FLUID CONDITIONER WITH A FLUID-TRAVEL CORRUGATED TUBE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a fluid line comprising a corrugated pipe and a line connector, wherein the line connector has a connector body, wherein the connector body comprises a plug section, wherein the corrugated pipe is plugged onto the plug section, wherein the line connector comprises a fastening device, wherein the fastening device fastens the corrugated pipe to the plug section, wherein the plug section has a central axis and the central axis defines an axial direction.

[0002] Such a fluid line is known from WO 01 / 20216 A1 and is used to guide windshield washer fluid at operating pressures of up to 3 bar. The fastening device comprises two arms which extend in the axial direction and are arranged diametrically opposite one another about the central axis and the plug section. The arms each have three projections on their inner sides which can engage in the grooves on the outer side of the corrugated pipe. The arms are formed axially inwardly on the pipe connector or on a flange of the pipe connector and have axially outward, free ends which are not directly formed on the pipe connector. As a result, the axially outward ends are resiliently movable in the radial direction. This enables the arms to be easily and resiliently spread open when the corrugated pipe is pushed onto the plug section of the pipe connector. The projections of the arms then engage in the grooves orThe troughs on the outside of the corrugated pipe are inserted and the corrugated pipe is pressed onto the connector section. Finally, a retaining ring is pushed axially inward onto the arms until it stops against the flange of the pipe connector. This retaining ring encloses the arms and thus secures the connection between the pipe connector and the corrugated pipe. The retaining ring has a projection on its inside that engages with a corresponding groove on the outside of the arms and is thus secured in place. A disadvantage, however, is that with the known fluid line, sufficient tightness between the pipe connector and the corrugated pipe is not achieved at higher pressures.

[0003] Due to a very similar design of a fluid line in DE 10 2005 007 217 B3, this fluid line also suffers from the disadvantage of insufficient tightness at higher pressures. In the case of DE 197 23 410 A1, the fluid line also requires improvement at high pressures.

[0004] This disadvantage is overcome with an elastic sealing sleeve, as disclosed in DE 10 2011 005 220 A1. The sealing sleeve, like the corrugated pipe, has a corrugated contour, with a diameter that is smaller than that of the corrugated pipe. This allows the sealing sleeve to be inserted into the corrugated pipe. The sealing sleeve comprises a radially outwardly projecting flange at its end facing the cable connector. The elastic flange of the sealing sleeve serves as a stop against the front end of the corrugated pipe and thus a defined positioning of the sealing sleeve within the corrugated pipe. The corrugated pipe, together with the inserted sealing sleeve, is then pushed onto a connector section with a continuous, practically purely cylindrical surface. However, it has been found that leaks can occasionally occur despite the sealing sleeve.As a result, when making the connection, it must be carefully checked whether the fluid line in the area of ​​the plug section is actually leak-proof.

[0005] The invention is therefore based on the object of creating a fluid line with a line connector and a fluid-carrying corrugated pipe, wherein the production of the reliable fluid-tight connection between the line connector and the corrugated pipe is to be made even less complex.

[0006] This object is achieved by a fluid line having the features of claim 1.

[0007] The invention is based on the finding that when the corrugated pipe, including the elastic sealing sleeve from DE 10 2011 005 220 A1, is pushed onto the plug section, a force-fit or frictional connection is created between the sealing sleeve and the plug section. This results in a high force that must be applied in the axial direction. It was found that this is due in particular to the relatively large axial extension of the sealing sleeve. This leads, firstly, to force-intensive and cumbersome assembly and, secondly, to the sealing sleeve being able to slip slightly into the corrugated pipe. This slipping is possible due to the elastically designed flange of the sealing sleeve, so that the stop effect is limited. The sealing sleeve is then no longer visible, and the installer does not know whether the slipping of the sealing sleeve is critical for the fluid connection or not.The invention is therefore based on the insight that, particularly in cases where the sealing sleeve has slipped slightly but is still fluid-tight, the installer must check the fluid tightness. In addition to the aforementioned axial force required when sliding it on, this results in a considerable amount of assembly work.

[0008] It has been found that a sealing ring requires significantly less axial force than a sealing sleeve. However, this also results in a lower sealing effect, so that a person skilled in the art would refrain from using this measure. However, the invention is particularly based on the finding that this disadvantage is more than compensated for by providing a groove on the plug section to accommodate a sealing ring. This is because the groove provides sufficient form-fitting support for the sealing ring, reliably protecting it from slipping. Surprisingly, it has been found that a sealing ring held by a groove on the plug section still provides a completely sufficient and consistently reliable sealing effect, even though the corrugated pipe has a highly alternating surface on its inside.The groove creates a positive connection, which allows larger forces emanating from the corrugated pipe to act radially on the sealing ring. These larger, radial forces achieve a greater sealing effect. At the same time, the connection between the corrugated pipe and the pipe connector can be created with only minimal force and testing effort, because the sealing ring can assume significantly smaller expansions in the axial direction due to the improved sealing effect, thus creating a correspondingly smaller force or friction connection. The result is a reliably fluid-tight fluid line whose corrugated pipe can be manufactured and attached continuously without smooth sections and thus with little effort. As a result, the problem mentioned above has been solved and a reliably leak-tight fluid line has been created that can be manufactured and attached with little effort despite the corrugated pipe.

