CONNECTOR

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting element for establishing a fluid connection with two fluid lines, as well as a fluid connection arrangement comprising a connecting element and a first and second fluid line.

[0002] In a conventional vehicle, a multitude of fluid lines, such as fluid hoses, are required to transport different types of fluid. In particular, in hydrogen-powered vehicles, hydrogen, air, and cooling water are supplied to a fuel cell of the vehicle through fluid lines designed as hydrogen, air, or cooling water lines. Due to the limited space available in a vehicle, corresponding fluid lines, in particular hydrogen, air, or cooling water lines, are often routed with tight bend radii and are connected to one another by connecting elements that ensure a fluid-tight connection between the connected fluid lines.

[0003] Particularly when supplying hydrogen, air and cooling water to a fuel cell, the problem of ion leaching often arises with conventionally used plastics such as polyamide 66, polyamide 11 or polyamide 12. The corresponding disadvantageous ion leaching in fluid-carrying systems consisting of the aforementioned conventionally used plastics increases, for example, the ion concentration of the cooling water supplied, whereby the conductivity of the cooling water increases, which can under certain circumstances lead to short circuits in the fuel cell, or ions can be washed out by condensation water present in the hydrogen or in the air and carried to the fuel cell, which can impair the function of the fuel cell.

[0004] The document EP 3 913 272 A1 describes a connector for connecting two fluid-carrying elements

[0005] The document US 2006 / 0145475 A1 describes a fluid quick connector.

[0006] US 2019 / 0178429 A1 describes a connector for connecting two fluid lines. In particular, in comparison to the current claim 1, this document neither discloses a first flange surrounding the insertion nozzle nor does it disclose that the plurality of locking arms each have a locking projection at one arm end, which is designed to engage behind the sleeve wall.

[0007] It is the object underlying the invention to provide a connecting element and a fluid connection arrangement for a fluid connection in which a reduced ion leaching can be ensured.

[0008] This object is achieved by the subject matter having the features according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the figures, the description, and the dependent claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a connecting element for establishing a fluid connection with two fluid lines, comprising a receiving sleeve which is fluidically connectable to a first fluid line, wherein the receiving sleeve has a sleeve wall which delimits a sleeve interior, wherein a plurality of sleeve slots are formed in the sleeve wall, an insertion nozzle which is fluidically connectable to a second fluid line, wherein the insertion nozzle is insertable into the sleeve interior of the receiving sleeve in order to provide the fluid connection, wherein the insertion nozzle has a nozzle wall on which a groove is formed which at least partially surrounds the insertion nozzle, wherein, in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle into the receiving sleeve, the plurality of sleeve slots of the receiving sleeve are arranged in alignment with the groove of the insertion nozzle,and a locking element for locking the insertion nozzle to the receiving sleeve, wherein the locking element has a plurality of locking arms, wherein, when the insertion nozzle is inserted into the receiving sleeve, the locking arms each engage in a sleeve slot of the plurality of sleeve slots and in the groove to lock the insertion nozzle to the receiving sleeve, wherein the insertion nozzle and / or the receiving sleeve is formed at least in sections from polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0010] This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that by using polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) as the material of the receiving sleeve and / or the insertion nozzle, corresponding ion leaching, which occurs when the receiving sleeve and the insertion nozzle come into contact with the correspondingly conducted fluid, can be advantageously reduced.

[0011] Thus, the connecting element formed from polyphthalamide (PPA) and / or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is suitable for use in areas where a significant reduction of ion leaching is required, such as in fluid-carrying systems for the fluidic connection of a vehicle fuel cell with corresponding hydrogen, air and / or cooling water supply lines or discharge lines.

[0012] In particular, both the receiving sleeve and the insertion nozzle are formed at least in sections from polyphthalamide (PPA). Alternatively, both the receiving sleeve and the insertion nozzle are formed at least in sections from polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Alternatively, the receiving sleeve is formed at least in sections from polyphthalamide (PPA) and the insertion nozzle is formed at least in sections from polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Alternatively, the receiving sleeve is formed at least in sections from polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) and the insertion nozzle is formed at least in sections from polyphthalamide (PPA).

[0013] In particular, the receiving sleeve is made entirely of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). In particular, the insertion sleeve is made entirely of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0014] Alternatively, the receiving sleeve, in particular, has a layer of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) in a region that is in contact with the guided fluid. Alternatively, the insertion nozzle, in particular, has a layer of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) in a region that is in contact with the guided fluid.

[0015] In this case, the insertion nozzle has in particular a first fluid channel for conducting fluid and the receiving sleeve has in particular a second fluid channel for conducting fluid, wherein the first and second fluid channels are fluidically connected in the connecting element in order to ensure a conduction of fluid through the connecting element.

[0016] Furthermore, the technical advantage results that the connecting element achieves a stable and particularly fluid-tight connection between the receiving sleeve, which is fluidically connectable to the first fluid line, and the insertion nozzle, which is fluidically connectable to the second fluid line, which is easy to assemble and can advantageously withstand high pressure loads without fluid leaking out.

[0017] This is particularly advantageous for hydrogen pipelines in which the hydrogen is sometimes conveyed at high pressure.

[0018] In addition, there is the technical advantage that the fluid-tight connection between the insertion nozzle and the receiving sleeve can also be easily released again, e.g. in the event of an intentional disassembly of the connecting element, in which the locking element is pulled out of the corresponding sleeve slots, in particular by using a suitable tool.

[0019] In particular, the receiving sleeve and / or the insertion nozzle are each designed as a plastic injection-molded part, which is easy to manufacture.

