Fluid circuit comprising a connecting fitting and associated method

Abstract

A fluid circuit (CF), in particular for an aircraft, comprising a connecting connector (3), for sealingly connecting two pipes (A, B), comprising: a connecting member (4) configured to be mechanically connected to the pipes (A, B); at least one first locking member (5A), extending circumferentially around the first pipe (A), the first locking member (5A) being configured to move between a standby position, in which it is distant from the connecting member (4), and a locked position in which it is mechanically connected to the connecting member (4) so as to achieve axial locking of the first locking member (5A) and of the connecting member (4) relative to the first pipe (A), the first locking member (5A) being mounted to rotate freely around the first pipe (A) in the standby position and in the locked position. Abstract figure: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Fluid circuit comprising a connecting connector and associated method Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fluid circuits in an aircraft, for example, a drinking water circuit, waste water, drainage, etc. The invention relates in particular to the connection of pipes of such a fluid circuit.

[0002] In a known manner, a fluid circuit comprises a plurality of pipes mechanically and fluidically connected to each other. When installing a fluid circuit in an aircraft, the pipes are independently secured to the structure of the aircraft and then fluidically connected to each other. To connect a first pipe to a second pipe, it is known to use a connecting connector which must be mounted at the interface between the first pipe and the second pipe in order to ensure a sealed connection.

[0003] By way of example, with reference to [Fig. 1], a first pipe A and a second pipe B are shown which extend longitudinally along an axis X and which are connected by a connecting connector 101. More precisely, the connecting connector 101 comprises a connecting member 102 which cooperates with a connection end A1, B1 of each pipe A, B, for example by fitting.

[0004] In practice, it is necessary to ensure that the connecting member 102 remains well positioned between the pipes A, B to form a sealed connection. For this, with reference to [Fig. 1], the connecting connector 101 comprises a connection element 103 mounted on each pipe A, B and configured to be connected to the connecting member 102.

[0005] In the prior art, various connection elements 103 are known which are connected to the connecting member 102 by screwing or by clipping. However, the connecting connectors 101 of the prior art have numerous drawbacks.

[0006] Indeed, a connection fitting locked by screwing requires the use of special tools, for example a wrench, which is impractical for assembly in a fluid circuit of an aircraft in which space is severely limited. The connection fittings are often difficult to access. In addition, the application of a tightening torque is time-consuming and increases the operator's difficulty.

[0007] A clip-on lock is convenient. However, when it is necessary to unlock the connecting fitting, for example for replacement, unlocking can be complex. Indeed, the unclipping mechanism is generally placed on the locking element at a predetermined position which can be difficult to access. in a crowded aeronautical environment. For example, pipes A, B may be positioned close to a bulkhead and the unclipping mechanism may be located between the pipe and the bulkhead, i.e., facing away from the operator. In summary, removing the connecting fitting can be time-consuming and complex.

[0008] The invention thus aims to eliminate at least some of these drawbacks by proposing a fluid circuit for aircraft in which the connecting connector can be easily mounted and dismounted, even in a cluttered environment. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The invention relates to a fluid circuit, in particular for an aircraft, comprising: • at least one first pipe comprising a connection end comprising a connector, hereinafter “first connector”, • at least one second pipe comprising a connection end comprising a connector, hereinafter “second connector”, the first pipe and the second pipe extending along a longitudinal axis, and • a connecting fitting, to connect the two connectors in a watertight manner, comprising: • a connecting member comprising at least a first connecting end configured to be mechanically connected to the first connector, and a second connecting end configured to be mechanically connected to the second connector, • at least one first locking member mounted on the first pipe, the first locking member extending circumferentially around the first connector, the first locking member comprising an unlocking device, • the first locking member being configured to move between: • a waiting position, in which said first locking member is distant from the first connection end of the connecting member, and • a locked position in which the first locking member is mechanically connected to the first connection end of the connecting member so as to achieve axial locking along the longitudinal axis of the first locking member and the connecting member relative to the connection end of the first pipe, • the first locking member being mounted to rotate freely around the first pipe along the longitudinal axis in the waiting position and in the locked position rusty, so as to make the unlocking device accessible regardless of its angular position on the first locking member around the first pipe.

[0010] The connecting fitting according to the invention can be locked and unlocked by an operator simply and quickly. Indeed, thanks to the locking member free to rotate around the pipe, even in the locked position, the unlocking device is easily accessible visually or manually by the operator. Also, even when the connecting fitting is placed in an area that is difficult to access or for example against a wall, the operator can lock and unlock the locking member simply and quickly.

[0011] Furthermore, it is advantageously not necessary for the locking member to be mounted on the pipe in a precise angular position, which facilitates manufacturing and reduces the time and therefore the costs of mounting the fluid circuit.

[0012] A free-rotating locking member also has a significant degree of freedom which limits mechanical stresses in the connecting fitting and therefore in the pipe. This limits the risk of damage to the fluid circuit and extends its service life.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the fluid circuit comprises at least one first securing member mounted on the first pipe, the first securing member extending circumferentially around the first pipe and being configured to prevent the unlocking of the first locking member so as to prevent the separation of the first connector and the first connection end, the first securing member being configured to move between: • a free position in which the first securing member is distant from the first locking member and is mounted free in translation along the first pipe, and • a secure position in which the first securing member is fixedly connected to the first locking member and is blocked in translation along the longitudinal axis, • the first safety member being free to rotate around the first pipe in the free position and in the safe position.

[0014] The first securing member advantageously makes it possible to avoid any risk of untimely unlocking of the locking member by blocking the latter in the locked position.

