Fluidic fitting element and assembly

Abstract

Fluidic coupling element and assembly. Fluidic coupling element (1), comprising: a body (10); a locking ball (25); a locking ring (30), movable between a locking position, locking the locking ball (25) in a locked position, and a release position, releasing the locking ball (25); an actuating ball (27), for driving the locking ring (30) to the release position during coupling; and an operating ring (50), mounted around the locking ring (30) and comprising an internal radial wall (52), radially opposite the front annular portion (14) and whose diameter is less than the diameter of a cylinder (C52) coaxial with the body and comprising said actuating ball (27), the locking ring (30) comprising a radial lug (32) for being driven by the operating ring (50). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Fluidic fitting element and assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluidic connection element and a fluidic connection assembly comprising such a fluidic connection element.

[0002] FR2992048A1 describes a fluidic connection element comprising a body, A locking ring, actuating balls, and locking balls are used. The locking ring allows a complementary fluidic connection element coupled to the fluidic connection element to be locked and unlocked via the locking balls, which are radially movable relative to the body. The locking ring also acts as an operating ring, thanks to the actuating balls, which are movable within an elongated housing in the body. Coupling the complementary connection element to the fluidic connection element begins with the insertion of a flange from the complementary connection element into the fluidic connection element. This flange contacts the actuating balls and causes them to move rearward within the elongated housing; the actuating balls then drive the locking ring rearward.The locking ring provides a radial clearance space, which, when the ring is thus retracted, allows the locking balls to be radially moved from a locking position to a release position, thus permitting the introduction of the additional connecting element, including its flange.

[0003] However, in certain demanding applications, contaminants may become trapped between the locking ring and the outer surface of the body, particularly during the recoil of the locking ring. This phenomenon can, in the short or long term, cause difficulties in the movement of the locking and actuating balls and limit the sliding of the locking ring. Furthermore, it is difficult to select a single material for the locking ring that is suitable not only for the internal functional parts interacting with the balls and the body for locking, but also for the outer casing, which must be operable by the user.

[0004] The aim of the invention is therefore to propose a new fluidic coupling element which makes it possible, without increasing the effort required for coupling, to facilitate the choice of material and to reduce the risk of introducing pollution.

[0005] To this end, the invention relates to a fluidic connection element, configured to be coupled with a complementary fluidic connection element, the fluidic connection element comprising: • a body, coaxial with a central axis and into which the complementary fluidic connection element is fitted during coupling; • at least one locking ball, movable relative to the body, radially relative to the central axis, between: • a locking position, in which said at least one locking ball is capable of locking the additional fluidic connection element fitted into the body, and • an unlocking position, in which said at least one locking ball does not oppose the removal of the additional fluidic connection element; • a locking ring, movable relative to the body along the central axis between: • a locking position, in which at least one locking ball is locked in the locking position, • a release position, in which said at least one locking ball is free to be moved to the unlock position; • at least one actuating ball, received in an elongated housing of the body and configured to be pushed by the complementary fluidic connection element along the elongated housing, during coupling with the complementary fluidic connection element, so as to axially drive the locking ring from the locking position to the release position, the diameter of said at least one actuating ball being greater than the diameter of said at least one locking ball, said at least one actuating ball protruding radially outside a front annular portion belonging to the body; • means of return, to return the locking ring to the locking position.

[0006] According to the invention: • the connecting element comprises an operating ring, movable relative to the body along the central axis, mounted around the locking ring and comprising an internal radial wall, radially opposite the front annular portion of the body at the front of the elongated housing, and whose diameter is less than the diameter of a cylinder coaxial with the central axis and comprising said at least one actuating ball; and • The locking ring includes a radial lug, to be driven from the locking position to the release position by the operating ring.

[0007] One idea underlying the invention is to provide the locking ring and the operating ring separately, rather than a single locking ring as provided in the prior art. This allows the operating ring The cylindrical inner wall has a particularly narrow diameter, which limits the risk of contamination. The single ring of the prior art, which provides both locking and operation, could not easily have incorporated such a cylindrical inner wall without creating difficulties in the manufacture and assembly of the connecting element. Providing separate locking and operating rings also advantageously allows the use of two different materials. The operating ring can be made of a material suitable for user operation, while the locking ring can be made of a material suitable for interaction with the body and the locking and actuating balls. Furthermore, the inclusion of at least one actuating ball and its corresponding elongated housing reduces the force required for coupling.

[0008] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the invention comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0009] - The operating ring comprises a central internal wall, receiving the ring of locking and located behind the internal radial wall, and a rear internal wall, extending along the central axis between the median internal wall and a rear end of the operating ring and whose diameter is strictly greater than the outside diameter of the radial heel.

[0010] - The operating ring includes an internal cylindrical groove, arranged at the front of the median inner wall, of diameter greater than the diameter of the internal radial wall and adapted to receive said at least one actuating ball when the locking ring is in the release position.

[0011] - The external diameter of the front annular portion is substantially equal to the diameter of the internal radial wall of the operating ring.

[0012] - The return means include a spring, which bears against the radial heel and on the body and which pulls the locking ring back towards the locking position.

[0013] - The operating ring and the locking ring include means for stops through which the operating ring is driven backwards when the locking ring is moved from the locking position to the release position.

[0014] - The operating ring includes a rear internal groove and stop means include a rim, inserted between a rear edge of the radial heel and a rear edge of the rear internal groove.

