PLUG CONNECTOR WITH MOUNTING LOCK

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector for connecting a first fluid line to a mating connector. The connector has a base body with a through-channel. The through-channel is fluidically connected to an end of the base body designed as a socket section, wherein a clamp cage is arranged in a receiving channel of the socket section. The clamp cage can be inserted into the receiving channel of the socket section in one assembly direction and is held axially in a form-fitting manner relative to the assembly direction. Two parallel retaining arms of a retaining clip, which can be inserted into the clamp cage perpendicular to the assembly direction, project into a through-opening of the clamp cage when the retaining arms are at rest and are designed to expand elastically radially to the through-opening into a state of tension.The retaining clip is designed to be radially displaceable from an insertion position to a locking position and from the locking position back to the insertion position relative to the through-opening. In the insertion position of the retaining clip, the retaining arms can be expanded into their tensioned state. Furthermore, in the locking position of the retaining clip, the retaining arms are locked against expansion into their tensioned state.

[0002] WO 2015 / 181396 A2 discloses a connector for connecting a mating connector. In this connector, the clamp cage has locking tabs extending in the assembly direction, which, when inserted, engage axially in recesses in a circumferential wall of the socket section, providing a positive locking action. Furthermore, this connector has locking arms extending against the assembly direction, which prevent movement of the mating connector against the assembly direction. A disadvantage has been found to be that the locking tabs, which positively lock the clamp cage in the socket section, must be dimensioned so large that a relatively large installation space is required.

[0003] WO 2015 / 181396 A2 specifies a locking element arranged on the outer circumference of the sleeve section to prevent the mating connector from unintentionally detaching. The locking element is axially displaceable relative to the assembly direction, and in its locked position, it prevents the locking arms from spreading radially and thus prevents the mating connector from being released. However, it has been observed that the locking element can also move into the locked position even without the mating connector being inserted, preventing the mating connector from being inserted. Furthermore, additional assembly steps are required for locking, which also increases the assembly effort.

[0004] A generic connector is known from WO 2021 / 190897 A1. The connector has a clamp cage arranged in a receiving channel. The clamp cage is secured by a combination of a positive locking element, a retaining element, and a locking element.

[0005] Connectors are known from EP 3 171 066 A1 and US 2017 / 067588 A1 in which the mating connector has a collar. The mating connector rests with the collar on one side against a retaining arm of a retaining clip and on the opposite side of the collar against a flange of the retaining clip.

[0006] Another disadvantage is the locking arms, which cover the mating connector's plug shaft over a certain axial length to maintain its radial elastic properties, but offer only a relatively small surface area of ​​contact with the mating connector. Especially with large sizes and vibrations, particularly with mating connectors with a plug diameter exceeding 14 mm, this can lead to failure and detachment of the mating connector from the plug under certain conditions. Furthermore, it has been found that leakage or damage to the clamping cage can occur under high tensile or compressive loads.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of providing a connector which overcomes the disadvantages known from the prior art and in particular improves at least the resistance, the sealing and / or the assembly.

[0008] The object of the invention is achieved by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1. By having two radially elastic bearing arms for the retaining clip, and by having the bearing arms axially and positively fix the clip cage in the receiving channel relative to the assembly direction in the form of a positive locking mechanism, and by having the bearing arms project into the through-opening in a rest state and being designed to expand elastically radially relative to the through-opening into a state of tension, the axial extent of the clip cage is shortened, thus saving installation space which can optionally be made available for additional sealing means.

[0009] Furthermore, the retaining clip according to the invention has the advantage that it secures both the clip cage in the receiving channel of the sleeve section and the mating connector in the through-opening of the clip cage. Advantageously, the number of connector elements is reduced by integrating the pre-assembly locking mechanism into the retaining clip, which also results in a reduction of assembly steps.

[0010] Furthermore, the inventive design provides a technical means that the retaining clip cannot be moved into the locking position when the bearing arms are at rest. Advantageously, this provides a pre-assembly safety feature that prevents the retaining clip from being moved into the locking position before the mating connector is inserted into the through-hole, thus preventing the insertion of the mating connector.

[0011] In In a particular embodiment of the invention, while the bearing arms are in the rest position and the retaining clip is in the insertion position, the retaining clip is blocked against displacement from the insertion position to the locking position. Advantageously, this prevents the retaining clip from being moved into the locking position and thus blocking the insertion of the mating connector.

[0012] Another advantageous embodiment provides that, while the retaining arms are under tension and the retaining clip is in the insertion position, the retaining clip is locked against displacement from the insertion position to the locking position. This embodiment advantageously prevents the retaining clip from being moved into the locking position before the mating connector is fully inserted. In particular, incorrect assembly is prevented, and an additional assembly check is provided.

[0013] A further advantage is that while the bearing arms are in their rest position and the retaining clip is in the locking position, the retaining clip is positively locked against displacement from the locking position to the insertion position. Advantageously, before the retaining clip is moved into the insertion position, which could potentially lead to the mating connector unintentionally disengaging from the through-hole, a positive locking mechanism must first be overcome. In particular, this design makes the connector more resistant to external influences such as vibrations.

[0014] During insertion, the mating connector is inserted into the through-hole with its plug shaft in the assembly direction. The plug shaft passes through a section of the through-hole where the retaining arms project into the opening, and a section where the bearing arms project into the opening. Preferably, the plug shaft, the retaining arms, and the bearing arms are designed to correspond to each other such that the plug shaft exerts a force radially outward toward the assembly direction on the retaining arms and the bearing arms. In As a result of the outward force, the retaining arms and the bearing arms are each elastically deformed radially outwards from the rest state into the stress state.

[0015] Advantageously, the mating connector has a locking groove behind the plug shaft, which has a smaller diameter than the plug shaft. Advantageously, the retaining arms are arranged adjacent to the locking groove of the fully inserted mating connector when the connector is mounted, particularly with the mating connector fully inserted in the mounting direction. The retaining arms advantageously relax due to the reduced diameter of the locking groove, allowing them to return from the expanded stress state in the area of ​​the locking groove to their resting state. This advantageously prevents axial movement of the mating connector against the mounting direction by positive locking.

[0016] Because the mating connector advantageously sets the tension state and the rest state of the retaining arms and / or the bearing arms, it is possible to control the insertion depth of the mating connector during and after insertion by checking the states of the retaining arms and / or the bearing arms.

[0017] Advantageously, the retaining clip is U-shaped. Preferably, the bearing arms and the retaining arms are connected to each other via a connecting section. This connecting section also serves as a force application point, allowing the radial displacement of the retaining clip from the locking position to the insertion position and vice versa to be caused by pulling or pushing on the connecting section. Preferably, and particularly to reduce assembly effort, the bearing arms and the retaining arms extend in the same direction from the connecting section to their respective free ends. In a particular embodiment, the bearing arms and the retaining arms are axially spaced apart, advantageously such that a gap is formed between each bearing arm and a retaining arm.

[0018] According to an advantageous embodiment of the connector, the retaining clip has at least two pressure-locking lugs on the side facing away from the mounting direction, formed on the retaining arms and / or on the connecting section. Advantageously, the pressure-locking lugs project away from the mounting direction in such a way that, in the locked position of the retaining clip, they can bear against an inner circumferential wall of the through-hole radially to the through-hole. Particularly when a mating connector is fully inserted into the connector, under system pressure, the retaining clip is displaced axially away from the mounting direction such that the pressure-locking lugs are positioned in a gap between the connector shaft and the circumferential wall of the through-hole.The pressure-locking lugs prevent the retaining arms from expanding radially into their tensioned position and / or prevent the retaining clip from being moved from the locked position to the insertion position. This prevents the retaining clip or the mating connector from unintentionally releasing.

[0019] Advantageously, the retaining clip is designed such that, when the mating connector is fully inserted, the retaining clip rests axially on a bearing surface of the clip cage facing in the assembly direction with an area adjacent to the pressure-locking humps on the side facing against the assembly direction, and with the pressure-locking humps rests radially against a circumferential wall of the through-opening.

[0020] It is particularly advantageous to have at least two pressure-locking lugs positioned opposite each other on the retaining arms. The pressure-locking lugs are preferably designed and arranged such that, in the locked position of the retaining clip and in the rest position of the retaining arms, they are located on an axis of symmetry within the through-opening. The axis of symmetry of the through-opening is, in particular, the one that extends perpendicular to the direction of movement of the retaining clip.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the invention, the clamp cage has two windows opening radially towards the through-opening. Advantageously, a reinforcing strut extending axially towards the through-opening is arranged in each window. Advantageously, the connector, and in particular the clamp cage, is stiffened at least axially to the assembly direction by means of the reinforcing struts. This stiffening also results in tensile or compressive loads being distributed more evenly around the circumference of the connector. In particular, this prevents leakage and damage.

[0022] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining arms extend through the windows in such a way that they are arranged radially between the opening and the reinforcing struts. Advantageously, the retaining arms are arranged such that, in the resting state, they project into the opening of the clamp cage.

[0023] The base body advantageously features four axial guide slots distributed around its circumference, which are arranged at 90° intervals and open towards the mounting direction. The reinforcing struts are expediently designed with a radial projection towards the clamp cage, allowing them to engage in the guide slots and prevent rotation of the clamp cage within the receiving channel.