[0009] In comparison with the fluid line from DE 197 23 410 A1, it was found that the groove on the connector shaft is particularly important for fluid tightness. This is because the groove allows the sealing ring to contact the connector section at three points (both groove walls and the groove base), whereas the sealing ring from DE 197 23 410 A1 only contacts the cylindrical surface. Furthermore, the groove contributes to improved tensile strength, as the sealing ring engages not only in the corrugated pipe but also in the connector section. This results in greater fluid tightness even in the case of larger axial tensile forces.

[0010] The term "corrugated pipe" preferably refers to pipes with alternating inner and outer diameters, which can, for example, be corrugated in a sinusoidal shape, but also in a rectangular or sawtooth pattern. The term "corrugated pipe" has a historical origin and, as a technical term, usually also refers to a rectangular wave-like corrugation of the wall. Terms such as "corrugated" or terms with the root word "wave" also preferably refer to corrugations in the broader sense, and thus to alternating inner and outer diameters, and are not limited to sinusoidal corrugations of the wall.

[0011] The terms "wave trough" and "wave crest" preferably refer to the outside of the corrugated pipe, so that the wave troughs expediently represent the grooves on the outside of the corrugated pipe, with the wave troughs being expediently separated from one another in the axial direction by alternating wave crests. The term "axial" preferably refers to a longitudinal or central axis of the plug section or the respective section of the cable connector or corrugated pipe. It is preferred that the central axis determines an axial, a radial, and a circumferential component.

[0012] It is possible for the connector body to comprise a connecting portion for connection to another fluid-conducting component. Preferably, the connector body comprises a fluid channel for fluidically connecting the plug portion and the connecting portion. The other fluid-conducting component can be, for example, another pipe or a unit. The unit may be a tank, a pump, a valve, a nozzle, or the like. The connecting portion of the connector body is preferably located, in the flow direction, at an end of the connector body opposite the plug portion.

[0013] The connecting section can be a component of a positive, non-positive, and / or materially bonded connection with the other fluid-carrying component. For example, the connecting section can be a component of a non-positive press fit between the line connector or the connector body, on the one hand, and the other fluid-carrying component. It is possible for the connecting section to be connected to the other fluid-carrying component by welding. According to one embodiment, the connecting section of the line connector or connector body is integrally connected to the other fluid-carrying component. It is possible for the connecting section or the connector body to be integrally formed onto the other fluid-carrying component, for example, by injection molding.

[0014] The connector section preferably comprises an end wall. Advantageously, one end of the connector section tapers toward the end wall, thus facilitating the insertion of the corrugated tube onto the connector section. The term "axially inward" preferably refers to an axial direction of the connector section that points from the end of the connector section into the interior of the connector section, the connector body, or the cable connector. The term "axially inward" preferably also applies to the corrugated tube, so that the corrugated tube does not represent a separate reference frame for the "inward" or "outward" directional orientations. The term "axially" inward relative to the corrugated tube therefore advantageously refers to "toward the cable connector."

[0015] According to a very preferred embodiment, the section of the corrugated pipe plugged onto the plug section is at least partially and preferably completely corrugated. It is preferred that the entire corrugated pipe is corrugated along at least 50%, 70%, 90% or 99% of its axial extent. It is very particularly preferred that the corrugated pipe is continuously corrugated along its entire axial extent. This ensures that there is no need to pay attention to the exact axial lengths of the corrugated and non-corrugated sections during manufacture of the corrugated pipe. This results in simplifications in manufacture, in particular in the formation of the corrugation after extrusion or co-extrusion, as well as in cutting to length.

[0016] It is very preferred that the fastening device has or can form at least one positive connection with the corrugated pipe in the axial direction. The fastening device preferably engages in at least one corrugation trough on an outer side of the corrugated pipe. The fastening device preferably comprises at least one retaining projection and more preferably at least two retaining projections. The retaining projection(s) advantageously engage(s) in at least one corrugation trough of the corrugated pipe. The two retaining projections are expediently located diametrically opposite one another with respect to the center axis. It is possible for several retaining projections to be arranged one behind the other in the axial direction or in the longitudinal section of the fluid line. The retaining projection(s) preferably protrude(s) in the radial direction.

[0017] It is preferred that the retaining projection(s) have an insertion surface on their axially outward side, wherein the insertion surface is rounded or bevelled to facilitate insertion of the corrugation crests of the corrugated tube. It is possible for an axially inward side of the retaining projection(s) to be designed differently than the insertion surface. Pulling out the corrugated tube is preferably more difficult and thus an axially outward tensile force acting on the corrugated tube for pulling out is greater than an axially inward compressive force acting on the corrugated tube for plugging the corrugated tube onto the plug section. Preferably, the axially inward side of the retaining projection(s) comprises a contour in a longitudinal section which extends more strongly in the radial direction compared to the contour of the axially outward side of the retaining projection(s).

