Fitting for tubular conduit and method for coupling two parts of tubular conduit

Abstract

The present invention describes a tubular conduit fitting (1) comprising: a first tubular conduit portion (4) with a receiving end; a second tubular conduit portion (2) with an inlet end, which inlet end is inserted into the receiving end in an inlet section (SI) and has on its periphery a radial distance with respect to the first tubular conduit portion (4); a coupling aid portion (3), which coupling aid portion (3) has an annular main body (3c) with a longitudinal axis (L) and an annular retaining projection portion (3d) extending axially inside the main body (3c), which retaining projection portion (3d) is connected to the main body (3c) at at least one connection location (3e),whereby a peripheral slot (3g) is formed between the main body (3c) and the retaining projection (3d), in which the first tubular conduit section (4) is housed by its receiving end, while the retaining projection (3d) extends from the first tubular conduit section (4) to the second tubular conduit section (2) and has, on its free end, a radial constriction (3f) as a stop structure (3f) for the second tubular conduit section (2), which second tubular conduit section (2) is inserted or can be inserted into the retaining projection (3d) up to the stop structure (3f). FIGURE IN ABRIDGED DIAGRAM: 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Connection for tubular conduit and method for coupling two parts of tubular conduit

[0001] The present invention relates to a pipe connection according to claim 1, having: a first pipe part with a receiving end; a second pipe part with an insertion end, which insertion end is inserted or can be inserted into the receiving end in an insertion section and has - in the inserted state - on its periphery a radial distance from the first pipe part; and a coupling aid part, which coupling aid part serves to arrange the two pipe parts relatively in a defined manner.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for coupling two tubular pipe parts according to claim 22, wherein a pipe connection according to the invention is provided, wherein the coupling aid part is fixed to the first tubular pipe part; the second tubular pipe part is introduced by its insertion end into the insertion section into the receiving end of the first tubular pipe part and into the coupling aid part, whereby the first tubular pipe part and the introduced second tubular pipe part are fixed at least axially relative to each other and centered along a common longitudinal axis.

[0003] Electromobility is considered a technology of the future or at least a transitional technology to achieve the goal of reducing CO2 emissions. The batteries used in this case for drive purposes must be cooled during operation (or even during charging) (generally: temperature-controlled). For this purpose, pipes are required, which transport a suitable (cooling) medium to and from the batteries.

[0004] For connecting such tubular lines with corresponding connection pipes of the batteries, so-called quick connectors are known from the state of the art, which fulfill the functions of locking the connection and redundant sealing and furthermore allow closure only during proper (pipe) assembly. Furthermore, they offer - when configured in metal - the assurance of sealing under the action of temperatures, however, they lack galvanic separation parts of the tubular pipe to be connected (pipe and socket), which can lead to corrosion. This risk is eliminated when they are configured in plastic, however, then linked to insufficient stability under the effect of temperatures.

[0005] The disadvantage in this case is also the large number of components required, which leads to increased costs and the degree of complexity of the production process. The space required is also relatively large in the axial direction.

[0006] The present invention aims to achieve a simplified implementation of said functions with a smaller number of components. This should result in a shorter axial dimension, a reduction in costs, manual assembly and disassembly without tools (preferably reversible), protection of the operating agents against sharp edges as well as the avoidance of contact corrosion while simultaneously providing stability against the action of temperatures.

[0007] The objective is achieved according to the invention by a tubular conduit connection according to claim 1 and by a method of coupling two tubular conduit parts according to claim 22.

[0008] Advantageous improvements are defined in the respective subclaims.

[0009] A pipe connection according to the invention has: a first pipe part with a receiving end; a second pipe part with an insertion end, which insertion end is inserted or can be inserted into the receiving end and which has (in an inserted state) on its periphery a radial distance from the first pipe part. In other words: the second pipe part has in the insertion section an outer diameter, which is smaller than an inner diameter of the first pipe part in the insertion section.Furthermore, the pipe connection according to the invention comprises a coupling aid portion, which coupling aid portion has an annular main body with a longitudinal axis and an annular holding projection extending axially inside the main body, which holding projection is connected to the main body at at least one connection location, while a circumferential slot is formed between the main body and the holding projection, in which the first pipe part is received or can be received by its receiving end, while the holding projection extends or is formed between the first pipe part and the second pipe part right through and has a radial narrowing at its free end as a structure. stop for the second tubular pipe part, which second tubular pipe part is introduced or can be introduced up to the stop structure in the holding protruding part.

[0010] The two pipe parts can be easily inserted into the coupling aid part without any other tools and are axially aligned and fixed (centered) relative to each other and are also kept radially apart, which in particular prevents contact corrosion. Specifically, the first pipe part with its receiving end is further protected by the coupling aid part or its circumferential slot so that a working medium is protected from sharp edges; this reduces production costs by possibly omitting subsequent machining.

[0011] The coupling aid part has, together with the holding projection, a centering system for the first tubular pipe part and for the second tubular pipe part for arranging them along a common longitudinal axis (and at a radial distance from each other). The stop structure for the second tubular pipe part serves, among other things, to limit an insertion depth when inserting into the first tubular pipe part.

[0012] A method according to the invention for coupling two tubular conduit parts, when the tubular conduit connector is made according to the invention, comprises the fact that

[0013] a) firstly the coupling aid part is fixed on the first tubular pipe part;

[0014] b) then the second tubular conduit part is introduced by its introduction end, in the introduction section, into the receiving end of the first tubular conduit part;

[0015] c) the second tubular pipe part is introduced into the coupling aid part up to the stop structure, which makes it possible to limit an insertion depth when introducing into the first tubular pipe part, the coupling aid part surrounding at least in one area of ​​the insertion section the first tubular pipe part and the introduced second tubular pipe part, fixing them at least axially relative to each other and centering them along a common longitudinal axis.