[0024] Advantageously, the reinforcing struts are designed with a base such that, in a state where the clamp cage is mounted in the receiving channel, the bases ensure an advantageous distance between a collar of the clamp cage and an end of the base body pointing against the direction of assembly.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sleeve section and the clamp cage each have radial openings at least in the assembly direction. In particular, when the clamp cage is inserted into the sleeve section, the openings of the clamp cage and the sleeve section are aligned with each other, so that the retaining clamp with its bearing arms can be inserted radially in the assembly direction through the openings of the clamp cage and the sleeve section into the through-opening of the clamp cage. In particular, the arrangement by means of the bearing arms, which extend through the respective openings, provides an easy-to-manufacture and simple fixation of the clamp cage in the sleeve section of the base body.

[0026] Advantageously, the radially opened windows for arranging and guiding the retaining arms are spaced axially from the openings for arranging and guiding the bearing arms, relative to the assembly direction. For particularly easy and quick assembly of the retaining clip, especially for adjustments between the locking and insertion positions, the windows and openings are arranged axially one behind the other, particularly without an angular offset from the through-opening. Advantageously, the bearing arms and the retaining arms are formed correspondingly axially one behind the other on the retaining clip, so that each retaining arm and bearing arm are arranged axially offset.

[0027] Preferably, the clamp cage has radially outward-facing locking elements. Advantageously, the bearing arms have bearing grooves corresponding to the locking elements. In particular, the locking elements engage in the bearing grooves when the bearing arms are at rest and when the retaining clamp is in the insertion position. This advantageously ensures that, when the bearing arms are at rest, the locking elements positively block any movement of the retaining clamp from the insertion position to the locking position.

[0028] According to a further development, the bearing arms have radially inwardly projecting expanding elements. Advantageously, in the insertion position of the retaining clip and the resting position of the bearing arms, these expanding elements protrude into the through-hole such that the bearing arms can be expanded from the resting position to the tensioned position via the expanding elements when the mating connector is inserted in the assembly direction. In particular, the plug shaft of the mating connector lifts the locking elements out of the bearing grooves, thereby advantageously allowing the retaining clip to move from the insertion position to the locking position. This design improves safety by ensuring that, in a pre-assembled or partially assembled state with a mating connector that is not or not fully inserted, the retaining clip is moved into the locking position and unintentionally blocks the insertion of the mating connector along with the retaining arms.

[0029] Another variant advantageously provides that the bearing grooves are arranged behind the expanding elements in one direction of extension of the bearing arms. In particular, a positioning groove is formed between the respective bearing groove and the respective expanding element. Preferably, the locking element of the clamp cage is arranged in the positioning groove in the rest state of the bearing arms and in the locking position of the retaining clamp such that the expanding element bears against an outer circumference of the mating connector, in particular the plug shaft of the mating connector, in a force-fit manner and expediently generates resistance against displacement of the retaining clamp from the locking position to the insertion position. This resistance is particularly advantageous to prevent unintentional release of the retaining clamp from the locking position to the insertion position. This could potentially lead to an uncontrolled release of the plug shaft from the through-hole.This results in the mating connector shifting out of the through-hole in the opposite direction to the assembly direction. This design is therefore particularly advantageous in cases of high vibrations and other external influences on the connector.

[0030] Advantageously, each bearing arm has at least one expansion chamfer rising towards its free end. In particular, each expansion chamfer terminates above the bearing groove. It is preferable for the bearing groove to be directly adjacent to the expansion chamfer. Specifically, when the retaining clip is moved from the locking position to the insertion position, the locking element can slide over the expansion chamfer, so that the bearing arm is elastically deformed radially outwards in a material-friendly manner, and the locking element is lifted out of the positioning groove. This advantageously overcomes any blockage between the locking element and the positioning groove synergistically.

[0031] As an alternative or supplement to the aforementioned design, it has proven advantageous for one of the expansion ramps rising towards the free end of the bearing arms to terminate above the positioning groove, with the positioning groove directly adjoining the expansion ramps. Particularly when the retaining clip is moved from the locking position to the insertion position, the expansion ramp of the positioning groove rests against an outer circumference of the mating connector, especially the plug shaft of the mating connector, so that the bearing arm is elastically deformed radially outwards in a material-friendly manner, and the locking element is lifted out of the positioning groove. Advantageously, this synergistically overcomes any blockage between the locking element and the positioning groove.

[0032] The expansion ramps offer the advantage that when the retaining clip is moved radially relative to the through-hole from the locking position to the insertion position, the bearing arm is deformed radially elastically in synergistic fashion with the movement. The blockage between the locking element and the positioning groove is thus designed as an surmountable resistance, which is sufficiently strong to prevent unintentional changes in position. In particular, the resistance to be overcome can be adjusted by changing the angle of the respective expansion ramps.

[0033] Another embodiment provides that the bearing grooves, viewed in the extension direction of the bearing arms, are arranged in front of the expanding elements. It is advantageous that the locking element of the clamp cage is arranged in the bearing groove in the rest position of the bearing arms and in the insertion position of the retaining clamp such that resistance is generated against displacement of the retaining clamp from the insertion position to the locking position.

[0034] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention described above, the bearing arms each have at least one expansion chamfer rising towards the free end of the bearing arms. In particular, each expansion chamfer opens above the bearing groove. The bearing groove preferably adjoins the expansion chamfer directly. Alternatively or additionally, an expansion chamfer is formed on each of the spreading elements. Preferably, in the rest state of the bearing arms and the locked position of the retaining clip, the spreading element can bear against an outer circumference of the mating connector in a force-fit manner, thereby creating resistance against displacement of the retaining clip from the locked position to the insertion position.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the retaining arms each have a radially outwardly opening retaining groove. Preferably, this retaining groove is configured to correspond to a locking element of the clamp cage such that, in the tensioned state of the retaining arms and in the insertion position of the retaining clamp, the locking element is arranged in the retaining groove. Advantageously, the locking element is arranged in the retaining groove such that displacement of the retaining clamp from the insertion position to the locking position is blocked.

[0036] It has proven advantageous for assembly safety that, with this design, the retaining clip can only be moved from the insertion position to the locking position when the mating connector with its plug shaft is fully inserted into the through-hole. In particular, the mating connector with its plug shaft is fully inserted into the through-hole when the locking groove of the mating connector is located adjacent to the retaining arms. Advantageously, the retaining arms, which are elastically deformed into a state of tension, return to their resting position when the mating connector with its plug shaft is fully inserted, thereby aligning themselves in the locking groove. It is then expedient, when the retaining arms are in their resting position, to lift the locking element out of the retaining groove and release the blockage preventing the retaining clip from moving from the insertion position to the locking position.Because the transfer of the retaining clip from the insertion position to the locking position is only possible when the retaining arms are in the rest position, it is possible to easily check the insertion status of the mating connector.

[0037] Preferably, a first groove wall of the retaining groove, pointing towards the free end of the retaining arm, is formed by a bearing element projecting radially outwards from the retaining arm. Particularly in the rest state of the retaining arm and the locking position of the retaining clip, the bearing element rests against the locking means, pointing radially outwards towards the through-opening, in such a way that radial extension of the retaining arms into the stress state is advantageously blocked. In In this state, the transition of the holding arms from the rest state to the tension state is also advantageously blocked.

[0038] Advantageously, this variant of the invention prevents the mating connector from unintentionally detaching from the through-hole after the retaining clip has been moved into the locking position following the complete insertion of the mating connector into the through-hole. In particular, to release the lock against the elastic deformation of the retaining arms into the state of tension, it is necessary that the retaining clip be moved into the insertion position. In In combination with the aforementioned advantageous design, the synergistic effect is that the resistance created by the expansion ramps must first be overcome in order to move the retaining clip into the insertion position. This provides a way to prevent the mating connector from unintentionally shifting out of the through-hole against the assembly direction.

[0039] Advantageously, the bearing element is designed as a ramp element, the ramp element preferably having an inclined surface rising towards the free end of the retaining arm. Advantageously, the inclined surface terminates at the first groove wall of the retaining groove. The inclined surface offers particular advantages in terms of manufacturing.

[0040] In particular, the bearing element, preferably the ramp element, can be designed in such a way as to allow the retaining arm to be pressed slightly elastically radially inwards in the rest state, so that a radial restoring force of the retaining arm presses the bearing element against the locking means in order to avoid, for example, vibrations and components colliding with each other.

[0041] Advantageously, the reinforcing struts serve as locking elements, so that the reinforcing struts designed as locking elements are advantageously arranged in the retaining grooves both in the resting state of the retaining arms and in the insertion position of the retaining clip. This results in the effect of improving the rigidity of the clip cage and simultaneously the assembly reliability of the connector.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining clip has at least one support arm. A variant with two or more support arms has also proven advantageous. The support arm is expediently arranged between the bearing arms and, in particular, extends parallel to the bearing arms to form a support head. Advantageously, in the locked position of the retaining clip, the support head is arranged in a correspondingly designed head receptacle on the outer circumference of the clip cage. The support head, together with the head receptacle, forms a stop, so that radial displacement of the retaining clip from the insertion position beyond the locked position is blocked by the contact of the support head with the head receptacle. In particular, embodiments with two or more support arms have a correspondingly corresponding number of head receptacles.