[0018] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the fastening device or the arms or a securing element exerts a clamping force on the corrugated pipe or the sealing ring in the radial direction. This initially achieves a particularly fluid-tight design of the fluid line. Furthermore, a strong clamping force supports the mechanical fixation of the corrugated pipe to the line connector. A clamping force acting in the radial direction particularly supports a positive connection between the fastening device and the corrugated pipe.

[0019] The fastening device comprises at least two and preferably at least three or four arms. Advantageously, the two arms are arranged diametrically or the four arms are arranged in pairs diametrically with respect to the central axis. Expediently, the longest extent of the arms extends in the axial or substantially in the axial direction. Advantageously, an axially inward end of the arms is connected to the plug section and / or the connecting section and / or to a pipe stop and / or to a flange of the line connector or connector body. According to the invention, an axially outward end of the arms is free, so that the axially outward end of the arms is resiliently movable in the radial direction. It is preferred that the arms and the plug section define, in a longitudinal section, an intermediate space into which the corrugated pipe can be inserted or is inserted. It is very preferred that the arms exert a clamping force on the corrugated pipe orthe sealing ring in the radial direction. Particularly preferably, the arms each have the retaining projection(s) on their radial inner sides.

[0020] The fluid line or the fastening device or the corrugated pipe advantageously comprises at least one inner element, wherein the at least one inner element preferably comprises an elastomer or is designed to be rubber-elastic, wherein the inner element is preferably arranged in the radial direction between the fastening device or an arm and the corrugated pipe. The at least one inner element may be arranged or fastened on a radial inner side of an arm. It is possible for the at least one inner element to have the retaining projection(s). Each of the arms can be assigned an inner element. It is possible for the inner element to be fastened to the inner side of the arm by means of adhesive.

[0021] The inner element is preferably arranged or fastened on an outer side of the corrugated pipe. It is very preferred that the inner element is designed as a sleeve. The inner element preferably encloses the end of the corrugated pipe, which end is plugged onto the plug section. It is very preferred that the inner element is corrugated. The inner element is particularly preferably fastened to the end of the corrugated pipe by means of a frictional connection and / or a positive connection. The inner element is advantageously designed as a corrugated sleeve and is fastened to the end of the corrugated pipe by means of a frictional connection. Elastic inner elements create a greater frictional connection or frictional connection between the fastening device or the arms and the corrugated pipe, thereby improving the fastening of the corrugated pipe to the line connector. It is very preferred that the arms are designed to be spring-elastic and / or that the inner element or elements are designed to be rubber-elastic.

[0022] It is very preferred that the cable connector comprises a pipe stop for abutting in the axial direction of a front end of the corrugated pipe. Advantageously, the corrugated pipe is cut to length and / or the cable connector is designed and / or the pipe stop is positioned or dimensioned such that the sealing ring - when the corrugated pipe is fully pushed onto the plug section or when abutting against the pipe stop - rests against an inner side of a corrugation crest of the corrugated pipe or is received by the inner side of the corrugation crest. It is advantageous that the corrugated pipe is cut to length and / or the cable connector is designed and / or the pipe stop is positioned or dimensioned such that the retaining projection(s) of the fastening device or of an arm or multiple arms engage(s) in a corrugation trough(s) of the corrugated pipe.It is preferred that the retaining projection be arranged axially outward of the sealing ring of the corrugated pipe when fully pushed on, so that the sealing ring preferably contributes to securing the corrugated pipe or engages behind the retaining projection. Advantageously, the corrugated pipe is designed to be flexible, so that minor deviations from the fully pushed-on state of the corrugated pipe are tolerable, while the sealing ring still rests on the inside of a corrugated pipe.

[0023] Preferably, the plug section comprises a cylindrical surface or outer side, at least in sections and preferably along at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the length of the plug section. This ensures that no axially outwardly directed force emanating from the plug section acts on the corrugated pipe.

[0024] Advantageously, the connector body is formed in one piece and preferably integrally—in particular by injection molding. The line connector and / or the corrugated pipe expediently comprise a plastic material. The corrugated pipe may have a single-layer or multi-layer wall. The corrugated pipe is expediently extruded or co-extruded. It is preferred that the connecting body be manufactured separately from another pipe or from another fluidic component. Expediently, the connecting section comprises an end wall, wherein the end wall conveniently faces the other fluidic component.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the line connector or the fastening device defines an open state for inserting the corrugated pipe and a closed state for fixing the corrugated pipe. The arms expediently define the open state and the closed state. It is advantageous if the arms are spaced apart from one another in the radial direction when the fastening device is in the open state than when it is in the closed state. Expediently, less spring-elastic restoring energy is stored in the arms in the open state than when it is in the closed state. The line connector is preferably designed such that the arms or the fastening device can be secured in the closed state, so that the forces stored in the arms orThe restoring energy contained in the fastening device is stored by means of a securing element and is preferably releasable by removing the securing element. Preferably, the restoring energy stored in the arms or the fastening device can only be released when the securing element has been removed or moved.

