Connectors for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, and a method for making a plug connection between the connector and a mating connector

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, and a method for producing a plug connection between the connector and a mating connector.

[0002] Several connectors are known from WO 2018 / 144902 A1, WO 2018 / 102213 A1, and EP 3 179 148 A1. The connectors known from these documents have the disadvantage that the connection can be faulty or it is not possible to clearly determine whether the connectors are properly joined. Further connectors are known from US 2007 / 120362 A1, EP 2 990 708 B1, and DE 38 15 172 C1.

[0003] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a connector and a method for producing a plug connection between the connector and a mating connector, which enables an improved connection between the connector and the mating connector.

[0004] This problem is solved by a device and a method according to the claims.

[0005] According to the invention, a connector is designed for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media. The connector comprises a connector body which has at least a first sheath section, wherein the first sheath section surrounds a central axis and forms a receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector, wherein the receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector is open on an insertion side, wherein at least one through-opening is formed in the first sheath section; a locking element which is provided for securing the connector relative to the mating connector.

[0006] The locking element has a first leg and a second leg coupled to it, wherein the second leg of the locking element is arranged outside the first shell section and is coupled to the connector body, the second leg extending in a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis, wherein the first leg is arranged in the area of ​​the passage opening and is designed to in a locking position, to protrude radially into the receiving space through the through-opening in order to establish a positive connection with the mating connector, and in a release position, to be retracted radially outwards from the receiving space to such an extent as to release the mating connector for removal from the receiving space.

[0007] The connector according to the invention offers the advantage that a secure connection can be established with the mating connector.

[0008] Furthermore, it can be advantageous to arrange several locking elements distributed around the circumference of the connector body, with a through-hole provided for each locking element. This has the advantage of achieving an increased holding force. Moreover, distributing the locking elements around the circumference allows for a symmetrical holding force, preventing the connector and mating connector from tilting relative to each other when subjected to axial tension.

[0009] In particular, it may be provided that three locking elements are arranged around the circumference of the connector body. Especially with three locking elements, a secure locking connection between the connector and the mating connector can be achieved.

[0010] Furthermore, an opening sleeve may be provided, wherein the opening sleeve is rotatably arranged on the connector body between an open position and a closed position, and wherein, in the open position of the opening sleeve, the first leg of the locking element is forced into the release position and held there, and wherein, in the closed position of the opening sleeve, the first leg of the locking element assumes its locking position. The opening sleeve allows the locking element to be easily held in the release position or easily moved from the locking position to the release position.

[0011] Furthermore, the opening sleeve may be provided with a cam guide by means of which the locking element can be displaced radially when the opening sleeve is rotated, with the second leg of the locking element being guided axially through the cam guide. Particularly with such a design, the locking element can be easily moved from the locked position to the released position.

[0012] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the locking element can be secured radially against unwanted loosening by means of the cam guide of the opener sleeve.

[0013] Another advantageous design incorporates a lifting element with a lifting surface within the cam track. This lifting surface has an increasing distance from the central axis in a first circumferential direction, and in the open position of the opening sleeve, the inner side of the second leg of the locking element rests against the lifting surface. This design allows for easy movement of the locking element.

[0014] According to a further development, it is possible to incorporate a locking element with a locking surface in the cam guide, wherein the locking surface has a decreasing distance to the central axis in the first circumferential direction, and wherein, in the closed position of the opener sleeve, an outer surface of the second leg of the locking element is covered by the locking surface. This has the advantage that the locking element can be secured in its locked position. This reduces the risk of the mating connector unintentionally detaching from the connector, for example, due to vibration.

[0015] Furthermore, it can be advantageous to incorporate a spring element that acts on the opening sleeve, forcing the opening sleeve into the closed position by means of the spring element. This offers the advantage that the opening sleeve can be moved to the closed position automatically and independently when released.

[0016] In particular, the spring element can be designed as a U-shaped bracket with a first spring element leg and a second spring element leg, wherein the first spring element leg is coupled to the connector body and the second spring element leg is coupled to the opener sleeve. The first spring element leg and the second spring element leg are designed to be spring-elastic relative to each other.

[0017] Furthermore, the opening sleeve may be equipped with an anti-rotation device, which holds the opening sleeve in the open position. This offers the advantage that the connector can be prepared for mating with the mating connector, requiring only minimal insertion force to correctly insert the mating connector into the connector and establish a proper connection between the two.