[0043] In a further developed embodiment of the connector, the retaining clip has at least one guide pin arranged between the retaining arms. Preferably, the guide pin extends parallel to the retaining arms to a support end. It has proven advantageous that, in the locked position of the retaining clip, the guide pin rests with its support end against an outer circumference of the clip cage. Corresponding to the support arms, the guide pin, together with the outer circumference of the clip cage, forms a stop, so that radial displacement of the retaining clip from the insertion position beyond the locked position is blocked by the contact of the support head against the head receptacle.

[0044] For improved assembly and, in particular, better guidance of the retaining clip, the clip cage features a guide channel that corresponds to the guide pin. In the locked position of the retaining clip, the guide pin engages in the guide channel, preventing the retaining clip from twisting or jamming when moving between the locked and inserted positions.

[0045] Advantageously, the guide channel extends through two bearing bases, which are preferably designed such that, in the state of the clamp cage being mounted in the receiving channel, the bearing bases ensure an advantageous distance between the collar of the clamp cage and the end of the base body pointing against the direction of assembly.

[0046] To facilitate disassembly, a preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the retaining clip has at least one, and in particular two, opposing, radially elastic gripping arms. Advantageously, the gripping arms extend from a section integrally formed with the connecting section and / or the retaining arms towards the free ends of the retaining arms. In particular, each gripping arm has an end section radially spaced from the retaining arms, so that the gripping arms can be elastically deformed towards the retaining arms by a force acting radially on the end section. In particular, to move the retaining clip from the locked position to the insertion position, the gripping arms provide a preferred gripping contour for grasping with a hand or a tool.

[0047] It has proven particularly advantageous that the clamp cage is positively locked in the receiving channel by means of at least one, and preferably two, opposing locking arms. The locking arm is expediently radially elastic and has a locking projection extending radially outwards. Advantageously, when inserted, the locking projection engages positively in a recess in a circumferential wall of the sleeve section, thus holding the clamp cage in the sleeve section. For this purpose, the locking arm is preferably integrally formed on the outer circumference of the clamp cage.

[0048] Another alternative or supplementary design for holding the clamp cage in the receiving channel provides that the retaining clamp has at least one pin projecting radially towards the through-opening between the bearing arms. The sleeve section and the clamp cage each have at least one through-opening radial to the mounting direction. Advantageously, one through-opening of the clamp cage and one of the sleeve sections are aligned with each other when the clamp cage is inserted into the sleeve section, so that the retaining clamp, with its pin, can be inserted radially through the through-opening of the clamp cage and the sleeve section. In the inserted position, the pin engages positively in the through-openings, thus displacing the clamp cage axially relative to the receiving channel.

[0049] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the figures and the dependent subclaims.

[0050] They show: Fig. 1 an exploded view of a connector according to the invention, Fig. 2 a perspective view of a clamp cage according to the invention, Fig. 3 a perspective view of a retaining clip according to the invention, Fig. 4 a sectional view along an assembly direction of a connector according to the invention with a partially inserted mating connector in a first assembly state with the retaining clip in the insertion position, Fig. 5 a sectional view along the separation line AA according to Fig. 4 , Fig. 6 a sectional view along the dividing line BB according to Fig. 4 Fig. 7 shows a sectional view along one assembly direction of a connector according to the invention with a partially inserted mating connector in a second assembly state with the retaining clip in the insertion position; Fig. 8 shows a sectional view along the separation line CC according to Fig. 7 , Fig. 9 a sectional view along the dividing line DD according to Fig. 7 Fig. 10 shows a sectional view along one assembly direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector in a third assembly state with the retaining clip in the insertion position; Fig. 11 shows a sectional view along the separation line EE according to Fig. 10 , Fig. 12 a sectional view along the dividing line FF according to Fig. 10 Fig. 13 shows a sectional view along a mounting direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector in a fourth mounting state with the retaining clip in the blocking position; Fig. 14 shows a sectional view along the separation line GG according to Fig. 13 and Fig. 15 a sectional view along the dividing line HH according to Fig. 13 Fig. 16 an exploded view of another connector according to the invention, Fig. 17 a perspective view of another clamp cage according to the invention, Fig. 18 a perspective view of another retaining clip according to the invention, Fig. 19 a sectional view along a mounting direction of the connector according to the invention. Fig. 1 with a mating connector not inserted in a first assembly state with the retaining clip in insertion position, Fig. 20 a sectional view along the separation line II according to Fig. 19 , Fig. 21 a sectional view along the dividing line JJ according to Fig. 19 Fig. 22 shows a sectional view along one assembly direction of a connector according to the invention with a partially inserted mating connector in a second assembly state with the retaining clip in the insertion position; Fig. 23 shows a sectional view along the separation line KK according to Fig. 22 , Fig. 24 a sectional view along the dividing line LL according to Fig. 22 Fig. 25 shows a sectional view along a mounting direction of a connector according to the invention with a partially inserted mating connector in a third mounting state with the retaining clip in the insertion position; Fig. 26 shows a sectional view along the dividing line MM according to Fig. 25 , Fig. 27 a sectional view along the dividing line NM according to Fig. 25 Fig. 28 shows a sectional view along a mounting direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector in a fourth mounting state with the retaining clip in the insertion position; Fig. 29 shows a sectional view along the separation line OO according to Fig. 28 , Fig. 30 a sectional view along the dividing line PP according to Fig. 28 Fig. 31 shows a sectional view along one assembly direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector in a fifth assembly state with the retaining clip in the blocking position; Fig. 32 shows a sectional view along the separation line QQ according to Fig. 31 , Fig. 33 a sectional view along the dividing line RR according to Fig. 31 , Fig. 34 a sectional view along the dividing line SS according to Fig. 31 Fig. 35 a perspective view of another clamp cage according to the invention, Fig. 36 a perspective view of another retaining clamp according to the invention, Fig. 37 a sectional view along a mounting direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector without a system pressure load, Fig. 38 a detailed view of area T according to Fig. 37 Fig. 39 shows a sectional view along a mounting direction of a connector according to the invention with a fully inserted mating connector subjected to a system pressure load, and Fig. 40 shows a detailed view of area V according to Fig. 39

[0051] In In the various figures of the drawing, identical parts are always marked with the same reference symbols.

[0052] The following description claims that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and not to all or several features of the described combinations of features; rather, each individual partial feature of the exemplary embodiment(s) is also significant for the subject matter of the invention, independent of all other partial features described in connection therewith, both on its own and in combination with any features of another exemplary embodiment.

[0053] The Fig. 1 and 16 Figures 1 and 101 show a connector 1 for connecting a first fluid line to a mating connector 2. The mating connector 2 is particularly useful in the Fig. 4 , 7 , 10 , 13 , 19 , 22 , 25 , 28 , 31 , 34 , 37 and 39 shown in conjunction with connector 1, 101, 201.

[0054] Connector 1, 101, 201 has one in the Fig. 1 , 16 , 37 and 39 The basic body 4, 104, 204 shown with a through channel 6, 106, 206. In particular, in the Fig. 4 , 19 , 22 and 37 The diagram shows that the through channel 6, 106, 206 is fluidically connected to an end of the base body 4, 104, 204 designed as a socket section 8, 108, 208.

[0055] In A clamp box is located in a receiving channel 10, 110, 210 of the sleeve section 8, 108, 208. fig 12 , 112, 212 arranged. The bracket box fig 12 , 112, 212 can be arranged in the recording channel 10, 110, 210. The bracket box fig 12 , 112, 212 is particularly in the Fig. 2 , 17 and 35 depicted. The bracket box fig 12 , 112, 212 is, as in the Fig. 1 and 16indicated, can be inserted into the receiving channel 10, 110, 210 of the sleeve section 8, 108, 208 in a mounting direction M and held axially in a form-fitting manner to the mounting direction M.

[0056] The bracket box fig 12 , 112, 212 is inserted into the clamp box by means of two retaining arms 18, 118, 218 perpendicular to the mounting direction M. fig 12 The insertable retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is held in a through-opening 16, 116, 216 of the sleeve section 8, 108, 208. The retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is in Fig. 1 , 3 , 16 , 18 and 36 depicted.

[0057] The two retaining arms 18, 118, 218 of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 are designed to run parallel to each other and, in a rest state of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220, project into the through-opening 16, 116, 216 of the clip housing figs 12 , 112, 212 into. Furthermore, the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are designed to expand elastically into a state of tension radially to the through-opening 16, 116, 216.

[0058] The retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is radially connected to the through-opening 16, 116, 216 by a, in particular in the Fig. 5, 6 , 8, 9 , 11, 12 , 20, 21 , 23, 24 , 26, 27 , 29 und 30 depicted, introductory position into a, into the Fig. 14, 15 , 32, 33 , 39 The blocking position is shown, and the mechanism is designed to be movable from the blocking position to the insertion position.

[0059] The retaining arms 18, 118, 218 can be expanded into their tension state in the insertion position of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220. Furthermore, the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 can be expanded into their tension state in the blocking position of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220, as shown in the Fig. 14 and 32 depicted, blocked against expansion into the stress state.