[0016] According to the above, it is proposed within the scope of the present invention to use a connector (for tubular pipe), which has a coupling aid part (abbreviated: PAA), which is plugged onto a tubular part (first tubular pipe part) ideally metallic, preferably shaped in the end position. In a corresponding improvement, the PAA and the first tubular pipe part may have lateral recesses, in which preferably a locking spring element (ERB) engages for rotational positioning (rotational locking) and for axial locking.

[0017] The PAA can axially hold a sealing element in position in a corresponding improvement, which sealing element is introduced inside the tubular part (first tubular pipe part).

[0018] The PAA has, in a corresponding improvement, secant-shaped recesses with connected latching positions, in which the ERB can engage to lock the connection and prevent unintentional opening.

[0019] Here and hereinafter, a secant is understood to mean a straight line that intersects a circle at two points. In the present case, a secant-shaped recess in the ring-shaped (circular) main body of the PAA is therefore a recess, the bottom of which (in the cross-section through the PAA) is formed by a secant (or a chord). A chord of a plane curve is the connecting section of two points on the curve. It is therefore that part of a secant, which is precisely located between the two curve points. The cut-out part of the PAA, therefore the recess, corresponds in the cross-section to a circular segment; a circular segment (therefore circular section) is a partial surface of a circular surface, which is limited by a circular arc and a circular chord.

[0020] In a corresponding improvement, several latching positions are possible, in particular a latching position corresponding to a delivery state of the ERB on the PAA, a latching position for a mounted state with an open connection and a latching position for a mounted state with a closed and blocked connection.

[0021] The PAA surrounds - as already mentioned - the shaped tubular part (first pipe part) in the cutting edge area in the end position thereof so that the risk of injury to the user is reduced and an additional work step for removing burrs can be omitted.

[0022] The ERB is preferably metallic, ideally produced from a spring steel in the form of a wire semi-finished product.

[0023] The PAA can instead preferably be manufactured from plastic material, ideally from a thermoplastic material, such as polyamide with a proportion of glass fibers.

[0024] The PAA ensures, at least in the assembled, closed / locked state of the pipe connection, specifically in a plastic configuration, the galvanic separation of the coupling parts (first and second pipe part).

[0025] A recess in the PAA for the intended cooperation with the ERB is, in a corresponding improvement, preferably smaller than a corresponding recess in the tubular part. Contact corrosion (when using a steel EBR) is thus also avoided here, since the EBR, which can also be made of metal, then only comes into contact with the PAA (preferably made of plastic) and not with the tubular part (the first pipe part, which preferably consists of metal).

[0026] The EBR engages, in a corresponding improvement, through a recess in the tubular part, with an undercut (shoulder) in or on the nozzle (second tubular pipe part) so that the function of the coupling is otherwise largely still ensured also after thermal action and after the resulting loss of PAA.

[0027] The PAA preferably has, in a corresponding improvement, insertion chamfers and centering aids for clear and secure assembly to prevent damage, in particular to the sealing element, during assembly.

[0028] The following configurations of the tubular conduit fitting have been found to be particularly advantageous:

[0029] In an improvement of the pipe connection according to the invention, the second pipe part has a first outer diameter and, in the introduction section, a radially projecting holding structure extending in the circumferential direction with a second outer diameter (the shoulder already mentioned above), it being understood that the second outer diameter is correspondingly larger than the first outer diameter. The first pipe part also has an inner diameter in the region of the receiving end, which inner diameter has a slight oversize compared to the second outer diameter; it can thus project beyond the second pipe part also in the region of the remote shoulder.The second part of the tubular conduit can come into axial support with the stop structure by the shoulder, which acts as a holding structure.

[0030] As already mentioned, the coupling aid portion has an annular main body with a longitudinal axis and an annular holding projection extending axially inside the main body, which holding projection is connected to the main body at at least one connection location, while a peripheral slot is formed between the main body and the holding projection, in which the first tubular pipe part is housed by its receiving end, while the holding projection extends between the first tubular pipe part and the second tubular pipe part right through, thus acting as a centering system.

[0031] Preferably, the coupling assistance portion has on a free end, opposite the connection location, of the projecting portion for holding said radial narrowing, which acts as a support structure for the second tubular pipe portion, the small internal diameter of which corresponds substantially to the first external diameter of the second tubular pipe portion.

[0032] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the latter has a locking system with a fixing element, which fixing element can be fitted onto the coupling aid part transversely to the longitudinal axis or can be threaded into the coupling aid part to connect on the one hand the coupling aid part and the first tubular conduit part and to immobilize on the other hand the second tubular conduit part axially on the stop structure.

[0033] This also ensures the connection, in particular to prevent any untimely disassembly, possibly even in the event of loss of the PAA, for example due to a fire. This point has already been highlighted above.

[0034] Specifically, the fixing element can ensure that the second tubular conduit part is axially immobilized on the abutment structure in that it is arranged in such a way in a given axial position that it wedges the shoulder of the second tubular conduit part against the abutment structure.

[0035] A corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention provides that in a step d), in a corresponding configuration of the pipe connection, the fastening element is fitted onto the coupling aid part transversely to the longitudinal axis or is threaded into the coupling aid part, which makes it possible to connect the coupling aid part and the first pipe part on the one hand and to immobilize the second pipe part axially on the stop structure on the other hand.