[0015] - The operating ring is axially movable relative to the ring of locking, between an extreme forward position, in which a front part of the operating ring protrudes forward from the body, by a first length of overshoot and in which a return means drives the operating ring towards the extreme forward position; and an advanced position, rearward relative to the extreme forward position, in which the operating ring bears against the radial heel of the locking ring and in which the front part of the operating ring protrudes from the body forward, by a second overshoot length less than the first overshoot length.

[0016] - The locking ring comprises a front cylindrical portion, of diameter internal equal to the external diameter of the front annular part of the body, and by means of which the locking ring bears radially on a front bearing surface belonging to the body and on a rear bearing surface belonging to the body, in the locking position and in the release position.

[0017] - The front span and the rear span are axially separated by a length greater than one third, preferably greater than half of the internal diameter of the front cylindrical part.

[0018] - The locking ring comprises a front face and, during coupling, said at least one actuating ball presses on the front face to axially drive the locking ring to the release position.

[0019] - In the uncoupled configuration, the locking ring is in the forward stop against said at least one actuating ball.

[0020] - The operating ring and the locking ring are screwed into each other.

[0021] The invention also relates to a fluidic fitting assembly, comprising the fluidic connection element according to the above and the complementary fluidic connection element.

[0022] Preferably, the complementary fluidic connection element includes a seal forming an annular bead; and the operating ring includes a front extremity wall, which is conical and diverging forward, the front extremity wall being configured to come into contact with the annular bead, when the fluidic connection element is coupled with the complementary fluidic connection element, with said at least one locking ball in the locked position.

[0023] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0024] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] is a longitudinal section of a fitting assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising a fluidic fitting element and a complementary fluidic fitting element and being shown in a decoupled configuration.

[0025] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a section similar to that of [Fig.1], partial, where the fitting assembly is being coupled, at the point of tipping towards the valve opening.

[0026] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a section similar to that of [Fig.2], partial, where the coupling assembly is being coupled, with an operating ring in overtravel, and valves open.

[0027] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a section similar to that of [Fig.3], partial, where the coupling assembly is being coupled, with the actuating balls separated from the central axis.

[0028] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a section similar to that of [Fig.4], partial, where the coupling assembly is being coupled, with an operating ring in overtravel.

[0029] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a section similar to that of [Fig.5], partial, where the connecting assembly is coupled.

[0030] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a section similar to that of [Fig.6], partial, where the connecting assembly is being uncoupled.

[0031] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a longitudinal section of a fitting assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, comprising a fluidic fitting element shown in an uncoupled configuration and a complementary fluidic fitting element, omitted from [Fig.8] but identical to that of [Fig.1].

[0032] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a section similar to that of [Fig.8], partial, where the connecting assembly is coupled.

[0033] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a longitudinal section of a fitting assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention, comprising a fluidic fitting element shown in an uncoupled configuration and a complementary fluidic fitting element, omitted from [Fig. 10] but identical to that of [Fig. 1].

[0034] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a longitudinal section of a fitting assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, comprising a fluidic fitting element shown in an uncoupled configuration and a complementary fluidic fitting element, omitted from [Fig. 11].

[0035] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is a section similar to that of [Fig. 11], partial, where the connecting assembly is coupled.

[0036] Figures 1 to 7 show a fluidic fitting assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising a fluidic fitting element 1 and a complementary fluidic fitting element 70. The fluidic fitting element 1 is referred to as the "female element" and the element 70 as the "male element" or "end fitting." In [Fig. 1], the elements 1 and 70 are in an uncoupled configuration and are configured to reach a configuration where the elements 1 and 70 are coupled, as shown in [Fig. 6], after successive steps performed during the coupling process, such as shown chronologically in figures 2 to 5. When elements 1 and 70 are coupled, they are locked in this configuration and must be unlocked to be uncoupled again, as shown in [Fig.7].

[0037] Each connecting element 1 and 70 defines a central axis, respectively a central axis XI and a central axis X70, which are configured to be coaxial when the elements 1 and 70 are coupled.

[0038] A "front" or "distal" component, face, or direction for one of the connecting elements 1 and 70 is defined as being oriented towards the other connecting element 70 or 1 when they are mated. A "rear" or "proximal" component, face, or direction for one of the connecting elements 1 and 70 is defined as being oriented in the opposite direction to the other connecting element 70 or 1 when they are mated. An inner component or inner face is defined as being oriented towards, or closer to, the central axis XI or X70 of the connecting element 1 or 70 under consideration. An outer component and an outer face are defined as being oriented in the opposite direction to, or further from, the central axis XI or X70 of the element 1 or 70 under consideration.An internal direction is defined as being oriented radially towards the central axis XI or X70 of the connecting element 1 or 70 under consideration, and an external direction as being oriented radially in the opposite direction to the central axis XI or X70 of the element 1 or 70 under consideration.

[0039] The supplementary connecting element 70 comprises a body 71 coaxial with the axis X70, preferably formed by a base body 72 and a rear body 73 screwed to the base body 72. The body 71 is tubular along the axis X70, thus defining an internal volume open at each end of the body 71 for fluid circulation. At the rear end, the rear body 73 allows mechanical connection to a pipe or fluid passage plate, not shown, for example by means of an internal thread 74 of the rear body 73. At the front end, the base body 72 forms an open opening 77.