[0060] According to the invention, the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 has, in particular, the following features: Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 12 , 15 , 18 , 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 and 33 , 36 The illustration shows two elastic support arms 22, 122, 222 extending radially to the through-opening 16, 116, 216. The support arms 22, 122, 222 fix the clamping bracket. fig 12 , 112, 212 in the receiving channel 10, 110, 210 of the sleeve section 8, 108, 208 axially to the assembly direction M in a form-fitting manner and, according to the invention, project into the through-opening 16, 116, 216 of the clamping box in a rest state of the bearing arms 22, 122, 222. figs 12 , 112, 212 into. Furthermore, it is part of the invention that the bearing arms 22, 122, 222, as in the Fig. 9 , 12 , 27 and 30 shown, are elastically expandable into a state of stress radially to the through-opening 16, 116, 216.

[0061] It is advantageous, while the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 are in the rest position and the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is in the insertion position, to block the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 against displacement from the insertion position to the locking position. This design is particularly advantageous in the Fig. 6 , 21 and 23 depicted.

[0062] Preferably, while the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are in the tension state and the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is in the insertion position, the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is as shown in the Fig. 8 , 23 and 26 shown, blocked against displacement from the insertion position to the blocking position.

[0063] As in the Fig. 15 , 33 and 39As shown, while the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 are in the rest position and the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is in the blocking position, the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is positively locked against displacement from the blocking position to the insertion position.

[0064] In In a particular embodiment of the invention, the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is as shown in the Fig. 3 , 18 and 36 The bearing arms 22, 122, 222 and the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are advantageously connected via a connecting section 24, 124, 224 and extend in the same direction, preferably from the connecting section 24, 124, 224, to each free end. In particular, the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 and the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are arranged axially spaced apart from one another. As shown in the Fig. 3 , 18 and 36As shown, a gap is preferably formed between a retaining arm 18, 118, 218 and an axially offset bearing arm 22, 122, 222, which extends from the free ends to the connecting section 24, 124, 224.

[0065] An advantageous variant of the retaining clip 120, 220 is particularly evident in the Fig. 16 and 36 The retaining clip 120, 220 expediently has at least two pressure-locking lugs 274 formed on the retaining arms 118, 218 and / or on the connecting section 124, 224 on the side facing the mounting direction M. A preferred variant with two pressure-locking lugs 174 on the connecting section 124 is shown by way of example in Fig. 16 An extended embodiment, exemplified in Fig. 36 As shown, in addition to the two pressure-locking lugs 274 on the connecting section 224, the connecting section 224 also has two pressure-locking lugs 274 on the retaining arms 220. Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting section 224 has three pressure-locking lugs 274 and the retaining arms 218 have two pressure-locking lugs 274, as shown in Fig. 36 are shown, arranged.

[0066] Advantageously, the pressure locking lugs 174, 274 are designed to protrude in such a way that, in the blocking position of the retaining clip 120, 220, the pressure locking lugs 174, 274 can support themselves radially to the through-opening 116, 216 on an inner circumferential wall of the through-opening 116, 216.

[0067] In particular, two pressure locking lugs 274 on the retaining arms 218 are designed and arranged opposite each other such that the pressure locking lugs 274 are arranged within the through-opening 216 on an axis of symmetry of the through-opening 216, which extends in particular perpendicular to the direction of displacement of the retaining clip 220, in the blocking position of the retaining clip 220 and in the rest state of the retaining arms 218.

[0068] To prevent radial displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220 from the locking position to the insertion position and / or radial expansion of the retaining arms 118, 218, particularly under system pressure generated by the supplying fluid during operation, the pressure-locking lugs 174, 274 have proven particularly advantageous. Especially when a mating connector 2 is fully inserted into the connector 101, 201, the retaining clip 120, 220 is axially displaced against the assembly direction under system pressure such that the pressure-locking lugs 174, 274 are positioned in a gap between the connector shaft 14 and the circumferential wall of the through-hole 116, 216. The pressure-locking lugs 174, 274 then block, as shown in the Fig. 39 und 40 The illustration shows that the retaining arms 118, 218 expand radially into their tensioned state and / or that the retaining clip 120, 220 can be moved from the locking position to the insertion position. Unintentional release of the retaining clip 120, 220 or the mating connector 2 is prevented by the pressure-locking lugs 174, 274.

[0069] The retaining clip 220 remains useful, as shown in the Fig. 39 und 40 shown, designed such that when the mating connector 2 is fully inserted and under system pressure, the retaining clip 220 rests axially on a bearing surface of the clip cage facing in the mounting direction M with an area adjacent to the pressure locking lugs 274 on the side facing against the mounting direction M and bears radially against a circumferential wall of the through-opening 216 with the pressure locking lugs 274.

[0070] It has proven advantageous that the base body 104, 204 or the clamp cage 112, 212 is dimensioned with an overlap path for the plug shaft 14. The overlap path U is shown by way of example in the Fig. 37 and 39 characterized. Furthermore, the retaining clip 120, 220 expediently has axial play relative to the clip cage 112, 212. Preferably, the axial play corresponds at least to the axial extent of the pressure locking lugs 174, 274.

[0071] For assembly purposes, the retaining clip 120, 220 can be moved from the insertion position to the locking position by means of the play of the retaining clip 120, 220 relative to the clip cage 112, 212. When the mating connector 2 is fully inserted into the through-opening 116, 216 and the locking connection required for the full locking position is established with the mating connector 2 by means of the retaining arms 118, 218, the retaining clip 120, 220 can be moved by means of the retaining arms 118, 218, against the assembly direction M, according to its insertion path U, by means of a restoring force directed against the mating connector 2. In the Fig. 37 und 38 is a state represented in which the mating connector 2 is completely, including the overlap path U, is inserted into the connector. Fig. 39 und 40 The figures show a state after the restoring force directed against the assembly direction M has been applied to the mating connector 2 and the mating connector 2 has displaced the retaining clip 220 axially against the assembly direction M according to the clearance between the retaining clip 220 and the clip cage 212. The restoring force can be deliberately applied during assembly or brought about during operation by a system pressure.

[0072] The pressure locking lugs 174, 274 are advantageously arranged by the axial displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220, as shown in the Fig. 39 und 40 The locking lugs 174, 274 are located radially adjacent to the inner circumferential wall of the through-opening 116, 216 and block the radial displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220 and the radial expansion of the retaining arms 118, 218. To release the locking connection or the blockage by the pressure-locking lugs 174, 274, the mating connector 2 is expediently used, as shown in the Fig. 37 und 38 As shown, the pressure locking lugs 174, 274 are displaced, at least over their axial length in the assembly direction M, into an overlapping position, so that the pressure locking lugs 174, 274 and the inner circumferential wall of the through-opening 116, 216 do not overlap. The elastic deformation of the retaining arms 118, 218 and the radial displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220 are again permitted.

[0073] In In a particular embodiment of the retaining clip 220, a locking pin 280, pointing radially towards the through-opening 216, is formed on the connecting section 224 such that, when the retaining clip 220 is in its locking position, the locking pin 280 engages in a retaining groove of a mating connector 2 that is fully inserted into the connector 101, 201, and positively locks the mating connector 2 against the assembly direction M. Such an embodiment of the retaining clip 220 with a locking pin 280 is shown by way of example in Fig. 36 As shown. Advantageously, at least one pressure-locking lug 274 is arranged on the locking pin 280, pointing against the assembly direction M. In particular, the locking pin 280 increases the holding force of the retaining clip 220 and relieves the locking arms 218 when positively blocking movement of the mating connector 2 against the assembly direction M.

[0074] As in the Fig. 2 , 17 and 35 As shown, the bracket box indicates fig 12 In a preferred embodiment, two windows 26, 126, 226 open radially to the passage opening 16, 116, 216 are provided. It is further preferred that a reinforcing strut 28, 128, 218 extending axially to the passage opening 16, 116, 216 is arranged in each of the windows. According to the advantageous embodiment shown in the Fig. 5 , 8 , 11 , 14 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 and 32As shown, the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 extend through the windows 26, 126, 226 such that they are arranged radially between the passage opening 16, 116, 216 and the reinforcing struts 28, 128, 228. In particular, the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 project into the passage opening 16, 116, 216 of the clamping bracket, at least in the resting state. figs 12 , 112, 212 into, as exemplified in the Fig. 11 , 14 , 20 , 29 and 32 is shown.

[0075] The base body 4 advantageously features four axial guide slots 27 distributed around its circumference, which are arranged offset from one another by 90° and open towards the mounting direction M. The reinforcing struts 28 are expediently provided with a radial projection towards the clamping head. fig 12 designed so that the reinforcing struts 28 are used for arranging the clamping bracket figs 12 in the receiving channel 10, engage in the guide slots 27 and block rotation.

[0076] Advantageously, the reinforcing struts 28 are designed with a base 29 such that, in a state where the clamp is mounted in the receiving channel 10, figs 12 the bases 29 provide an advantageous distance between a collar of the clamp box figs 12 and ensure an end of the base body 4 pointing against the mounting direction M.

[0077] Another advantageous embodiment of connector 1, 101, 201 is described in the Fig. 6 , 9 , 12 15 , 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 , 33 and 35 shown. According to this optional design, the socket section 8, 108, 208 and the clamp box have fig 12 , 112, 212 each have at least two radial openings 30, 130, 230 in relation to the mounting direction M. According to the illustrated embodiment, preferably one opening 30, 130, 230 of the clamping bracket is provided. figs 12 , 112, 212 and of the sleeve section 8, 108, 208 in an inserted state of the clamp box figs 12 , 112, 212 are arranged in alignment with each other in the sleeve section 8, 108, 208. Advantageously, the openings 30, 130, 230 are arranged such that the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 with the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 passes radially through the openings 30, 130, 230 of the clip housing to the mounting direction M. figs 12 , 112, 212 and the sleeve section 8, 108, 208 through into the through-opening 16, 116, 216 of the clamp box figs 12 , 112, 212 can be introduced.