[0015] Furthermore, in a manner similar to the first locking member, the first securing member can be manipulated by an operator in a simple and rapid manner. In fact, thanks to the free-rotating safety device around the pipe, the latter, which is easy to access, can easily move from the secure position to the free position. Also, even when the connecting fitting is placed in a difficult-to-access area or, for example, against a wall, the operator can lock and unlock the safety device quickly and easily. The mechanical stresses in the safety device, in the locking device and therefore in the connecting device and in the pipe are also advantageously greatly limited, which limits the risks of damage to the fluid circuit.

[0016] Preferably, the first securing member is configured to be mechanically connected to the first locking member by clipping. The locking member and the securing member simply fixedly connected to each other form a free rotating assembly in which the different unlocking members or devices are easily accessible.

[0017] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first locking member comprising a main structure extending peripherally, the first securing member comprises a covering portion which extends peripherally, the covering portion of the first securing member is configured to radially cover at least in part the main structure of the first locking member, so as to prevent any radial deformation of the first locking member. This makes it possible to secure the locking member in the locked position in a simple manner, without requiring a complex mechanism, which makes it possible both to simplify manufacturing and to limit costs. Such securing is also easily visible to the operator who can simply and quickly check that the connection is correctly locked and secured.In addition, the first securing element advantageously makes it possible to ensure that the first locking member is correctly put in place, the covering of the main structure of the first locking member thus only being able to be carried out when the first locking member is in the locked position.

[0018] Preferably, the first locking member is configured to be connected to the first connection end of the connecting member by clipping, allowing a simple and rapid connection which limits assembly times and costs. In addition, it is advantageously not necessary to use special tools, which limits the difficulty and the risks of incidents for the operator. In addition, the use of tools is sometimes complex on a fluid circuit of an aircraft in which space is restricted. Avoiding the use of such tools makes it possible to ensure a rapid connection.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the first locking member is configured to be deformed radially during translation along the longitudinal axis. from the first connecting end to the first connector, so as to achieve automatic locking of the first locking member relative to the first connecting end. Thus, clipping is achieved simply when the connecting member and the first locking member are brought into contact. Locking is easy to achieve manually.

[0020] Preferably, the unlocking device is in the form of a system similar to a crossed clamp, so as to radially deform the first locking member manually in a simple and rapid manner. Such a mechanism can also be manipulated using a single hand. In addition, no tools are advantageously necessary.

[0021] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the fluid circuit comprises a second locking member mounted on the second pipe, the second locking member extending circumferentially around the second connector, the second locking member being configured to move between: • a waiting position, in which said second locking member is distant from the second connection end of the connecting member, and • a locked position in which the second locking member is mechanically connected to the second connection end of the connecting member so as to achieve axial locking along the longitudinal axis of the second locking member and of the connecting member relative to the connection end of the second pipe, • the second locking member being mounted to rotate freely around the second pipe along the longitudinal axis in the waiting position and in the locked position.

[0022] The two pipes of the fluid circuit are thus locked in a similar manner by two independent locking members which are free to rotate around their respective pipes. The locking of the first pipe and the second pipe is carried out quickly and independently. The mechanical stresses in the connecting fitting and in the pipes are advantageously greatly limited.

[0023] An independent locking member for each pipe also advantageously makes it possible to replace only a single part in the event of a fault, for example. It is not necessary to replace the entire connection fitting, which limits maintenance costs and times.

[0024] Preferably, the fluid circuit comprises a second securing member mounted on the second pipe, the second securing member extending circumferentially around the second pipe and being configured to prevent the unlocking of the second locking member so as to prohibit the separation of the second connector and the second connection end, the second securing member being configured to move between: • a free position in which the second securing member is distant from the second locking member and is mounted free in translation along the second pipe, and • a secure position in which the second securing member is fixedly connected to the second locking member and is blocked in translation along the longitudinal axis, • the second securing member being free to rotate around the second pipe in the free position and in the secured position.

[0025] Each assembly formed by the locking member and the securing member is free to rotate around the connector even when the latter is connected to the connecting member. Each is thus easily accessible for the operator so as to facilitate the removal of the securing member and then the locking member, which allows a significant saving of time, for example when it is necessary to replace a defective connecting fitting.

[0026] An independent safety device for each pipe also advantageously makes it possible to replace only a single part in the event of a fault, for example. It is therefore not necessary to replace the entire connection fitting, which limits costs.

[0027] Preferably, the connecting fitting is made of a thermoplastic material, allowing a lightweight connecting fitting, which is an important advantage in an aeronautical environment.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least the first pipe or the second pipe comprises an outer tube and an inner tube mounted in the outer tube, so as to form a double-walled pipe. Thus, the connecting fitting makes it possible to connect a connecting member to a pipe simply and quickly, whether the latter is a single-walled pipe or a double-walled pipe. The unlocking device is easy to access even on a double-walled pipe, which makes it easy to separate even in such a configuration, allowing removal of the connecting fitting simply, quickly and without tools.

[0029] The invention also relates to an aircraft comprising at least one fluid circuit as described previously.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method for connecting at least one first pipe and a connecting fitting of a fluid circuit as described above, the method comprising at least the steps of: • axially move, along the longitudinal axis, the first connecting end of the connecting member so as to approach the connecting member of the first connector, and • lock the first locking member onto the first connecting end so as to place it in the locked position, • following the locking of the first locking member on the first connection end, the first locking member being free to rotate around the first connector.

[0031] Finally, the invention relates to a method for disconnecting at least one pipe and a connecting fitting from a fluid circuit as described above, the method comprising at least the steps of: • rotate the first locking member around the first connector so as to modify the angular position of the unlocking device and make it accessible, and • unlock, by means of the unlocking device, the first locking member, so as to release the first connection end of the connecting member. PRESENTATION OF FIGURES

[0032] The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given by way of example, and referring to the following figures, given by way of non-limiting examples, in which identical references are given to similar objects.

