or expandable and / or elastic material, with the result that the first receptacle (114) can be displaced translationally and / or rotationally relative to the second receptacle (115), wherein the flexible region (106) has or is a bellows at least in sections.

2. Pipe connector (100) according to claim 1, in which the pipe connector (100) has at least one holding element (101) which is preferably arranged at least in sections on or at the stop (103), wherein the holding element (101) is designed to fix a pipe (112) which is inserted into the first and / or the second receptacle at least in sections or at points to the pipe connector (100).

3. Pipe connector (100) according to claim 2, in which the holding element (101) has a T-shape, L-shape or C-shape, wherein a web (111) of the holding element (101) forms with the inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100) a pipe end receptacle (116) for receiving a pipe end of a pipe (112) which is inserted into the first and / or the second receptacle (114, 115).

4. Pipe connector (100) according to claim 3, in which at least one of the at least one sealing lips (102) is arranged in the pipe end receptacle (116), preferably on the inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100) and / or on the web (111).

5. Pipe connector (100) according to claim 3 or 4, in which the holding element (101) and / or the web (111) has a pressing guide (109) on a side facing the inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100), so that a cross section of the pipe end receptacle (116) is tapered at least in sections in the insertion direction of the pipe end.

6. Pipe connector (100) according to claim 5, in which the pressing guide is inclined at least in sections relative to the inner side (118) at an angle α109, wherein preferably the angle 0° ≤ α109 ≤ 20°, particularly preferably 0° ≤ α109 ≤ 15°, and / or the angle α109 preferably causes self-locking in the case of a pipe end which is received in the pipe receptacle (116).

7. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 6, in which the holding element (101) has a clip element (110), so that the holding element (101), when the pipe (112) is received in the pipe end receptacle (116), is detachably connected to the pipe (112) via the clip element (110) with a corresponding complementary connecting element (113) of the pipe end and / or of the pipe (112).

8. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one latching element (107) which is preferably arranged on the inner side (118) in the first and / or second receptacle (114, 115) and which is designed to detachably connect the pipe (112) to the pipe connector (100) with a complementary latching lug (117) of a pipe (112) which is inserted in the receptacle (114, 115).

9. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one pipe connector clip element which is preferably arranged on the inner side (118) in the first and / or second receptacle (114, 115), so that the pipe connector (100) can be detachably connected, preferably clipped, to a pipe (112) which is inserted into the first and / or second receptacle (114, 115).

10. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one, preferably at least two, axis of symmetry about which the pipe connector (100) is axis-symmetrical, mirror-symmetrical or rotationally symmetrical.

11. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 10, which has at least one, preferably at least two, axis of symmetry, the holding element (101) is axis-symmetrical, mirror-symmetrical or rotationally symmetrical.

12. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the ratio of a height (h100), a width (b100) and / or a diameter (d100) to a depth (t100), h100 / t100 ≥ 1.2, b100 / t100 ≥ 2.5 and / or d100 / t100 ≥ 1.5, preferably h100 / t100 ≥ 1.5, b100 / t100 ≥ 3 and / or d100 / t100 ≥ 2.

13. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least in each case two sealing lips between stop (103) and first receptacle (114) and second receptacle (115), wherein the distance (d102) between the in each case two sealing lips is smaller than a length (h102) of the sealing lips (102).

14. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the flexible region (106) and / or the bellows has angular contours (121), wherein preferably the height of the contours is greater than the distance between the contours (121), wherein preferably the flexible region (106) and / or the bellows has at least one outwardly pointing contour, particularly preferably exactly three outwardly pointing contours.

15. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, the outer side of which is or has a rigid and / or hard material with a first modulus of elasticity and the inner side (118) of which is or has a soft and / or flexible material with a second modulus of elasticity compared to the material of the outer side, wherein preferably the first modulus of elasticity is greater than the second modulus of elasticity.

16. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a first, preferably circumferential, stop (103) arranged between the flexible region (106) and the insertion opening of the first receptacle (114) on the inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100) and a second, preferably circumferential, stop (103) arranged between the flexible region (106) and the insertion opening of the second receptacle (115) on the inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100), wherein the pipe connector (100) has at least one first holding element (101) arranged at least in sections on or at the first stop (103) on the inner side (118) and at least one second holding element (101) arranged at least in sections on or at the second stop (103) on the inner side (118).

17. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least two sealing lips (102) arranged on the inner side (118) of the first receptacle (114) and / or of the second receptacle (115).

18. Pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first receptacle (114) and / or the second receptacle (115) has a preferably circumferential insertion bevel (105) on an outer edge, wherein the cross-sectional area of the receptacle (114, 115) is tapered at least in sections in the region of the insertion bevel.

19. Arrangement comprising a pipe connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims and at least two pipes (112) connected to the pipe connector (100) via the first and the second receptacle (114, 115), wherein a. the longitudinal axes of the two pipes are oriented relative to one another at an angle between 1° and 15°, and / or b. the pipe ends of the pipes (112) connected to the pipe connector (100) have a distance and / or offset along the longitudinal axis of one or both pipes (112) which is 1 to 5 cm, preferably 1 to 2 cm, greater or less than a or the depth t100 of the pipe connector (100), and / or c. the two pipes (112) have a distance and / or offset from one another substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipes, for example in the direction of extent of a or the height h100 of the pipe connector (100) and / or a or the width b100, which is between 1 to 5 cm, preferably between 1 to 2 cm.

20. Arrangement according to claim 19, wherein a. an outer cross section and / or outer circumference of the pipes (112) is greater than an inner cross section of at least one of the receptacles (114, 115), so that at least one pipe (112) is fastened to the pipe connector (100) with a press fit in the at least one receptacle (114, 115), and / or b. at least one of the receptacles (114, 115) has, on an inner side (118), at least one or the latching element (107) and at least one of the pipes (112) has at least one or the latching lug (117) which is complementary to the latching element (107), wherein the at least one pipe (112) is detachably fastened to the pipe connector (100) in the at least one receptacle (114, 115) by the latching connection formed by the latching element (107) and the latching lug (117), and / or c. at least one of the receptacles (114, 115) has, on an inner side (118), at least one or the pipe connector clip element, wherein the at least one pipe (112) is clipped to the pipe connector (100) in the at least one receptacle (114, 115) via the pipe connector clip element.

21. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 19 or 20, with further reference to one of the preceding claims 2 to 7 or 11, wherein the holding element (101) forms with an inner side (118) of the pipe connector (100) on, at or in at least one of the receptacles (114, 115) a or the pipe end receptacle (116), wherein the pipe (112) which is inserted into the receptacle (114, 115) is received with one or the pipe end in the pipe end receptacle (116), wherein the pipe (112) is connected to the pipe connector (100) via the pipe end and the pipe end receptacle (116) in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner, and / or the holding element (101) has at least one or the clip element (110) and at least one of the pipes (112) or a pipe end of at least one of the pipes (112) has a or the connecting element which is complementary to the clip element, wherein the pipe (112) is detachably connected to the pipe connector (100) via the clip element and the complementary connecting element.