[0040] The complementary connecting element 70 includes a central valve 75, or valve, disposed in the internal volume, in the base body 72. The central valve 75 is movable along the axis X70 in the internal volume, between a closed position shown in [Fig.1], where the valve 75 closes the mouth 77 to prevent the passage of fluid through the internal volume, and an open position shown in [Fig.6], where the central valve 75 has been moved backward relative to the mouth 77, thus allowing the passage of fluid through the internal volume.

[0041] An annular seal 84 is preferably arranged around the central valve 75 to ensure the sealing of the closure when the valve 75 is in the closed position, the seal 84 then being radially interposed between the mouth 77 and the central valve 75.

[0042] The additional connecting element 70 includes a spring 76, disposed in the internal volume of the body 71 and pushing the valve 75 towards the closed position by bearing against the body 71.

[0043] The body 71, in particular the base body 72, has an outer radial wall 79 extending rearward from the front end. The body 71, in particular the base body 72, includes a collar 78, which is formed on the outer radial wall 79 and projects radially outward from the outer radial wall 79. The collar 78 includes a distal wall 80, which is inclined, for example, at about 40 degrees, with respect to the central axis X70.

[0044] The complementary connecting element 70 includes a front annular seal 81, carried externally by the body 71. In particular, the seal 81 is attached to the body in that a rear part of the seal 81 is received in a groove of the rear body 73. The seal 81 also includes an annular bead 82, in contact with an intermediate cylindrical wall 83 of the body 71, here for example formed by the base body 72, behind the wall 79 and the collar 78.

[0045] The connecting element 1 comprises a body 10, which extends along the central axis XL. The body 10 is tubular and coaxial with the axis XI, so as to define a through-body volume, open at a front end of the body 10 and at a rear end of the body 10, thus allowing fluid to pass through the body 10 from one end to the other. The body 10 preferably comprises a base body 11, forming the front end, and a rear body 12, forming the rear end and being fixedly attached to the base body 11 by being screwed into it. The base body 11 is preferably a part of revolution about the axis XL. Preferably, at the rear end, the body 10 is configured to be connected to a pipe or a fluid passage plate, not shown. For this purpose, for example, the rear body 12 has an internal thread 13.

[0046] The body 10, in particular the base body 11, includes a front annular portion 14, comprising the front end of the body 10.

[0047] The body 10, in particular the base body 11, comprises a central annular part 15, the internal diameter of which is reduced compared to that of the front annular part 14.

[0048] The body 10, in particular the base body 11, includes a rear annular part 16. The central annular part 15 connects the front annular part 14 to the rear annular part 16. Preferably, the rear body 12 is screwed onto the base body 11 by being screwed onto the rear annular part 16, which has a thread for this purpose.

[0049] The front annular part extends along the central axis XI between the central part 15 and the front end of the body 10. The front annular part 14 is of reduced thickness and contributes to the radial compactness of the connecting element 1.

[0050] The body 10 advantageously comprises a piston 17, which is arranged inside the internal volume and is advantageously coaxial with the axis XL. To be fixedly attached to the bodies 11 and 12, the piston 17 preferably comprises a foot 18 axially interposed between the bodies 11 and 12. The piston 17 also comprises a head 20, arranged forward relative to the foot 18, at the height of the central annular part 15 of the body 10.

[0051] As shown in Figures 2 to 7, the body 10 is configured to receive the complementary fluidic connection element 70 during coupling and once elements 1 and 70 are coupled. In particular, the body 71 is fitted into the internal volume of the body 10. During coupling and once coupled, the body 71, in particular the base body 72, is arranged radially between the piston 17 and the body 10.

[0052] As shown in [Fig. 1], the valve 75 is in the closed position when the connecting element 70 is in the uncoupled configuration. During coupling with the connecting element 1, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the valve 75, initially in the closed position, comes to rest against the head 20 of the piston 17, so that, while the body 71 is moved forward relative to the body 10, the valve 75 is pushed backward from the body 71 by the head 20 until it reaches the open position, against the action of the spring 76.

[0053] The connecting element 1 comprises an annular spool 19, or valve, which is disposed within the internal volume of the body 10. The spool 19 is movable relative to the body 10 along the axis XI, between a closed position shown in [Fig. 1], where the spool 19 is arranged at the height of the head 20 of the piston 17 so as to be radially interposed between the body 10 and the head 20, thus closing the internal volume to prevent the passage of fluid, and an open position shown in [Fig. 7], where the spool 19 is behind the head 20, thus allowing the passage of fluid through the internal volume of the body 10. In the closed position, the annular spool 19 is preferably supported forward against the central annular portion 15, which forms for this purpose, for example, a conical internal wall on the rear of the central annular portion 15.

[0054] The connecting element 1 includes a spring 21, disposed in the internal volume of the body 10 and pushing the drawer 19 towards the closed position by bearing against the body 10.

[0055] During coupling, as shown in figures 1 to 5, the slide 19, initially in the closed position, comes to rest against the front end of the body 71, so that, while the body 71 is moved forward relative to the body 10, the valve 75 is pushed back from the body 10 by the front end of the body 71 until it reaches the open position, against the action of the spring 21.