[0018] Furthermore, the anti-rotation device may feature a locking arm that projects radially into the receiving space through a locking arm passage opening in the first sleeve section. This opening has a circumferentially extending slot and an axial step extending towards the insertion side. In the open position of the opening sleeve, the locking arm is received in the axial step, and the locking arm can be displaced from the axial step into the slot by an inserted mating connector. Such an anti-rotation device can be manufactured simply. Moreover, it can have a robust design, thus being both less prone to failure and exhibiting a long service life.

[0019] In one particular embodiment, a viewing window is arranged in the opening sleeve, and an indicator element is arranged on the connector body. The indicator element is visible through the viewing window when the opening sleeve is in the closed position and is concealed by the opening sleeve when it is in the open position. This provides an indication of whether the connector and mating connector are correctly mated.

[0020] With the same effect, it can be provided that a further sleeve section is arranged above the opening sleeve, which is coupled to the connector body, and that an indicator element arranged on the opening sleeve is concealed by the sleeve section in the open position of the opening sleeve.

[0021] The indicator element can, for example, display a label such as "Closed" or "OK". Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the indicator element to have a coding area containing a machine-readable code, such as a Data Matrix code, a QR code, or a barcode. This allows not only the machine operator to visually verify the correct positioning, but also for machine-readable verification and the corresponding storage of the information.

[0022] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the information from the machine-readable control is stored and used to authorize or prevent further production steps. This would largely eliminate the possibility of operator error.

[0023] In particular, it can be advantageous if the indicator element is at least partially colored in a corresponding signal color, such as green, and / or if the indicator surface bears a word such as "OK". This measure ensures that even non-experts or untrained individuals can visually recognize that the locking element is correctly engaged or that the mating connector is correctly connected to the plug connector.

[0024] As an alternative to or in addition to the above design of the viewing window in the opening sleeve, an indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section may be formed outside the opening sleeve, wherein the indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section is rigidly coupled to the connector body. The indicator element may be arranged on an outer surface of the opening sleeve. The indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section may be designed to cover the indicator element when the opening sleeve is in the open position.

[0025] Furthermore, an additional indicator element may be arranged on the connector body. This additional indicator element is visible through the viewing window when the opening sleeve is in the open position and is concealed by the opening sleeve when it is in the closed position. The additional indicator element could, for example, be the word "Open" or a red color.

[0026] As an alternative to the above-mentioned design of the viewing window in the opening sleeve, an indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section may be formed outside the opening sleeve, wherein the indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section is rigidly coupled to the connector body. In this case, the additional indicator element may be arranged on an outer surface of the opening sleeve. The indicator sleeve or indicator sleeve section may be designed to cover the additional indicator element when the opening sleeve is in the closed position.

[0027] According to an advantageous further development, the connector body can comprise a plug sleeve and a terminal piece, which are rigidly coupled to each other, with the first sheath section and the receiving space being formed in the plug sleeve. A connector body designed in this way can be particularly easy to manufacture and have a robust construction.

[0028] The plug sleeve and the connector can be coupled to each other by a positive-locking connection. In particular, it can be provided that the plug sleeve is deformed into a recess of the connector in such a way that the positive-locking connection between the plug sleeve and the connector is established.

[0029] Furthermore, it is provided that the connector sleeve is designed as a sheet metal forming part, in particular from a sheet of steel, and that the locking element is designed as a sheet metal forming part, in particular from a spring-elastic sheet of steel, wherein a receptacle for the locking element is formed in the connector sleeve and the second leg of the locking element is positively and rigidly received in the receptacle. This measure allows for easy insertion of the locking element onto the connector sleeve.

[0030] Furthermore, it may be provided that the connecting piece is formed as an injection-molded part, in particular from a plastic material.

[0031] Furthermore, it can be provided that the locking element is made of a spring-elastic steel, wherein the locking element assumes the locking position in an unloaded state and can be forced into the release position by the opening sleeve against the spring elasticity.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, it can also be provided that the locking element is received on the plug sleeve by means of an articulated receptacle, whereby a spring element is provided by means of which the locking element is pre-tensioned into the locking position in the unloaded state.

[0033] Furthermore, the locking element can be designed as a sheet metal forming part, with the first leg arranged at a leg angle between 87° and 93° to the second leg. A locking element designed in this way is particularly easy to manufacture.

[0034] According to the invention, a connector assembly is designed. The connector assembly comprises a plug connector and a mating connector. The plug connector is designed according to one of the above embodiments. Furthermore, the mating connector has a shaped element for creating a positive-locking connection with the first leg of the locking element.

[0035] According to the invention, a method for producing a plug connection between a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media and a mating connector comprises the following method steps: Providing the connector with a connector body which has at least a first sheath section, wherein the first sheath section surrounds a central axis and forms a receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector, wherein the receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector is open on an insertion side, wherein at least one through-opening is formed in the first sheath section and a locking element which is provided for securing the connector relative to the mating connector; providing the mating connector; inserting the mating connector into the receiving space of the connector; securing the mating connector in the receiving space of the connector by means of the locking element.