[0020] In particular, the receiving sleeve is connectable or connected to the first fluid line in a materially bonded manner, in particular glued or welded, positively or non-positively, in particular latched. In particular, the insertion nozzle is connectable or connected to the second fluid line in a materially bonded manner, in particular glued or welded, positively or non-positively, in particular latched.

[0021] In particular, the groove completely surrounds the wall of the insertion nozzle.

[0022] In particular, the first and / or second fluid line comprises a fluid hose or a fluid pipe.

[0023] According to the invention, the plurality of sleeve slots of the receiving sleeve have a first sleeve slot and a second sleeve slot opposite the first sleeve slot, wherein the plurality of locking arms of the locking element have a first locking arm and a second locking arm opposite the first locking arm, wherein the first locking arm engages in the first sleeve slot and in the groove of the insertion nozzle, and wherein the second locking arm engages in the second sleeve slot and in the groove of the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle to the receiving sleeve.

[0024] This achieves the technical advantage that the two opposing locking arms ensure that the insertion nozzle is effectively subjected to a force on both sides, which ensures that the insertion nozzle is effectively fixed in the receiving sleeve.

[0025] According to the invention, the locking element has a bracket portion which connects the first locking arm to the second locking arm, wherein the first and second locking arms are each resiliently connected to the bracket portion in order to achieve a spreading of the first and second locking arms when the locking element is inserted into the receiving sleeve.

[0026] This achieves the technical advantage that the locking arms, which are elastically connected to the bracket section, can be advantageously spread apart when the locking element is inserted into the corresponding sleeve slots of the receiving sleeve.

[0027] In particular, the first and second locking arms are designed to apply a force to the insertion nozzle, which is inserted into the receiving sleeve, in an inserted state of the locking element in order to ensure a stable locking of the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment, the receiving sleeve has a third sleeve slot which is arranged between the first and second sleeve slots, and wherein the bracket section engages at least partially in the third sleeve slot and in the groove of the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle to the receiving sleeve.

[0029] This achieves the technical advantage that the effectiveness of the locking of the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve can be advantageously improved by the engagement of the bracket section in the third sleeve slot and in the groove of the insertion nozzle.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment, the plurality of locking arms each have a locking contour which engages in the respective sleeve slot and in the groove, wherein in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle, the locking contours apply a force to the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0031] This achieves the technical advantage that the locking contours of the locking arms ensure a particularly effective locking of the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0032] In particular, the first locking arm has a first locking contour which engages in the first sleeve slot of the receiving sleeve and in the groove of the insertion nozzle, so that in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle, the first locking contour applies a force to the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0033] In particular, the second locking arm has a second locking contour, which is arranged in particular opposite the first locking contour, and which engages in the second sleeve slot of the receiving sleeve and in the groove of the insertion nozzle, so that in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle, the second locking contour applies a force to the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0034] In particular, the bracket portion of the locking element has a third locking contour which engages in the third sleeve slot of the receiving sleeve and in the groove of the insertion nozzle, so that in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle, the third locking contour applies a force to the insertion nozzle in order to lock the insertion nozzle in the receiving sleeve.

[0035] In particular, the plurality of locking contours, in particular the first and / or second locking contour, are each formed as an inwardly bent portion of the respective locking arm, in particular the first and / or second locking arm.

[0036] An inwardly bent portion of the plurality of locking contours is hereby bent inwards towards the insertion nozzle.

[0037] Alternatively, the plurality of locking contours, in particular the first and / or second locking contour, can each be formed as an outwardly bent portion of the respective locking arm, in particular the first and / or second locking arm.

[0038] An inwardly bent portion of the plurality of locking contours is hereby bent outward away from the insertion nozzle.

[0039] In particular, the plurality of locking contours, in particular the first and / or second locking contours, can each have a curved contour section, which is delimited by a first and second contour projection. The contour projections ensure an effective, captive locking.

[0040] In particular, the third locking contour is formed as an inwardly bent portion of the bracket portion of the locking element.

[0041] According to the invention, the plurality of locking arms, in particular the first locking arm and / or the second locking arm, each have a locking projection at one arm end, in particular at a first and / or second arm end, which is designed to engage behind the sleeve wall in order to ensure a captive locking of the locking element on the receiving sleeve.

[0042] This achieves the technical advantage that, when the locking element or the locking arms are spread apart, a stable attachment of the locking element to the receiving sleeve can still be ensured by the locking projections of the locking arms engaging behind the sleeve wall of the receiving sleeve. In particular, the locking projections prevent the locking arms from accidentally sliding out of the sleeve slots, thus preventing the locking mechanism from being accidentally released.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, the locking element comprises a sealing element which is accommodated in the sleeve interior of the receiving sleeve and bears against a first stop of the sleeve wall of the receiving sleeve, wherein in particular the insertion nozzle accommodated in the receiving sleeve can be pressed against the sealing element in order to press the sealing element against the first stop of the sleeve wall in order to ensure a fluid-tight seal.

[0044] This achieves the technical advantage that the sealing element can ensure a fluid-tight seal between the insertion nozzle and the receiving sleeve within the sleeve interior.

[0045] In particular, the sealing element is shaped as a sealing ring. In particular, the first stop is shaped as a first stop that surrounds the sleeve wall of the receiving sleeve at least in part, in particular completely, and against which the sealing element, in particular the sealing ring, rests.

[0046] In particular, the sealing element, in particular the sealing ring, has an opening through which the insertion nozzle is passed.

