Connector unit

Abstract

A connector unit (1) comprises a cable (2) with a fluidic channel (3) which is limited by a pipe (4) and at least one electrical conductor (5) arranged on the outer side (6) of the pipe (4), a pipe fitting (7) with a fluidic channel (27) and a pipe support structure (8), wherein a pipe clamp space (9) is defined by said pipe support structure (8) and a pipe clamp structure (10), and an electrical connector (11) with a conductor support structure (12), wherein a conductor clamp space (13) is defined by said conductor support structure (12) and a conductor clamp structure (14), wherein solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor (5) extends with a conductor clamp section (16) into the conductor clamp space (13) and wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure (14) to the conductor support structure (12), and wherein solely and exclusively the pipe (4) extends with a pipe clamp section (15) into the pipe clamp space (9) and wherein the pipe (4) is clamped by means of the pipe clamp structure (9) to the pipe support structure (8).

Description

[0001] TITLE

[0002] CONNECTOR UNIT

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention relates to a connector unit according to claim 1 and 16 and a method to assemble a connector unit according to claim 31 .

[0005] PRIOR ART

[0006] Electrical connector systems with fluid channels are known from prior art. For example from US 4,270,824 which shows a quick connect connector. The connector according to US 4,270,824 has a clamp element for the electrical conductors of the cable. Thereby a clamp nut is tightened against a connector body whereby the electrical conductors will be mechanically and electrically connected to the connector body. Additionally a sealing ring is arranged at a distance to the clamp nut. The sealing ring acts on the outer surface of the cable and clamps the complete cable including the electrical conductors against the sealing element of the connector body.

[0007] The technical teaching of US 4,270,824 has the disadvantage that the electrical connectors are compressed with the sealing ring at the location of the sealing. Thereby the cross section of the connectors will be compressed which has disadvantages for the electrical transmission. In particular the electrical energy transmission is thus negatively influenced.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a connector unit which overcomes the drawbacks of prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a connector unit having advantageous electrical transmission properties.

[0010] This objects as well as other objects are solved by the connector unit of claim 1. The connector unit comprises a cable with a fluidic channel which is limited by a pipe and at least one electrical conductor arranged on the outer side of the pipe, a pipe fitting with a fluidic channel and a pipe support structure, wherein a pipe clamp space is defined by said pipe support structure and a pipe clamp structure, and an electrical connector with a conductor support structure, wherein a conductor clamp space is defined by said conductor support structure and a conductor clamp structure.

[0011] Solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor extends with a conductor clamp section into the conductor clamp space, wherein the at least one electrical conductor is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure to the conductor support structure. Solely and exclusively the pipe extends with a pipe clamp section into the pipe clamp space, wherein the pipe is clamped by means of the pipe clamp structure to the pipe support structure.

[0012] In other words: The pipe and the electrical conductor are clamped independently from each other such that the electrical clamp connection does not interfere with the fluidic clamp connection and vice-versa. Hence, the electrical conductor is only clamped with the conductor clamp structure but not with the pipe clamp structure and the pipe is only clamped with the pipe clamp structure but not with the conductor clamp structure.

[0013] It is an advantage that the pipe and the at least one electrical conductor are clamped independently from each other. This means that each clamping situation can be provided for the respective purpose. Hence, the clamping situation of the pipe can be provided for a fluid tight manned and the clamping situation of the at least one electrical conductor can be provided for an enhanced electrical contact.

[0014] The fluidic channel of the pipe and the fluidic channel of the pipe fitting open out in each other such that a fluid can flow from the fluidic channel of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe fitting and vice-versa.

[0015] The pipe as well as the electrical conductor are flexible such that the cable can be bend as a common cable.

[0016] Preferably, the pipe clamp space is arranged at an axial and / or radial distance with regard to the conductor clamp space. Preferably, the diameter of the pipe clamp space is smaller than the diameter of the conductor clamp space.

[0017] Preferably, the pipe support structure extends from an end face of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe and the pipe clamp structure extends around the pipe and is in contact with the outer side of the pipe. The support structure is in direct contact with the inner wall of the pipe and the pipe clamp structure is in direct contact with the outer wall of the pipe.

[0018] Preferably, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section and wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section, wherein the diameters of the cylindrical sections are such that the clear width between cylindrical sections in radial direction is smaller than the wall thickness of the pipe. Hence, the pipe clamp zone is provided by said cylindrical sections such that pipe is clamped between said sections. Preferably, at least one of said cylindrical sections comprises an embossment whereby the embossment is in contact with the pipe.