[0033] [Fig.l] is a schematic representation of a connecting fitting according to the prior art for connecting two pipes.

[0034] [Fig.2] is a schematic representation in exploded view of a fluid circuit according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0035] [Fig. 3] is a sectional view of a schematic representation of a connecting fitting according to one embodiment of the invention for connecting a single-walled pipeline and a double-walled pipeline.

[0036] [Fig.4] is a sectional view of a schematic representation of a connecting fitting according to one embodiment of the invention for connecting two double-walled pipes.

[0037] [Fig.5] is a schematic representation of a locking member of the connecting connector of [Fig.4] in a perspective view from the rear.

[0038] [Fig.6] is a schematic representation of the locking member of [Fig.5] in a substantially side view.

[0039] [Fig.7] is a schematic representation of a securing member of the connecting connector of [Fig.4] according to a perspective view from the front.

[0040] [Fig.8] is a schematic representation of the securing organ of the [Fig.7] according to a perspective view from the rear.

[0041] [Fig.9] is a diagram of the steps of a method of connecting two pipes according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0042] [Fig. 10] is a diagram of the steps of a method for disconnecting two pipes according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0043] It should be noted that the figures set out the invention in detail to implement the invention, said figures can of course be used to better define the invention where appropriate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0044] A fluid circuit according to the invention will be presented, intended to be mounted in an aircraft, in particular for the transport of water, however it goes without saying that the fluid circuit could just as easily allow the transport of a different fluid, such as fuel or gases.

[0045] As is known, a fluid circuit comprises a plurality of pipes which are connected to each other in order to guide a fluid. The invention will be presented for the connection of two pipes of a fluid circuit. However, the invention also applies to the connection of more than two pipes.

[0046] With reference to [Fig. 2], there is shown an exploded view of a fluid circuit CF according to one embodiment of the invention. The fluid circuit CF comprises a first pipe A, a second pipe B, mounted opposite each other, and a connecting connector 3, intended to be mounted at the interface between the first pipe A and the second pipe B, in order to fluidically connect them.

[0047] In this example, the first pipe A and the second pipe B extend longitudinally along an X axis, laterally along a Y axis and vertically along a Z axis, so as to form an orthogonal reference frame (X, Y, Z). Also, the term "vertical" describes an object extending in the (Y, Z) plane and the term "horizontal" describes an object that extends in the (X, Y) plane. Similarly, the terms "front" and "rear" refer to the longitudinal axis X that extends from the first pipe A to the second pipe B from back to front, according to the direction of circulation of a fluid from back to front.

[0048] According to one aspect of the invention, the first pipe A and the second pipe B are made from a thermoplastic polymer material. In this example, each pipe A, B is preferably made from polyetheretherketone, commonly referred to by the acronym PEEK (meaning PolyEtherEtherKetone in English).

[0049] With reference to [Fig.3], representing a longitudinal sectional view of the circuit of assembled CF fluid, the first pipe A comprises, in this example, a TA tube, forming a single-wall pipe. The second pipe B comprises an outer tube TE-B and an inner tube TLB, mounted in the outer tube TE-B. The inner tube TLB and the outer tube TE-B are concentric and form a double-wall pipe. Each tube TA, TE-B, TLB extends along the longitudinal axis X. It goes without saying that the first pipe A could be a double-wall pipe. Similarly, the second pipe B could be a single-wall pipe.

[0050] In this example, each tube TA, TE-B, TLB has a cylindrical shape. Preferably, the tubes TA, TE-B, TLB have the shape of a right circular cylinder, as shown in the figures. However, it goes without saying that the tubes may have a different shape, for example the shape of a cylinder with a square or rectangular base. Each tube TA, TE-B, TLB comprises a cylindrical inner surface which extends radially inwardly of said tube TA, TE-B, TLB and a cylindrical outer surface which extends radially outwardly of the tube TA, TE-B, TLB. In this example, the inner surface of the inner tube TLB of the second pipe B and the inner surface of the tube TA of the first pipe A are intended to come into contact with the fluid.

[0051] In this embodiment, each pipe A, B comprises a connection end A1, B1. The two connection ends A1, B1 are intended to be connected via the connecting connector 3. More precisely, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, each connection end A1, B1 comprises a connector 1, 2 which cooperates with the connecting connector 3. Subsequently, for the sake of clarity, the connector 1 mounted on the connection end A1 of the first pipe A will be designated “first connector” 1 and the connector 2 mounted on the connection end B1 of the second pipe B will be designated “second connector” 2.

[0052] Still with reference to Figures 2 and 3, each connector 1, 2 has a tubular shape and is configured to cooperate by complementarity of shapes respectively with each pipe A, B. In this example, each connector 1, 2 cooperates respectively with the outer surface of the tube TA of the first pipe A and with the outer surface of the outer tube TE-B of the second pipe B. In practice, each connector 1, 2 has dimensions adapted to cooperate with the pipe on which it is mounted. In other words, the first connector 1 and the second connector 2 have similar shapes with a diameter adapted to fit on the connection end A1, B1 of a single-wall pipe or a double-wall pipe.

[0053] In this respect, in this example, the first connector 1 mounted on the single tube TA of the first pipe A has a diameter DI smaller than the diameter D2 of the second connector 2 mounted on the outer tube TB of the second pipe B. In the case of the connection of two double-walled pipes A, B, the two connectors 1, 2 are identical to the second connector 2, as shown in [Fig.4]. The two connectors 1, 2 then preferably have identical dimensions.