[0047] In an advantageous embodiment, the locking element comprises a stabilizing element which is received in the sleeve interior of the receiving sleeve and bears against the sealing element, wherein in particular the insertion nozzle received in the receiving sleeve can be pressed against the stabilizing element, which in turn can be pressed against the sealing element in order to press the sealing element against the first stop of the sleeve wall in order to ensure a fluid-tight seal.

[0048] This achieves the technical advantage that the stabilizing element in interaction with the sealing element can ensure a fluid-tight seal between the insertion nozzle and the receiving sleeve within the sleeve interior.

[0049] In particular, the stabilizing element is shaped as a stabilizing ring.

[0050] In particular, the stabilizing element, in particular the stabilizing ring, has an opening through which the insertion nozzle is passed.

[0051] In an advantageous embodiment, the insertion nozzle has a first flange surrounding the insertion nozzle and a second flange surrounding the insertion nozzle, wherein the first and second flanges in particular delimit a further groove for receiving a further sealing element.

[0052] This achieves the technical advantage that the additional groove, which is limited by the two flanges, enables an advantageous accommodation of an additional sealing element.

[0053] According to the invention, the insertion nozzle has a second flange surrounding the insertion nozzle and a second beveled insertion edge surrounding the insertion nozzle, wherein the second flange and the second beveled insertion edge delimit the groove for engagement of the locking element.

[0054] This achieves the technical advantage that the locking element, in particular the locking contours, can be advantageously received in the groove between the second flange and the second beveled insertion edge to ensure effective locking. If the locking element is already attached to the receiving sleeve before the insertion of the insertion piece, the second beveled insertion edge allows the locking element to slide past the slope of the second beveled insertion edge and then engage in the groove between the second flange and the second beveled insertion edge.

[0055] In particular, the slope of the second beveled insertion edge is arranged on a side of the second beveled insertion edge facing away from the groove.

[0056] In an advantageous embodiment, a first bevelled insertion edge surrounding the insertion nozzle is arranged on an insertion end of the insertion nozzle in order to facilitate insertion of the insertion nozzle into the receiving sleeve.

[0057] This achieves the technical advantage that the first bevelled insertion edge surrounding the insertion nozzle, which is arranged at the first insertion end of the insertion nozzle, can be pressed against the locking element already arranged on the receiving sleeve in order to widen the locking element, in particular the respective locking contour of the locking element, in order to enable the insertion nozzle to slide past the locking element during the insertion process of the insertion nozzle.

[0058] In an advantageous embodiment, the receiving sleeve has a second stop against which the insertion nozzle inserted into the receiving sleeve rests in order to limit the insertion of the insertion nozzle.

[0059] This achieves the technical advantage that the second stop formed in the sleeve wall of the receiving sleeve limits the insertion movement of the insertion nozzle into the receiving sleeve in that, in particular, an insertion end of the insertion nozzle rests against the second stop.

[0060] In an advantageous embodiment, the receiving sleeve has a first sleeve section for receiving the insertion nozzle and a second sleeve section adjoining the first sleeve section, wherein in particular the second sleeve section has a connecting contour on an outer side for attaching the first fluid line.

[0061] This achieves the technical advantage that the first sleeve section ensures effective reception of the insertion nozzle, and that the second sleeve section has a connecting contour for attaching the first fluid line.

[0062] In particular, an inner diameter of the second sleeve portion is smaller than an inner diameter of the first sleeve portion.

[0063] In an advantageous embodiment, the locking element consists of a metal, and is in particular shaped as a bent metallic spring, or the locking element consists of a plastic, and is in particular shaped as a plastic clip.

[0064] This achieves the technical advantage that the locking element, formed from a metal, particularly as a bent spring, has sufficient mechanical stability to withstand even high compressive loads. A locking element formed from a plastic, particularly as a plastic clip, also has sufficient mechanical stability to withstand high compressive loads and is also simple and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0065] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a fluid connection arrangement comprising a connecting element according to the first aspect, a first fluid line and a second fluid line, wherein a first line end of the first fluid line is connected to the receiving sleeve, and wherein a second line end of the second fluid line is connected to the insertion nozzle.

[0066] This makes it possible to obtain a fluid connection arrangement which has a high resistance to ion leaching and which ensures an effective locked connection to the two fluid lines connected to the connecting element.

[0067] The advantageous embodiments mentioned with regard to the connecting element according to the first aspect are also considered advantageous embodiments of the fluid connection arrangement according to the second aspect.

[0068] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and are described in more detail below.

[0069] They show: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a connecting element according to an embodiment; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the Fig. 1 shown connecting element in a locked state; Fig. 3 a further perspective view of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 connecting element shown; Fig. 4 a further perspective view of the Fig. 3 connecting element shown; Fig. 5 a further perspective view of the Fig. 2 illustrated connecting element in the locked state; and Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a connecting element according to a further embodiment.

[0070] The Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a connecting element 100 for establishing a fluid connection with two Fig. 1 fluid lines not shown. In the Fig. 1 an exploded view of the connecting element 100 is shown.

[0071] The connecting element 100, or the corresponding in Fig. 1 The fluid connection arrangement (not shown) comprising the connecting element 100 and the two fluid lines serves to establish a fluid connection in a plurality of fluid-carrying systems of a vehicle. The connecting element 100 can be used for the fluidic connection of fuel, coolant, charge air, brake fluid, water, hydrogen, SCR, and / or transmission oil lines in vehicles. The connecting element 100 according to the present disclosure is used in particular for the fluidic connection of hydrogen, air, and cooling water lines in fuel cell-powered vehicles, wherein particularly high demands are placed on the fluid-tightness of the fluid connection, particularly due to the high pressure of the conducted hydrogen.The connecting element 100 can also be used, for example, in coolant-carrying fluid lines, which are used in particular for cooling battery cells in an electrically powered vehicle.