[0019] Preferably, the support structure comprises a conical section and the pipe clamp structure comprises a conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0020] In a first variant, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0021] In a second variant, the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0022] In a third variant, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section and the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0023] Preferably, a guide section is arranged in front of the pipe support structure. The guide section preferably has a smaller diameter than the pipe support structure. With the guide section the insertion process of the pipe support structure is enhanced.

[0024] Preferably, the pipe fitting comprises a fitting interface with which the pipe fitting is connectable to a device. Preferably, said fitting interface comprises an external thread with which the pipe fitting is connectable to a device, and / or a sealing element with which a seal can be provided to the device and / or a pipe clamp.

[0025] Preferably, the electrical connector comprises a through opening through which the pipe is guided. The least one electrical conductor does not extend into the through opening. The through opening is limited by a sidewall and the least one electrical conductor extends externally to said through along the outer side of the sidewall.

[0026] Preferably, said through opening comprises said pipe clamp structure. This means that the pipe clamp section is arranged within said through opening.

[0027] Preferably, a radial play is provided between the through opening and the outer side of the Pipe.

[0028] Preferably, the conductor support structure comprises a conical section, wherein the at least one electrical conductor extends over the conical section, and wherein the conductor clamp structure comprises a clamp section that is conical or rounded, whereby during the assembly process the clamp section can be moved towards the conical section of the conductor support structure such that electrical conductor is clamped between said sections.

[0029] Preferably, said conical section is adjoined by a groove and wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partly into said groove. The grove has the advantage that a space is provided for the loose end of the electrical conductor.

[0030] Preferably, the conductor clamp structure is provided on a nut. In a first variant, the nut comprises an inner thread and the electrical connector comprises an external thread, wherein the threads engage with other. In a second variant, the nut comprises an external thread and the electrical connector comprises an inner thread, wherein the threads engage with other.

[0031] Preferably, the electrical connector comprises a contact surface via which an electrical contact to a device can be provided.

[0032] Preferably, the contact surface is provided by an external thread or by a cylindrical surface.

[0033] Preferably the pipe extends as seen along its middle axis over the end of the at least one electrical conductor such that the end of the at least one electrical conductor lies on the outer surface of the pipe.

[0034] Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor as seen in a cross section transverse through the middle axis of the pipe fully extends around said pipe.

[0035] Preferably, an insulation layer encompasses the at least one electrical conductor. Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire. Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor provides one single pole whereby the electrical conductor provides a single electrical potential. In case the electrical conductor is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire, all the single wires have the same electrical potential.

[0036] Preferably, the conductor support structure, the pipe clamp structure, the conductor support structure and the conductor clamp space are provided as cylindrical surface extending around a common middle axis, but preferably having different forms and / or different diameters.

[0037] Preferably, the electrical connector and the nut, if present, are surrounded by an electrically isolated element.

[0038] A method to assemble a connector unit according to the description above comprises a first step in which the pipe is clamped in the pipe clamp space, and a second step in which the at least one electrical conductor is clamped in the conductor clamp structure. Preferably, the first step is conducted before the second step.

[0039] The above mentioned objects as well as other objects are solved by the connector unit of claim 16. The connector unit comprises a cable with a fluidic channel which is limited by a pipe and at least one electrical conductor arranged on the outer side of the pipe, a pipe fitting with a fluidic channel and a pipe clamp, and an electrical connector with a conductor support structure, wherein a conductor clamp space is defined by said conductor support structure and a conductor clamp structure.

[0040] Solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor extends with a conductor clamp section into the conductor clamp space, wherein the at least one electrical conductor is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure to the conductor support structure. Solely and exclusively the pipe extends with a pipe clamp section into the pipe clamp and wherein the pipe is clamped by means of the pipe clamp.

[0041] In other words: The pipe and the electrical conductor are clamped independently from each other such that the electrical clamp connection does not interfere with the fluidic clamp connection and vice-versa. Hence, the electrical conductor is only clamped with the conductor clamp structure but not with the pipe clamp structure and the pipe is only clamped with the pipe clamp structure but not with the conductor clamp structure.

[0042] It is an advantage that the pipe and the at least one electrical conductor are clamped independently from each other. This means that each clamping situation can be provided for the respective purpose. Hence, the clamping situation of the pipe can be provided for a fluid tight manned and the clamping situation of the at least one electrical conductor can be provided for an enhanced electrical contact.

[0043] The fluidic channel of the pipe and the fluidic channel of the pipe fitting open out in each other such that a fluid can flow from the fluidic channel of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe fitting and vice-versa.

[0044] The pipe as well as the electrical conductor are flexible such that the cable can be bend as a common cable. Preferably, the pipe clamp is arranged at an axial and / or radial distance with regard to the conductor clamp space.