[0026] The plug section may have an axial length from an end wall to a / the pipe stop, wherein the sealing ring or the groove is / are arranged in one of the three middle fifths of the axial length of the plug section. Preferably, the sealing ring and / or the groove is / are located in the middle fifth of the axial length of the plug section. It is advantageous if a surface normal of a groove base extends in the radial direction. It is expedient for the sealing ring to have a rounded, preferably an oval or circular, cross-section along a longitudinal section of the plug section.

[0027] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the line connector or the fluid line comprises a securing element for securing a / the closed state of the fastening device. It is preferred that the securing element can be pushed onto the fastening device, preferably in the axial and particularly preferably in the axially outward direction. The securing element is advantageously formed separately from the connector body or the fastening device. The securing element advantageously comprises a plastic. The securing element is preferably ring-shaped. The securing element preferably encircles the fastening device or the connector body or one end of the corrugated pipe in the circumferential direction at least partially and preferably completely.

[0028] It is particularly preferred that the line connector or the fluid line is designed such that the securing element is movable relative to the connector body from an open position to a closed position and vice versa. It is very preferred that the transition from the open position to the closed position can be achieved by displacing the securing element - preferably in an axial and particularly preferably in an axially outward direction. It is preferred that the securing element secures or defines a / the closed state of the fastening device. The securing of the closed state of the fastening device by the securing element can be designed to be force-fitting and / or form-fitting. The securing element is advantageously locked to the connector body or the fastening device in the open position and / or in the closed position.The securing element is expediently in the closed position while the fastening device is simultaneously in the closed state. The securing element is expediently in an open position while the fastening device is in an open state. It is advantageous for the connector body or the fastening device to comprise a guide for guiding the securing element from the open position to the closed position and preferably also vice versa, wherein the guide preferably only allows movement of the securing element in the axial direction.

[0029] It is very preferred that the securing element presses the arms radially inwards during the transition from the open position to the closed position, so that the fastening device changes into the closed state. It is particularly preferred that the line connector or the securing element or the connector body or the fastening device is / are designed such that the securing element, during the transition from the open position to the closed position, moves the arms of the fastening device towards one another in the radial direction - preferably by a displacement in the axial and particularly preferably in the axially outward direction - so that preferably a clamping force in the radial direction acts on the corrugated pipe or an additional clamping force acts on the sealing ring.

[0030] The advantage of the locking element is, firstly, that it secures the closed state of the fastening device. Another advantage is that the locking element can exert a strong, radial clamping effect on the fastening device, the corrugated pipe, or the sealing ring. The locking element also provides an indicator function, allowing for a very simple, visual distinction between the closed and open states of the fastening device.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, at least part of the fastening device is manufactured or injection-molded separately from the connector body. Expediently, the fastening device or the entire fastening device or the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body is connected to the connector body in a force-fitting, form-fitting, or material-fitting manner. Advantageously, the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body is not integrally connected to the connector body. The at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body preferably comprises the arms and more preferably an arm sleeve. The arm sleeve is preferably at least partially circumferential and preferably completely circumferential. It is preferred that the arms are connected to the arm sleeve and are preferably integrally connected to the arm sleeve.The at least one part of the fastening device comprising the arms and the arm sleeve is preferably manufactured separately from the connector body by injection molding. It is possible for the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body to be subsequently connected to the connector body in one piece (but not integrally) by welding. The arm sleeve may comprise an arm sleeve fastening. The arm sleeve fastening can be designed as a locking element for locking to the connector body or pipe stop. It is possible for the arm sleeve to be fastened to the connector body or the pipe stop or the plug section or the connecting section in a force-fitting, form-fitting, or material-fitting manner, preferably with the aid of the arm sleeve fastening. The connector body or pipe stop expediently comprises a locking means for connection to the arm sleeve fastening.The separate production of at least one part of the fastening device and in particular of the arms separately from the connector body allows a sometimes more cost-effective production of the cable connector due to simpler injection molding geometries.

[0032] According to an embodiment not covered by the claims, the line connector comprises a closer. The closer is rotatable at least partially about the central axis, the closer being designed such that it can be brought into engagement with at least one corrugation trough of the corrugated pipe by rotation. The closer preferably comprises at least two closer arms. Expediently, at least one closer arm comprises a retaining projection or the retaining projection for engaging in a corrugation trough of the corrugated pipe. The closer advantageously has a closer sleeve. Expediently, the closer arms are connected to the closer sleeve. Preferably, the closer is formed in one piece and in particular integrally—preferably by injection molding. It is preferred that the closer is compressible in the radial direction. It is very preferred that the closer arms approach one another in the radial direction due to the rotational movement of the closer.The closer sleeve is expediently rotatably mounted on the connector body. It is advantageous that the closer or the closer arms are continuously compressed in the radial direction / moved towards one another due to the rotation about the central axis and due to contact with a radial inner side of the arms of the fastening device. The closer preferably defines an open position and / or a closed position. The open position can be defined by a stop or locking means of the closer on the connector body and / or on the fastening device. The closed position of the closer can be defined by a stop or locking means on the connector body or on the fastening device. It is possible for the closed position of the closer to be defined due to a frictional connection between the closer arms and the arms of the fastening device.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the fastening device is designed such that the corrugated pipe engages with the fastening device when pushed onto the plug section. This achieves a very quick connection. It is advantageous that the arms of the fastening device are designed in a relaxed state such that the holding projection(s) of the respective arm engage in the corrugation trough(s) of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the corrugated pipe or arms are designed such that the corrugation crests push the arms radially outwards, so that an elastic restoring energy is stored in the arms until the holding projection(s) can (again) engage in a corrugation trough. It is preferred that the arms or holding projections exert / exert a radially inward-acting clamping force on the corrugation trough(s) when engaging in a corrugation trough(s).It is preferred that the line connector or the connector body or the fastening device or the arms or the corrugated pipe is / are designed such that the corrugated pipe undergoes several locking operations in succession during the sliding on.