[0036] Thus, a simple and yet secure manufacturing fixation can be achieved.

[0037] In an improvement to the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, the coupling aid portion has two lateral notches arranged diametrically opposite each other (the secant-shaped or circular segment-like recesses already mentioned above), the small distance from each other of which is smaller transversely to the longitudinal axis than the inner diameter of the first tubular conduit portion. The first tubular conduit portion also has two lateral notches arranged diametrically opposite each other (secant-shaped or circular segment-like recesses), the position and dimension (length and / or width) of which correspond to a position and dimension of the notches in the coupling aid portion, it being understood that the dimension of the notches in the coupling aid portion may also be slightly lower to prevent contact corrosion (between the first pipe section and the fastening element), as already explained above. The coupling aid section has the fastening element, which fastening element has two parallel branches connected to each other on springs, which branches extend in a plane oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis. The notches (recesses) and the fastening element together form the aforementioned locking system.

[0038] In a connected state of the coupling, the second tubular pipe part then rests by its holding structure (shoulder) on one side facing the connection location on the holding projection (radial narrowing) of the coupling aid part; each of the notches in the coupling aid part is aligned with one of the notches in the first tubular pipe part; each of the two legs of the fastening element engages at the same time with a notch in the coupling aid part and in the first tubular pipe part respectively; the holding structure of the second tubular pipe part is axially offset in the direction of the holding projection relative to the notches;and these two branches of the fastening element are deflected relative to an undeformed configuration of the fastening element so that they exert, due to the spring connection, a clamping force directed towards each other transversely to the longitudinal axis. ;

[0039] A corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention provides that for the purpose of producing a correspondingly configured tubular conduit connection

[0040] in step a), the first tubular conduit part is introduced by its receiving end into the peripheral slot of the coupling aid part so that each of the notches in the coupling aid part is aligned with respectively one of the notches in the first tubular conduit part; and

[0041] in step b) or step c), the second tubular conduit part is introduced by its holding structure until the radial narrowing of the coupling aid part; and

[0042] in step d), the fastening element is arranged with the two parallel branches connected to each other on springs in such a way that each of the two branches of the fastening element engages at the same time with a notch in the coupling aid part and in the first tubular pipe part respectively, it being understood that the two branches of the fastening element are deflected with respect to an undeformed configuration of the fastening element so that they exert a clamping force directed on each other transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0043] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the holding structure is produced at the periphery in a continuous manner in the peripheral direction.

[0044] This results in particularly satisfactory support around the entire periphery.

[0045] In an improvement of the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, the holding structure is produced as a molding, rib or burr.

[0046] Such a structure can be manufactured easily, at low cost and with complete process reliability.

[0047] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the projecting holding part is connected in one piece to the main body at the at least one connection location.

[0048] This results in a particularly simple manufacturing structure and simple handling.

[0049] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the notches have identical dimensions in the coupling aid part or in the first tubular conduit part.

[0050] Thus, a homogeneous holding action is achieved on the periphery of the coupling assistance part.

[0051] In a further improvement of the pipe connection according to the invention, the notches in the coupling aid portion and the notches in the first pipe part have different dimensions, in particular different dimensions in the axial direction, it being preferably understood that the notches in the coupling aid portion are made shorter in the axial direction.

[0052] Thus, it is possible to prevent the fastening element from coming into contact with the first tubular pipe part and thus contact corrosion from forming.

[0053] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, a sealing element, preferably a sealing ring, is arranged between the first tubular conduit part and the second tubular conduit part in the introduction section.

[0054] Sealing against conventional cooling media, such as water and glycol mixtures, and operating pressures can be achieved using the sealing element.

[0055] In a corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention, a sealing element, preferably a sealing ring, is arranged in the insertion section into the first pipe part preferably before step a).

[0056] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the first tubular conduit part has a shoulder, and the sealing element is arranged on a side opposite the connection location between the holding protruding part of the coupling aid part and the shoulder.

[0057] Thus, the sealing element can be fixed in its position between the holding protruding portion of the coupling aid portion and the shoulder of the first tubular pipe portion.

[0058] In an improvement of the pipe connection according to the invention, the coupling aid part has on the holding projection part at least one radially outwardly projecting engagement projection part, preferably two interlocking projection parts facing each other, in particular diametrically, which engagement projection part corresponds to a corresponding opening in the first pipe part for fixing the first pipe part axially and / or in the circumferential direction on the holding projection part and on the coupling aid part.

[0059] Thus, it is possible to securely fix the first pipe part and the coupling aid part to each other to prevent loss or rotation, even before the entire pipe fitting is assembled.

[0060] In a corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention, the coupling aid part is brought into engagement, in step a), by its radially outwardly projecting engagement projection part with the corresponding opening in the first tubular pipe part in order to fix the first tubular pipe part axially and / or in the peripheral direction on the holding projection part and on the coupling aid part.

[0061] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the first tubular conduit part has in the end position an enlargement intended to introduce the coupling assistance part, preferably by its holding projecting part or preferably by its engaging projecting part.

[0062] Such a configuration simplifies the assembly of the tubular conduit fitting.

[0063] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the fixing element is made approximately in the shape of a U with two free branches and a central branch, preferably in a metallic material, ideally in spring steel.

[0064] Such a configuration can be manufactured easily and inexpensively and has proven to be particularly reliable in operation.

[0065] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the free branches extend in places parallel to each other, it being understood that their distance from each other increases successively in the transition towards the central branch.