[0072] In a vehicle's fluid-conducting systems, various fluids, such as gases or liquids, are conveyed, sometimes under high pressure and at high temperatures. Due to the limited space available in a vehicle, various lines of the corresponding fluid-conducting systems often have to be connected to one another via fluid-technical interfaces to ensure effective fluid flow. In this case, the fluid-technical interfaces between a corresponding fluid-conducting line and a corresponding connecting element 100 are subject to stringent requirements in terms of stability and fluid tightness.

[0073] When fluid is conveyed through corresponding fluid-carrying systems, in particular when conveying hydrogen, air or cooling water to a fuel cell, the problem of ion leaching often arises in conventionally used plastics, such as polyamide 66, polyamide 11 or polyamide 12, in the corresponding fluid-carrying systems.

[0074] In fuel cell-powered vehicles, for example, hydrogen and air are fed into the fuel cell through appropriate fluid-carrying systems for the "cold oxidation" of the hydrogen. The water produced as a reaction product is removed from the fuel cell after the reaction through appropriate fluid-carrying systems. Furthermore, fuel cell-powered vehicles require a cooling circuit, e.g., using water as a coolant, to effectively dissipate heat generated during the reaction from the fuel cell.

[0075] Due to the corresponding disadvantageous ion leaching in fluid-carrying systems consisting of conventionally used plastics, such as polyamide 66, polyamide 11 or polyamide 12, the ion concentration of the cooling water used increases, for example, which increases the conductivity of the cooling water, which can under certain circumstances lead to short circuits in the fuel cell.

[0076] Furthermore, there is the problem that the corresponding disadvantageous ion leaching in fluid-carrying systems consisting of conventionally used plastics, such as polyamide 66, polyamide 11 or polyamide 12, that condensation water can be present in the hydrogen or air supplied to the fuel cell, which also absorbs ions leached from the conventionally used plastics, whereby the leached ions can then be deposited in components of the fuel cell, such as the membrane of the fuel cell, which can impair the function of the fuel cell.

[0077] In order to overcome the problem of ion leaching, the connecting element 100 according to the present disclosure described below consists of the specific plastic polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), which ensures a significant reduction of the corresponding ion leaching, and thus the use of the connecting element 100 according to the present disclosure for conducting hydrogen, air and also cooling water in fluid-conducting systems, for example for supplying fuel cells, is suitable in order to solve the above-mentioned problem.

[0078] The Fig. 1 The connecting element 100 shown serves to produce a fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight, connection between two Fig. 1 fluid lines not shown.

[0079] The connecting element 100 comprises a receiving sleeve 101, which is provided with a Fig. 1 The first fluid line (not shown) is fluidically connectable to the receiving sleeve 101. The first fluid line is connected, in particular, to the receiving sleeve 101 in a materially bonded manner, in particular welded or glued, positively connected, in particular pushed on, and / or non-positively connected, in particular latched. The receiving sleeve 101 has a sleeve wall 103, which delimits a sleeve interior 105.

[0080] The connecting element 100 comprises an insertion nozzle 107, which is provided with a Fig. 1 The second fluid line is fluidically connectable to the insertion nozzle 107, in particular by being welded or glued, positively connected, in particular by being pushed on, and / or non-positively connected, in particular by being latched. The insertion nozzle 107 can be inserted into the sleeve interior 105 of the receiving sleeve 101 to provide the fluid connection.

[0081] A first fluid channel 104 for conducting fluid is arranged within the insertion nozzle 107, and a second fluid channel 106 for conducting fluid is arranged within the receiving sleeve 101. When the insertion nozzle 107 is inserted into the receiving sleeve 101, the first and second fluid channels 104, 106 are connected to one another to conduct fluid through the connecting element 100.

[0082] The insertion nozzle 107 has a nozzle wall 108, in which a further groove 109 is formed, which at least partially, in particular completely, surrounds the insertion nozzle 107 and is delimited by a further flange 111-1 and a first flange 111-2. The further and first flanges 111-1, 111-2 also surround the insertion nozzle 107 at least partially, in particular completely. The further groove 109 serves in particular to receive a Fig. 1 second sealing ring not shown.

[0083] The insertion nozzle 107 further has, at an insertion end 113 of the insertion nozzle 107, a further beveled insertion edge 115-1 surrounding the insertion nozzle 107. The insertion nozzle 107 further has, on a side of the first flange 111-2 facing the insertion end 113, a first beveled insertion edge 115-2 surrounding the insertion nozzle 107.

[0084] A groove 110 is formed between the first flange 111-2 and the first beveled lead-in edge 115-2.

[0085] The receiving sleeve 101 has a first sleeve section 117 for receiving the insertion nozzle 107 and a second sleeve section 119 adjoining the first sleeve section 117, wherein a connecting contour for attaching the first fluid line is arranged on the outside of the second sleeve section 119.

[0086] One in Fig. 1 The inner diameter (not shown) of the second sleeve portion 119 is smaller than an inner diameter of the first sleeve portion 117 (which correlates with an outer diameter of the insertion nozzle 107 inserted into the first sleeve portion 119). Thus, the insertion nozzle 107 can advantageously be received in the first sleeve portion 117 of the receiving sleeve 101.