[0054] In particular, each connector 1, 2 comprises a fitting portion 11, 21, mounted radially externally to the pipe A, B, and a connecting portion 12, 22 which extends longitudinally projecting from the pipe A, B and which is configured to cooperate with the connecting connector 3 for example by fitting, as will be described in more detail later. In this example, the connecting portion 12 has an external radial diameter D12 shown in [Fig. 3].

[0055] Preferably, the fitting portion 11, 21 of each connector 1, 2 is configured to be force-fitted onto the connection end A1, B1 and to be laser-welded around the pipe A, B, so as to prevent any removal of the connector 1, 2.

[0056] In this example, each connector 1, 2 comprises a connection collar 13, 23, which extends in radial projection from the connecting portion 12, 22. The connection collar 13, 23 is configured to allow a connection with the connecting connector 3, as will be described in more detail later. In this example, the connection collars 13, 23 have a diameter De (shown in FIGS. 2 and 4). The connection collar 13, 23 is peripheral and preferably has a constant radius to allow locking in any angular position as will be presented later.

[0057] In this example, each connector 1, 2 comprises, at a free end of the connecting portion 12, 22 (i.e. an end opposite the fitting portion 11, 21), a positioning ramp 14, 24 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) configured to facilitate the fitting of the connecting connector 3, as will be described in more detail later.

[0058] Preferably, each connector 1, 2 comprises on the connecting portion 12, 22 an annular vein 15, 25 to receive a sealing joint J (shown in [Fig. 3]), configured to be sandwiched between the connector 1, 2 and the connecting fitting 3, so as to limit any risk of leakage in the fitting.

[0059] As described previously, the connecting connector 3 makes it possible to connect in a sealed manner the connection end A1 of the first pipe A via the first connector 1 and the connection end B1 of the second pipe B via the second connector 2.

[0060] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the connecting connector 3 is made in a thermoplastic material, which limits its mass and cost. In particular, the connecting connector 3 is preferably made of polyetheretherketone, commonly referred to by the acronym PEEK (meaning PolyEtherEtherKetone in English). Such a PEEK material is a thermostable semi-crystalline thermoplastic with high mechanical characteristics and resistant to high temperatures. Alternatively, the connecting connector 3 is made of polyamide filled with glass fibers and in particular of polyamide filled with 30% glass fibers.

[0061] With reference to [Fig. 3], the connecting connector 3 comprises, in this example, a connecting member 4, two locking members 5A, 5B and two securing members 6A, 6B.

[0062] The connecting member 4 comprises a first connecting end 41, configured to be mechanically connected to the first connector 1, and a second connecting end 42 configured to be mechanically connected to the second connector 2.

[0063] For this, each connection end 41, 42 preferably has a cylindrical shape to cooperate by shape complementarity with the connecting portion 12, 22 of the connector 1, 2 mounted opposite. It goes without saying that the shape of the connection end 41, 42 could be different to cooperate with a connector 1, 2 which would have a different shape, the important thing being that the connecting portion 12, 22 of the connector 1, 2 and the connecting end 41, 42 opposite have complementary shapes.

[0064] In particular, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, each connection end 41, 42 is configured to be mounted on the connecting portion 12, 22 of the connector 1, 2 opposite each other by interlocking. It goes without saying that each connection end 41, 42 could cooperate with the connecting portion 12, 22 of the connector 1, 2 opposite each other in a different manner.

[0065] In this example, the free end of each connection end 41, 42 comprises a connection collar 43, 44 which extends in radial projection. The connection collar 43, 44 is configured to be pressed along the longitudinal axis X against the connection collar 13, 23 to mechanically connect each connection end 41, 42 to each respective connector 1, 2. For this, the connection collars 43, 44 have a diameter Dr (shown in [Fig. 4]) similar to the diameter De of the connection collars 13, 23. In particular, each connection collar 43, 44 is peripheral and preferably has a constant radius to allow locking in any angular position as will be presented later.

[0066] To lock the connection of the connecting member 4 with each connector 1, 2, the connecting connector 3 preferably comprises two locking members 5A, 5B, mounted respectively on one of the pipes A, B. A locking member 5A, 5B according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in more detail in Figures 5 and 6.

[0067] In this example in which the connecting connector 3 makes it possible to connect a first single-wall pipe A and a second double-wall pipe B, the two locking members 5A, 5B are substantially identical except that they have different diameters to cooperate with connectors 1, 2 having different diameters, as described previously. Also, only the first locking member 5A connected to the first pipe A will be described. The identical characteristics apply to the second locking member 5B connected to the second pipe B.

[0068] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first locking member 5A is mounted on the first connector 1 and extends circumferentially around the first connector 1. In this example, the first locking member 5A is in the form of a ring. The first connector 1 preferably comprises a rear stop 16 to prevent any axial movement of the first locking member 5A relative to the first connector 1 towards the rear, that is to say in the opposite direction to the longitudinal axis X.

[0069] The first locking member 5A is configured to move between a standby position P-ATT, in which it is distant from the first connection end 41 (in other words in which it is not connected to the pipe A), and a locked position P-VER, in which it is mechanically connected to the first connection end 4L. In the locked position P-VER, the first locking member 5A is configured to perform axial locking along the longitudinal axis X of the first locking member 5A and of the connecting member 4 relative to the connection end A1 of the first pipe A.

[0070] According to one aspect of the invention, the first locking member 5A is free to rotate around the first connector 1, i.e. along the longitudinal axis X in the standby position P-ATT and in the locked position P-VER. In other words, whether or not the connecting connector 3 is connected to the pipe A, B, each locking member 5A, 5B is movable 360° around the pipes A, B.