[0056] The central annular portion 15 advantageously has two grooves on its inside for housing annular seals 22 and 23. An annular seal 24 is advantageously positioned around the head 20 of the piston 17. When element 1 is uncoupled, the spool 19 is in the closed position and is radially interposed between the seal 22 and the seal 24, as shown in [Fig. 1]. This ensures the sealing of the internal volume of the body 10. At the beginning of the coupling, as the spool 19 is moved rearward from the closed position toward the open position, the seal 23, arranged rearward relative to the seal 22, takes over from the seal 23 to ensure the sealing of the obturator. The seals 22 and 23 thus constitute a pair of seals which advantageously form a double sealing barrier for the entire fluid coupling assembly. The coupling continues, as shown in [Fig.[2], the base body 72, fitted into the internal volume of the body 10 and pushing back the slide 19, is received by being interposed between the seals 22 and 24, the wall 79 in contact with the seal 22 and the mouth 77 in contact with the seal 24. The body 72 thus takes over from the slide 19 to keep the internal volume of the body 10 closed. Similarly, at the beginning of the coupling, while the valve 75 is pushed back, the seal 24 of the head 20 of the piston 17 comes into contact with the mouth 77 to take over from the seal 84 carried by the valve 75, and thus keep the internal volume of the body 71 closed.

[0057] The connecting element 1 comprises several locking balls 25, here nine locking balls 25. At least one locking ball 25 is provided. Each locking ball 25 is received in a respective radial housing 26, belonging to the front annular portion 14 of the body 10. Each housing 26 passes radially through the body 10. Each housing 26 is preferably cylindrical, centered on a radial axis with respect to the axis XL. Each housing 26 has the same diameter as the ball 25 it receives. In the illustrated example, where the figures are to scale, the balls 25 have a diameter of 4.5 mm (millimeters).

[0058] Each ball 25 is movable relative to the body 10, along a radial axis with respect to the axis XI, its movement guided by the housing 26 that receives it. The ball 25 moves between a locked position, shown in Figures 1, 2, 5, and 6, and an unlocked position, located outside the locked position. However, the ball 25 is not movable parallel to the axis XI with respect to the body 10.

[0059] As shown in [Fig. 6], when the fluidic fitting assembly is coupled, each ball 25 is in the locking position to lock the fluidic fitting element 70 inserted into the body 10, and thus maintain the coupled fluidic fitting assembly, as explained below. When the fluidic fitting assembly is coupled and the ball 25 is allowed to move to the unlocked position, the ball 25 does not prevent the fitting element 70 from being withdrawn. of body 10, thus allowing the disconnection of the connecting assembly, as explained below.

[0060] At its inner end, each housing 26 advantageously has a diameter reduction, to prevent the ball 25 from being moved inwards until it escapes from the housing 26 when the connecting element 1 is uncoupled.

[0061] The connecting element 1 comprises several actuating balls 27, here three actuating balls 27. At least one actuating ball 27 is provided. Each actuating ball 27 is received in a respective elongated housing 28, which passes radially through the front annular portion 14 of the body 10. Each housing 28 passes radially through the body 10. Each housing 28 is elongated, i.e., oblong, parallel to the axis XL. Thus, each housing 28 has a length, measured parallel to the axis XI, which is greater than its width, measured ortho-radially with respect to the axis XL. Over the entire length of the housing 28, the width is equal to the diameter of the ball 27 that this housing 28 receives. In the illustrated example, the balls 27 have a diameter of approximately 5 mm. Balls 27 have a larger diameter than balls 25.

[0062] Preferably, radial housings 26 and 28 are positioned at the same height on the body 10, along the axis XL. In particular, the housings 26 are positioned at the height of one rear end of the housings 28. Preferably, the housings 26 and 28 are evenly distributed around the axis XL.

[0063] Each ball 27 is movable relative to the body 10, along a respective longitudinal axis parallel to the axis XI, being guided in this mobility by the housing 28 which receives it. The mobility of the ball 27 occurs from the front end to the rear end of the housing 28. Each ball 27 is also movable relative to the body 10, along a respective radial axis, being guided in this mobility by the housing 28 which receives it, preferably for any position of the ball 27 relative to the body 10 along the axis XL

[0064] At its inner end, each housing 28 advantageously includes a reduction in cross-section to prevent the ball 27 from being displaced inwards and escaping from the housing 28 when the connecting element 1 is uncoupled. The reduction in cross-section is advantageously achieved by providing, at the bottom of the elongated housing 28, an inclined wall 29, for example formed by the milling tool that formed the housing 28. The wall 29 is advantageously inclined at approximately 70° with respect to an axis that is radial to the axis XI and that passes through the housing 28.

[0065] In the unlocked configuration of the connecting element 1, the actuating ball 27 is in a forward position relative to the body 10, abutting the front end of the housing 28.

[0066] The connecting element 1 includes a locking ring 30, which is arranged around the body 10, in particular around the base body 11. The locking ring 30 is movable relative to the body 10 along the axis XL. The ring 30 is preferably arranged in front of the rear body 12 for all its positions relative to the body 10. The mobility of the ring 30 is between a locking position, shown in Figures 1, 2, 5 and 6, and one or more release positions, shown in Figures 3, 4 and 7.

[0067] The locking ring 30 includes a radial heel 32 forming the rear end of the ring 30, and, advantageously, a cylindrical front portion 31, in front of the radial heel 32.