[0045] Preferably, the diameter of the pipe clamp is smaller than the diameter of the conductor clamp space.

[0046] In a first embodiment of the pipe clamp, the pipe clamp is provided by a pipe support structure, wherein a pipe clamp space is defined by said pipe support structure and a pipe clamp structure. The pipe support structure extends from an end face of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe, and wherein the pipe clamp structure extends around the pipe and is in contact with the outer side of the pipe.

[0047] Preferably, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section and wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section, wherein the diameters of the cylindrical sections are such that the clear width between cylindrical sections in radial direction is smaller than the wall thickness of the pipe such that pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0048] Preferably, the pipe support structure comprises a conical section and the pipe clamp structure comprises a conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0049] In a first variant, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0050] In a second variant, the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0051] In a third variant, the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section and the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections.

[0052] Preferably, a guide section is arranged in front of the pipe support structure. The guide section preferably has a smaller diameter than the pipe support structure. With the guide section the insertion process of the pipe support structure is enhanced.

[0053] In a second embodiment of the pipe clamp, the pipe clamp clamps the pipe solely and exclusively from the outside of the pipe.

[0054] In the following additional optional features are described for the connector unit.

[0055] Preferably, the pipe fitting comprises a fitting interface with which the pipe fitting is connectable to a device.

[0056] Said pipe fitting interface preferably comprises an external thread with which the pipe fitting is connectable to a device. Said fitting interface preferably comprises a sealing element with which a seal can be provided to the device. Said pipe fitting interface preferably comprises a further pipe clamp. With the further pipe clamp a further pipe can be clamped to the pipe fitting.

[0057] Preferably, the electrical connector comprises a through opening through which the pipe is guided. The through opening is limited by a sidewall and the least one electrical conductor extends externally to said through along the outer side of the sidewall.

[0058] Preferably, the pipe clamp is arranged outside of said through opening and wherein the pipe fitting is arranged separately from the electrical connector.

[0059] Preferably, a radial play is provided between the through opening and the outer side of the Pipe.

[0060] Preferably, the conductor support structure comprises a conical section, wherein the at least one electrical conductor extends over the conical section, and wherein the conductor clamp structure comprises a clamp section that is conical or rounded, whereby during the assembly process the clamp section can be moved towards the conical section of the conductor support structure such that electrical conductor is clamped between said sections.

[0061] Preferably, said conical section is adjoined by a groove and wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partly into said groove. The grove has the advantage that a space is provided for the loose end of the electrical conductor.

[0062] Preferably, the conductor clamp structure is provided on a nut. In a first variant, the nut comprises an inner thread and the electrical connector comprises an external thread, wherein the threads engage with other. In a second variant, the nut comprises an external thread and the electrical connector comprises an inner thread, wherein the threads engage with other.

[0063] Preferably, the electrical connector comprises a contact surface via which an electrical contact to a device can be provided.

[0064] Preferably, the contact surface is provided by an external thread or by a cylindrical surface.

[0065] Preferably, the pipe extends as seen along its middle axis over the end of the at least one electrical conductor such that the end of the at least one electrical conductor lies on the outer surface of the pipe.

[0066] Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor as seen in a cross section transverse through the middle axis of the pipe fully extends around said pipe.

[0067] Preferably, an insulation layer encompasses the at least one electrical conductor. Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire. Preferably, the at least one electrical conductor provides one single pole whereby the electrical conductor provides a single electrical potential. In case the electrical conductor is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire, all the single wires have the same electrical potential.

[0068] Preferably, the conductor support structure, the pipe clamp structure, the conductor support structure and the conductor clamp space are provided as cylindrical surface extending around a common middle axis, but preferably having different forms and / or different diameters. Preferably, the electrical connector and the nut, if present, are surrounded by an electrically isolated element.

[0069] Further embodiments of the invention are laid down in the dependent claims.

[0070] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the following with reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose of illustrating the present preferred embodiments of the invention and not for the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings,

[0072] Fig. 1a shows a cross-sectional view of a connector unit according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention during an assembly process;

[0073] Fig. 1b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 1a;

[0074] Fig. 2a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures during the assembly process;

[0075] Fig. 2b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 2a;

[0076] Fig. 3a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures during the assembly process;

[0077] Fig. 3b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 3a;

[0078] Fig. 4a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures after the assembly process;

[0079] Fig. 4b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 4a;

[0080] Fig. 5 shows a detailed view of parts of the connector unit according to the previous figures;

[0081] Fig. 6a shows an exploded view of parts of the connector unit according to the previous figures;

[0082] Fig. 6b shows a cross-sectional view of figure 6a;

[0083] Fig. 7a shows a cross-sectional view of a connector unit according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention during an assembly process;

[0084] Fig. 7b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 7a;

[0085] Fig. 8a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures 7a to 7b during the assembly process;

[0086] Fig. 8b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 8a;

[0087] Fig. 9a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures 7a to 8b during the assembly process;

[0088] Fig. 9b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 9a;

[0089] Fig. 10a shows a cross-sectional view of the connector unit according to the previous figures 7a to 9b after the assembly process; and

[0090] Fig. 10b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of figure 10a.