[0036] The locking element has a first leg and a second leg coupled to it, wherein the second leg of the locking element is arranged outside the first shell section and is coupled to the connector body, the second leg extending in a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis, wherein the first leg is arranged in the area of ​​the passage opening and is designed to in a locking position, to project radially into the receiving space through the through-opening in order to establish a positive connection with the mating connector, and in a release position, to be retracted radially outwards from the receiving space to such an extent as to release the mating connector for removal from the receiving space, whereby, to secure the mating connector, the locking element is moved from the release position to the locking position.

[0037] The method according to the invention has the advantage that a secure connection with the mating connector can be established.

[0038] According to a further development, it is possible that the locking element is held in the release position by means of an opening sleeve when the opening sleeve is in the open position, wherein the opening sleeve is held in the open position by means of an anti-rotation device, whereby when the mating connector is inserted into the receiving space, the anti-rotation device is unlocked by the mating connector and thereby the opening sleeve is moved into the closed position under the force of a spring element, thereby moving the locking element into the locking position.

[0039] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if, in order to unlock the mating connector, the opening sleeve is manually rotated from the closed position to the open position against the force of the spring element, whereby the locking element is transferred from the locking position to the release position by means of a cam guide.

[0040] To better understand the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0041] They each show, in a highly simplified, schematic representation: Fig. 1 a perspective exploded view of the individual components of a first embodiment of a connector assembly; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a first embodiment of a connector with a mating connector inserted therein, wherein an opener sleeve is in a closed position; Fig. 3 a perspective view of the connector, wherein the opener sleeve is in an open position; Fig. 4 a first detail view of a longitudinal section of the connector; Fig. 5 a second detail view of a longitudinal section of the connector; Fig. 6 a perspective view of a second embodiment of the connector with a mating connector inserted therein, wherein an opener sleeve is in a closed position and wherein an indicator sleeve section is formed.

[0042] It should be noted at the outset that in the differently described embodiments, identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals or component designations, and the disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to identical parts with the same reference numerals or component designations. Furthermore, the positional designations chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the figure directly described and illustrated, and these positional designations must be applied analogously to the new position if the position changes.

[0043] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a perspective exploded view of the individual components of a connector assembly 1. The connector assembly 1 comprises a plug connector 2 and a mating connector 3. The plug connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are designed as coupling elements for the detachable connection of cable components. The cable components can serve for media guidance. In particular, the cable components can serve for guiding a fluid, especially a gas or a liquid.

[0044] In view of Fig. 1 The mating connector 3 is not inserted into the connector 2. For clarity, connector 2 is shown in an exploded view so that the individual components of connector 2 are visible.

[0045] In the Fig. 2The connector assembly 1 is shown in its assembled state, with the same reference numerals or component designations used for identical parts as in the previous diagram. Fig. 1 to be used. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding section. Fig. 1 pointed out or referenced.

[0046] In the representation according to Fig. 2 The connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are shown plugged into each other.

[0047] Connector 2 and mating connector 3 can each be coupled to a conductor element, which is not shown. The conductor elements can be, for example, in the form of tubes. The conductor element can be, for example, a rigid element such as a plastic tube. In another embodiment, the conductor element can be a flexible cable made of a rubber material.

[0048] Connector 2 comprises a connector body 4. As shown from Fig. 1 As can be seen, the connector body 4 can comprise a plug sleeve 5 and a connector 6. The plug sleeve 5 and the connector 6 can be rigidly coupled to each other.

[0049] In a first embodiment, the connecting piece 6 can be formed as an injection-molded part, in particular from a plastic material. The plug sleeve 5 can be formed from a metal material, in particular as a sheet metal forming part.

[0050] As from the Figure 1 and 2 As further shown, it can be provided that several locking elements 7 are arranged around the circumference, which are designed to secure the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, three of the locking elements 7 are arranged at regular intervals around the circumference.

[0051] The locking element 7 is designed in such a way that it can be easily activated and deactivated, so that the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 can be separated from each other or connected to each other as required.

[0052] The locking element 7 can be moved into a locking position 8 in which the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are secured to each other.

[0053] Furthermore, the locking element 7 can be moved into a release position 9, in which the mating connector 3 can be inserted into or removed from the connector 2.

[0054] In particular, the locking element 7 may be designed in the form of a spring element. The spring stiffness of the locking element 7 can then be used to move the locking element 7 between the locking position 8 and the release position 9.