[0066] Said increase in distance may preferably act as an indicator indicating that the fastening element is sufficiently threaded or is threaded to the maximum.

[0067] In an improvement of the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the free ends of the free branches are shaped transversely to an extension plane of the remaining fixing element.

[0068] Such free ends can be used in a corresponding configuration of the coupling aid part for fixing the fixing element on the coupling aid part to achieve in particular different functional positions (open or fixed).

[0069] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the coupling aid part has on its outer side at least two bearings, preferably symmetrical on either side, which are intended and are made for form-fitting cooperation with the free ends to fix the fixing element in two different positions and with a different spacing of the free branches on the coupling aid part.

[0070] This point has already been emphasized above. The present invention is not limited to two or any other number of bearings.

[0071] In a corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention, the fastening element is fixed, before step b) or step a) by its free legs on the outside in the region of the bearings on the coupling aid part.

[0072] In an improvement to the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, each of the two branches of the fixing element is located, in a first position, outside the notch in the coupling aid portion and in the first tubular conduit portion, and each of the two branches of the fixing element engages, in a second position, simultaneously with a notch in the coupling aid portion and in the first tubular conduit portion respectively.

[0073] Thus, it is possible to produce, for example, a first delivery configuration and a second closed fixing configuration.

[0074] In a corresponding improvement of the method according to the invention, the fastening element is fixed before step b) or step a) in a first position, in which each of the two branches of the fastening element is located outside the notch in the coupling aid part and in the first tubular pipe part, then in step d), the fastening element is fixed in a second position, in in which each of the two branches of the fixing element engages at the same time with a notch in the coupling aid part and in the first tubular pipe part respectively.

[0075] In an improvement to the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, the first tubular conduit part and the second tubular conduit part are formed from an electrically conductive material, in particular metal, and the coupling aid part is made from an electrically non-conductive material, in particular plastic.

[0076] Thus, a galvanic separation of the two tubular conduit parts can be achieved by the coupling aid part to prevent in particular any contact corrosion. Furthermore, one of the tubular conduit parts can be an integral part of an electrical circuit, for example for electrically connecting battery cells without extending the electrical connection beyond the coupling location.

[0077] In an improvement to the tubular conduit connection according to the invention, the second tubular conduit part has an introduction chamfer in the terminal position, preferably a narrowing of cross-section, intended to be introduced into the projecting holding part or intended to pass through it.

[0078] The assembly is thus simplified, and the tubular part is spared.

[0079] In an improvement to the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, the coupling assistance part has an introduction chamfer in the end position intended to introduce the second tubular conduit part and / or an introduction chamfer intended to fit the first tubular conduit part.

[0080] The assembly is thus also simplified, and the tubular parts are spared.

[0081] In an improvement to the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention, the projecting holding part projects from the holding body in an axial direction.

[0082] Thus, the fitting of the first part of the tubular conduit is also simplified.

[0083] Other properties and advantages of the invention emerge from the following description of exemplary embodiments using the figures, in which one can see:

[0084] [Fig.l]: illustrates an external view of the tubular conduit fitting according to the invention;

[0085] [Fig.2]: illustrates a longitudinal section through the tubular conduit fitting of [Fig.l];

[0086] [Fig.3]: illustrates another longitudinal section through the pipe fitting tubular of [Fig.l];

[0087] [Fig.4]: illustrates a longitudinal section through portions of the tubular conduit fitting of [Fig.l];

[0088] [Fig.5]: illustrates a perspective view of the arrangement of [Fig.4];

[0089] [Fig.6]: illustrates a first perspective view of the aid part mating;

[0090] [Fig.7]: illustrates a second perspective view of the coupling aid portion with a first connected tubular conduit portion; and

[0091] Figures 8a to 8d: illustrate different stages during the coupling according to the invention of two tubular conduit portions.

[0092] The same reference numbers designate in the figures identical elements or elements having at least one identical action.

[0093] In [Fig. 1], reference numeral 1 shows an exterior view of a pipe connection according to the invention. From left to right, the second pipe part 2 (dotted), the coupling aid part 3, the first pipe part 4 and an optionally corrugated hose part 5 connected to the first pipe part 4 can be seen. On the coupling aid part 3, the fastening element 6 can be seen, which is preferably made in the form of a wire hoop made of spring steel, while the coupling aid part 6 itself is preferably made of a plastic material. Due to the chosen representation, only one of the two free legs 6a can be seen of the fastening element 6, the free end 6b of which is bent in the direction of a longitudinal axis L of the illustrated arrangement.The reference numeral 6c designates the central leg of the fastening element 6, which is generally designed approximately U-shaped. The fastening element 6 engages via its free legs 6a with lateral notches or recesses 3a on the coupling aid part 3, which will be discussed in more detail further below. Furthermore, bearings 3b, 3b', 3b” are arranged externally on the coupling aid part 3 in several different (peripheral) positions, which represent engagement positions for the free end 6b of the fastening element 6 such that the fastening element 6 can be fixed in different positions transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the arrangement on the coupling aid part 3 (c. Figs. 8a-d).

[0094] The first tubular pipe part 4 in the present case has a configuration with three different cross-sectional areas 4a to 4c, namely a first relatively wide cross-sectional area 4a, to which a narrowed cross-sectional area 4b connects, which in turn follows a roughly widened cross-sectional area 4c. In this last cross-sectional area 4c, the corrugated flexible pipe part 5 is inserted into the first part of tubular conduit 4 and is fixed thereto. The present invention is not limited to such a configuration of the first tubular conduit portion 4.