[0091] DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0092] In the figures 1a to 6b a first embodiment of the connector unit 1 according to the present invention is shown. The connector unit 1 is a connector unit for fluidically and electrically connecting a cable 2 to a device 18. The device 18 can be a cooling block of a machine, for example for a charging plug for e-mobility or any other electrical device which needs to be cooled, such as a welding machine.

[0093] The connector unit 1 comprises a cable 2, a pipe fitting 7 and an electrical connector 11.

[0094] The cable 2 comprises a fluidic channel 3 which is limited by a pipe 4 and at least one electrical conductor 5 arranged on the outer side 6 of the pipe 4. The fluidic channel 3 is a closed fluidic channel in which a fluid can flow. The fluid may be a liquid, for example a cooling fluid, or a gaseous fluid, for example an inert gas. The fluidic channel 3 provides an interior space for the fluid. The at least one electrical conductor 5 encompasses the outer side 6 of the pipe 4. The pipe 4 is preferably made out of a flexible plastic. An insulation layer 36 encompasses the at least one electrical conductor 5.

[0095] In the present embodiment the electrical conductor 5, as seen in a cross section transverse through the middle axis M of the pipe 4, fully extends around said pipe 4. The at least one electrical conductor 5 can be provided as a braid. The at least one electrical conductor 5 can provide an electromagnetic shielding structure. Alternatively, the at least one electrical conductor 5 can provide a conductor for energy and / or signal transmission.

[0096] Both, the pipe 4 as well as the electrical conductor 5 are flexible such that the cable 2 can be bent in a conventional manner.

[0097] The pipe fitting 7 comprises a fluidic channel 27 and a pipe support structure 8. The pipe 4 can be clamped to the pipe support structure by means of a pipe clamp structure 10 as it will be explained below. For clamping the pipe 4 a pipe clamp space 9 is defined by said pipe support structure 8 and said pipe clamp structure 10. The pipe is fluidically connected to a fluidic channel 28 of the device 18.

[0098] The electrical connector 11 comprises a conductor support structure 12, wherein a conductor clamp space 13 is defined by said conductor support structure 12 and a conductor clamp structure 14. The at least one electrical conductor is clamped in said clamp space 13.

[0099] In the figures only one end of the cable 2 is shown. The cable 2 is thereby equipped with the pipe fitting 7 and the electrical connector 11 . The other end of the cable 2 may be equipped in the same way as the shown end or it may be equipped with a different connection structure.

[0100] In the figures it is shown that solely and exclusively the pipe 4 extends with a pipe clamp section 15 into the pipe clamp space 9 and wherein the pipe 4 is clamped by means of the pipe clamp structure 9 to the pipe support structure 8. The pipe clamp section 15 is here located at the end of the pipe 4. The pipe clamp section 15 is the only element that extends into the pipe clamp space 9. This has the advantage that the pipe clamp section 15 is in a direct contact with the pipe support structure 8 and the pipe clamp structure 10. Thereby the clamping of the pipe clamp section 15 within the pipe clamp space 9 is not disturbed or negatively influenced by any other parts. The pipe clamp section 15 is clamped in a fluid tight manner in the pipe clamp space 9.

[0101] In the figures it is shown that solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor 5 extends with a conductor clamp section 16 into the conductor clamp space 13 and wherein the at least one electrical conductor 5 is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure 14 to the conductor support structure 12. The conductor clamp section 16 is here located at the end of the at least one electrical conductor 5. The conductor clamp section 16 is the only element that extends into the conductor clamp space 13. This has the advantage that the conductor clamp section 16 is in a direct contact with the conductor support structure and the conductor clamp structure 14. Thereby, the clamping of the conductor clamp section 16 within the conductor clamp space 13 is not disturbed or negatively influenced by any other parts. The conductor clamp section 16 is clamped such in the conductor clamp space 13 that an electrical connection can be provided between the at least one electrical conductor 5 and the electrical connector 11. In the present embodiment the pipe clamp structure 10 is located on the electrical connector 11. The conductor clamp structure 14 is located on a nut 23.