[0071] In this example, the first locking member 5A is configured to be deformed radially so as to move between the waiting position P-ATT and the locked position P-VER.

[0072] For this, with reference to [Fig. 5], the first locking member 5A comprises, in this example, a main structure 50 which extends peripherally. The main structure 50 comprises two main portions 50a, 50b, angularly spaced on the periphery of the first locking member 5A. The two portions main parts 50a, 50b are identical and preferably positioned opposite each other to allow effective locking, as will be described in more detail later.

[0073] To enable its locking function to be fulfilled, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first locking member 5A preferably comprises an annular groove 51 which extends circumferentially internally to the periphery of the first locking member 5A. The annular groove 51 is formed in this example radially inside the two main portions 50a, 50b. The annular groove 51 is configured to receive both the connection collar 13 of the first connector 1 and the connection collar 43 of the first connection end 41 of the connecting member 4, so as to secure them and jointly block the first connector 1 and the first connection end 41 of the connecting member 4. Preferably, the annular groove 51 has an internal radial diameter D51 (shown in [Fig.4] and [Fig.6]) substantially equal to the diameters De, Dr of the collars 13, 43 so as to retain them effectively.By substantially equal, we mean that the internal diameter D51 is slightly greater than the diameters De, Dr of the collars 13, 43 to accommodate the latter while blocking any movement.

[0074] More precisely, to allow such blocking, the annular groove 51 is configured to move between a rest position (shown in the figures) in which it has the internal radial diameter D51 and a constrained position (not shown), in which the first locking member 5A is radially deformed and the annular groove 51 has a constrained diameter strictly greater than the rest diameter D51 to allow the passage of the collars 13, 43, as will be described in more detail later.

[0075] To allow the deformation of the first locking member 5A, still with reference to Figures 5 and 6, the latter comprises, in this example, a connecting ramp 52 formed circumferentially on a free axial end of the main structure 50. In other words, the free axial end of the first locking member 5A has a conical shape. The connection collar 13 of the first connector 1 and the connection collar 43 of the connecting member 4 are configured to be brought into contact with the connecting ramp 52 so as to increase the diameter D51 of the annular groove 51. The annular groove 51 is made of a material capable of expanding radially under an axial mechanical force. In practice, the connecting ramp 52 extends over each main portion 50a, 50b of the main structure 50. In other words, the connecting ramp 52 preferably comprises two separate elements 52a, 52b, as shown in [Fig.6], which helps promote radial expansion.

[0076] In practice, during a connection, the connection collar 13 and the collar of connection flange 13 and the connection flange 43 are configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis X and to come into contact with the connecting ramp 52 and slide along the connecting ramp 52, so as to increase the diameter of the main structure 50 until the collars 13, 43 are housed in the annular groove 51. When the collars 13, 43 are housed in the annular groove 51, the diameter of the main structure 50 is configured to return to the initial position, i.e. at rest, not constrained by the collars 13, 43. In other words, the diameter of the annular groove 51 is configured to return to the initial diameter D51. In other words, the connection flange 13 and the connection flange 43 are configured to be inserted into the annular groove 51 by clipping.In one embodiment, the locking member 5A is configured to be positioned on the first connector 1 so that the connection collar 13 is initially housed in the annular groove 51, which makes it possible to prevent any untimely movement of the first locking member 5A relative to the first connector 1.

[0077] With reference to [Fig. 5], to release the collar(s) 13, 43 from the annular groove 51, the first locking member 5A comprises an unlocking device 55. The unlocking device 55 is configured to increase the diameter of the first locking member 5A. More specifically, the unlocking device 55 is preferably mounted in the circumference of the main structure 50 between the main portions 50a, 50b and is configured to separate the two main portions 50a, 50b from each other by deforming the main structure 50.

[0078] The unlocking device 55 is, in this example, similar to a cross clamp and is formed at the circumference of the main structure 50. Such an unlocking device 55 advantageously allows it to be manipulated by an operator with a single hand. In practice, the unlocking device 55 is configured to increase the diameter of the locking member 5A when a manual force is applied to the cross clamp. It goes without saying that other means could be suitable. In this example, the unlocking device 55 comprises two arms 55a, 55b which are respectively connected to the two main portions 50a, 50b of the main structure 50 and therefore to the two separate elements 52a, 52b of the connecting ramp 52.

[0079] In this example, the first locking member 5A comprises a handle 56 positioned on the circumference of the main structure 50 in a manner diametrically opposite the unlocking device 55. In other words, the circumference of the main structure 50 comprises, in this example, successively the unlocking device 55, a first main portion 50a, the handle 56 and the second main portion 50b. The handle 56 is radially offset relative to the rest of the main structure 50, which makes it possible to form an openwork zone in the main structure 50. The handle 56 has significant flexibility, which allows it to be deformed more easily. The handle 56 is thus configured to allow the diameter of the main structure 50 to increase when the unlocking device 55 is actuated without this causing excessive stress in the first locking member 5A, thus ensuring its durability.

[0080] Still with reference to Figures 5 and 6, the first locking member 5A comprises two connecting tabs 53 configured to cooperate with the first securing member 6A, which will be described in more detail later. Preferably, the two connecting tabs 53 are positioned diametrically opposite and allow two possible angular positions for securing the first securing member 6A with the first locking member 5A, as will be described in more detail later. More specifically, each connecting tab 53 comprises a slot 54 formed in the connecting tab 53 configured to cooperate with a locking finger 64 of the first securing member 6A so as to secure the first locking member 5A and the first securing member 6A, as will be described in more detail later.