[0055] As from Fig. 1 It can be seen that the mating connector 3 can be axially displaced along a central axis 10 of the connector 2 in order to insert the mating connector 3 into the connector 2.

[0056] As in Fig. 1 As further shown, it can be provided that a first sheath section 11 is formed on the connector body 4, which surrounds the central axis 10 of the connector 2 in a sleeve-like manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sheath section 11 can be formed in the connector sleeve 5.

[0057] The first lateral surface section 11 can have an inner lateral surface 12 and an outer lateral surface 13.

[0058] In the area of ​​the first sheath section 11, the connector 2 has a receiving space 14. The receiving space 14 can be surrounded by the first sheath section 11 and serve to receive a part of the mating connector 3.

[0059] The connector body 4 can have a through-opening 15 for each locking element 7, which penetrates the first sheath section 11. In the present embodiment, three through-openings 15 can thus be formed. In the locking position 8 of the locking element 7, which it assumes when inserted and locked, the locking element 7 projects through the respective through-opening 15 into the receiving space 14. Here, the locking element 7 interacts with a locking feature 16 of the mating connector 3. In particular, in the locking position 8 of the locking element 7, the locking element 7 projects through the through-openings 15 into the locking feature 16 of the mating connector 3. As can be seen from the present embodiment, the locking feature 16 can be designed in the form of a protrusion.Alternatively, the locking mechanism 16 can also be formed in the form of a recess, for example in the form of a groove.

[0060] Furthermore, the locking element 7 may have a first leg 17 and a second leg 18. The second leg 18 of the locking element 7 may be arranged outside the first sheath section 11 and coupled to the connector body 4. When the locking element 7 is in its locking position 8, the first legs 17 project into the receiving space 14, and the mating connector 3 inserted into the connector 2 is axially secured relative to the connector 2. In particular, the connector 2 is inserted into the mating connector 3 from an insertion side 19.

[0061] In particular, it is provided that, in the locked position, the first leg 17 of the locking element 7 projects through the through-opening 15 into the locking feature 16 of the mating connector 3 to form a positive-locking connection. When the locking element 7 is in its release position 9, the first leg 17 does not project into the receiving space 14 and the mating connector 3 can be pulled out of the connector 2 relative to it.

[0062] As from Fig. 1As further shown, the connector 2 may include a sealing element 20. The sealing element 20 may be arranged in the connector body 4. In particular, the sealing element 20 may be received in the terminal piece 6 and limited by the connector sleeve 5 and the terminal piece 6. When the connector assembly 1 is mated, the sealing element 20 may interact with the mating connector 3, in particular with an insertion section 21 on the mating connector 3. In particular, the sealing element 20 may be in contact with the insertion section 21 of the mating connector 3, thus creating a tight connection between the connector 2 and the mating connector 3.

[0063] As from the Fig. 1 and 2As further shown, the connector 2 may include an opening sleeve 22. The opening sleeve 22 can serve to move the locking elements 7 from the locking position 8 to the release position 9. In particular, the opening sleeve 22 may be arranged on or coupled to the connector body 4 so as to be rotatable about the central axis 10 between an open position 23 and a closed position 24.

[0064] In the representation according to Fig. 2The mating connector 3 is firmly locked to the connector 2, and the opening sleeve 22 is in its closed position 24. The locking elements 7 are in their locked position 8. In order to pull the mating connector 3 out of the connector 2, the locking elements 7 must be moved to their release position 9. This can be achieved by rotating the opening sleeve 22 from the closed position 24 to the open position 23 in the opposite direction 27.

[0065] As from Fig 1 It can further be seen that a spring element 28 is provided which is coupled between the connector body 4 and the opener sleeve 22 in such a way that the opener sleeve 22 is forced or pre-tensioned into its closed position 24 in a state without external force.

[0066] In particular, the spring element can be designed as a U-shaped bracket comprising a first spring element leg 29 and a second spring element leg 30. The first spring element leg 29 can be coupled to the connector body 4. The second spring element leg 30 can be coupled to the opening sleeve 22. When the opening sleeve 22 is rotated from the closed position 24 to the open position 23 in the opposite direction to the first circumferential direction 27, the first spring element leg 29 and the second spring element leg 30 can be deformed relative to each other, in particular, the first spring element leg 29 and the second spring element leg 30 can be bent towards each other.

[0067] In particular, it can be provided that the spring element 28 is pre-tensioned and installed in the connector 2, so that when the opening sleeve 22 is in its closed position 24, a torque or force already acts on the opening sleeve 22, which forces the opening sleeve 22 into its open position 23. If the opening sleeve 22 is now rotated from its open position 23 to the closed position 24 against the force of the spring element 28, this movement increases the tension of the spring element 28, which in turn increases the torque acting on the opening sleeve 22.