[0102] Figures 1a and 1 b show the connector unit 1 during the assembly process. The pipe fitting

[0103] 7 is already mounted in the fluidic channel 28 of the device 18. Thereby the pipe fitting 7 has an external thread 17 which the pipe fitting 7 is connectable to the device 18. The device 18 has corresponding inner thread 29. In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the pipe fitting 7 may be connected with other connection structures to the fluidic channel 28 of the device 18. The electrical connector 11 is located on the outer side 6 of the pipe 4. Thereby the pipe 4 extends through a through opening 21 in the electrical connector 11. Preferably a radial play is provided between the through opening 21 and the outer side 6 of the pipe 4. The through opening 21 comprises said pipe clamp structure 10. The at least one electrical conductor 5 is already in a contact with the connector 11.

[0104] Figures 2a and 2b show the connector unit 1 during the assembly process, whereby the assembly has been advanced compared to the situation as shown in figures 1a and 1b. The pipe 4 has been brought into a connection with the pipe fitting 7. The pipe support structure

[0105] 8 extends into the fluidic channel 3 of the pipe and comes in contact with an interior surface 30 of the fluidic channel 3. The pipe will be preferably brought into connection with the pipe support structure by means of a slight press fit or by means of a loose fit.

[0106] Figures 3a and 3b show the connector unit 1 during the assembly process, whereby the assembly has been advanced compared to the situation as shown in figures 2a and 2b. The electrical connector 11 has been advanced such that pipe clamp space 9 has been closed and such that the pipe 4 is clamped within the pipe clamp space 9. Thereby, the electrical connector 11 with the pipe clamp structure 10 has been moved towards the pipe support structure 8 and the pipe clamp section 15 has been clamped within the pipe clamp space 9. In the present embodiment that electrical connector 11 has an external thread 31 which corresponds to the inner thread 29 of the device 18. With the screwing action between the threads 29, 31 a clamping force is exerted on the pipe clamp section 15 within said pipe clamp space 9. In other embodiments the mentioned threads can be arranged differently. In particular, the inner thread 29 may be arranged at a different structure.

[0107] In the present embodiment the electrical contact between the electrical connector 11 and the device 18 is provided via the threads 29, 31 . Behind the external thread 31 the electrical connector 11 comprises a flange 32 which abuts against an abutment surface 33 of the device 18. Furthermore, the electrical connector 11 comprises a drive structure 37 on the flange 32.

[0108] Figures 4a and 4b show the connector unit 1 during the assembly process, whereby the assembly has been advanced compared to the situation as shown in figures 3a and 3b. The conductor clamp structure 14 has been advanced such that the conductor clamp space 13 has been closed and that the at least one electrical conductor 5 is clamped within the conductor clamp space 13. Thereby, the nut 23 with the conductor clamp structure 14 has been moved towards the conductor support structure 12 and the conductor clamp section 16 has been clamped within the conductor clamp space 13. The nut 23 in this embodiment comprises an inner thread 24 which engages in an external thread 25 of the electrical connector 11. The nut 23 has on its outer side a drive structure 34 with which the nut 23 can be tightened. Further, the nut 23 has an optional inspection opening 35 through which the connection of the electrical conductor can be inspected.

[0109] With regard to figures 5, 6a and 6b various optional details are outlined as follows:

[0110] The pipe support structure 8 comprises a conical section 8a and a cylindrical section 8b. The pipe clamp structure 10 comprises a conical section 10a. During the assembly process the conical section 10a of the pipe clamp structure 10 can be moved towards the conical section 8a and the cylindrical section 8b of the pipe support structure 8 such that pipe 4 with its pipe clamp section 15 is clamped between said sections 8a, 8b, 10a.

[0111] Preferably, the pipe fitting 7 comprises in front of the pipe support structure 8 a guide section 20. The guide section 20 has a smaller diameter than the pipe support structure 8.

[0112] The fitting 7 further comprises a sealing element 19 with which a seal can be provided to the device 18. The sealing element 19 has the shape of an O-ring and is located in a groove at the front end of the fitting 7 opposite the pipe support structure 8.

[0113] Preferably, the conductor support structure 12 comprises a conical section 12a wherein the at least one electrical conductor 5 extends over the conical section 12a. The conductor clamp structure 14 comprises a clamp section 14a that is conical or rounded. During the assembly process the clamp section 14a can be moved towards the conical section 12a of the conductor support structure 12 such that electrical conductor 5 with its conductor clamp section 16 is clamped between said sections 12a, 14a. In the present embodiment the conical section 12a is adjoined by a groove 22 and the at least one electrical conductor 5 extends at least partly into said groove.