[0081] In a similar manner to the first locking member 5A, the second locking member 5B is configured to secure the second connector 2 and the second connection end 42 of the connecting member 4 and to achieve axial locking along the longitudinal axis X of the second locking member 5B and of the connecting member 4 relative to the connection end B1 of the second pipe B. The second locking member 5B is rotatable around the second connector 2 in the standby position P-ATT and in the locked position P-VER.

[0082] As described above, the connecting connector 3 preferably comprises two securing members 6A, 6B, mounted respectively on one of the pipes A, B. Each securing member 6A, 6B is configured to secure the locked position P-VER respectively of one of the locking members 5A, 5B. Each securing member 6A, 6B also makes it possible to ensure that the locking member 5A, 5B is correctly locked, as will be described in more detail later. A securing member 6A, 6B according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in more detail in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0083] In a similar manner to the locking members 5A, 5B, in this example in which the connecting connector 3 makes it possible to connect a first single-wall pipe A and a second double-wall pipe B, the two securing members 6A, 6B are substantially identical except that they have different diameters to cooperate with locking members 5A, 5B having different diameters. Also, only the first securing member 6A connected to the first pipe A will be described. The identical characteristics apply to the second securing member 6B connected to the second pipe B.

[0084] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first securing member 6A is mounted on the first pipe A and extends circumferentially around the connection end A1 of the first pipe A. In this example, the first securing member 6A is in the form of a ring movable in translation along the first pipe A, that is to say along the longitudinal axis X. The first securing member 6A is preferably also free to rotate around the first pipe A and the first connector 1, that is to say to rotate along the longitudinal axis X.

[0085] In particular, the first securing member 6A is configured to move between a free position P-LIB, in which it is distant from the first locking member 5A and in which it is free in translation along the first pipe A, and a secure position P-SEC (shown in [Fig. 3]) in which the first securing member 6A is fixedly connected to the first locking member 5A. In the secure position P-SEC, the first securing member 6A is locked in translation along the longitudinal axis X. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first securing member 6A is free to rotate around the first pipe A in the free position P-LIB and in the secure position P-SEC.

[0086] In this example, the first securing member 6A is configured to be clipped onto the first locking member 5A so as to ensure the securing of the first connector 1 with the first connection end 41 of the connecting member 4. The first securing member 6A makes it possible to avoid a risk of involuntary unlocking of the first locking member 5A.

[0087] For this, with reference to figures 7 and 8, the first securing member 6A comprises a covering portion 61 and a fixing portion 62 to the first locking member 5A.

[0088] The covering portion 61 has an annular shape whose inner radial diameter Ds (shown in FIGS. 4 and 7) is substantially equal to the outer radial diameter Dv of the annular groove 51 of the locking member 5A in the rest state. By “substantially equal” is meant here that the inner radial diameter Ds of the covering portion 61 is very slightly greater than the outer radial diameter Dv of the locking member 5A to allow the two parts to fit together without too much play existing between the two parts.

[0089] The covering portion 61 is in this example in the form of two distinct curved sections 65a, 65b which extend around the circumference of the covering portion 61. More precisely, each curved section 65a, 65b is configured to extend, in the secure position P-SEC, radially around one of the portions 50a, 50b of the main structure 50 of the first locking member 5A so as to cover it. Thus the covering portion 61 is configured to be positioned, in the secure position P-SEC, radially external to the annular groove 51 and therefore to the collars 13, 43. In other words, in the secure position P-SEC, the two curved sections 65a, 65b are configured to extend circumferentially on either side of the unlocking device 55, which makes it possible to prevent any modification of the position of the latter. In practice, in this example, due to the curved sections 65a, 65b, the arms 55a, 55b cannot be moved apart from each other, preventing the increase in the diameter of the main structure 50 and therefore the separation of the annular groove 51. In summary, in the secure position P-SEC, the covering portion 61 is configured to cover the locking member 5A, so that the diameter Dv of the latter cannot be modified, which makes it possible to secure the connection, as will be described in more detail later.Furthermore, the first securing member 6A makes it possible to ensure that the first locking member 5A is correctly positioned and that the collars 13, 43 are properly clipped into the annular groove 51. Indeed, in the event that the first locking member 5A is not correctly put in place, the diameter of the annular groove 51 would be too large to allow the covering portion 61 to cover it and the securing member 6A could not be put in place.

[0090] Still with reference to Figures 7 and 8, to ensure that the first securing member 6A is blocked relative to the first locking member 5A, the latter comprises, in the connecting portion 62, a locking finger 64 which extends radially internally to the connecting portion 62. The locking finger 64 is configured to be inserted into one of the slots 54 formed in the connecting tabs 53 of the first locking member 5A to prevent any separation of the first securing member 6A and the first locking member 5A. The locking finger 64 is configured to be inserted in a similar manner into each of the slots 54 of the locking member 5A. There are thus two determined angular positions for securing the connecting connector 3, which facilitates securing.It goes without saying that the first securing member 6A could comprise a different number of locking fingers 64, in particular a number greater than or equal to two locking fingers 64. It also goes without saying that the locking of the first securing member 6A relative to the first locking member 5A could take a different form.

[0091] In practice, the locking finger 64 is configured to be inserted into one of the slots 54 by clipping.

[0092] For this, the locking finger 64 is mounted, in this example, at a free end of a flexible securing tab 63. During the translation of the first securing member 6A along the first locking member 5A, the securing tab 63 is configured to be offset radially under the effect of the force of the contact of the finger locking finger 64 along the connecting tab 53. When the locking finger 64 reaches the slot 54, the securing tab 63 is configured to return to its position by spring effect and the locking finger 64 is configured to be automatically inserted into the slot 54. The securing tab 63 preferably comprises a gripping member 66 configured to radially spread the free end of the securing tab 63 and thus remove the locking finger 64 from the first securing member 6A from the slot 54 of the first locking member 5A, which subsequently allows the first securing member 6A to be released. Also, a removal of the securing is completely independent of the locking. It goes without saying that the removal of the locking finger 64 from the slot 54 could be carried out in a different manner, for example by means of manual pressure at the second fixed end of the securing tab 63.