[0068] The inner diameter of the front cylindrical portion 31 is equal to, or at least close to, the outer diameter of the front annular portion 14 of the body 10. The front cylindrical portion 31 is then in contact with the front annular portion 14, which thus ensures the radial guidance of the locking ring 30 by sliding on the front annular portion 14. In other words, the front annular portion 14 forms a front bearing surface 35 belonging to the body 10, on which the locking ring 30 bears, via the front portion 31, in both the locked and unlocked positions. More precisely, the bearing surface 35 is formed by a radial surface at the rear of the elongated housings 28, the outer diameter of which is equal to the inner diameter of the front cylindrical portion 31.In other words, the ring 30 is always in contact with the front annular part 14 of the body 10 constituting the front bearing surface 35, regardless of the position of the ring 30 relative to the body 10.

[0069] The body 10 also includes a rear bearing surface 36, which is formed by a rear flange projecting from an external radial surface of the central annular portion 15. The inner diameter of the front cylindrical portion 31 is equal to, or at least close to, the outer diameter of the rear flange of the body 10. The front cylindrical portion 31 is thus in contact with the flange, thereby constituting the rear bearing surface 36, which provides radial guidance for the locking ring 30 by sliding on the rear bearing surface 36. The locking ring 30 bears against the rear bearing surface 36, via the front portion 31, in both the locked and unlocked positions. In other words, the ring 30 is always in contact with the bearing surface 36, regardless of the position of the ring 30 relative to the body 10.

[0070] In itself, providing two separate bearing surfaces 35 and 36 allows for optimal guidance of the locking ring 30 and limits the effects of wedging. Preferably, the front bearing surface 35 and the rear bearing surface 36 are axially separated by a length greater than one-third, and preferably greater than half, of the internal diameter of the front cylindrical portion 31.

[0071] The radial heel 32 advantageously forms an outer ring 33, which extends radially outwards from the front cylindrical portion 31. For example, the outer ring 33 has a diameter of approximately 33.8 mm. The radial heel 32 has an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the front cylindrical portion 31.

[0072] The radial heel 32 advantageously forms an internal ring 34, which extends radially into the inside of the front cylindrical part 31, i.e. having an internal diameter less than that of the cylindrical part 31.

[0073] Preferably, the rear flange of the body 10, which already forms the rear bearing 36, also forms the axial stop 37, against which the locking ring 30 comes to rest forward via the internal ring 34 of the radial heel 32.

[0074] The preceding provisions make the locking ring 30 advantageously radially small in size.

[0075] At its front end, the locking ring 30 advantageously has a front face 38, preferably in the form of a conical wall centered on the axis XI, which diverges forward. Preferably, the front face 38 is oriented at an angle of approximately 38 degrees with respect to the central axis XL. This front face 38 is referred to as the "actuating slope," since it is through this surface that the locking ring 30 interacts with the actuating balls 27.

[0076] The connecting element 1 includes return means for returning the locking ring 30 to the locking position. Here, the return means consist of a spring 39, which is mounted around the body 10, in particular around the base body 11. The spring 39 bears, at the front, on the ring 30, in particular on the radial heel 32. The spring 39 bears, at the rear, on the body 10, in particular on a front wall of the rear body 12. The spring 39, thus interposed between the ring 30 and the body 10, returns the locking ring 30 to the locking position.

[0077] In different configurations of the connecting element 1 illustrated in figures 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6, in particular in uncoupled configuration, in coupled configuration and at the beginning of coupling, the locking ring 30 is supported forward against the actuating balls 27 via the front face 38. In these configurations, the front face 38 holds the actuating balls radially inwards, against the inclined wall 29.

[0078] In the locked position, the locking ring 30 locks the locking balls 25 in the locked position. To achieve this, the locking ring 30, in particular the front cylindrical portion 31, covers the housings 26 so as to prevent the locking balls 25 from moving towards the release position.

[0079] In the release position, the locking ring 30 does not impede the movement of the balls 25 between the locking and release positions. For this reason, the locking ring 30 is recessed rearward relative to the housings 26, by so as to expose them at least partially, which allows the balls 25 to move radially outwards. In particular, in the release position, the front face 38 of the front cylindrical part 31 is clear towards the rear.

[0080] The actuating balls 27 protrude radially from the part 14 of the body 10 outwards, in particular so as to be able to make rearward contact against the locking ring 30, namely against the front face 38. Preferably, the balls 27 protrude in this way in all configurations of the connecting element 1, in particular the coupled configuration, the uncoupled configuration and throughout the coupling.

[0081] The actuating balls 27 protrude radially from part 14 of the body 10 inwards, so that they can be pushed rearward by the distal wall 80 of the collar 78 during coupling. The actuating balls 27 protrude radially from part 14 of the body 10 inwards in the uncoupled configuration, at the beginning of coupling, and in the coupled configuration, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7.

[0082] As shown in [Fig. 1], in the uncoupled configuration of the coupling where the ball 27 is in the forward position, the actuating ball 27 is axially interposed between the inclined wall 29 of the elongated housing 28 and the front face 38 of the locking ring 30. The presence of the inclined wall 29 prevents the ball 27 from being ejected into the body 10. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, during coupling, the distal wall 80 of the flange 78 bears against the actuating ball 27, thus pushing the actuating balls 27 rearward along the elongated housing 28. Consequently, the actuating balls 27 are axially interposed between the distal wall 80 of the flange 78 and the front face 38 of the locking ring 30, and in turn push the locking ring 30 from the locking position to the release position.The distal wall 80 then pushes the balls 27 against the force applied by the spring 39 on the locking ring 30. In this situation also, the presence of the inclined wall 29 prevents the ball 27 from being ejected into the body 10.