[0095] While the coupling aid part 3 can be manufactured - as seen, from plastic material, the other constituent elements of the pipe connection 1 according to [Fig.l] are preferably manufactured from metal, in particular from stainless steel.

[0096] [Fig. 2] illustrates a longitudinal section of the pipe fitting 1 of [Fig. 1]. Identical elements are, in this case, as in [Fig. 1], as in all other figures, designated with the same reference numbers.

[0097] As specifically shown in [Fig. 2], the second tubular conduit portion 2 ends precisely where the corrugated flexible pipe portion 5 begins. The present invention is not, however, limited to such a configuration.

[0098] The section, in which precisely the second tubular conduit part 2 is introduced into the first tubular conduit part 4, is designated in the present case also as introduction section SL

[0099] As is also apparent from [Fig. 2], the coupling aid portion 3 is formed from an annular main body 3c and a holding projection 3d which is also annular, which holding projection 3d extends axially inside the main body 3c and is integrally connected to the main body 3c in at least one connection location 3e. The holding projection 3d projects out of the main body 3c on a side opposite the connection location 3e. The holding projection 3d has at its free end a radial narrowing of its cross-section in the form of a peripheral projection 3f, which acts as a stop structure for the second pipe part 2.In the radial direction, the holding protruding portion 3d is held at a distance from the main body 3c, which makes it possible to form between the holding protruding portion 3d and the main body 3c a peripheral slot 3g, in which the first tubular conduit portion 4 is housed by its suitably slightly widened free end 4d.

[0100] The second tubular pipe part 2 has on its free end inserted into the first tubular pipe part 4 a narrowing of cross-section 2a, which acts as an insertion chamfer. Furthermore, the second tubular pipe part 2 has a peripheral shoulder 2b, which acts as a holding structure and by which it rests on said projecting part 3f. A sealing element 7 in the manner of a sealing ring is arranged in the enlarged cross-sectional area 4a of the first tubular pipe part 4 between the second tubular pipe part 2 and the first tubular pipe part 4. Because the first tubular pipe part 4 has in the transition from the cross-sectional area 4a enlarged to the cross-sectional area 4b a shoulder 4a', the sealing element 7 is immobilized.

[0101] The coupling aid part 3 has, on its side opposite the projecting part 3f, an insertion chamfer 3h for the second tubular pipe part 2. [Fig. 2] also clearly shows the two lateral recesses 3a, with which the fastening element 6 engages via its free branches 6a. [Fig. 2] also shows at the top the way in which the fastening element 6 is immobilized (engaged) with the bent end 6b of a free branch 6a in the area of ​​one of said bearings on the coupling aid part 3.

[0102] To create the pipe connection 1, the sealing element 7 is first arranged internally in the first pipe part 4. Then, the first pipe part 4 is inserted by its end acting as a receiving end for the second pipe part 2 into the peripheral slot 3g of the coupling aid part 3. Then, the second pipe part 2 is inserted by its insertion end through the coupling aid part 3 into the receiving end of the first pipe part 4 in the insertion section S1 until it rests by its shoulder 2b on the projecting part 3f. Then, the fastening element 6 is inserted (threaded) by its free legs 6a into the lateral recesses 3a to lock the arrangement.

[0103] As can also be seen from [Fig. 2], the first tubular conduit part 4 also has in the region of its receiving end lateral notches or recesses 4e, which are substantially aligned with the recesses 3a of the coupling aid part 3, in particular coincide in the axial position so that the fastening element 6 engages by its free legs 6a simultaneously with the recesses 4e and the recesses 3a to fix the first tubular conduit part 4 on the coupling aid part 3.In this context, the recesses 3a in the coupling aid part 3 are designed to be shorter in the axial direction than the recesses 4e in the first pipe part 4, so that the fastening element 6 rests with its free legs 6a only on the coupling aid part 3 (on the left end face of the holding projection 3d) and not on the first pipe part 4, as can be seen from a closer look in particular at [Fig. 2]. This prevents contact corrosion in this area. Furthermore, the projection 3f is designed in such a way that the shoulder 2b lies precisely between the free leg 6a of the fastening element 6 and the projection 3f. Thus, the second pipe part 2 is fixed on the coupling aid part 3 in the axial direction and . correspondingly also with respect to the first pipe line part 4. This immobilization itself still functions if the coupling aid part 3, which is preferably made of plastic, is damaged or destroyed due to high temperatures (e.g. battery fire). Thus, a cooling function can also be performed so that as a result other batteries or the like are not damaged in cascade.

[0104] Since the free end 4d of the first pipe part 4 is arranged completely circumferentially in the coupling aid part 3, an assembly agent is protected against possible injuries on possible sharp edges in said area, so that corresponding subsequent machining of the first pipe part 4 can be omitted during production at lower costs.

[0105] The section in [Fig.3] illustrates other specific features of the configuration according to [Fig.2]. Only the new identifiable characteristics will be explicitly addressed. The section in [Fig.3] is approximately perpendicular to the section in [Fig.2],

[0106] The first tubular conduit part 4 has, distributed over its periphery, in addition to the recesses 4e, two openings 4f, which openings 4f correspond to engagement projections 3i of the coupling aid part 3, which engagement projections 3i are arranged externally on the holding projection 3. The engagement projections 3i engage with the openings 4f and thus lock the coupling aid part 3 - also without the fastening element 6 - in a rotationally fixed manner on the first tubular conduit part 4. Preferably, the engagement projections 3i and the openings 4f are arranged in such a way that during the corresponding engagement, the recesses 4e and the recesses 3a are aligned in pairs, cf. [Fig.2].