[0087] In the Fig. 1 In addition, a connecting section 116 of the insertion nozzle 107 can be seen, which is arranged on a side of the insertion nozzle 107 facing away from the insertion end 113 and which is shaped in particular for the fluidic connection to the second fluid line.

[0088] From the Fig. 1 It can also be seen that the connecting element 100 has a stabilizing element, in particular a stabilizing ring 121, which is placed on the insertion end 113 of the insertion nozzle 107 and which, in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107, rests against the second beveled insertion edge 115-2 of the insertion nozzle 107.

[0089] From the Fig. 1 It can also be seen that the connecting element 100 has a sealing element, in particular a sealing ring 123, which is plugged onto the insertion end 113 of the insertion nozzle 107 after the stabilizing ring 121 has been plugged on, wherein the sealing ring 123, in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107, rests both on the stabilizing ring 121 and on the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101 in order to ensure an effective seal between the insertion nozzle 107 and the receiving sleeve 101.

[0090] From the Fig. 1 It can further be seen that the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101 has a plurality of sleeve slots 125, wherein the plurality of sleeve slots 125 in particular has a first sleeve slot 125-1 and a second sleeve slot 125-2 opposite the first sleeve slot 125-1, and in particular has a third sleeve slot 125-3 which is formed between the first and second sleeve slots 125-1, 125-2 in the sleeve wall 103.

[0091] In the Fig. 1 In the inserted state (not shown) of the insertion nozzle 107 in the receiving sleeve 101, the plurality of sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3 are arranged in alignment with the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107. In particular, the first, second and third sleeve slots 125-1, 125-2, 125-3 are arranged in alignment with the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107. Thus, the Fig. 1 The locking element 127 shown is guided through the corresponding sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3 in order to lock the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0092] Here, the locking element 127 has a plurality of locking arms 129, in particular a first locking arm 129-1 and a second locking arm 129-2 opposite the first locking arm 129.

[0093] In the Fig. 1 In the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107 (not shown), the first locking arm 129-1 engages at least partially in the first sleeve slot 125-1 and in the groove 110 and the second locking arm 129-2 engages at least partially in the second sleeve slot 125-2 and in the groove 110, in particular on opposite sides of the groove 110, so that the locking element 127 effectively locks the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0094] The locking element 127 further comprises a bracket portion 131 which connects the first locking arm 129-1 and the second locking arm 129-2, wherein the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 are each resiliently connected to the bracket portion 131 in order to achieve a spreading of the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 upon insertion of the locking element 127 into the receiving sleeve 101.

[0095] Thus, the locking arms 129-1, 129-2 can be effectively spread apart when the locking element 127 is inserted into the sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3, so that after the locking element 127 has been inserted, the locking arms 129-1, 129-2 press against the insertion nozzle 107 with a spring force to ensure stable locking.

[0096] In particular, the first locking arm 129-1 further has a first locking contour 133, the second locking arm 129-2 has a second locking contour 135 opposite the first locking contour 133, and the bracket portion 131 has a third locking contour 137.

[0097] In the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107, the first and second locking contours 133, 135 apply a force to the insertion nozzle 107 from opposite sides, and the third locking contour 137 engages through the third sleeve slot 125-3 into the groove 110 in order to lock the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0098] For a detailed illustration of the locking of the insertion nozzle 107 in the receiving sleeve 101 by the locking element 127, please refer to the following Fig. 2 referred to.

[0099] Furthermore, the Fig. 1 It can be seen that the locking element 127 has a first locking projection 141 on a first arm end 139 of the first locking arm 129-1, which is designed to engage behind the sleeve wall 103 in order to ensure a captive locking of the locking element 127 on the receiving sleeve 101.

[0100] Furthermore, the Fig. 1 It can be seen that the locking element 127 has a second locking projection 145 on a second arm end 143 of the second locking arm 129-2, which second locking projection is designed to engage behind the sleeve wall 103 in order to ensure a captive locking of the locking element 127 on the receiving sleeve 101.

[0101] As already explained, the receiving sleeve 101 in contact with the fluid is made of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) and the insertion nozzle 107 in contact with the fluid is made of polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) in order to reduce ion leaching.

[0102] The locking element 127, which is not in contact with the fluid, is made of a metal and is shaped as a bent metal spring. Although this is Fig. 1 is not shown, the locking element 127 can be formed in particular as a locking element formed from a plastic, in particular as a plastic clip.

[0103] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the Fig. 1 shown connecting element in a locked state.

[0104] In the Fig. 2 a view of the connecting element 100 is shown, wherein the insertion nozzle 107 is received in the receiving sleeve 101 and locked by the locking element 127.

[0105] As from the Fig. 2 As can be seen in part, the first locking contour 133 of the first locking arm 129-1 and the second locking contour 135 of the second locking arm 129-2 of the locking element 127 engage from opposite sides in the respective first and second sleeve slots 125-1, 125-2 of the receiving sleeve 101 and in the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107.

[0106] As from the Fig. 2 As can also be seen, the third locking contour 137 of the bracket portion 131 of the locking element 127 engages in the third sleeve slot 125-3 of the receiving sleeve 101 and in the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107.

[0107] As a result, the insertion nozzle 107 is subjected to a force from three different sides by the locking element 127 and secured.

[0108] The locking projections 141, 145 arranged on the respective arm ends 139, 143 of the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 engage behind the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101 and prevent unintentional withdrawal of the locking element 127.