[0083] The fact that the balls 27 come into contact with the front face 38 of the locking ring 30 advantageously limits the radial size of the locking ring 30.

[0084] Furthermore, the fact that the locking ring 30 is supported forward against the balls 27 in the uncoupled configuration implies that the balls 27 are in position to drive the locking ring 30 backward as soon as they come into contact with the collar 78 of the element 70.

[0085] The connecting element 1 includes an operating ring 50, disposed around the locking ring 30 and movable relative to the body 10 along the central axis XL. The operating ring 50 is primarily intended to be operated by a user of the connecting element 1 to unlock the connecting element 1 when the connecting element 1 is in mated configuration.

[0086] The locking ring 30, in particular the cylindrical front part 31, is received in the operating ring 50, in particular in a median internal wall 51 of the operating ring 50.

[0087] In this embodiment, the ring 50 is movable not only relative to the body 10, but also relative to the locking ring 30, along the axis XL. To this end, the median inner wall 51 is cylindrical in shape with a diameter adjusted to that of the front part 31 of the locking ring 30, so that the rings 30 and 50 slide relative to each other along the axis X10, in particular by sliding the median inner wall 51 around the front part 31.

[0088] The operating ring 50 includes an internal radial wall 52, radially opposite the front annular portion 14 of the body 10, preferably for any position of the ring 50 relative to the body 10. In other words, the wall 52 is at the same height as the front annular portion 14 for any position of the ring 50 relative to the body 10. The wall 51 is behind the wall 52.

[0089] The internal radial wall 52 has a diameter measured radially to the axis XI, for example, 30.5 mm, which is less than the diameter of a cylinder C52, centered on the central axis XI and comprising the actuating balls 27. That is to say, the cylinder C52, centered on the central axis XI, is tangent to the actuating balls 27 on the outside of the body 10. This limits the introduction of contaminants between the ring 50 and the body 10. The cylinder C52 is tangent to the balls 27 and is defined for the balls 27 in an internal radial position, that is, as they are positioned in a configuration uncoupled from the element 1. For example, the external diameter of the front annular portion 14 of the body 10 is approximately 30 mm. In the present example, the cylinder C52 has a diameter of 31 mm. Regardless of the diameters chosen, the wall 52 preferentially has a reduced radial clearance with the front annular part 14 of the base body 11.Preferably, the external diameter of the front annular portion 14 is substantially equal to the diameter of the internal radial wall 52 of the operating ring 50. By "substantially," it is meant that the external diameter of portion 14 is equal to the diameter of the wall 52, with the presence of a clearance, as small as possible, allowing the radial wall 52 to slide along portion 14 along the axis XL. The dimensioning of the internal radial wall 52 allows for a compact front end of the operating ring 50 and, more generally, for a compact radial shape of the casing of the connecting element 1 on its front part. This dimensioning is advantageous for the size and weight of the connecting element 1.

[0090] In the present example, the internal radial wall 52 is cylindrical and coaxial with the axis XI, that is to say, it has the same diameter over a certain length. However, "internal radial wall" also covers the case where the wall 52 forms a circular edge centered on the axis XI, which is then of smaller diameter than the diameter of the cylinder C52.

[0091] Alternatively, the operating ring 50 could carry a seal, received in a groove formed in the wall 52, and cooperating with the front annular portion 14, to further limit the introduction of contaminants. In this case, the edge of the groove, formed by the wall 52, is provided to have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the cylinder C52.

[0092] The operating ring 50 advantageously comprises an internal cylindrical groove 55, arranged axially between the internal radial wall 52 and the internal medial wall 51. In other words, the groove 55 is located behind the wall 52 and in front of the wall 51. At the height of the groove 55, the diameter of the operating ring is greater than that of the walls 51 and 52 and of the cylinder C52, and is, for example, 34 mm. The internal medial wall 51 has, for example, a diameter of 32 mm, which is smaller than the diameter of the groove 55.

[0093] As shown in [Fig. 4], the groove 55 is configured to receive the actuating balls 27 when the locking ring 30 is in the locked position. In this position, the actuating balls 27 are radially external relative to the body 10. The locking balls 25 are also radially external. Advantageously, the groove 55 is closed by the internal median wall 51 so that the space for receiving the actuating balls 27 and the locking balls 25 is not exposed to external contaminants.

[0094] Preferably, the operating ring 50 comprises a rear conical wall 58, diverging towards the rear, which connects the wall 52 to the groove 55. Preferably, the operating ring 50 comprises a front conical wall 60, diverging towards the front, which connects the groove 55 to the wall 51.

[0095] The operating ring 50 advantageously includes a rear internal groove 56, at the rear of the middle wall 51. The rear internal groove 56 has, for example, a diameter of 36 mm.

[0096] At the rear of the groove 56, the operating ring 50 advantageously comprises a rear internal wall 53, which is cylindrical. Along the axis XI, the wall 53 extends from the groove 56 to a rear end 54 of the ring 50. The rear internal wall 53 has an external diameter strictly larger than the external diameter of the heel 32 of the locking ring 30, which advantageously allows, during the assembly of the connecting element 1, for the operating ring 50 to be fitted onto the locking ring 30 from the front, or for the locking ring 30 to be fitted into the operating ring 50 from the rear. The wall 53 has, for example, a diameter of 34 mm. The groove 56 advantageously connects the wall 51 to the wall 53. The diameter of the internal radial wall 52 is smaller than the diameter of the external ring 33 of the radial heel 32, which necessitates assembly by the fitting of the operating ring 50 onto the locking ring 30 from the front.