[0068] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows the first embodiment of connector 2 in a perspective view, where the same reference numerals or component designations are used for identical parts as in the preceding figures. Figures 1 to 2 to be used. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding sections. Figures 1 to 2pointed out or referenced.

[0069] In the representation according to Fig. 3 The locking elements 7 are in their release position 9. Fig. 3 Furthermore, a detailed view is shown in which the locking element 7 is partially cut away for better illustration.

[0070] As can be seen from a synthesis of the Fig. 2 and 3 It is clearly evident that a cam guide 31 may be provided, which serves to move the locking element 7 between the locking position 8 and the release position 9. This can be achieved by rotating the opening sleeve 22 between the closed position 24 and the open position 23. The locking position 8 of the locking element 7 corresponds to the closed position 24 of the opening sleeve 22. The release position 9 of the locking element 7 corresponds to the open position 23 of the opening sleeve 22.

[0071] How particularly good looks Fig. 3As can be seen, the cam guide 31 may include a lifting element 32, which serves to lift the locking elements 7. In particular, the lifting element 32 may have a lifting surface 33. The lifting surface 33 may be arranged at an angle 34 to a tangent 35. By arranging the lifting surface 33 at an angle 34, the rotational movement of the opening sleeve 22 can be converted into a radial movement of the first leg 17 of the locking element 7. In other words, the lifting surface 33 can have an increasing distance from the central axis 10 in the direction of the first circumferential direction 27. In particular, it can be provided that in the open position 23 of the opener sleeve 22 an inner side 25 of the second leg 18 of the locking element 7 rests against the lifting surface 33 and thus the locking element 7 is held in the release position 9.

[0072] How particularly good looks Fig. 3 It can also be provided that the cam guide 31 includes a locking element 36, wherein the locking element 36 serves to secure the locking element 7 in the locking position 8. The locking element 36 can have a locking surface 37, wherein the locking surface 37 is positioned such that, in the closed position 24 of the opener sleeve 22, it overlaps the outer surface 26 of the second leg 18 of the locking element 7, so that the locking element 7 cannot move radially outwards.

[0073] As from Fig. 3 It can further be seen that a rotation lock 38 is provided, wherein the opening sleeve 22 can be held in its open position 23 against the spring force of the spring element 28 by means of the rotation lock 38.

[0074] In particular, the anti-rotation device 38 may have a locking arm 39 which can project into the receiving space 14 of the connector body 4 through a locking arm passage opening 40. The locking arm 39 may be formed on or coupled to the opening sleeve 22. Furthermore, the locking arm passage opening 40 may have a circumferentially extending slot 41 and an axial step 42 at one end of the slot 41. The axial step 42 may extend from the slot 41 in the axial direction towards the insertion side 19 of the connector body 4.

[0075] As from Fig. 3 It can also be seen that in the open position 23 of the opener sleeve 22 the locking arm 39 is received in the axial step 42, whereby the opener sleeve 22 is secured against rotation into the closed position 24.

[0076] As from Fig. 2As further shown, it can be provided that a viewing window 43 is formed in the opening sleeve 22, through which the connector body 4, in particular the plug sleeve 5 of the connector body 4, is visible. In particular, it can be provided that an indicator element 44 is arranged on the connector body 4, the indicator element 44 being visible from the outside through the viewing window 43 when the opening sleeve is in the closed position 24. Furthermore, the indicator element 44 can be concealed by the opening sleeve 22 when the opening sleeve 22 is in the open position 23.

[0077] As from Fig. 3It can be seen that a further indicator element 45 is arranged on the connector body 4, wherein the further indicator element 45 can be visible through the viewing window 43 of the opening sleeve 22 when the opening sleeve 22 is in the open position 23. When the opening sleeve 22 is rotated into the closed position 24, the further indicator element 45 can be concealed by the opening sleeve 22.

[0078] Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows a detailed view of the first embodiment of the locking element 7 or the connection of the locking element 7 to the plug sleeve 5, where again the same reference numerals or component designations are used for identical parts as in the preceding figures. Figures 1 to 3 to be used. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding sections. Figures 1 to 3 pointed out or referenced.

[0079] As from Fig. 4It can be seen that the locking element 7 is designed as a sheet metal forming part. In particular, it can be provided that the first leg 17 is arranged at a leg angle 46 to the second leg 18.