[0109] If the locking is to be released intentionally, the user can, for example, use a tool to push the respective arm ends 139, 143 of the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 apart again so that the locking projections 141, 145 no longer engage behind the sleeve wall 103 and the locking element 127 can then be pulled out.

[0110] For further details, please refer to the extensive information on Fig. 1 referred to.

[0111] Fig. 3 shows another perspective view of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown connecting element.

[0112] In the Fig. 3 In the further perspective view of the connecting element 100 shown, the locking element 127 has already been fastened to the receiving sleeve 101 before the insertion nozzle 107 is subsequently and in the Fig. 3 not shown is to be inserted into the receiving sleeve 101.

[0113] As from the Fig. 3 As can be seen, the first locking contour 133 of the first locking arm 129-1 and the second locking contour 135 of the second locking arm 129-2 of the locking element 127 engage from opposite sides in the respective first and second sleeve slots 125-1, 125-2 of the receiving sleeve 101 107.

[0114] As from the Fig. 3 As can also be seen, the third locking contour 137 of the bracket portion 131 of the locking element 127 engages in the third sleeve slot 125-3 of the receiving sleeve 101.

[0115] During the presentation in Fig. 3 subsequent insertion of the insertion nozzle 107 into the sleeve interior 105 of the receiving sleeve 101, the first beveled insertion edge 115-1 presses against the connecting element 127, in particular against the first, second and third locking contours 133, 135, 137 of the corresponding first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2, or the corresponding bracket section 131, so that the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 and the bracket section 131 are bent outwards so that the insertion end 113 of the insertion nozzle 107 can slide past.

[0116] The first, second and third locking contours 133, 135, 137 of the corresponding first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2, or of the corresponding bracket section 131, slide along the insertion nozzle 107 during further insertion of the insertion nozzle 107 into the receiving sleeve 101 until they come into contact with the second beveled insertion edge 115-2.

[0117] The second beveled insertion edge 115-2 presses against the locking element 127, in particular against the first, second and third locking contours 133, 135, 137 of the corresponding first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2, or the corresponding bracket section 131, so that the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 and the bracket section 131 are bent further outwards, and the first, second and third locking contours 133, 135, 137 of the corresponding first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2, or the corresponding bracket section 131 engage in the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107 and the Fig. 2 The locking state shown is reached.

[0118] During the insertion process described above, the first and second locking projections 141, 143 of the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 ensure that effective contact between the locking element 127 and the receiving sleeve 101 can still be ensured when the locking element 127 is spread apart.

[0119] It is also emphasized here that the previously described insertion process of inserting the insertion nozzle 107 into the receiving sleeve 101 with the locking element 127 already attached to the receiving sleeve 101 is not the only locking option. Alternatively, the insertion nozzle 107 can also be pushed directly into the receiving sleeve 101, i.e., without a locking element 127 already attached to the receiving sleeve 101, and the locking element 127 is only attached to the receiving sleeve 101 after the insertion of the insertion nozzle 107.

[0120] Reference is also made to the previous statements.

[0121] Fig. 4 shows another perspective view of the Fig. 3 shown connecting element.

[0122] The Fig. 4 The further perspective view shown shows the Fig. 3 shown connecting element 100 in a sectional view.

[0123] In contrast to the Fig. 3 The illustration shown may be modified in accordance with the Fig. 4 Both the stabilizing ring 121 and the sealing ring 123 of the connecting element 100 can be recognized. The sealing ring 123 rests against a first stop 147 of the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101, and the stabilizing ring 121 rests against the sealing ring 123. When inserting the insertion nozzle 107 into the receiving sleeve 101, the insertion nozzle 107 is guided through the opening of the stabilizing ring 121 and through the opening of the sealing ring 123. For further details, please refer to the following Fig. 5 referred to.

[0124] Furthermore, reference is made to the extensive explanations regarding the Fig. 1 , 2 and 3 referred to.

[0125] Fig. 5 shows another perspective view of the Fig. 2 shown connecting element in the locked state.

[0126] In the Fig. 5 the engagement of the locking element 127 in the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107 can be advantageously recognized.

[0127] In addition, the Fig. 5 It can be seen that the sealing ring 123 rests against a first stop 147 of the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101, and the insertion nozzle 107 rests via the second beveled insertion edge 115-2 against the stabilizing ring 121, which in turn rests against the sealing ring 123 in order to ensure a fluid-tight seal.

[0128] In addition, the Fig. 5 It can be seen that the insertion end 113 of the insertion nozzle 107 rests against a second stop 149 of the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101 in order to limit an insertion movement of the insertion nozzle 107 into the receiving sleeve 101.

[0129] For further details, please refer to the previous sections.

[0130] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a connecting element according to another embodiment.

[0131] In the Fig. 6 In the further embodiment shown, only the receiving sleeve 101 and the locking element 127 of the connecting element 100 are shown, and not the insertion nozzle 107, nor the stabilizing element 121 nor the sealing element 123.

[0132] For the interplay of the individual components of the Fig. 6 In this regard, reference is made to the detailed preceding explanations with regard to the further embodiment of the connecting element 100 shown in the Figuren 1 bis 5 illustrated embodiment of the connecting element 100.

[0133] In the Fig. 6 In the further embodiment of the connecting element 100 shown, the sleeve wall 103 of the receiving sleeve 101 has, in contrast to the Figuren 1 bis 5 illustrated embodiment of the connecting element 100 has only two sleeve slots 125, in particular comprising a first sleeve slot 125-1 and a second sleeve slot 125-2 opposite the first sleeve slot 125-1. In the Fig. 6 In the further embodiment of the connecting element 100 shown, there is no third sleeve slot 125-3 between the first and second sleeve slots 125-1, 125-2.