[0097] A front edge 57 of the groove 56 preferentially forms a front stop surface for the outer ring 33 of the heel 32 of the locking ring 30, in the locking position of the locking ring 30.

[0098] The groove 56 advantageously accommodates a ring 59, having a cross-section, for example, with a diameter of 1.5 mm. The ring 59 preferentially forms a rear abutment surface for the outer ring 33 of the heel 32 of the locking ring 30, the ring 59 itself bearing rearward against a rear edge 61 of the groove 56. More precisely, a rear edge 69 of the outer ring 33 of the heel 32 bears against the ring 59, the ring 59 being interposed between said rear edge 69 of the heel 32 and the rear edge 61. The ring 30 is then captive of the ring 50, in that the heel 32 is axially captured between the front edge 57 and the ring 59.

[0099] More generally, the front edge of the groove 56 and the rear edge 61, together with the ring 59, form stop means for the locking ring 30 in its axial movement forward and backward relative to the operating ring 50. This assembly allows, for example, an axial clearance of 0.5 mm between the two rings 30 and 50. In doing so, the operating ring 50 is axially mobile relative to the locking ring 30 between an extreme forward position, shown in Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, and an advanced position, shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7, backward relative to the extreme forward position. In the extreme forward position, the ring 50 is butted forward against the ring 30 by the butting of the rim 59 against the heel 32. In the advanced position, the ring 50 is butted backward against the ring 30 by the butting of the front edge 57 against the heel 32.

[0100] By means of these stop means and the outer ring 33 of the heel 32, the operating ring 50 is driven rearward when the locking ring 30 is moved from the locking position to the release position, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Conversely, the locking ring 30 is driven from the locking position to the release position by the operating ring 50 via the outer ring 33 of the heel 32, through said stop means, when the operating ring 50 is driven rearward relative to the body 10, as shown in [Fig. 7]. This rearward movement of the ring 50 is, for example, performed by the user. The implementation of these stop means thus results in the axial movement of the rings 30 and 50 being linked.These stopping means also imply that the stopping of the operating ring 50 does not need to be carried out using the body 10, which advantageously allows the ring 50 to be mounted from the front during the assembly of the connecting element 1.

[0101] It also follows from these stop means that the spring 39 tends to move the operating ring 50 forward, via the locking ring 30, when the heel 32 comes to rest against the front edge 57 of the groove 56. This makes it possible to obtain good radial compactness of the connecting element 1, since the drive of the ring 50 by the spring 39 is carried out indirectly, namely via the ring 30.

[0102] Preferably, the connecting element 1 also includes a protective sleeve 63, a front bead 64 of which is received in an external groove belonging to the operating ring 50 and a rear bead 65 of which is received in a groove belonging to the body 10, in particular the rear body 12. The protective sleeve 63 is preferably made of elastomer or plastic. The protective sleeve 63 is a part of revolution about the axis XL. The sleeve 63 is elastically deformable, for example like a bellows, so that the bead 64 can move axially relative to the bead 65. The sleeve 63 thus protects the space between the end 54 of the ring 50 and the body 10 against the introduction of contaminants.

[0103] Preferably, the elasticity of the protective sleeve 63 is sufficient for the sleeve 63 to serve as an elastic return means for the operating ring 50, relative to the body 10. The protective sleeve 63 thus returns the operating ring 50 forward relative to the body 10. The sleeve 63 thus tends to drive the ring 50 towards the extreme forward position, relative to the locking ring 30.

[0104] Preferably, the operating ring 50 comprises a front extremity wall 62, located in front of the internal radial wall 52 and behind the front portion 66. The front extremity wall 62 is conical and diverges forward. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the front extremity wall 62 comes into contact with the annular bead 82 of the seal 81 at the end of the coupling of the fluidic connection element 1 with the complementary fluidic connection element 70 and, when they are coupled, with the balls 25 in the locking position. The seal 81 thus makes the coupled connection assembly sealed against external contaminants that might enter between the body 71 and the ring 50.

[0105] As shown in [Fig.1], in the extreme forward position of the ring 50, a front part 66 of the operating ring 50 protrudes from the body 10, in particular from the part 14, forward, by a first protrusion length L50A, measured parallel to the axis XL. The front part 66 constitutes the front end of the ring 50, forward with respect to the wall 52 and the extreme front wall 62. In the unlocking configuration, the length L50A is reached.

[0106] As shown in [Fig. 6], in the advanced position of the ring 50, the front part 66 of the operating ring protrudes from the body 10, in particular from the part 14, forward by a second protrusion length L50B which is less than the first Overhang length L50A. Preferably, lengths L50A and L50B are measured for the same position of the locking ring 30, for example when the locking ring 30 is in the locking position.

[0107] Depending on the distance between the bead 82 and the flange 78 of the connecting element 70, the ring 50 assumes a position relative to the body 10 between the extreme forward position and the advanced position when the fluidic connection assembly is coupled. In other words, the axial play between the ring 50 and the ring 30 advantageously allows the ring 50 to have a position adapted to the geometric variations of the connecting element 70. In the case of [Fig. 6], the ring 50 is positioned as follows: for the complementary connecting element 70, the bead 82 is closer to the flange 78 than for other complementary connecting elements.