[0034] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the line connector has an indicator device, in particular an indicator element and / or an indicator marker, for indicating the closed state of the fastening device. The indicator element can be movable or immovable. It is advantageous for a securing element or a closer to be the indicator element, so that the closed state of the fastening device or fluid line is indicated via the position of the securing element or closer. It is preferred for the indicator element to be movable in the axial and / or radial directions.

[0035] The indicator marker very particularly preferably comprises a visually or electromagnetically readable device. It is possible for the electromagnetically readable device to be read by radio. The fluid line may comprise a sensor for detecting the closed state of the fastening device. The sensor can be connected to a communication unit, for example an RFID chip, so that preferably an external reader can read the state of the fastening device. The visually readable device can be, for example, a symbol, a barcode or a QR code. According to a preferred embodiment, the visually readable device appears due to the transfer of the securing element or the closer from the open position to the closed position. It is very particularly preferred for the indicator marker or the visually readable device to be separated from the securing element or the closer in the open position or in the closed position.the closer is concealed and can be optically read by a reader in the closed or open position of the security element or closer.

[0036] The aforementioned object is achieved by using the fluid line in a vehicle, preferably in a land vehicle, more preferably in a road vehicle. It is preferred that the vehicle is an electric vehicle and has a battery for driving an electric motor. The fluid line is preferably part of a coolant circuit for cooling the battery.

[0037] The invention is described below with reference to several embodiments with several schematic figures. Fig. 1 shows a longitudinal section through a first fluid line according to the invention, Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal section through a second fluid line according to the invention with a fastening device in an open state, Fig. 3 shows the fluid line fromFig. 2 with the fastening device in a closed state, Fig. 4 a third fluid line according to the invention in a longitudinal section, Fig. 5 a fourth fluid line in a longitudinal section, Fig. 6A a cross section of the fluid line from Fig. 5 with a fastening device in an open state and Fig. 6B the fluid line from Fig. 5 in cross section with a fastening device in the closed state.

[0038] Fig. 1shows a first exemplary embodiment of the invention in the form of a fluid line 1, 2 comprising a corrugated pipe 1 and a line connector 2. The corrugated pipe 1 may comprise one or more plastics and may in particular be designed as a multi-layer pipe. The line connector 2 comprises a connector body 22, wherein the connector body 22 is preferably formed in one piece and particularly preferably integrally. The connector body 22 comprises a plug section 3, which is inserted into the corrugated pipe 1. The plug section 3 has a central axis M, which defines an axial, a radial, and a circumferential direction.

[0039] The connector body 22 preferably comprises a connecting section 23. Conveniently, the fluid channel 16 fluidically connects the plug section 3 to the connecting section 23. The connecting section 23 may be non-positively, positively, or materially connected to other fluid-carrying components not shown here. The other fluid-carrying components may be other pipes or units. Units include, for example, pumps, nozzles, tanks, and the like. However, the connecting section 23 may also be integrally connected to the other fluid-carrying component. It is possible for the connector body 2 to be molded onto the other fluid-carrying component, for example by injection molding. Conveniently, the fluid channel 16 fluidly connects the corrugated pipe 1 to the other fluid-carrying component.

[0040] The corrugated pipe 1 of the embodiment according to Fig. 1is sinusoidally corrugated. In other embodiments not shown here, the corrugated pipes may be rectangularly corrugated. On the outside of the corrugated pipe 1, wave troughs 5 expediently alternate with wave crests 15. It is preferred that the corrugated pipe 1 be at least partially corrugated in the axial overlap area with the plug section 3, and preferably be continuously corrugated. Most preferably, the entire corrugated pipe 1 is continuously corrugated.

[0041] With a view to Fig. 1It can also be seen that the cable connector 2 comprises a sealing ring 6. The sealing ring 6 preferably comprises an elastic material and further preferably consists solely of the elastic material. The sealing ring 6 is arranged in a groove 7, wherein the groove 7 is arranged in the region of the plug section 3 and preferably on an outer side of the plug section 3. The groove 7 expediently comprises a groove base 9.