[0134] In the Fig. 6 In the inserted state (not shown) of the insertion nozzle 107 in the receiving sleeve 101, the two sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2 are aligned with the groove 110 of the insertion nozzle 107. Thus, the Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown is guided through the corresponding sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2 in order to lock the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0135] The Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown in FIG. 1 is in contrast to the locking element 127 shown in FIG. Figuren 1 bis 5 The locking element 127 shown is not made of a metal, and is also not shaped as a bent metallic spring, but the Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown consists of a plastic and is in particular shaped as a plastic clip.

[0136] A locking element 127 formed from a plastic, in particular as a plastic clip, according to the Fig. 6 The embodiment shown has sufficient mechanical stability to withstand the high pressure loads and is also simple and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0137] The Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown has a plurality of locking arms 129, in particular a first locking arm 129-1 and a second locking arm 129-2 opposite the first locking arm 129.

[0138] In the Fig. 6 In the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107 (not shown), the first locking arm 129-1 engages at least partially in the first sleeve slot 125-1 and in the groove 110 and the second locking arm 129-2 engages at least partially in the second sleeve slot 125-2 and in the groove 110, in particular on opposite sides of the groove 110, so that the locking element 127 effectively locks the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0139] Analogous to the one in the Figuren 1 bis 5 The locking element 127 shown in Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown has a bracket portion 131 which connects the first locking arm 129-1 and the second locking arm 129-2, wherein the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 are each resiliently connected to the bracket portion 131 in order to achieve a spreading of the first and second locking arms 129-1, 129-2 when the locking element 127 is inserted into the receiving sleeve 101.

[0140] Thus, the locking arms 129-1, 129-2 can be effectively spread apart when the locking element 127 is inserted into the sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2, so that after the locking element 127 has been inserted, the locking arms 129-1, 129-2 press against the insertion nozzle 107 with a spring force to ensure stable locking.

[0141] Since the Fig. 6 Since the receiving sleeve 101 shown does not have three, but only two opposite sleeve slots 125, 125-1, 125-2, the bracket section 131 of the locking element 127 also does not have a third locking contour 137.

[0142] The Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown has a first locking arm 129-1 with a first locking contour 133 and a second locking arm 129-2 with a second locking contour 135 opposite the first locking contour 133.

[0143] In the inserted state of the insertion nozzle 107, the first and second locking contours 133, 135 apply a force to the insertion nozzle 107 from opposite sides in order to lock the insertion nozzle 107 to the receiving sleeve 101.

[0144] The Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown has at the respective arm ends 139, 143 of the respective locking arm 129-1, 129-2 in contrast to the Figuren 1 bis 5 The locking element 127 shown does not have any locking projections 141, 145 which are designed to engage behind the sleeve wall 103 in order to ensure a captive locking of the locking element 127 on the receiving sleeve 101.

[0145] Instead, a captive locking of the locking element 127 on the receiving sleeve 101 is provided according to the Fig. 6 The locking element 127 shown is achieved in that the first locking contour 133 and the opposite second locking contour 135 each have a curved contour section 133-1, 135-1, which is delimited by a first and second contour projection 133-2, 133-3, 135-2, 135-3.

[0146] The corresponding first contour projections 133-2, 135-2 of the first and second locking contours 133, 135 prevent the first and second locking contours 133, 135 from sliding out in one direction. The corresponding second contour projections 133-3, 135-3 of the first and second locking contours 133, 135 prevent the first and second locking contours 133, 135 from sliding out in the other direction.

[0147] All features explained and shown in connection with individual embodiments of the invention can be provided in various combinations in the subject matter to simultaneously realize their advantageous effects. However, the subject matter of the invention is defined by the claims.

[0148] The scope of the present invention is given by the claims and is not limited by the features explained in the description or shown in the figures. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0149] 100Connecting element 101Receiving sleeve 103Sleeve wall 104First fluid channel 105Sleeve interior 106Second fluid channel 107Introduction nozzle 108Socket wall 109Additional groove 110Groove 111-1First flange 111-2Second flange 113Introducing 115-1First beveled insertion edge 115-2Second beveled insertion edge 116Connecting section 117First sleeve section 119Second sleeve section 121Stabilizing ring 123Sealing ring 125Sleeve slots 125-1First sleeve slot 125-2Second sleeve slot 125-3Third sleeve slot 127Locking element 129-1First locking arm 129-2Second locking arm 131Bail section 133First locking contour of the first locking arm 133-1Curved contour section of the first locking contour 133-2First contour projection of the first locking contour 133-3Second contour projection of the second locking contour 135Second locking contour of the second locking arm 135-1Curved contour section of the second locking contour 135-2FirstContour projection of the second locking contour 135-3 Second contour projection of the second locking contour 137 Third locking contour of the bracket section 139 First arm end of the first locking arm 141 First locking projection 143 Second arm end of the second locking arm 145 Second locking projection 147 First stop 149 Second stop