[0078] The Fig. 2 , 17 and 35Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the invention, according to which the radially opened windows 26, 126, 226 for arranging and passing through the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are spaced axially from the openings 30, 130, 230 for arranging and passing through the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 in the mounting direction M. Preferably, the windows 26, 126, 226 and the openings 30, 130, 230 are arranged axially one behind the other, particularly without an angular offset, around the passage opening.

[0079] Another optional version is available in the Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 12 , 15 , 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 and 33 shown. Advantageously, the bracket box fig 12 The bearing arms 22, 122, 222 have radially outwardly projecting locking elements 32, 132. In particular, the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 have bearing grooves 34, 134, 234 corresponding to the locking elements 32, 132, which are open radially inwards. Advantageously, the locking elements 32, 132 engage in the bearing grooves 34, 134, 234 when the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 are at rest and when the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is inserted. Advantageously, when the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 are at rest, the locking elements 32, 132 positively lock the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 from the insertion position to the locking position. The bearing arms 22, 122, 222 according to this variant of the invention are in the Fig. 6 , 21 and 24 in an insertion position of the retaining clip 20, 120. In particular, the Fig. 36 shown clamp cage 212 and the one in Fig. 35 The depicted retaining clip 220 shall be designed in accordance with this design.

[0080] Advantageously, in a further developed embodiment, the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 have radially inwardly extending spreading elements 36, 136, 236. This embodiment is particularly advantageous in the Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 , 33 and 36 The spreading elements 36, 136, 236 protrude in the insertion position of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 and in the rest position of the bearing arms 22, 122, 222, as shown in the Fig. 6 , 21 and 24 The bearing arms 22, 122, 222 are positioned into the through-opening 16, 116, 216 such that they can be expanded from their resting state to their tensioned state by means of the expanding means 36, 136, 236 when the mating connector 2 is inserted in the assembly direction M. The bearing arms 22, 122 in the tensioned state are in the Fig. 9 , 12 , 27 , 30 and 33 depicted.

[0081] According to a preferred response to the radially elastic expansion of the bearing arms 22, 122, 222 into the stress state, the locking means 32, 132, as in particular from the Fig. 9 , 12 , 27 and 30 The component emerges from the bearing grooves 34, 134, 234. In particular, this expediently releases the movement of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 from the insertion position to the locking position.

[0082] Another embodiment of the invention provides that the bearing grooves 34 are arranged behind the spreading means in one extension direction of the bearing arms 22. For example, this arrangement is shown in Fig. 3 It is particularly noteworthy that a positioning groove 38 is advantageously formed between the respective bearing groove 34 and the respective spreading device 36. In Advantageously, the locking device 32 of the clamping device figs 12 In the rest state of the bearing arms 22 and in the locking position of the retaining clip 20, the expanding element 36 is arranged in the positioning groove 38 such that it is supported in a force-fit manner on an outer circumference of the mating connector 2, in particular the plug shaft 14. This preferred arrangement of the locking element 32 in the positioning groove 38 and of the expanding element 36 in a supporting function on the outer circumference of the plug shaft 14 is particularly advantageous in Fig. 15 This design, in particular the spreading element 36 which is supported on the outer circumference by means of a force-fit connection, is particularly advantageous in creating resistance against displacement of the retaining clip 20 from the blocking position to the insertion position.

[0083] In particular, the bearing arms 22, as exemplified in the Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 12 and 15As shown, at least one expansion chamfer 40a, 40b rising towards the free end of the bearing arms 22 is provided. Advantageously, one expansion chamfer 40a opens above the bearing groove 34, and the bearing groove 34 preferably connects directly to the expansion chamfer 40a.

[0084] Alternatively or additionally, an expansion chamfer 40b opens above the positioning groove 38. According to another preferred embodiment, the positioning groove 38 adjoins the expansion chamfer 40b directly. The expansion chamfers 40b in the immediate vicinity of the positioning grooves 38 are also located in the Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 12 and 15 depicted.

[0085] An alternative embodiment provides that the bearing grooves 134, 234 are arranged in an extension direction of the bearing arms 122, 222 in front of the spreading means 136, 234. In particular, this embodiment is used in the Fig. 21 , 24 , 27 , 30, 33 and 36 The locking device 132 of the clamp cage 112, 212 is advantageously positioned in the rest state of the bearing arms 122, 222 and in the insertion position of the retaining clamp 120, 220, as shown in the Fig. 21 and 24 The bearing arms 122, 222 are arranged in the bearing groove 134, 234 such that resistance is generated against displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220 from the insertion position to the locking position. The bearing arms 122, 222 advantageously each have at least one expansion chamfer 140a, 140b rising towards the free end of the bearing arms 122, 222. This embodiment is exemplified in the Fig. 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 and 33as shown. In particular, an expansion chamfer 140a opens above the bearing groove 134, 234, and the bearing groove 134, 234 directly adjoins the expansion chamfer 140a. Additionally or alternatively, an expansion chamfer 140b is formed on the spreading elements 136, 236, wherein, in particular, in the rest state of the bearing arms 122, 222 and the locking position of the retaining clip 120, 220, as shown in Fig. 33 The spreading element 136, 236 can be supported by a positive locking force on an outer circumference of the mating connector 2. Advantageously, this creates resistance against displacement of the retaining clip 120, 220 from the blocking position to the insertion position. In particular, the Fig. 36 shown clamp cage 12 and the one in Fig. 35 The depicted retaining clip 220 shall be designed in accordance with this design.

[0086] The bearing arms 122, 222 are expediently designed such that the spreading means 136, 236 of the bearing arms 122, 222, as exemplified in the Fig. 21 , 24 , 27 , 30 and 33 As shown, at least in the insertion position of the retaining clip 120, 220, they are arranged behind a central axis of the through-opening 116, 216, pointing towards the free ends of the bearing arms 122, 222. This is particularly true when, as shown in the Fig. 27 , 30 and 33As shown, when the mating connector 2 is inserted into the through-opening 116, 216, the expanding elements 136, 236 are supported on the plug shaft 14 of the mating connector 2 in such a way that the plug shaft 14 is engaged from behind by the bearing arms 122, 222. Due to the restoring force resulting from the radial elastic deformation, the expanding elements 136, 236 press on the plug shaft 14 and generate a displacement force which pushes the connecting section 124, 224 of the retaining clip 120, 220 in the direction of the central axis. In particular, the resulting displacement force has the effect that the retaining clip 120, 220 is automatically moved from the insertion position to the locking position as soon as the plug shaft 14 is completely arranged in the through-opening 116, 216 and the retaining arms 118, 218 project into the locking groove of the mating connector 2 in the rest state. In particular, the Fig. 36 shown clamp cage 212 and the one in Fig. 35 The depicted retaining clip 220 shall be designed in accordance with this design.

[0087] Furthermore, it is advantageous for assembly and operational reliability if the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 each have a radially outwardly opening retaining groove 42, 142, 242. The retaining groove 42, 142, 242 preferably corresponds to a locking element 44, 144, 244 of the clamping head. figs 12 , 112, 212 is designed such that, in the tension state of the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 and in the insertion position of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220, the locking means 44, 144, 244 is arranged in the retaining groove 42, 142, 242. The retaining groove 42, 142 and the locking means 44, 144 are in different positions relative to each other in the Fig. 5 , 8 , 11 , 14 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 and 32 presented, in particular the Fig. 5 , 8 , 23 and 26This section illustrates how the locking means 44, 144 is arranged in the retaining groove 42, 142 and, in particular, fulfills a blocking function against displacement of the retaining clip 20, 120 from the insertion position to the blocking position. In this respect, when the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 are in the tensioned state and the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 is in the insertion position, the locking means 44, 144, 244 is advantageously arranged in the retaining groove 42, 142, 242 such that displacement of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220 from the insertion position to the blocking position is blocked.

[0088] In In an optional embodiment of the invention, a first groove wall of the retaining groove 42, 142, 242 is formed by a bearing element 46, 146, 246 projecting radially outwards from the retaining arm 18, 118, 118 towards the free end of the retaining arm 18, 118, 228. This embodiment is advantageous in the Fig. 3 , 5 , 8 , 11 , 14 ,18 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 , 32 and 36 depicted.

[0089] Particularly in the rest state of the retaining arm 18, 118, 218 and the locking position of the retaining clamp 20, 120, 220, as in the Fig. 14 and 32 As shown, the bearing element 46, 146, 246 lies radially to the through-opening 16, 116, 216 and points outwards against the blocking means 44, 144, 244 in such a way that radial extension of the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 and a transition of the retaining arms 18, 118, 218 from the rest state to the stress state is advantageously blocked.

[0090] In the Fig. 3 , 5 , 8 , 11 , 14 , 18 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 32 and 36Furthermore, a further development of the bearing element 46, 146, 246 is shown, according to which the bearing element 46, 146, 246 is designed as a ramp element. The ramp element has an inclined surface 48, 148, 248 rising towards the free end of the respective retaining arm 18, 118, 218, which offers manufacturing advantages.