[0042] The cable connector 2 according to Fig. 1comprises a fastening device 4, wherein the fastening device 4 fastens the corrugated pipe 1 to the plug section 3. The fastening device 4 advantageously comprises at least two arms 8, which are preferably diametrically opposite one another with respect to the center axis M. It is preferred that the fastening device 4 or arms 8 each have / have at least one radially inwardly projecting retaining projection 12. It is preferred that the retaining projections 12 are arranged at axial, free ends of the arms 8. The retaining projections 12 preferably have bevelled insertion surfaces on their axial outer side to facilitate insertion of the corrugated pipe 1.

[0043] Preferably, the arms 8 are Fig. 1at their free ends, they are designed to be resilient in the radial direction, so that the corrugation crests 15 elastically preload the arms 8 radially outward when the corrugated pipe 1 is plugged onto the plug section 3. The arms 8 or retaining projections 12 then release their stored restoring energy upon reaching the next corrugation trough 5 and engage in the corresponding corrugation trough 5. Preferably, the retaining projections 12 are not chamfered or rounded on their axial inner side, so that pulling out the corrugated pipe 1 is correspondingly more difficult or, ideally, is prevented.

[0044] It is very preferred that the fastening device 4 has a pipe stop 13, see. Fig. 1. The line connector 2 is preferably designed such that the corrugated pipe 1 abuts the pipe stop 13 with a front end 14 when it is fully pushed onto the plug section 3. It is advantageous that the pipe stop 13 defines an axial length of the overlap between the corrugated pipe 1 and the plug section 3. It is very particularly preferred that the corrugated pipe 1 and / or the line connector 2 is / are designed such that the sealing ring 6 rests against an inner indentation of a corrugation crest 15 when the corrugated pipe 1 is fully pushed onto the plug section 3. It is very preferred that the corrugated pipe 1 and the line connector 2 are designed such that the retaining projections 12 engage in a corrugation trough 5 of the corrugated pipe 1 when the corrugated pipe 1 is fully pushed onto the plug section 3.

[0045] In the embodiment according to Fig. 1The pipe stop 13 is in one piece and preferably integrally connected to the arms 8 or the retaining projections 12. Advantageously, the pipe stop 13 or the arms 8 are in one piece or integrally connected to the plug section 3 and / or the connecting section 23 or the connector body 22.

[0046] Particularly preferably, the arms 8 or the retaining projections 12 exert Fig. 1 a force acting radially inward on the corrugation trough 5 when the corrugated pipe 1 is preferably completely pushed onto the plug section 3. This increases the frictional connection with the sealing ring 6. The embodiment according to Figure 1 is particularly suitable for creating a fluid-tight connection between the line connector 2 and the corrugated pipe 1 by means of a single push-on movement. The embodiment according to Fig. 1 is more suitable for fluid lines 1, 2 or fluid applications with lower pressures.

[0047] In an embodiment not shown here, the retaining projections 12 engage in a corrugation trough 5, which is adjacent to the corrugation crest 15 of the sealing ring 6 in the fully inserted state of the corrugated pipe 1. Most preferably, the retaining projections 12 are located in the corrugation trough 5, which directly follows the corrugation crest 15 with the sealing ring 6 in the axially outward direction.

[0048] The second embodiment according to Fig. 2 is identical in design with respect to the corrugated pipe 1. The line connector 2 is also identical to the first embodiment with respect to the fluid channel 16, the connecting section 23, the plug section 3, the sealing ring 6 and the groove 7. The differences between the first embodiment according to Fig. 1 and the second embodiment according to Fig. 2 are mainly found in the fastening device 4.

[0049] The fastening device 4 comprises Fig. 2 preferably at least two arms 8, which preferably extend with their longitudinal extent in the axial direction. The line connector 2 expediently comprises a pipe stop 13. The pipe stop 13 is preferably connected in one piece or integrally with the connecting section 23 or the plug section 3. In the present embodiment according to Fig. 2 The pipe stop 13 is made in one piece and is preferably integrally connected to the arms 8. The fastening device 4 or the arms 8 can each have a retaining projection 12 or a plurality of retaining projections 12, so that the retaining projections 12 of the fastening device 4 can engage in a plurality of wave troughs 5.

[0050] It is preferred that the fastening device 4 according to Fig. 2at least one inner element 17. The at least one inner element is preferably arranged on the inside of each arm 8 and preferably comprises the retaining projection 12 or the retaining projections 12. It is advantageous that the inner element 17 or the inner elements 17 comprise or consist of an elastomer. It is possible for the inner element 17 to be glued to an inside of the associated arm 8. Preferably, the arms 8 are designed such that their free ends have a greater radial distance from one another in a relaxed state than in a tensioned state. It is very preferred that the relaxed state of the arms 8 corresponds to an open state of the fastening device 4. Expediently, a tensioned state of the arms 8 corresponds to a closed state of the fastening device 4.