Claims

1. Connecting element (100) for establishing a fluid connection with two fluid lines, comprising: a receiving sleeve (101), which is connectable to a first fluid line in a fluid-technical manner, wherein the receiving sleeve (101) comprises a sleeve wall (103), which delimits a sleeve interior (105), wherein a plurality of sleeve slots (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) is formed in the sleeve wall (103), an insertion nozzle (107), which is connectable to a second fluid line in a fluid-technical manner, wherein the insertion nozzle (107) is insertable into the sleeve interior (105) of the receiving sleeve (101) in order to provide the fluid connection, wherein the insertion nozzle (107) comprises a nozzle wall (108), at which a groove (110) is formed, which surrounds the insertion nozzle (107) at least partially, wherein in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle (107) into the receiving sleeve (101), the plurality of sleeve slots (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) of the receiving sleeve (101) are arranged in alignment with the groove (110) of the insertion nozzle (107), and a locking element (127) for locking the insertion nozzle (107) at the receiving sleeve (101), wherein the locking element (127) comprises a plurality of locking arms (129, 129-1, 129-2), wherein in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle (107) into the receiving sleeve (101), the locking arms (129, 129-1, 129-2) each engage in a sleeve slot (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) of the plurality of sleeve slots (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) and in the groove (110) in order to lock the insertion nozzle (107) at the receiving sleeve (101), wherein the insertion nozzle (107) and / or the receiving sleeve (101) is formed at least partially from polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), wherein at one arm end (139, 143), the plurality of locking arms (129, 129-1, 129-2) each comprise a locking projection (141, 145), which is adapted to engage behind the sleeve wall (103) in order to ensure a captive locking of the locking element (127) at the receiving sleeve (101), and wherein the insertion nozzle (107) comprises a first flange (111-2) surrounding the insertion nozzle (107) and a first beveled insertion edge (115-2) surrounding the insertion nozzle (107), wherein the first flange (111-2) and the first beveled insertion edge (115-2) delimit the groove (110) for engagement of the locking element (127), wherein the plurality of sleeve slots (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) of the receiving sleeve (101) comprise a first sleeve slot (125-1) and a second sleeve slot (125-2) opposite the first sleeve slot (125-1), wherein the plurality of locking arms (129, 129-1, 129-2) of the locking element (127) comprise a first locking arm (129-1) and a second locking arm (129-2) opposite the first locking arm (129-1), wherein the first locking arm (129-1) engages in the first sleeve slot (125-1) and in the groove (110) of the insertion nozzle (107), and wherein the second locking arm (129-2) engages in the second sleeve slot (125-2) and engages in the groove (110) of the insertion nozzle (107) in order to lock the insertion nozzle (107) at the receiving sleeve (101), and wherein the locking element (127) comprises a bracket section (131), which connects the first locking arm (129-1) to the second locking arm (129-2), wherein the first and second locking arms (129-1, 129-2) are each connected to the bracket section (131) in a spring elastic manner in order to achieve spreading of the first and second locking arms (129-1, 129-2) when the locking element (127) is inserted into the receiving sleeve (101).

2. Connecting element (100) according to claim 1, wherein the receiving sleeve (101) comprises a third sleeve slot (125-3), which is arranged between the first and second sleeve slots (125-1, 125-2), and wherein the bracket section (131) engages at least partially in the third sleeve slot (125-3) and in the groove (110) of the insertion nozzle (107) in order to lock the insertion nozzle (107) at the receiving sleeve (101).

3. Connecting element (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of locking arms (129, 129-1, 129-2) each comprise a locking contour (133, 135), which engage in the respective sleeve slot (125, 125-1, 125-2, 125-3) and in the groove (110), wherein in the inserted state of the insertion nozzle (107), the locking contours (133, 135) apply a force to the insertion nozzle (107) in order to lock the insertion nozzle (107) at the receiving sleeve (101).

4. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a sealing element (123), which is received in the sleeve interior (105) of the receiving sleeve (101) and abuts at a first stop (147) of the sleeve wall (103) of the receiving sleeve (101), wherein in particular the insertion nozzle (107) received in the receiving sleeve (101) is pressable against the sealing element (123) in order to press the sealing element (123) against the first stop (147) of the sleeve wall (103) in order to ensure a fluid-tight seal.

5. Connecting element (100) according to claim 4, comprising a stabilizing element (121), which is received in the sleeve interior (105) of the receiving sleeve (101) and abuts at the sealing element (123), wherein in particular the insertion nozzle (107) received in the receiving sleeve (101) is pressable against the stabilizing element (121), which in turn is pressable against the sealing element (123) in order to press the sealing element (123) against the first stop (147) of the sleeve wall (103) in order to ensure a fluid-tight seal.

6. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the insertion nozzle (107) comprises a further flange (111-1) surrounding the insertion nozzle (107), wherein the first and further flanges (111-1, 111-2) in particular delimit a further groove (109) for receiving a further sealing element.

7. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a further beveled insertion edge (115-1) is arranged at an insertion end (113) of the insertion nozzle (107) surrounding the insertion nozzle (107) in order to facilitate insertion of the insertion nozzle (107) into the receiving sleeve (101).

8. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving sleeve (101) comprises a second stop (149), at which the insertion nozzle (107) inserted into the receiving sleeve (101) abuts in order to delimit the insertion of the insertion nozzle (107).

9. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving sleeve (101) comprises a first sleeve section (117) for receiving the insertion nozzle (107) and a second sleeve section (119) adjoining the first sleeve section (117), wherein in particular the second sleeve section (119) comprises a connecting contour at an outer side for plugging on the first fluid line.

10. Connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (127) is made of a metal, and in particular is shaped as a bent metallic spring, or wherein the locking element (127) is made of a plastic, and in particular is shaped as a plastic clip.

11. Fluid connection arrangement (100), comprising a connecting element (100) according to one of the preceding claims, a first fluid line and a second fluid line, wherein a first line end of the first fluid line is connected to the receiving sleeve (101), and wherein a second line end of the second fluid line is connected to the insertion nozzle (107).