[0091] A special combination of features is found in the Fig. 5 , 8 , 11 , 14 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 , 32 and 35 The illustration shows that the reinforcing struts 28, 128, 228 serve as locking elements 44, 144, 244. In particular, this design synergistically improves assembly and operational safety as well as the stiffness of the clamping head. figs 12 , 112, 212 increased, which also contributes to (leakage) safety. In The aforementioned advantageous type of reinforcing struts 28, 128, 228, designed as blocking means 44, 144, 244, are arranged in the holding grooves 42, 142, 242 in the rest state of the retaining arms 18, 118, 215 and in the insertion position of the retaining clip 20, 120, 220.

[0092] Another special version is in the Fig. 3 , 6 , 9 , 12 and 15The retaining clip 20 has at least one, and in particular two, support arms 50. The illustrated embodiments each have two support arms 50. The support arm(s) 50 are preferably arranged between the bearing arms 22 and are, in particular, designed to extend parallel to the bearing arms 22 to a support head 52. It has proven advantageous that, according to an adapted embodiment, in the locked position of the retaining clip 20, the respective support head 52 is engaged in a correspondingly designed head receptacle 54 on the outer circumference of the clip. figs 12 is arranged. It is particularly advantageous in Fig. 15 The figure shows how, in the locked position of the retaining clip 20, the two formed support arms 50 are supported by their support heads 52 in correspondingly formed head receptacles 54. The connector 101, 202, as shown in the Fig. 16 bis 40 The variant shown can also exhibit the features of this design in a preferred development.

[0093] Advantageously, the retaining clip 20 has at least one guide pin 56, either as an alternative or in addition to one of the aforementioned embodiments. The guide pin 56 is particularly advantageous in the Fig. 3 , 5 , 8 , 11 und 12 As shown, the guide pin 56 is preferably arranged between the retaining arms 18 and expediently extends parallel to the retaining arms 18 to a support end. It has proven advantageous for assembly reliability that, in the locked position of the retaining clip 20, the guide pin 56 rests with its support end on an outer circumference of the clip housing. figs 12 This version is also compatible with connector 101, 201 according to the specifications in the Fig. 16 bis 40 The illustrated version can be combined.

[0094] According to a further development of the invention, which in particular consists of Fig. 14 as can be seen from the bracket box fig 12 a guide channel 58 formed corresponding to the guide pin 56. The guide pin 56 preferably engages radially in the guide channel 58 towards the through-opening 16, at least in the blocking position of the retaining clip 20. This embodiment is also compatible with the connector 101, 202, as described in the Fig. 16 bis 40 The illustrated version can be combined.

[0095] The guide channel 58 extends expediently through two bearing bases 59. In particular, the bearing bases 59 are in Fig. 2 The bearing bases 59 are preferably designed such that, in the state of the clamp box being mounted in the receiving channel 10, figs 12 , the bearing bases 59 provide an advantageous distance between the collar of the clamp box figs 12 and the end of the base body 4 pointing against the mounting direction M. This version is also compatible with the connector 101, 202, as described in the Fig. 16 bis 40 The illustrated version can be combined.

[0096] It is particularly advantageous, as in the Fig. 4 , 7 , 10 , 13 , 19 , 22 , 25 , 28 , 31 and 34 As shown, at least one sealing element 60, 160, in particular an O-ring, is arranged in the receiving channel 10, 110. Preferably, according to an embodiment not shown, two sealing elements 60, 160 are arranged in the receiving channel 10, 110. In particular, the sealing element in the Fig. 37 and 39 The connectors shown, 201, must be designed according to this version.

[0097] The sealing element 60, 160 is expediently placed between a side wall of the clamp box pointing in the mounting direction M. figs 12 , 12 and a stepped surface pointing towards the mounting direction M and extending perpendicularly around an inner wall of the receiving channel 10, 110.

[0098] The sealing element 60, 160 is particularly advantageous for providing a comprehensive seal of the plug shaft 14 against the socket section 8, 108 or the inner wall of the receiving channel 10, 110.

[0099] A three-part seal (not shown) has proven particularly advantageous. The seal advantageously comprises two sealing elements 60, 160, in particular O-rings, which are separated from each other by a spacer ring. This three-part assembly is expediently mounted in the receiving channel 10, 110 in the manner described above.

[0100] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, which is particularly found in the Fig. 18 , 20 , 23 , 26 , 29 , 32 and 36As shown, the retaining clamp 120, 220 has at least one, and in particular two, opposing, radially elastic gripping arms 166, 266. The gripping arms 166, 266 extend from a section integrally formed with the connecting section 124, 224 and / or the retaining arms 118, 218, pointing towards the free ends of the retaining arms 118, 218. Advantageously, the gripping arms 166, 266 are each radially spaced from the retaining arms 118, 218 by an end section, in particular such that the gripping arms 166, 266 can be elastically deformed towards the retaining arms 118, 218 by a force acting radially on the end section. The gripping arms 166, 266 improve the grip of the retaining clip 120, 220, which is particularly advantageous for moving the retaining clip 120, 220 from the locking position to the insertion position. The embodiment of the invention with the gripping arms 166, 266 is also expediently compatible with the one described in the Fig. 1 bis 15 The illustrated embodiment of connector 1 can be combined.

[0101] In particular, the clamp cage 112, 212 is positively locked by means of at least one radially elastic locking arm 168, 268 with a radially outwardly projecting locking extension 170, 270, which, when inserted, engages positively in a recess 172 in a circumferential wall of the sleeve section 108, 208. This embodiment of the clamp cage 112, 212 is particularly suitable in the Fig. 17 and 35 The locking arm 168, 268 is expediently formed on the outer circumference of the clamp cage 112, 212.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamp cage 112 is held in a form-fitting manner by means of at least two radially elastic locking arms 168 with radially outwardly projecting locking projections 170, which, in the inserted state, engage in a form-fitting manner in recesses 172 in a circumferential wall of the sleeve section 108. This embodiment corresponds to the one described in Fig. 17 The illustrated version of the clamp cage 112. A connector 101 adapted for this purpose is shown as an example in Fig. 1 illustrated, wherein this embodiment of the invention is also expediently combined with the one described in the Fig. 1 bis 15 The illustrated embodiment of the connector 1 can be combined with the other components. In particular, the locking arms 168 are integrally formed on the outer circumference of the clamp cage 112.

[0103] Another advantageous embodiment for arranging the clamp cage 212 in the sleeve section 208 provides that the retaining clamp 220 has at least one pin 276 projecting radially towards the through-opening 216 between the bearing arms 222, wherein the sleeve section 208 and the clamp cage 212 each have at least one through-opening radial to the mounting direction M. These embodiments of the clamp cage 212 and the retaining clamp 220 are particularly suitable for the Figs. 35 and 36 As shown. Advantageously, the through-openings of the clamp cage 212 and the sleeve section 208 are arranged in alignment with each other when the clamp cage 212 is inserted into the sleeve section 208, in particular such that the retaining clamp 220 with the pin 276 can be inserted radially to the assembly direction M through the through-opening of the clamp cage 212 and the sleeve section 208. A special embodiment of the pin 276 is shown in Fig. 36As shown. This embodiment provides that the locking pin 280 is arranged axially offset to the mounting direction relative to the pin 276.

[0104] One practical variant provides that the clamp cage 212 is positioned radially opposite the through-opening 216, as shown in Fig. 35 shown, the radially elastic locking arm 268 has the radially outwardly projecting locking extension 270 formed on the outer circumference, which, in the inserted state, engages in the recess in the circumferential wall of the sleeve section 208 in a form-fitting manner.

[0105] The following will be based on the information provided in the Figs. 4 to 15 and 19 to 34 The advantageous embodiments shown illustrate the insertion and assembly of a mating connector 2. Since the insertion and assembly process of the [connector] is described in the Figs. 35 to 40The illustrated variants of the clamp cage 212 and the retaining clip 220 of the connector 201 do not differ from the insertion and assembly process according to the Figs. 19 to 34 A separate presentation is omitted to distinguish between the different types of presentation.

[0106] The Figs. 19 to 21 Figure 1 shows connector 101 with an unmounted mating connector 2 and the retaining clip 20 in the insertion position. Both the retaining arms 118 and the bearing arms 122 are in their rest positions. In particular, the bearing arms 122, in conjunction with the locking elements 132 of the clip cage 112, prevent the retaining clip 120 from moving from the insertion position to the locking position. At the same time, the retaining clip 120 is secured against falling out of the base body 104 and / or the clip cage 112. The same states apply to connector 1, as shown in the figures. Figs. 16 to 34 The illustrated version includes an unmounted mating connector 2.

[0107] The Figs. 4 to 6 and 22 to 24 Figures 1, 101 show connector 1, 101 with a mating connector 2 partially inserted in the mounting direction M and the retaining clip 20, 120 in the insertion position. During insertion, the mating connector 2 is inserted with its plug shaft 14 in the mounting direction M into the through-hole 16, 116. The plug shaft 14 passes through a section in the through-hole 16, 116 where the retaining arms 18, 118 project into the through-hole 16, 116, as shown in the figure. Figs. 4 to 6 and 22 to 24 To illustrate, the connector shaft 14 and the retaining arms 18, 118 are advantageously designed to correspond to each other such that the connector shaft 14 exerts a force radially outwards towards the mounting direction M on the retaining arms 18, 118. Alternatively, a side facing away from the mounting direction M can have an insertion ramp rising in the insertion direction to facilitate insertion of the connector shaft 14. InAs a result of the outward force, the retaining arms 18, 118 and the bearing arms 22, 122 are each elastically deformed radially outwards from the rest state into the stress state.