[0080] The first leg 17 and the second leg 18 can be bent towards each other by a bending process. Furthermore, a step 47 can be formed on the second leg 18. In addition, a retaining tab 49 can be formed on a first longitudinal end 48 of the second leg 18. The retaining tab 49 can be designed such that it can be received in a retaining tab receptacle 50 of the connector sleeve 5. The retaining tab receptacle 50 can be introduced into the connector sleeve 5 by a punching process. In particular, the retaining tab receptacle 50 can be bounded by the connector sleeve 5 on the outside and by the connector sleeve 5 on the inside.

[0081] As from Fig. 4As can be further seen, it may be provided that a sealing element receptacle 51 is formed in the connecting piece 6, wherein the sealing element receptacle 51 serves to receive the sealing element 20. As shown from Fig. 4 As further shown, it can be provided that a radially inwardly projecting flange 52 is formed in the connector sleeve 5, which can serve to axially limit the sealing element receptacle 51. The sealing element receptacle 51 can thus be axially limited by the connector sleeve 5 on one side and by a shoulder in the connecting piece 6 on the other side.

[0082] As from Fig. 4 As can be seen, the plug sleeve 5 can be pushed onto the connector 6 until an end face of the connector 6 comes into contact with the crimp 52.

[0083] Fig. 5Figure 1 shows a perspective sectional view of the first embodiment of connector 2, where the same reference numerals or component designations are used for identical parts as in the preceding figure. Fig. 1 to be used. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding section. Fig. 1 pointed out or referenced.

[0084] In the presentation of the Fig. 5 The cutting direction is chosen so that the detail of the ratchet arm passage opening 40 is visible.

[0085] Based on a summary of Figs. 2 to 5 A method for establishing a plug connection between connector 2 and mating connector 3 is described. In its delivery state, connector 2 can be in a position as shown in Fig. 3The product is delivered as described and illustrated. The opening sleeve 22 can be in its open position 23. The spring element 28 can act on the opening sleeve 22 in such a way that it is forced towards the closed position 24.

[0086] However, rotation of the opening sleeve 22 into its closed position 24 is prevented by the fact that the locking arm 39 is positioned in the axial step 42 of the locking arm passage opening 40. The resulting positive locking action prevents rotation of the opening sleeve 22. The locking arm 39 can exhibit elasticity and preload, such that it is pressed axially into the axial step 42 and cannot move out of it without external force. The lifting elements 32 can force the locking elements 7 into their release position 9.

[0087] In a further process step, the mating connector 3 can now be inserted axially into the receiving space 14 of the connector 2. Here, a circumferential contact bead 53 of the mating connector 3 can come into contact with the locking arm 39. By further axially displacing the mating connector 3 towards the connector 2, the locking arm 39 can be moved out of the axial step 42 into the area of ​​the slot 41 by means of the contact bead 53. This releases the anti-rotation device of the opening sleeve 22. The locking arm 39 can deform elastically in this process, utilizing its elasticity.

[0088] Because the locking arm 39 is now located in the slot 41, the opening sleeve 22, driven by the spring force of the spring element 28, can rotate relative to the connector body 4 in the opposite direction to the first circumferential direction 27 and move from the open position 23 to the closed position 24. In this process, the locking elements 7 can slide off the lifting element 32, so that the first leg 17 of the locking element 7 moves radially through the passage opening 15 into the receiving space 14 and engages in the locking feature 16 formed by the contact ridge 53. This secures the mating connector 3 against being pulled out of the connector 2.

[0089] In particular, how to look especially good Fig. 2 It can be seen that in this position the locking element 7 is secured against radial lifting by means of the locking element 36.

[0090] Simultaneously, in this position, the indicator element 44 can be visible from the outside, thus indicating that the mating connector 3 has been correctly inserted or locked into the connector 2. In particular, the indicator element 44 can be designed as a machine-readable code, for example a QR code, which can then be scanned to document the successful connection of the mating connector 3 with the connector 2 for quality assurance purposes.

[0091] To remove the mating connector 3 from the connector 2, the connection can be released as follows. By mechanical actuation and an external force, for example by twisting with a person's hand, the opening sleeve 22 can be rotated from the closed position 24 to the open position 23 in the first circumferential direction 27. In doing so, the lifting elements 32 can come into contact with the locking elements 7 and bend them radially outwards, so that the first leg 17 of the locking elements 7 can be disengaged from the locking feature 16. Simultaneously, the rotation of the opening sleeve 22 allows the locking arm 39 to be moved in the slot 41 until, due to the elastic preload, it engages in the axial step 42 as soon as a corresponding angle of rotation is reached.The locking arm 39 can move towards the insertion side 19 of the connector 2 to engage in the axial step 42. This locking of the locking arm 39 secures the opener sleeve 22 in the open position 23.