[0114] In the present embodiment as shown in the figures two connector units 1 are arranged in combination with the device 18. Thereby an electrical and fluidical connection is provided via the device 18 between the two connector units 1 . The fluid flows from the fluidic channel 3 of the pipe 4 via the fluid channel 27 of the pipe fitting 7 to the fluidic channel 28 of the device 18.

[0115] Figures 7a to 10b show a second embodiment of a connector unit 1. Same features have the same reference numeral and reference is made to the description above. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment with an alternative arrangement of the pipe fitting 7. The cable 2 as well as the electrical connector 11 are provided as described above with regard to the first embodiment.

[0116] In the second embodiment the pipe fitting 7 is provided with a fluidic channel 27 and a pipe clamp 70. Thereby, solely and exclusively the pipe 4 extends with a pipe clamp section 15 into the pipe clamp 70 and wherein the pipe 4 is clamped by means of the pipe clamp 70. The pipe fitting 7 is arranged separately from the electrical connector 11. Thereby, the pipe fitting is arranged at the end of the fluidic channel 27. The parts of the cable 2 defining the fluidic channel 27 through a through opening 21 that is arranged on the electrical connector 11. The pipe clamp 70 is arranged at an axial distance with regard to the conductor clamp space 13. The distance is shown in figure 10a / 10b, where one can clearly see that the pipe clamp 70 is arranged apparat and separate from the conductor clamp space 13.

[0117] In the preferred variant as shown in figures 7a to 10b the pipe clamp 70 clamps the pipe 4 solely and exclusively from the outside of the pipe 4. Thereby the pipe 4 comprises a certain stability so as to be clamped. Preferably, the pipe has a structural, rigid liner 75 which allows the clamping of the pipe.

[0118] In other variants it may also be possible that the pipe clamp 70 clamps the pipe 4 as described above. This means that the pipe clamp 70 in such a variant would be provided by a pipe support structure, wherein a pipe clamp space is defined by said pipe support structure and a pipe clamp structure. Thereby, the pipe support structure extends from an end face of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe, and that the pipe clamp structure extends around the pipe and is in contact with the outer side of the pipe.

[0119] In the present embodiment the pipe fitting 7 comprises a fitting interface 74 with which the pipe fitting 7 is connectable to a device. Said pipe fitting interface preferably comprises a further pipe clamp.

[0120] In the second embodiment the electrical connector 11 is connected to a busbar 71 by means of a nut 72. The electrical connector 11 extends through an opening 73 in the busbar 71 .

[0121] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS connector unit 23 nut cable 24 inner thread fluidic channel 25 external thread

[0122] Pipe 26 contact surface electrical conductor 27 fluidic channel outer side 28 fluidic channel pipe fitting 29 inner thread pipe support structure 30 interior surfacea conical section 31 external threadb cylindrical section 32 flange pipe clamp space 33 abutment surface0 pipe clamp structure 34 drive structure0a conical section 35 inspection opening0b cylindrical section 36 insulation layer1 electrical connector 37 drive structure2 conductor support structure 70 pipe clamp2a conical section 71 busbar 3 conductor clamp space 72 nut 4 conductor clamp structure 73 opening 4a clamp section 74 fitting interface5 pipe clamp section 75 liner 6 conductor clamp section 7 external thread 8 device 9 sealing element 0 guide section 1 through opening 2 groove

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Connector unit (1) comprising a cable (2) with a fluidic channel (3) which is limited by a pipe (4) and at least one electrical conductor (5) arranged on the outer side (6) of the pipe (4), a pipe fitting (7) with a fluidic channel (27) and a pipe support structure (8), wherein a pipe clamp space (9) is defined by said pipe support structure (8) and a pipe clamp structure (10), and an electrical connector (11) with a conductor support structure (12), wherein a conductor clamp space (13) is defined by said conductor support structure (12) and a conductor clamp structure (14), wherein solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor (5) extends with a conductor clamp section (16) into the conductor clamp space (13) and wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure (14) to the conductor support structure (12), and wherein solely and exclusively the pipe (4) extends with a pipe clamp section (15) into the pipe clamp space (9) and wherein the pipe (4) is clamped by means of the pipe clamp structure (9) to the pipe support structure (8).

2. Connector unit (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the pipe clamp space (9) is arranged at an axial and / or radial distance with regard to the conductor clamp space (13) and / or wherein the diameter of the pipe clamp space (9) is smaller than the diameter of the conductor clamp space (13).