[0107] The section in [Fig. 4] shows only the coupling aid part 3 with the fastening element 6 and the first tubular conduit part 4 including the sealing element 7. It is clear (see also [Fig. 5]) that the recesses 3a and 4e in alignment are made at least approximately in the form of a circular segment, it being understood that a secant or a chord, which forms the (again only imaginary) bottom of the recesses 3a and 4e, substantially coincides with the free leg (an illustrated leg) of the fastening element. It can also be seen that a small distance between the recesses 3a and 4e (transversely to the longitudinal axis L, cf. figures 1 to 3 and specifically [Fig.5]), which corresponds to a small distance between the branches 6a of the fixing element 6, is less than an inner diameter of the first tubular conduit part 4 or of the part forming 3d holding projection to achieve the rotational locking as explained previously.

[0108] As can be seen from Figures 3 and 4, the engagement projections 3i have on their radial outer side a profile obliquely to the longitudinal axis L, which acts as an introduction chamfer when fitting the first tubular pipe part 4.

[0109] The arrangement of [Fig. 4] is illustrated again in perspective in [Fig. 5] (with an additional corrugated hose section 5, see Figures 1 to 3). Here, the small distance LA mentioned is clearly visible, which is smaller than the inner diameter of the first pipe section 4 (ID4) or the holding projection 3d (ID3). Furthermore, the U-shaped arch shape of the fastening element 6 is visible, in which the free legs 6a are deformed (spread out) outwards in the illustrated configuration so that they generate an inward clamping force (one on top of the other). Also clearly recognizable are the bearings 3b - 3b' on the outer side of the coupling aid section 3, which act as engagement positions for the fastening element 6 or its free ends 6b. The fastening element is shown here in its fastening position threaded as far as possible into the bearing 3b (see also figures 1 to 4)..

[0110] It can also be clearly seen in [Fig. 5] that the main body 3c and the holding projection 3d of the coupling aid part 3 are connected to each other at a total of four connection locations 3e. The engagement projections 3i are respectively arranged between a pair of the connection locations 3e, in this case approximately at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock, while the connection locations 3e are arranged at 11 o'clock and 1 o'clock or at 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock.

[0111] The present invention is not fundamentally limited to a given number of engagement projections 3i. In the illustrated configuration, the connection locations 3e, however, advantageously serve in pairs respectively to limit the recesses 3a, 4e (see [Fig. 4]) or bottom as a stop for the free legs 6a of the fastening element 6. However, rotational locking could also fundamentally be achieved with only one engagement projection 3i. Only one continuous connection location could be realized, for example, instead of two connection locations 3e relative to one engagement projection 3i.

[0112] Preferably, the recesses 4e or the recesses 3a are made in a similar manner on both sides of the first tubular conduit part 4 or the coupling aid part 3, in other words in a mirror-symmetrical manner as can be clearly seen in [Fig. 5]. Ideally, the entire arrangement is made by relative to the central plane, which may coincide with the plane in longitudinal section according to [Fig.3], in a mirror-symmetrical manner.

[0113] The central branch 6c of the fixing element 6 serves to connect the free branches 6a on springs and to insert and remove the fixing element 6 transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the arrangement (Figures 1 to 3 or Figures 8a-8d).

[0114] [Fig. 6] illustrates only the coupling aid part 3, namely in a rearward view in comparison with the representation of [Fig. 5]. In this way, the engagement projections 3i and the peripheral slot 3g as well as the position and arrangement of the bearings 3b - 3b are clearly recognizable. The coupling aid part 3 may be flattened at the top and bottom, but otherwise has a circular ring shape overall.

[0115] [Fig. 7] again illustrates an arrangement approximately according to [Fig. 4], however entirely in perspective. The four connection points 3e, the two engagement projections 3i, the overall mirror-symmetrical configuration and the engagement of the free branches 6a with the recesses 3a, 4e are clearly recognizable again. Also shown is the manner in which the first pipe part 4 rests with its free end 4d inside in the area of ​​the connection points 3e, which thus simultaneously form an axial boundary when the coupling aid part 3 is fitted onto the pipe end 4d and protect a user agent.

[0116] Figures 8a to 8d illustrate different steps in creating the tubular conduit fitting 1, see Figures 1-3 in addition to the description.

[0117] First, the sealing element is inserted, as described above (not shown in the present case). Then, the first tubular pipe part 4 is connected to the coupling aid part 3 as also described. Then, the second tubular pipe part 2 is inserted up to the stop into the coupling aid part 3 and the first tubular pipe part 4 so that the state of [Fig. 8a] results. Then, the fastening element 6 is installed. It passes over the coupling aid part 3 laterally in the region of the recesses 3a and is moved apart in the region of its free legs 6a during insertion in the direction of the arrow P so that an inward clamping force results due to the spring action.

[0118] Starting from [Fig.8a], the fixing element 6 is threaded onto the coupling aid part 3, it being understood that it engages via the free branches 6a with the recesses 3a (and subsequently also with the recesses 4e in alignment in the first tubular conduit part, see figures 2 to 7).

[0119] [Fig.8b] illustrates a first fixing position, in which the fixing element 6 is engaged with the free end(s) 6b of the branches 6a in the uppermost bearing 3b” of the coupling aid part 3. In this case, this is preferably the delivery configuration of the coupling aid part 3: the fastening element 6 is captively connected to the coupling aid part 3, access for the pipe parts 2, 4 is free. In other words: the pipe parts 2 and 4 can also be omitted in [Fig.8b].