[0108] The Fig. 5 and 23 show that in this state the retaining arms 18, 118 are in a state of tension. Suitable locking means 44, 144 are arranged in retaining grooves 42, 142 of the retaining arms 18, 118 and prevent the retaining clip 20, 120 from being moved from the insertion position to the locking position. Fig. 6 and 24 show that in this state the bearing arms 22, 122 are in the rest position. Furthermore, advantageous locking means 32, 132 of the clamping mechanism are shown. figs 12, 112 in bearing grooves 34, 134 of the bearing arms 22, 122 and also prevent the retaining clip 20, 120 from being moved from the insertion position to the blocking position, and at the same time ensure that the retaining clip does not come out of the base body 4, 104 and / or the clip housing Fig. 12 , 112 falls out.

[0109] In the Figs. 7 to 9 and 25 to 27 Is the mating connector 2 further in the assembly direction M into the through opening 16, 116 of the clamp box figs 12 , 112 has been moved and has passed a section in which the bearing arms 22, 122 protrude into the through-opening 16, 116. The retaining clip 20, 120 remains in the insertion position. The Fig. 8 and 26 show that the retaining arms 18, 118 remain unchanged in the state of tension. In the Fig. 9 and 27The figure shows that at this assembly point, the connector shaft 14 exerts a force radially outward toward the assembly direction M on the bearing arms 22, 122. As a result of the outward force, the bearing arms 22, 122 are elastically deformed radially outward from their rest state to a stress state. In particular, the elastic deformation is promoted by the expanding elements 36, 136 projecting into the through-channel 6, 106. Due to the elastic deformation, the locking elements 32, 32 on the clamping head Fig. 12 , 112 lifted out of the bearing grooves 34, 134, so that the radial blocking of the retaining clip 20, 120 is lifted on the side of the bearing arms 22, 122.

[0110] In the Figs. 10 to 12 and 28 to 30 Is the mating connector 2 inserted further in the assembly direction M into the through opening 16, 116 of the clamp box? figs 12, 112 has been moved and has reached its final position. The retaining clip 20, 120 is still shown in its insertion position. In In the final position of the mating connector 2, the locking groove located behind the connector shaft 14 is adjacent to the retaining arms 18, 118 of the retaining clip 20, 120. As shown in the Fig. 11 and 29 As shown, the retaining arms 18, 118 relax into the locking groove such that the mating connector 2 is positively locked axially to the assembly direction M by means of the retaining arms 18, 118 and the locking between the locking means 44, 144 and the retaining groove 42, 142 is released. According to the illustration in the Fig. 12 and 30 The bearing arms 22, 122 remain in the tension state with the locking mechanism between the locking means 32, 132 and the bearing groove 34, 134 also released. In particular, in this assembly state, the retaining clip 20, 120 can be moved from the insertion position to the locking position.

[0111] In the Figs. 13 to 15 and 31 to 34 Is the mating connector 2 unchanged from the one in the Figs. 10 to 12 and 28 to 30 The assembly state shown is fully in the assembly direction M into the through opening 16, 116 of the clamp box. figs 12 , 112 plugged in. Like the Fig. 14, 15 , 32 and 33 As shown, the retaining clip 20, 120 is advantageous in the blocking position. Fig. 14 and 29 show that the retaining arms 18, 118 remain in their resting state, but that the displacement of the retaining clip 20, 120 into the locking position causes the retaining arms 18, 118 with bearing elements 46, 146 to bear against the locking means 44, 144 in such a way that radial deformation of the retaining arms 18, 118 is blocked. According to the Fig. 15 and 33 The bearing arms 22, 122 are also in the rest state, particularly in the advantageous configuration, in Fig. 15 depicted version, the locking means 32 of the clamping device figs 12are arranged in the position grooves 38 of the bearing arms 22.

[0112] Furthermore, as in the Fig. 15 and 33 The bearing arms 22, 122 with their expanding elements 36, 136 are attached to the outer circumference of the connector shaft 14, which creates additional positional stability. Furthermore, a preferred expansion chamfer 40a, 40b acts on the locking element 32, 132 or the outer circumference of the connector shaft 14 in such a way that a resistance is generated which acts against the movement of the retaining clip 20, 120 from the locking position to the insertion position.

[0113] The retaining clip 20 appropriately features, as shown in Fig. 3As shown, in a preferred embodiment, a surface structure 62 is provided on the connecting section 24. This surface structure 62 is particularly advantageous for manually applying a pressure force to the retaining clip 20 to move it into the assembly position. This embodiment is also compatible with the connector 101, as shown in the Figs. 16 to 34 The illustrated version can be combined.

[0114] To remove the mating connector 2 from the through-opening 16, 116 opposite to the assembly direction M, the retaining clip 20, 120 must be moved against the resistance generated by the expansion ramps 40a, 40b, 140a, 140b in the direction of the insertion position. The action of the locking element 32, 132 and the expansion ramps 40a, 140a, or the action of the expansion ramps 40b, 140b with the outer circumference of the connector shaft 14, elastically expands the bearing arms 22, 122.

[0115] To move the retaining clip 20, 120 into the insertion position, it has proven advantageous to apply a radially outward-acting tensile force to the connecting section 24, 124 of the retaining clip 20, 120. Fig. 3 For this purpose, the retaining clip 20 can have an engagement contour 64 on the connecting section 24, by means of which the retaining clip 20 can be levered radially outwards particularly advantageously. Additionally or alternatively, the retaining clip 20, 120 can have at least one, exemplified in Fig. 18 shown, gripping arm 166.

[0116] As soon as the retaining clip 20, 120 is again in the insertion position, the plug shaft 14 can be pulled out of the through opening 16, 116 against the mounting direction M, whereby, due to the synergistic interaction of the retaining arms 18, 118 and the plug shaft 14 of the mating connector 2, the retaining arms 18, 118 are expanded back into the tension state. Reference symbol list

[0117] 1, 101, 201 Connector 2 Mating connector 4, 104, 204 Base body 6, 106, 206 Through channel 8, 108, 208 Sleeve section 10, 110, 210 Receiving channel 12, 112, 212 Clamp cage 14 Connector shaft 16, 116, 216 Through opening 18, 118, 218 Retaining arm 20, 120, 220 Retaining clip 22, 122, 222 Bearing arm 24, 124, 224 Connection section 26, 126, 226 Window 27 Guide slot 28, 128, 228 Reinforcing strut 29 Base 30, 130, 230 Breakthrough 32, 132 Locking element 34, 134, 234 Bearing groove 36, 136, 236 Spreading element 38 Positioning groove 40a, 40b, 140a, 140b Expansion chamfer 42, 142, 242 Holding groove 44, 144, 244 Locking element 46, 146, 246 Bearing element 48, 148, 248 Slanted surface 50 Support arm 52 Support head 54 Head receptacle 56 Guide pin 58 Guide channel 59 Bearing base 60, 160 Sealing element 62 Surface structure 64 Attack contour 166, 266 Gripping arms 168, 268 Locking arms 170, 270 Locking projections 172 Recesses 174, 274 Pressure locking lug 276 Pin 278 Feedthrough opening 280 Detent pin U Overlap travel M Mounting direction

Claims

1. Connector (1, 101, 201) for connecting a first fluid line to a mating connector (2), comprising a base element (4, 104, 204) with a through channel (6, 106, 206), wherein the through channel (6, 106, 206) is fluidically connected to an end of the base element (4, 104, 204) designed as a sleeve section (8, 108, 208), wherein a clamp cage (12, 112, 212) is arranged in a receptacle channel (10, 110, 210) of the sleeve section (8, 108, 208), wherein the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) can be inserted into the receptacle channel (10, 110, 210) of the sleeve section (8, 108, 208) in a mounting direction (M) and is held axially to the mounting direction (M) in a positive-locking manner, wherein two retaining arms (18, 118, 218) extending parallel to one another of a retaining clip (20, 120, 220) which can be inserted into the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) perpendicular to the mounting direction (M) project into a through opening (16, 116, 216) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) when the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are in a rest state and are designed to be elastically expandable radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) into a tension state, wherein the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) can be moved radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) from an insertion position into a blocking position and from the blocking position into the insertion position, wherein the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are expandable into their tension state in the insertion position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) and the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are blocked against expansion into the tension state in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220), characterized in that the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) has two bearing arms (22, 122, 222) which are elastic radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216), and the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) fix the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) in the receptacle channel (10, 110, 210) axially to the mounting direction (M) in a positive-locking manner and in a rest state of the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) project into the through opening (16, 116, 216) and are designed to be elastically expandable radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) into a tension state.

2. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to claim 1, characterized in that while the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) are in the rest state and the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is in the insertion position, the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is blocked against displacement from the insertion position to the blocking position.

3. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that while the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are in the tension state and the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is in the insertion position, the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is blocked against displacement from the insertion position to the blocking position.

4. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that while the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) are in the rest state and the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is in the blocking position, the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) is positively locked against displacement from the blocking position to the insertion position.

5. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining bracket (20, 120, 220) is U-shaped and the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) and the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are connected via a connecting section (24, 124, 224) and extend in the same direction from the connecting section (24, 124, 224) to a free end in each case and the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) and the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are arranged axially spaced apart from one another.

6. Connector (1,101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) has at least two pressure locking humps (174, 274) formed on the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) and / or on the connecting section (24, 124, 224) on the side pointing against the mounting direction (M), which are formed projecting against the mounting direction (M) in such a way that, in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220), the pressure locking humps (174, 274) can be supported radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) on an inner circumferential wall of the through opening (16, 116, 216), in particular that two pressure-locking humps (274) on the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are formed and arranged opposite each other in such a way that the pressure-locking humps (274) in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) and the rest state of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are arranged on an axis of symmetry, in particular an axis of symmetry extending perpendicular to the direction of displacement of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220), of the through opening (16, 116, 216) within the through opening (16, 116, 216).

7. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) has two windows (26, 126, 226) open radially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) and a reinforcing strut (28, 128, 228) extending axially to the through opening (16, 116, 216) is arranged in each of the windows (26, 126, 226), wherein the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) extend through the windows (26, 126, 226) in such a way that the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are arranged radially between the through opening (16, 116, 216) and the reinforcing struts (28, 128, 228) and, in the rest state, project into the through opening (16, 116, 216) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212).

8. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sleeve section (8, 108, 208) and the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) each have at least two breakthroughs (30, 130) radial to the mounting direction (M), each breakthrough (30, 130) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) and the sleeve section (8, 108, 208) being arranged in the sleeve section (8, 108, 208) are arranged in alignment with one another, so that the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) can be inserted with the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) radially to the mounting direction (M) through the breakthroughs (30, 130) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) and the sleeve section (8, 108, 208) into the through opening (16, 116, 216) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212), in particular that the radially open windows (26, 126, 226) for arranging and passing through of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) are arranged axially to the mounting direction (M) at a distance from the breakthroughs for arranging and passing through the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) and preferably that the windows (26, 126, 226) and breakthroughs (30, 130) are arranged axially one behind the other with respect to the through opening (16, 116, 216).

9. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) has radially outwardly pointing detents (32, 132), and the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) have bearing grooves (34, 134, 234) corresponding thereto, and the detents (32, 132) engage in the bearing grooves (34, 134, 234) in the rest state of the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) and the insertion position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220), and in the rest state of the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) block a displacement of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) from the insertion position into the blocking position in a positive-locking manner, and / or that the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) have radially inwardly pointing expanding means (36, 136, 236), and the expanding means (36, 136, 236) project into the through opening (16, 116, 216) in the insertion position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) and the rest state of the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) in such a way that the bearing arms (22, 122, 222) can be expanded via the expanding means (36, 136, 236) from the rest state into the tension state when the mating connector (2) is inserted in the mounting direction (M), so that a displacement of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) from the insertion position into the blocking position is enabled, in particular that the bearing grooves (34) are arranged behind the expansion means (36) in a direction of extension of the bearing arms (22), and a position groove (38) is formed between the respective bearing groove (34) and the respective expansion means (36), and the detent (32) of the clamp cage (12) is arranged in the position groove (38) in the rest state of the bearing arms (22) and in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20) in such a way that the expanding means (36) is supported in a force-locking manner on an outer circumference of the mating connector (2) and generates a resistance to a displacement of the retaining clip (20) from the blocking position into the insertion position.

10. Connector (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the bearing arms (22) each have at least one expansion slope (40a, 40b) rising towards the free end of the bearing arms (22), wherein in each case one expansion slope (40a) opens above the bearing groove (34) and the bearing groove (34) directly adjoins the expansion slope (40a) and / or in each case one expansion slope (40b) opens above the positioning groove (38) and the positioning groove (38) directly adjoins the expansion slope (40b), or that the bearing grooves (134) are arranged in front of the expanding means (136, 236) in a direction of extension of the bearing arms (122, 222) and the detent (132) of the clamp cage (112, 212) is arranged in the bearing groove (134, 234) in the rest state of the bearing arms (122, 222) and in the insertion position of the retaining clip (120, 220) in such a way that a resistance to a displacement of the retaining clip (120, 220) from the insertion position into the blocking position is generated, in particular that the bearing arms (122, 222) each have at least one expansion slope (140a, 140b) rising towards the free end of the bearing arms (122, 222), wherein in each case one expansion slope (140a) opens above the bearing groove (134, 234) and the bearing groove (134, 234) directly adjoins the expansion slope (140a) and / or in each case one expansion slope (140b) is formed on the expansion means (136, 236), wherein in the rest state of the bearing arms (122, 222) and the blocking position of the retaining clip (120, 220), the expanding means (136, 236) can be supported in a force-locking manner on an outer circumference of the mating connector (2) and thereby generates a resistance to a displacement of the retaining clip (120, 220) from the blocking position into the insertion position, and / or in particular that the bearing arms (122, 222) are designed such that the expanding means (136, 236) of the bearing arms (122, 222) are arranged behind a center axis of the through opening (116, 216), at least in the insertion position of the retaining clip (120, 220), in each case pointing towards the free ends of the bearing arms (122, 222).

11. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) each have formed a retaining groove (42, 142, 242) which is open radially outwards and which is designed to correspond to a blocking means (44, 144, 244) of the clamp cage (12, 112, 212) in such a way that in the tension state of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) and in the insertion position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) the blocking means (44, 144, 244) is arranged in the retaining groove (42, 142, 242) in such a way that a displacement of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220) from the insertion position into the blocking position is blocked, in particular that a first groove wall of the retaining groove (42, 142, 242) is formed by a bearing element (46, 146, 246) projecting radially outwards from the retaining arm (18, 118, 218) and pointing towards the free end of the retaining arm (18, 118, 218), wherein in the rest state of the retaining arm (18, 118, 218) and the blocking position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220), the bearing element (46, 146, 246) bears against the blocking means (44, 144, 244), pointing radially outwards towards the through opening (16, 116, 216), in such a way that radial expansion of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) is blocked and transfer of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) from the rest state to the tension state is blocked, and / or in particular that the reinforcing struts (28, 128, 228) serve as blocking means (44, 144, 244), so that the reinforcing struts (28, 128, 228) designed as blocking means (44, 144, 244) are arranged in the retaining grooves (42, 142, 242) in the rest state of the retaining arms (18, 118, 218) and in the insertion position of the retaining clip (20, 120, 220).

12. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining clip (20) has at least one, in particular two, support arms (50), which are arranged between the bearing arms (22) and are designed to extend parallel to the bearing arms (22) to form a support head (52), wherein in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20) the support head (52) is arranged in a correspondingly designed head receptacle (54) in the outer circumference of the clamp cage (12).

13. Connector (1, 101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining clip (20) has at least one guide pin (56), which is arranged between the retaining arms (18) and is designed to extend parallel to the retaining arms (18) to a support end, wherein in the blocking position of the retaining clip (20) the guide pin (56) bears with its support end against an outer circumference of the clamp cage (12), in particular that the clamp cage (12) has a guide channel (58) which corresponds to the guide pin (56) and in which the guide pin (56) engages radially to the through opening (16) in the blocking position of the retaining clip(20).

14. Connector(1, 101, 201) according to any one of claims 5 to 13, characterized in that the retaining clip (120, 220) has at least one, in particular two, radially elastic gripping arms (166) which lie opposite one another and which extend from a section formed on the connecting section (124, 224) and / or the retaining arms (118, 218) in the direction of the free ends of the retaining arms (118, 218), wherein the gripping arms (166) each having an end section radially spaced from the retaining arms (118, 218), so that the gripping arms (166) can be elastically deformed towards the retaining arms (118, 218) by a force acting radially on the end section.

15. Connector (1,101, 201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamp cage (112, 212) is held in a positive-locking manner by means of at least one radially elastic latching arm (168, 268) with a radially outwardly projecting latching extension (170, 270), which in the inserted state engages in a positive-locking manner in a recess (172) in a circumferential wall of the sleeve section (108, 208), wherein the latching arm (168, 268) being integrally formed on the outer circumference of the clamp cage (112, 212), in particular that the clamp cage (112) is held in a positive-locking manner by means of at least two radially elastic latching arms (168) with radially outwardly projecting latching projections (170), which in the inserted state engage in a positive-locking manner in a recess (172) in the circumferential wall of the sleeve section (108), wherein the latching arms (168) being integrally formed on the outer circumference of the clamp cage (112).

16. Connector (201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining clip (220) has between the bearing arms (220) at least one pin (276) projecting radially towards the through opening (216), the sleeve section (208) and the clamp cage (212) each having at least one through opening (278) radial to the mounting direction (M), wherein a respective through opening (278) of the clamp cage (212) and of the sleeve section (208) are arranged in alignment with one another in an inserted state of the clamp cage (212) in the sleeve section (208), so that the retaining clip (220) can be inserted with the pin (276) radially to the mounting direction (M) through the through opening (278) of the clamp cage (212) and of the sleeve section (208), in particular that the clamp cage (212) has the radially elastic latching arm (268) with the radially outwardly projecting latching extension (270) formed on the outer circumference radially opposite the through opening (216) of the feedthrough opening (278), which in the inserted state engages in a positive-locking manner in the recess in the circumferential wall of the sleeve section (208).