[0093] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the assembly formed by the first locking member 5A and the first securing member 6A secured together is free to rotate along the longitudinal axis X, i.e. around the pipes A, B, when the two members 5A, 6A are not connected to the connecting member 4 and when they are secured to each other and connected to the connecting member 4. Thus, when an operator wishes to separate the securing member 6A and / or the locking member 5A from the connecting member 4, the latter has easy access to the gripping member 66 and to the unlocking device 55, as will be described in more detail later.

[0094] A method for connecting a first pipe A and a second pipe B will now be described, with reference to [Fig. 9], according to an embodiment of the invention. The first connector 1 is fixedly mounted on the connection end A1 of the first pipe A and the second connector 2 is fixedly mounted on the connection end B1 of the second pipe B. The first locking member 5A is mounted to be movable in rotation on the first connector 1 and the first securing member 6A is mounted to be movable in translation and in rotation on the first pipe A. Similarly, the second locking member 5B is mounted to be movable in rotation on the second connector 2 and the second securing member 6B is mounted to be movable in translation and in rotation on the second pipe B.In other words, in this example, the first locking member 5A is connected to the first connector 1 and cannot be moved in translation along the longitudinal axis X. In this example, the connection collar 13 is initially positioned in the annular groove 51 of the first locking member 5A. It goes without saying that the first locking member 5A could just as easily be movable in translation in a manner analogous to the first securing member 6A. In other words, the first locking member 5A is initially in the standby position P-ATT and the first securing member 6A is initially in the free position P-LIB.

[0095] The method will be described for the connection of the connecting fitting 3 to the first pipe A, the connection of the second pipe B being identical.

[0096] In a first step E1, an operator positions the first connection end 41 opposite the connection end A1 of the first pipe A and moves the connecting member 4 along the longitudinal axis X in the direction of the connection end A1 of the first pipe A until the connection collar 43 comes into contact with the positioning ramp 14 of the free end of the first connector 1, so as to guide the connecting member 4. The first connection end 41 slides along the connection portion 12 of the first connector 1 and the connecting member 4 is moved axially until the connection collar 43 is positioned against the connection ramp 52 of the first locking member 5A. In other words, in this step E1, the first connection end 41 is partially fitted onto the connection portion 12 of the first connector 1.

[0097] The operator then continues the axial movement of the connecting member 4 along the longitudinal axis X, causing the connecting collar 43 to slide along the connecting ramp 52, in a step E2. The first locking member 5A deforms radially. In other words, in this step E2, the diameter of the main structure 50 increases as the operator moves the connecting member 4 and the two main portions 50a, 50b move apart. Thanks to the flexibility of the main structure 50 and the handle 56, the radial deformation does not cause over-stress in the first locking member 5A.

[0098] When the connecting collar 43 exceeds the connecting ramp 52, the latter is clipped into the annular groove 51, in a step E3. The first locking member 5A is automatically positioned in the locked position P-VER and the annular groove 51 is repositioned in the rest position and returns to its initial diameter D51. The connecting collar 13 and the connecting collar 43 are then locked in the annular groove 51 and no axial movement of the connecting member 4 is possible with respect to the connecting end A1 of the first pipe A.

[0099] Once the first locking member 5A is correctly positioned, the operator slides, in a fourth step E4, the first securing member 6A axially along the first pipe A, until the covering portion 61 radially covers the main structure 50 and therefore the annular groove 51 and the collars 13, 43. In practice, in this step E4, each curved section 65a, 65b is positioned angularly so as to cover the two main portions 50a, 50b. Two angular positions are possible for the first securing member 6A, which facilitates insertion by the operator. During this step E4, the locking finger 64 slides along the connecting tab 53 and is therefore radially moved away from its initial position. The flexible securing tab 63 is deformed to be radially moved away. Once in position, the first securing member 6A makes it possible to prevent any increase in the diameter of the first locking member 5A, thus preventing the removal of the connecting collar 43.

[0100] When the first securing member 6A is in position and the covering portion 61 externally covers the first locking member 5A, the securing tab 63 is no longer constrained and returns to its initial position, the locking finger 64 of the first securing member 6A is automatically inserted into one of the slots 54 of the first locking member 5A, so as to secure them, in a step E5. The first securing member 6A is then in the secure position P-SEC. The connecting connector 3 is thus connected to the first pipe A, the first locking member 5A and the first securing member 6A remaining secured to each other and free to rotate around the first pipe A.

[0101] All of the steps are then repeated for the connection of the connecting member 4 to the second pipe B.

[0102] A method of disconnecting a connecting fitting 3 will now be described in order to separate it, for example, from the first pipe A, with reference to [Fig. 10], according to an example of implementation. The first locking member 5A is initially in the locked position P-VER and the first securing member 6A is initially in the locked position P-SEC.

[0103] In a first step EA, the operator turns the assembly of the first locking member 5A and the first securing member 6A around the first pipe A, that is to say along the longitudinal axis X, so as to modify the angular position of the gripping member 66 of the first securing member 6A around the longitudinal axis X to make it accessible visually or manually by the operator.