[0092] Fig. 6 Figure 1 shows a further embodiment of the connector assembly 1, where again the same reference numerals or component designations are used for identical parts as in the preceding figures. Figures 1 to 5 to be used. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding sections. Figures 1 to 5 pointed out or referenced.

[0093] As from Fig. 6As can be seen, it may be provided that an indicator sleeve section 54 is formed outside the opening sleeve 22, by which the opening sleeve 22 is partially concealed. The indicator sleeve section 54 can be coupled to the connector sleeve 5 or formed directly as a sheet metal forming section on the connector sleeve 5. In such an embodiment, the indicator element 44 can be arranged on an outer surface of the opening sleeve 22, whereby, as already described, the indicator element 44 can be concealed by the indicator sleeve section 54 or visible from the outside, depending on the position of the opening sleeve 22.

[0094] Finally, for the sake of clarity, it should be noted that, for a better understanding of the structure, some elements have been shown not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. Reference numeral list

[0095] 1 Connector assembly 31 Backstage tour 2 Connectors 32 Lifting element 3 mating connector 33 Lifting surface 4 Connector body 34 angle 5 Connector sleeve 35 tangent 6 connector 36 Safety element 7 Locking element 37 Securing area 8 Locking position 38 Anti-rotation device 9 Release position 39 Locking arm 10 Central axis of the connector 40 Raster arm passage opening 11 first mantle section 41 slot 12 inner surface 42 axial gradation 13 outer shell surface 43 Viewing window 14 Recording room 44 Display element 15 Passage opening 45 additional display element 16 Security type 46 leg angle 17 first thigh 47 gradation 18 second thigh 48 first longitudinal end of second leg 19 Insertion side 49 Rebound tab 20 Sealing element 50 Recoil lug attachment 21 Insert section 51 Sealing element receptacle 22 Opener sleeve 52 crimping 23 Disclosure 53 Investment bulge 24 Closed position 54 Display sleeve section 25 inner thigh 26 Outside of second thigh 27 first circumferential direction 28 spring element 29 first spring element leg 30 second spring element leg

Claims

1. A plug connector (2) for connecting pipes for liquid or gaseous media, comprising - a connector body (4) which has at least one first casing section (11), wherein the first casing section (11) surrounds a central axis (10) and forms a receiving space (14) for receiving a part of a mating plug connector (3), wherein the receiving space (14) is open on an insertion side (19) for receiving a part of a mating plug connector (3), wherein at least one passage (15) is formed in the first casing section (11); - a locking element (7), which is provided for securing the plug connector (2) relative to the mating plug connector (3), wherein the locking element (7) has a first leg (17) and a second leg (18) coupled thereto, wherein the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is arranged outside the first casing section (11) and is coupled to the connector body (4), wherein the second leg (18) extends in a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis (10), wherein the first leg (17) is arranged in the region of the passage (15) and is configured, in a locking position (8), to project radially through the passage (15) into the receiving space (14) in order to be able to establish a positive connection with the mating plug connector (3), and, in a release position (9), to be retracted radially outwards from the receiving space (14) sufficiently far to release the mating plug connector (3) for withdrawal from the receiving space (14), characterized in that the plug sleeve (5) is configured as a sheet metal forming part and that the locking element (7) is configured as a sheet metal forming part, wherein a locking element receptacle is formed in the plug sleeve (5) and the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is positively and rigidly received in the locking element receptacle.

2. The plug connector (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of the locking elements (7) are arranged distributed over the circumference on the connector body (4), wherein a passage (15) is formed for each of the locking elements (7).

3. The plug connector (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an opener sleeve (22) is formed, wherein the opener sleeve (22) is arranged on the connector body (4) so as to be rotatable between an open position (23) and a closed position (24) and wherein, in the open position (23) of the opener sleeve (22), the first leg (17) of the locking element (7) is urged into the release position (9) and is held therein, and wherein in the closed position (24) of the opener sleeve (22) the first leg (17) of the locking element (7) assumes its locking position (8).

4. The plug connector (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that the opener sleeve (22) has a guide track (31) by means of which the locking element (7) can be displaced in the radial direction when the opener sleeve (22) is rotated, wherein the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is guided through the guide track (31) in the axial direction.

5. The plug connector (2) according to claim 4, characterized in that a lifting element (32) with a lifting surface (33) is formed in the guide track (31), wherein the lifting surface (33) has an increasing distance from the central axis (10) in the direction of a first circumferential direction (27) and wherein, in the open position (23) of the opener sleeve (22), an inner side (25) of the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is in contact with the lifting surface (33).