[0120] [Fig. 8c] illustrates a second fastening position, in which the fastening element 6 is engaged in the central bearing 3b' of the coupling aid part 3 with the free end(s) 6b of the free legs 6a. This is an intermediate configuration in this case: the fastening element 6 is captively connected to the coupling aid part 3, and the first pipe part 4 is captively immobilized on the coupling aid part 3 (also by means of the engaging projections 3i, cf. Figs. 3-5, 7), access for the second pipe part 2 is free. In other words: the second pipe part 2 could also be omitted in [Fig. 8c].

[0121] [Fig.8d] illustrates the final fixing position, in which the fixing element 6 is engaged in the lowest bearing 3b of the coupling aid part 3 by the free end(s) 6b of the free legs 6a. In this case, this is an operating configuration as specifically illustrated in Figures 1 to 3: the fastening element 6 is captively connected to the coupling aid part 3, the first tubular conduit part 4 is captively immobilized on the coupling aid part 3 (also by means of the engaging projections 3i, see Figures 3-5, 7), and the second tubular conduit part 2 is axially immobilized against the projection 3f (Figures 2, 3, 6) of the holding projection 3d.

Claims

Claims

1. A pipe connection (1) having: a first pipe part (4) with a receiving end; a second pipe part (2) with an insertion end, which insertion end is inserted into the receiving end in an insertion section (SI) and has a radial distance from the first pipe part (4) on its periphery; a coupling aid part (3), which coupling aid part (3) has an annular main body (3c) with a longitudinal axis (L) and an annular holding projection (3d) extending axially inside the main body (3c), which holding projection (3d) is connected to the main body (3c) at at least one connection location (3e), while a peripheral slot (3g) is formed between the main body (3c) and the holding projection (3d),in which the first tubular pipe part (4) is accommodated by its receiving end, while the holding projection (3d) extends between the first tubular pipe part (4) and the second tubular pipe part (2) right through and has, on its free end, a radial narrowing (3f) as a stop structure (3f) for the second tubular pipe part (2), which second tubular pipe part (2) is introduced or can be introduced into the holding projection (3d) up to the stop structure (3f).,

2. Pipe connection (1) according to claim 1, having: a locking system with a fastening element (6), which fastening element (6) can be fitted onto the coupling aid part (3) transversely to the longitudinal axis or can be threaded into the coupling aid part (3) in order to connect the coupling aid part (3) and the first pipe part (4) on the one hand and to fix the second pipe part (2) axially on the stop structure (3f) on the other hand.

3. A pipe connection (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second pipe part (2) has a first outer diameter and, in the insertion section (SI), a radially projecting holding structure (2b) extending in the circumferential direction with a second outer diameter, in which the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter, and the first pipe part (4) has in the region of the receiving end an inner diameter, which inner diameter has a slight oversize compared to the second outer diameter.

4. A tubular conduit fitting (1) according to claim 3, wherein the coupling aid portion (3) has two lateral notches (3a) arranged diametrically opposite each other, the slight distance from each other of which is transversely to the longitudinal axis (L) less than the inner diameter of the first tubular conduit portion (4); the first tubular conduit portion (4) has two lateral notches (4e) arranged diametrically opposite each other, the position and dimension of which correspond to a position and dimension of the notches (3a) in the coupling aid portion (3); the coupling aid part (3) has a fastening element (6), which fastening element (6) has two parallel branches (6a) connected to each other on springs, which branches (6a) extend in a plane oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis (L);wherein in a connected state of the coupling: the second tubular conduit part (2) rests by its holding structure (2b) on a side facing the connection location (3e) on the holding projection (3d) of the coupling aid part (3); each of the notches (3a) in the coupling aid part (3) is aligned with respectively one of the notches (4e) in the first tubular conduit part (4); each of the two legs (6a) of the fixing element (6) engages simultaneously with respectively one notch (3a) in; the coupling aid portion (3) and a notch (4e) in the first pipe part (4); the holding structure (2b) of the second pipe part (2) is axially offset in the direction of the holding projection (3d) relative to the notches (3a, 4e); and the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) are deflected relative to an undeformed configuration of the fastening element (6) so that they exert a clamping force directed on each other transversely to the longitudinal axis (L).

5. A pipe connection (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the holding structure (2b) is provided peripherally continuously in the peripheral direction.

6. A pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the holding structure (2b) is formed as a bead, rib or burr.

7. A pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the holding protruding portion (3d) is integrally connected to the main body (3c) at the at least one connection location (3e).

8. A pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 5 to 7 with reference to claim 4, wherein the notches (3a) in the coupling aid portion (3) and the notches (4e) in the first pipe portion (4) have identical dimensions or wherein the notches (3a) in the coupling aid portion (3) and the notches (4e) in the first pipe portion (4) have different dimensions, in particular different dimensions in an axial direction, wherein preferably the notches (3a) in the coupling aid portion (3) are designed to be shorter in an axial direction.

9. Pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a sealing element (7), preferably a sealing ring, is arranged between the first pipe part (4) and the second pipe part (2) in the introduction section.

10. A pipe fitting (1) according to claim 9, wherein the first pipe portion (4) has a shoulder (4a') and the sealing element (7) is arranged on one side opposite the connection location (3e) between the holding protruding part (3d) of the coupling assistance part (3) and the shoulder (4a').

11. Pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the coupling aid part (3) has on the holding projection part (3d) at least one radially outwardly projecting engagement projection part (3i), preferably two engagement projection parts (3i) in particular facing each other diametrically, which engagement projection part (3i) corresponds to a corresponding opening (4f) in the first pipe part (4) for fixing the first pipe part (4) axially and / or in the circumferential direction on the holding projection part (3d) and on the coupling aid part (3).

12. Pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the first pipe part (4) has in the end position an enlargement (4d) for introducing the coupling aid part (3), preferably with its holding projection part (3d), preferably referring to claim 11 with its engagement projection part (3i).

13. A pipe fitting (1) according to one of claims 3 to 12 with reference to claim 2, wherein the fixing element (6) is made approximately U-shaped with two free legs (6a) and a central leg (6c), preferably made of a metallic material, ideally spring steel.

14. A tubular conduit connection (1) according to claim 13, wherein the free branches (6a) extend in places parallel to each other, wherein their distance from each other increases successively in the transition to the central branch (6c).

15. A tubular conduit fitting (1) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the free ends (6b) of the free branches (6a) are shaped transversely to a plane of extension of the remaining fixing element (6).

16. A pipe connection (1) according to claim 15, wherein the coupling aid portion (3) has at least two bearings (3b, 3b', 3b”) on its outer side, preferably symmetrically on either side, which are intended to cooperate by form complementarity with the free ends (6b) and which are made to fix the fixing element (6) in two different positions and with a different spacing of the free branches (6a) on the coupling assistance part (3).

17. A tubular conduit fitting (1) according to claim 16, wherein in a first position each of the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) is located outside the notch (3a) in the coupling aid portion (3) and the notch (4e) in the first tubular conduit portion (4) and in a second position each of the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) engages simultaneously with a notch (3a) in the connection aid portion (3) and a notch (4e) in the first tubular conduit portion (4) respectively.

18. A pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first pipe part (4) and the second pipe part (2) are formed from an electrically conductive material, in particular metal, and the coupling aid part (3) is formed from an electrically non-conductive material, in particular plastic.

19. A pipe connection (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the second connecting pipe part (2) has an insertion chamfer (2a) in the end position, preferably a cross-sectional narrowing intended for passage through the holding projection (3d).

20. A tubular conduit fitting (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the coupling aid portion (3) has an insertion chamfer (3h) in the end position for introducing the second tubular conduit portion (2) and / or an insertion chamfer for fitting the first tubular conduit portion (4).

21. A pipe fitting (1) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the holding protruding portion (3d) protrudes out of the main body (3c) in an axial direction.

22. Method for coupling two pipe sections (3, 4) when producing a pipe connection (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a) firstly the coupling aid section (3) is fixed to the first pipe section (4); b) then the second tubular pipe part (2) is introduced by its insertion end into the insertion section (SI) into the receiving end of the first tubular pipe part (4); c) the second tubular pipe part (2) is introduced into the coupling aid part (3) up to the stop structure (3f), whereby an insertion depth can be limited when introducing it into the first tubular pipe part (4), wherein the coupling aid part (3) surrounds at least in one region of the insertion section (SI) the first tubular pipe part (4) and the introduced second tubular pipe part (2), fixes them at least axially relative to each other and centers them along a common longitudinal axis (L).

23. Method according to claim 22 when producing a pipe connection (1) according to claim 2, wherein d) finally the fastening element (6) is fitted onto the coupling aid part (3) or is threaded into the coupling aid part (3) transversely to the longitudinal axis (L), whereby on the one hand the coupling aid part (3) and the first pipe part (4) are connected and on the other hand the second pipe part (2) is fixed axially on the stop structure (3f).

24. A method according to claim 23 when producing a tubular conduit fitting (1) according to claim 4, wherein in step a), the first tubular conduit part (4) is introduced by its receiving end into the peripheral slot (3d) of the coupling aid part (3) so that each of the notches (3a) in the coupling aid part (3) is aligned with respectively one of the notches (4e) in the first tubular conduit part (4); and in step b) or step c), the second tubular conduit part (2) is introduced by its holding structure (2b) up to the radial narrowing (3f) of the coupling aid part (3);and in step d), the fastening element (6) is arranged with the two parallel legs (6a) connected to each other on springs in such a way that each of the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) engages at the same time with respectively a notch (3a) in the coupling aid part (3) and a notch; (4e) in the first tubular conduit part (4), wherein the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) are deflected relative to an undeformed configuration of the fastening element (6) so that they exert a clamping force directed on each other transversely to the longitudinal axis (L).

25. Method according to one of claims 22 to 24, wherein, preferably before step a), a sealing element (7), preferably a sealing ring, is arranged in the first pipe part (4) in the introduction section (SI).

26. Method according to one of claims 22 to 25 when producing a pipe connection (1) according to claim 11, wherein in step a), the coupling aid part (3) is brought into engagement, by its radially outwardly projecting engagement projection (3i), with the corresponding opening (4f) in the first pipe part (4) to fix the first pipe part (4) axially and / or in the circumferential direction on the holding projection (3d) and on the coupling aid part (3).

27. ​​Method according to one of claims 22 to 26, when producing a pipe connection (1) according to claim 1, in which before step b) or step a), the fastening element (6) is fixed by its free legs (6a) externally in the region of the bearings (3b, 3b', 3b”) on the coupling aid part (3).

28. Method according to claim 27, wherein the fastening element (6) is fixed before step b) or step a) in a first position, in which each of the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) is located outside the notch (3a) in the coupling aid part (3) and the notch (4e) in the first tubular conduit part (4) and in which following step d), the fastening element (6) is fixed in a second position, in which each of the two legs (6a) of the fastening element (6) engages at the same time with respectively a notch (3a) in the coupling aid part (3) and with a notch (4e) in the first tubular conduit part (4).

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