[0051] Preferably, the cable connector 2 comprises Fig. 2a securing element 10 for securing a closed state of the fastening device. The securing element 10 is preferably annular. It is preferred that the securing element 10 is arranged displaceably in the axial direction relative to the fastening device 4 or to the connector body 22. Preferably, the securing element 10 is in an open position in an open state of the fastening device 4, as shown in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0052] In Fig. 3 is the second embodiment from Fig. 2, wherein the fluid line 1, 2 or the fastening device 4 is in a closed state and the securing element 10 is in a closed position. It is very preferred that the securing element 10 is arranged further axially outwards in a / the closed position compared to the open position. The closed position and / or the open position are expediently defined by locking elements (not shown here) on the connector body 22 or on the fastening device 4 and the securing element 10. It is very preferred that the securing element 10 and the fastening device 4 are designed such that the arms 8 are moved towards one another in the radial direction due to the closed position of the securing element 10. Expediently, the holding projections 12 engage in the wave troughs 5 in the closed state of the fastening device 4 and create a positive connection.

[0053] Most preferably, the securing element 10 in the closed position and the fastening device 4 in the closed state are designed such that the arms 8 exert a radially inward-acting force on the corrugated pipe 1 or the sealing ring 6. It is advantageous that, due to the force exerted by the securing element 10 on the arms 8, a frictional connection is generated between an outer side of the corrugated pipe 1 and the inner elements 17 or arms 8. It is preferred that the closed position of the securing element 10 increases the frictional connection between the sealing ring 6 and the corrugated pipe 1 compared to the open state of the fastening device 4 or the fluid line 1, 2. Due to the securing element 10 and / or the inner elements 17, the embodiment according to the Figures 2 and 3 suitable for higher fluid pressures.

[0054] In Fig. 4A third embodiment is shown in a closed state of the fastening device 4. The corrugated pipe 1 of the third embodiment is identical to the corrugated pipes 1 of the first two embodiments. Again, the differences from the other embodiments can be seen in the fastening device 4. Preferably, the line connector 2 or the connector body 22 comprises a pipe stop 13. The pipe stop 13 of this embodiment is expediently connected in one piece or integrally to the connecting portion 23 or the plug portion 3.

[0055] However, in the case of the third embodiment, the pipe stop 13 is not integrally connected to the arms 8. Preferably, the at least two and preferably at least four arms 8 are interconnected via an arm sleeve 18. The arms 8 and the arm sleeve 18 are expediently formed in one piece and preferably connected integrally. It is preferred that the arm sleeve 18 comprises an arm sleeve attachment 19. The arm sleeve attachment 19 can be designed as a locking element that interacts with the pipe stop 13 and preferably engages the pipe stop 13.

[0056] Preferably, the fastening device 4 of the third embodiment comprises inner elements 17, as already described in the case of the second embodiment. The arms 8 of the fastening device 4 of the third starting example are preferably designed such that, in an open state, they have a greater radial distance from one another compared to a Fig. 4 shown closed state.

[0057] The securing element 10 of the third embodiment is axially further extended compared to the securing element 10 of the second embodiment. Advantageously, the Fig. 4The closed position shown and / or the open position of the securing element 10 (not shown here) is defined by locking elements between the arms 8 or the arm sleeve 18 and the securing element 10. It is preferred that the securing element 10 is arranged axially further inwards in an open position compared to a closed position. Particularly preferably, the securing element 10 exerts a greater, radially inward-acting force on the arms 8 or the inner elements 17 or the corrugated pipe 1 or the sealing ring 6 in the closed position compared to the open position. The essential difference between the third and the second exemplary embodiment is therefore the separately manufactured arms 8. This enables simpler injection molding tools for the line connector 2. In addition, the inner elements 17 can be better fastened to the inner sides of the arms 8.

[0058] In Fig. 5An exemplary embodiment of a fluid line 1, 2 is depicted that is not covered by the claims. The fluid line 1, 2 comprises a corrugated pipe 1 and a line connector 2. The corrugated pipe 1 is configured identically to the corrugated pipes 1 of the other exemplary embodiments. The line connector 2 comprises a fastening device 4 and a fluid channel 16. The fluid channel 16 is formed by a plug section 3 and preferably by a connecting section 23. The plug section 3, the connecting section 23, the sealing ring 6, and the groove 7 are configured identically to the other exemplary embodiments.

[0059] The cable connector 2 comprises a pipe stop 13, wherein the pipe stop is preferably integrally connected to the plug section 3 or the connecting section 23. The fastening device 4 advantageously comprises two arms 8. The arms 8 of the fourth embodiment are expediently arranged diametrically opposite one another with respect to the center axis M. The arms 8 are preferably integrally connected to the pipe stop 13.

[0060] Particularly preferably, the line connector 2 comprises a closer 11, which is arranged on the inside of the arms 8. The closer 11 is preferably designed to be rotatable in the circumferential direction relative to the arms 8, as can be seen from the cross sections of the Figures 6A and 6B becomes clear. Fig. 6A shows an opening position of the closer 11, while Fig. 6Bdepicts a closed position of the closer 11. The closer 11 preferably comprises two closer arms 20, which are diametrically opposed to each other with respect to the center axis M. The closer arms 20 are connected to each other in the circumferential direction via a closer sleeve (not shown here). The closer sleeve is expediently located axially further inward than the closer arms 20.