6. The plug connector (2) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that a securing element (36) with a securing surface (37) is formed in the guide track (31), wherein the securing surface (37) has a decreasing distance from the central axis (10) in the direction of the first circumferential direction (27), and wherein, in the closed position (24) of the opener sleeve (22), an outer side (26) of the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is covered by the securing surface (37).

7. The plug connector (2) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that a spring element (28) is formed which acts on the opener sleeve (22), wherein the opener sleeve (22) is urged into the closed position (24) by means of the spring element (28).

8. The plug connector (2) according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that an anti-rotation device (38) is formed on the opener sleeve (22), wherein the opener sleeve (22) can be held in the open position (23) by means of the anti-rotation device (38).

9. The plug connector (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that the anti-rotation device (38) has a latching arm (39) which projects radially into the receiving space (14) in a latching arm passage (40) of the first casing section (11), wherein the latching arm passage (40) has a slot (41) extending in the circumferential direction and, adjacent thereto, an axial stepping (42) extending towards the insertion side (19), wherein the latching arm (39) is received in the axial stepping (42) in the open position (23) of the opener sleeve (22) and wherein the latching arm (39) is displaceable out of the axial stepping (42) into the slot (41) by an inserted mating plug connector (3).

10. The plug connector (2) according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that a viewing window (43) is arranged in the opener sleeve (22) and that an indicator element (44) is arranged on the connector body (4), wherein the indicator element (44) is visible through the viewing window (43) when the opener sleeve (22) is in the closed position (24) and the indicator element (44) is concealed by the opener sleeve (22) when the opener sleeve (22) is in the open position (23).

11. The plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connector body (4) comprises a plug sleeve (5) and a connection piece (6), which are rigidly coupled to one another, wherein the first casing section (11) and the receiving space (14) are formed in the plug sleeve (5).

12. The plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (7) is configured as a sheet metal forming part, wherein the first leg (17) is arranged at a leg angle (46) of between 87° and 93° to the second leg (18).

13. A plug assembly (1) comprising a plug connector (2) and a mating plug connector (3), characterized in that the plug connector (2) is configured according to one of the preceding claims and that the mating plug connector (3) has a shaping element for producing a positive connection with the first leg (17) of the locking element (7).

14. A method for establishing a plug connection between a plug connector (2) for connecting pipes for liquid or gaseous media and a mating plug connector (3), comprising the method steps: - providing the plug connector (2) having a connector body (4) which has at least a first casing section (11), wherein the first casing section (11) surrounds a central axis (10) and forms a receiving space (14) for receiving a part of a mating plug connector (3), wherein the receiving space (14) for receiving a part of a mating plug connector (3) is open on an insertion side (19), wherein at least one passage (15) is formed in the first casing section (11) and a locking element (7) is provided for securing the plug connector (2) relative to the mating plug connector (3); - providing the mating plug connector (3); - inserting the mating plug connector (3) into the receiving space (14) of the plug connector (2); - securing the mating plug connector (3) in the receiving space (14) of the plug connector (2) by means of the locking element (7), wherein the locking element (7) has a first leg (17) and a second leg (18) coupled thereto, wherein the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is arranged outside the first casing section (11) and is coupled to the connector body (4), wherein the second leg (18) extends in a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis (10), wherein the first leg (17) is arranged in the region of the passage (15) and is configured, in a locking position (8), to project radially through the passage (15) into the receiving space (14) in order to be able to establish a positive connection with the mating plug connector (3), and in a release position (9), to be retracted radially outwards from the receiving space (14) sufficiently far to release the mating plug connector (3) for withdrawal from the receiving space (14), wherein the locking element (7) is transferred from the release position (9) to the locking position (8) in order to secure the mating plug connector (3), characterized in that the plug sleeve (5) is configured as a sheet metal forming part and that the locking element (7) is configured as a sheet metal forming part, wherein a locking element receptacle is formed in the plug sleeve (5) and the second leg (18) of the locking element (7) is positively and rigidly received in the locking element receptacle.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the locking element (7) is held in the release position (9) by means of an opener sleeve (22) when the opener sleeve (22) is in the open position (23), wherein the opener sleeve (22) is held in the open position (23) by means of an anti-rotation device (38), wherein, when the mating plug connector (3) is inserted into the receiving space (14), the anti-rotation device (38) is unlocked by the mating plug connector (3) and the opener sleeve (22) is thereby transferred into the closed position (24) under the force of a spring element (28), whereby the locking element (7) is transferred into the locking position (8).

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, to release the mating plug connector (3), the opener sleeve (22) is manually rotated against the force of the spring element (28) from the closed position (24) into the open position (23), wherein the locking element (7) is transferred from the locking position (8) into the release position (9) by a guide track (31).