3. Connector unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pipe support structure (8) extends from an end face of the pipe (4) into the fluidic channel (3) of the pipe (4), and wherein the pipe clamp structure (10) extends around the pipe (4) and is in contact with the outer side (6) of the pipe (4).

4. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipe support structure (8) comprises a cylindrical section (8b) and wherein the pipe clamp structure (10) comprises a cylindrical section (10b), wherein the diameters of the cylindrical sections (8b, 10b) are such that the clear width between cylindrical sections in radialdirection is smaller than the wall thickness of the pipe (4) such that pipe (4) is clamped between said sections (8b, 10b).

5. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the pipe support structure (8) comprises a conical section (8a) and wherein the pipe clamp structure (10) comprises a conical section (10a), whereby during the assembly process the conical section (10a) of the pipe clamp structure (10) can be moved towards the conical section (8a) of the pipe support structure (8) such that pipe (4) is clamped between said sections (8a, 10a).

6. Connector unit (1) according to claim 5, wherein the pipe support structure (8) comprises a cylindrical section (8b) adjoining said conical section (8a), whereby during the assembly process the conical section (10a) of the pipe clamp structure (10) can be moved towards the conical section (8a) and the cylindrical section (8b) of the pipe support structure (8) such that the pipe (4) is clamped between said sections (8a, 8b, 10a); and / or wherein the pipe clamp structure (10) comprises a cylindrical section (10b) adjoining said conical section (10a) whereby during the assembly process the conical section (10a) and the cylindrical section (10b) of the pipe clamp structure (10) can be moved towards the conical section (8a) of the pipe support structure (8) such that the pipe (4) is clamped between said sections (8a, 10a, 10b); and / or wherein the pipe support structure (8) comprises a cylindrical section (8b) adjoining said conical section (8a) and wherein the pipe clamp structure (10) comprises a cylindrical section (10b) adjoining said conical section (10a) whereby during the assembly process the conical section (10a) and the cylindrical section (10b) of the pipe clamp structure (10) can be moved towards the conical section (8a) and the cylindrical section (8b) of the pipe support structure (8) such that the pipe (4) is clamped between said sections (8a, 8b, 10a, 10b).

7. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in front of the pipe support structure (8) a guide section (20) is arranged having a smaller diameter than the pipe support structure (8).

8. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipe fitting (7) comprises a fitting interface with which the pipe fitting (7) is connectable to a devicewherein said fitting interface preferably comprises an external thread (17) with which the pipe fitting (7) is connectable to a device (18); and / or wherein said fitting interface preferably comprises a sealing element (19) with which a seal can be provided to the device (18); and / or wherein said fitting interface preferably comprises a pipe clamp.

9. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical connector (11) comprises a through opening (21) through which the pipe (4) is guided.

10. Connector unit (1) according to claim 9, wherein the through opening (21) comprises said pipe clamp structure (10); and / or wherein a radial play is provided between the through opening (21) and the outer side (6) of the pipe (4).

11. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor support structure (12) comprises a conical section (12a) wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) extends over the conical section (12a), and wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) comprises a clamp section (14a) that is conical or rounded, whereby during the assembly process the clamp section (14a) can be moved towards the conical section (12a) of the conductor support structure (12) such that electrical conductor (5) is clamped between said sections (12a, 14a).

12. Connector unit (1) according to claim 11 , wherein the conical section (12a) is adjoined by a groove (22) and wherein the electrical conductor (5) extends at least partly into said groove.

13. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) is provided on a nut (23), wherein the nut comprises an inner thread (24) and the electrical connector (11) comprises an external thread (25), wherein the threads (24, 25) engage with other and / or wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) is provided on a nut (23), wherein the nut comprises an external thread and the electrical connector (11) comprises an inner thread, wherein the threads engage with other.

14. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical connector (11) comprises a contact surface (26) via which an electrical contact to a device (18) can be provided, wherein the contact surface (26) is preferably provided byan external thread (31) or wherein the contact surface (26) is preferably provided by a cylindrical surface.

15. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipe (4) extends as seen along its middle axis (M) over the end of the at least one electrical conductor (5) such that the end of the at least one electrical conductor (5) lies on the outer surface (6); and / or wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) as seen in a cross section transverse through the middle axis (M) of the pipe (4) fully extends around said pipe (4) and / or wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire.