[0061] The closer arms 20 are preferably designed to be resilient in the radial direction. The arms 8 are preferably designed to be rigid. It is very preferred that the closer 11 is compressed in the radial direction due to the rotational movement by the arms 8 or that the closer arms 20 are moved radially towards each other, so that the closer arms 20 engage with at least one wave trough 5 or two wave crests 15. As a result, the closer arms 20 or their retaining projections 12 mesh with the wave crests, as shown in the Figures 5 and6B can be seen.

[0062] Preferably, an overlap in the circumferential direction between a closer arm 20 and an arm 8 is smaller in the open position compared to the closed position. It is preferred that the closer arms 20 taper in the circumferential direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) in a cross-section. Preferably, the arms 8 taper in the circumferential direction in the cross-section (counterclockwise or clockwise). It is very preferred that the closer 11 exerts a radially inward-acting force on the corrugated pipe 1 or the sealing ring 6 in the closed position. Preferably, in the case of the open position ( Fig. 6A ) of the closer there is neither a force connection nor a form connection with the corrugated pipe 1.

[0063] In embodiments not shown here, the securing element 10 or the closer 11 can be indicator elements 10, 11 for indicating an open or closed position. It is possible for the indicator element 10, 11 to conceal an indicator marker (not shown here) in the form of, for example, a QR code on the connector body 22 in the open position. In the respective closed position, the indicator marker is released by the indicator element 10, 11, so that a scanner can read the state of the indicator element 10, 11 based on the indicator marker. List of reference symbols:

[0064] 1 corrugated pipe 14 forehead end 2 Cable connectors 15 Wave mountain 3 Plug section 16 Fluid channel 4 Fastening device 17 Interior element 5 wave trough 18 arm sleeve 6 Sealing projection 19 Arm sleeve attachment 7 Nut 20 closer arm 8 arm 21 front wall 9 Groove base 22 Connector body 10 securing element 23 connecting section 11 closer M center axis 12 Holding projection 10,11 Display element 13 Pipe stop 1, 2 Fluid line

Claims

1. Fluid line (1, 2) comprising a corrugated pipe (1) and at least one line connector (2), the line connector (2) comprising a connector body (22), the connector body (22) having a plug portion (3), the corrugated pipe (1) being plugged onto the plug portion (3), the line connector (2) comprising a fastening device (4), the fastening device (4) fastening the corrugated pipe (1) to the plug portion (3) or connector body (22), the plug portion (3) having a center axis (M) and the center axis (M) defining an axial direction, the line connector (2) comprising at least one sealing ring (6), the sealing ring (6) having an elastomer, the fastening device (4) comprising at least two arms (8, 20), an axially outward end of the arms (8, 20) being free so that the axially outward end of the arms (8, 20) is resiliently movable in the radial direction, characterized in that the plug portion (3) comprises at least one groove (7) and the sealing ring (6) is arranged in the groove (7).

2. Fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the portion of the corrugated pipe (1) plugged onto the plug portion (3) is at least partially, and preferably completely, corrugated.

3. Fluid line (1, 2) according to either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the fastening device (4) has entered into or can enter into at least one interlocking connection with the corrugated pipe (1) in the axial direction.

4. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fastening device (4) or the line connector (2) exerts a clamping force on the corrugated pipe (1) or the sealing ring (6) in the radial direction.

5. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fluid line (1, 2) or the fastening device (4) or the corrugated pipe (1) has at least one inner element (17), wherein the inner element (17) preferably comprises an elastomer or is designed to be rubber-elastic, wherein the inner element (17) is preferably arranged in the radial direction between the fastening device (4) or an arm (8) and the corrugated pipe (1).

6. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the line connector (2) comprises a pipe stop (13) for stopping a front end (14) of the corrugated pipe (1) in the axial direction.

7. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plug portion (3) at least partially has a cylindrical surface or outer side.

8. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the line connector (2) or the fastening device (4) defines an open state for inserting the corrugated pipe (1) and a closed state for fixing the corrugated pipe (1) in place.

9. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the line connector (2) comprises a securing element (10) for securing a closed state of the fastening device (4), wherein it is preferred that the securing element (10) for securing the closed state of the fastening device (4) can be pushed onto the fastening device (4), preferably in an axial direction, and in particular in an axially outward direction.

10. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one part (8, 19) of the fastening device (4) has been produced separately from the connector body (22), wherein the separately produced part (8, 19) of the fastening device (4) is connected to the connector body (22).

11. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the fastening device (4) is designed such that the corrugated pipe (1) latches into the fastening device (4) when pushed onto the plug portion (3).

12. Fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the line connector (2) has an indicator device, in particular an indicator element (10, 11) and / or an indicator marker, for indicating a / the closed state of the fastening device (4).

13. Use of the fluid line (1, 2) according to any of claims 1 to 12 in a vehicle, preferably in a land vehicle, more preferably in a road vehicle, wherein it is preferred that the vehicle is an electric vehicle and has a battery for driving an electric motor, wherein the fluid line is preferably a component of a coolant circuit for cooling the battery.