[0104] The operator then grasps, in a step EB, the gripping member 66 of the first securing member 6A and applies a tensile force T so as to radially move the locking finger 64 away and to dislodge it from the slot 54 of the first locking member 5A. The first locking member 5A and the first securing member 6A are then separated from each other, which allows the axial sliding of the first securing member 6A. The operator moves the first securing member 6A along the longitudinal axis X so as to move it away from the connecting member 4, which makes it possible to remove the covering portion 61 which thus no longer covers either the first locking member 5A or the collars 13, 43. The first securing member 6A is thus placed in the free position P-LIB.

[0105] When necessary, the operator again turns the first locking member 5A around the first pipe A, so as to make the unlocking device 55 visible and / or easily accessible. In a step EC, the operator grasps the unlocking device 55 and applies, in this example, an opposite force F on each of the two arms 55a, 55b in the manner of crossed pliers. The two main portions 50a, 50b are radially spaced apart, which makes it possible to increase the diameter of the first locking member 5A. In a manner similar to the connection method, the flexibility of the main structure 50 and the handle 56 allow radial deformation of the first locking member 5A without this causing significant stress.

[0106] When the diameter of the first locking member 5A is sufficiently large, the connecting collar 43 is released and the operator moves, in a step ED, the connecting member 4 along the longitudinal axis X, so as to move away from the first locking member 5A.

[0107] In a step EE, the operator releases the force F on the unlocking device 55 and the first locking member 5A returns to its initial diameter and the waiting position P-ATT.

[0108] The connecting fitting according to the invention is both simple and quick to connect and disconnect and allows the operator to easily access the various components of the connecting fitting even when the latter is close to a wall, for example. In addition, the connecting fitting can be locked and secured, without any specific tools being required.

Claims

Claims

1. Fluid circuit (CF), in particular for aircraft, comprising: • at least one first pipe (A) comprising a connection end (Al) comprising a connector (1), hereinafter “first connector”, • at least one second pipe (B) comprising a connection end (Bl) comprising a connector (2), hereinafter “second connector”, the first pipe (A) and the second pipe (B) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), and • a connecting connector (3), for sealingly connecting the two connectors (1, 2), comprising: • a connecting member (4) comprising at least a first connecting end (41) configured to be mechanically connected to the first connector (1), and a second connecting end (42) configured to be mechanically connected to the second connector (2), • at least one first locking member (5A) mounted on the first pipe (A), the first locking member (5A) extending circumferentially around the first connector (1), the first locking member (5A) comprising an unlocking device (55), • the first locking member (5A) being configured to move between: • a waiting position (P-ATT), in which said first locking member (5A) is distant from the first connection end (41) of the connecting member (4), and • a locked position (P-VER) in in which the first locking member (5A) is mechanically connected to the first connecting end (41) of the connecting member (4) so ​​as to achieve axial locking along the longitudinal axis (X) of the first locking member (5A) and of the connecting member (4) relative to the connection end (Al) of the first pipe (A), • the first locking member (5A) being mounted to rotate freely around the first pipe (A) along the longitudinal axis (X) in the waiting position (P-ATT) and in the locked position (P-VER), so as to make the unlocking device (55) accessible whatever its angular position on the first locking member (5A) around the first pipe (A).

2. Fluid circuit (CF) according to claim 1, comprising at least one first securing member (6A) mounted on the first pipe (A), the first securing member (6A) extending circumferentially around the first pipe (A) and being configured to prevent the unlocking of the first locking member (5A) so as to prevent the separation of the first connector (1) and the first connection end (41), the first securing member (6A) being configured to move between: • a free position (P-LIB) in which the first securing member (6A) is distant from the first locking member (5A) and is mounted free in translation along the first pipe (A), and • a secure position (P-SEC) in which the first securing member (6A) is fixedly connected to the first locking member (5A) and is blocked in translation along the longitudinal axis (X), • the first safety member (6A) being free to rotate around the first pipe (A) in the free position (P-LIB) and in the secure position (P-SEC).

3. Fluid circuit (CF) according to claim 2, wherein the first securing member (6A) is configured to be mechanically connected to the first locking member (5A) by clipping.

4. Fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 2 to 3, in which the first locking member (5A) comprises a main structure (50) extending peripherally, the first securing member (6A) comprises a covering portion (61) which extends peripherally, the covering portion (61) of the first securing member (6A) is configured to radially cover at least in part the main structure (50) of the first locking member (5A), so as to prevent any radial deformation of the first locking member (5A).

5. Fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the first locking member (5A) is configured to be connected to the first connection end (41) of the connecting member (4) by clipping.

6. Fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the first locking member (5A) is configured to be deformed radially during a translation along the longitudinal axis (X) of the first connection end (41) towards the first connector (1), so as to achieve automatic locking of the first locking member (5A) relative to the first connection end (41).

7. Fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the unlocking device (55) is in the form of a system similar to a cross clamp.

8. Fluid circuit according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the connecting connector (3) is made of a thermoplastic material.

9. Aircraft comprising at least one fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Method for connecting at least a first pipe (A) and a connecting fitting (3) of a fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 8, the method comprising at least the steps of: • axially moving, along the longitudinal axis (X), the first connecting end (41) of the connecting member (4) so ​​as to bring the connecting member (4) closer to the first connector (1), and • lock the first locking member (5A) on the first connection end (41) so as to place it in the locked position (P-VER), • following the locking of the first locking member (5A) on the first connection end (41), the first locking member (5A) being free to rotate around the first connector (1).

11. Method for disconnecting at least one pipe (A) and a connecting fitting (3) of a fluid circuit (CF) according to one of claims 1 to 8, the method comprising at least the steps of: • rotate the first locking member (5A) around the first connector (1) so as to modify the angular position () of the unlocking device (55) and make it accessible, and • unlock, by means of the unlocking device (55), the first locking member (55), so as to release the first connection end (41) from the connecting member (4).

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