16. Connector unit (1) comprising a cable (2) with a fluidic channel (3) which is limited by a pipe (4) and at least one electrical conductor (5) arranged on the outer side (6) of the pipe (4), a pipe fitting (7) with a fluidic channel (27) cand a pipe clamp (70), and an electrical connector (11) with a conductor support structure (12), wherein a conductor clamp space (13) is defined by said conductor support structure (12) and a conductor clamp structure (14), wherein solely and exclusively the at least one electrical conductor (5) extends with a conductor clamp section (16) into the conductor clamp space (13) and wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) is clamped by means of the conductor clamp structure (14) to the conductor support structure (12), and wherein solely and exclusively the pipe (4) extends with a pipe clamp section (15) into the pipe clamp (70) and wherein the pipe (4) is clamped by means of the pipe clamp (70).

17. Connector unit (1) according to claim 16, wherein the pipe clamp (70) is arranged at an axial and / or radial distance with regard to the conductor clamp space (13) and / or wherein the diameter of the pipe clamp (70) is smaller than the diameter of the conductor clamp space (13).

18. Connector unit (1) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the pipe clamp (70) is provided by a pipe support structure, wherein a pipe clamp space is defined by said pipe support structure and a pipe clamp structure.the pipe support structure extends from an end face of the pipe into the fluidic channel of the pipe, and wherein the pipe clamp structure extends around the pipe and is in contact with the outer side of the pipe.

19. Connector unit (1) according to claim 18, wherein the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section and wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section, wherein the diameters of the cylindrical sections are such that the clear width between cylindrical sections in radial direction is smaller than the wall thickness of the pipe such that pipe is clamped between said sections.

20. Connector unit (1) according to claim 19, wherein the pipe support structure comprises a conical section and wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that pipe is clamped between said sections.21 . Connector unit (1) according to claim 20, wherein the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section, whereby during the assembly process the conical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections; and / or wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections; and / or wherein the pipe support structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section and wherein the pipe clamp structure comprises a cylindrical section adjoining said conical section whereby during the assembly process the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe clamp structure can be moved towards the conical section and the cylindrical section of the pipe support structure such that the pipe is clamped between said sections; and / or wherein in front of the pipe support structure a guide section is arranged having a smaller diameter than the pipe support structure.

22. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 17, wherein the pipe clamp (70) clamps the pipe (4) solely and exclusively from the outside of thepipe(4).

23. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 22, wherein the pipe fitting (7) comprises a fitting interface (74) with which the pipe fitting (7) is connectable to a device (18), wherein said fitting interface preferably comprises an external thread (17) with which the pipe fitting (7) is connectable to a device (18); and / or wherein said fitting interface preferably comprises a sealing element (19) with which a seal can be provided to the device (18); and / or wherein said pipe fitting interface preferably comprises a further pipe clamp.

24. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 23, wherein the electrical connector (11) comprises a through opening (21) through which the pipe (4) is guided.

25. Connector unit (1) according to claim 24, wherein the pipe clamp (70) is arranged outside of said through opening (21) and wherein the pipe fitting (7) is arranged separately from the electrical connector (11).

26. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 25, wherein the conductor support structure (12) comprises a conical section (12a) wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) extends over the conical section (12a), and wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) comprises a clamp section (14a) that is conical or rounded, whereby during the assembly process the clamp section (14a) can be moved towards the conical section (12a) of the conductor support structure (12) such that electrical conductor (5) is clamped between said sections (12a, 14a).

27. Connector unit (1) according to claim 26, wherein the conical section (12a) is adjoined by a groove (22) and wherein the electrical conductor (5) extends at least partly into said groove.

28. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 27, wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) is provided on a nut (23), wherein the nut comprises an inner thread (24) and the electrical connector (11) comprises an external thread (25), wherein the threads (24, 25) engage with other and / or wherein the conductor clamp structure (14) is provided on a nut (23), wherein the nut comprises an external thread andthe electrical connector (11) comprises an inner thread, wherein the threads engage with other.

29. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 28, wherein the electrical connector (11) comprises a contact surface (26) via which an electrical contact to a device (18) can be provided, wherein the contact surface (26) is preferably provided by an external thread (31) or wherein the contact surface (26) is preferably provided by a cylindrical surface.

30. Connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 29, wherein the pipe (4) extends as seen along its middle axis (M) over the end of the at least one electrical conductor (5) such that the end of the at least one electrical conductor (5) lies on the outer surface (6); and / or wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) as seen in a cross section transverse through the middle axis (M) of the pipe (4) fully extends around said pipe (4) and / or wherein the at least one electrical conductor (5) is provided as a braid or as a multicore wire or as a stranded wire.31 . Method to assemble a connector unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in a first step the pipe (4) is clamped in the pipe clamp space (9); and wherein in a second step the at least one electrical conductor (5) is clamped in the conductor clamp structure (14).

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