[0108] Preferably, the ring 50 is made of brass, while the ring 30, the body 10 and the balls 25 and 27 are made of stainless steel.

[0109] Alternatively, the spring 39 is removed and the protective sleeve 63, by its high elastic capacity, can suffice to perform the function of a return means for the locking ring 30. In other words, in this variant, the protective sleeve 63 is sufficiently elastic to drive the locking ring 30 from the release configuration to the locking configuration via the operating ring 50 and the stop means.

[0110] Alternatively, the angle of the distal wall 80 of the collar 78 is greater than the angle of the front face 38 with respect to the central axis XI.

[0111] Below, a method is described for coupling the coupling assembly described above, when it was uncoupled.

[0112] As shown in [Fig.2], the element 70 is inserted into the element 1 by the user while the element 1 was in the uncoupled configuration, which first causes the piston 17 to be pressed against the valve 75 and the body 71 against the slide 19, so that the valve 75 and the slide 19 begin their movement towards the rear of the body 71 and 10 of their respective element 70 and 1.

[0113] As shown in [Fig. 2], the element 70 then comes into contact with the actuating balls 27, which are pushed rearward from their elongated housing 28 by the collar 78. Each actuating ball 27 is then wedged between the locking ring 30 and the element 70, specifically between the inclined front face 38, for example at 38 degrees, and the inclined distal wall 80, for example at 40 degrees. A force with an inward radial resultant is thus applied to the balls 27 and ensures that they remain engaged between the element 70 and the locking ring 30 when the element 70 pushes the balls 27 back. The axial displacement of the actuating balls 27 axially drives the locking ring 30 against the spring 39, which makes the connecting element 1 "automatic".

[0114] The locking ring 30, pressed by the spring 39, compensates for any axial play with the circlip 59 and the rear edge 61 of the operating ring 50. By inserting the element 70, the locking ring 30 drives the circlip 59, which in turn drives the operating ring 50 rearward. As the operating ring 50 retracts, the protective sleeve 63 folds back. The radial wall 52 of the operating ring 50, which was aligned with the front annular portion 14, remains aligned with the front annular portion 14, thus limiting the intrusion of dust during operation. Each actuating ball 27 is pushed rearward by the collar 78, without yet being in contact with the rear end of the elongated housing 28 that receives it.

[0115] When the collar 78 comes into contact with the locking balls 25, the centers of the locking balls 25 and the actuating balls 27 are substantially radially aligned, apart from geometric differences, given that the diameters of the balls 25 and 27 are different. The operating ring 50 is driven sufficiently to the rear so that the inner median wall 51 is rearward relative to the balls 25 and 27, while the groove 55 reaches the height of the balls 25 and 27 along the axis XI, providing radial clearance for the balls 25 and 27 for their external radial movement. In this configuration, each locking ball 25 has radial clearance relative to the locking ring 30, and each actuating ball 27 is not yet in contact with the rear end of the elongated housing 28 that receives it.This radial play allows each locking ball 25 to begin its radial movement outwards in its housing 26, by the advancement of the collar 78 of the complementary element 70. .

[0116] As shown in [Fig. 3], the progression of the complementary element 70, and therefore that of the locking ring 30, continues against the forces produced by the springs 21, 39, and 76. When the actuating balls 27 come into contact with the rear end of their respective elongated housing 28, the position reached by the locking ring 30 allows the locking balls 25 to be released. This ensures that the locking balls 25 do not interfere with the rearward movement of the locking ring 30 and limits the effort required by the user for coupling. In this configuration, the locking balls 25, pushed radially outwards by the collar 78, protrude radially beyond the body 10, particularly beyond the part 14.Therefore, if the actuating balls 27 were to lose contact with the complementary element 70, the locking ring 30, pushed forward by the spring 39, could not be pushed back into a position where the ring 30 could block the actuating balls 27 beyond the flange 78 and where the locking balls 25 would not be in the locking position beyond the end flange 78. In other words. It is not possible to pass the actuating balls 27 behind the collar 78 without locking the complementary element 70 with the locking balls 25. This avoids a situation in which an unlocked configuration would be reached, not visible to the user.

[0117] As shown in [Fig. 4], each actuating ball 27 is then guided radially outwards by cooperation with the surface of the elongated housing 28 that receives it, under the progression of the complementary element 70, until the actuating ball 27 passes over the flange 78. Simultaneously, the locking ring 30 continues its recoil relative to the body 10. At the same time, or just before the actuating balls 27 pass over the flange 78, the locking balls 25 allow the flange 78 to pass through. As shown in [Fig. 5], the locking ring 30 is pushed forward relative to the body 10 by the spring 39, into the locked position where the ring 30 blocks the locking balls beyond the flange 78.The median inner wall 51 of the operating ring 50 then indirectly covers the locking balls 25, which guides the locking ring 30 and confirms the locking with the locking ring 30.

[0118] Throughout the coupling phase, the locking balls 25 have no effect on the movement of the locking ring 30. The coupling is automatic in the sense that the user's sole action of inserting the two connecting elements 1 and 70 has led to the coupling. In particular, no additional action is required from the user to retract the locking ring 30.

[0119] As shown in [Fig. 6], when the coupling assembly is coupled, the locking ring 30 is pushed forward against the actuating balls 27, which do not come into contact with the complementary element 70. Indeed, the locking ring 30 is not abutted against the rear flange of the bearing surface 36, while the actuating balls 27 are in contact with the front face 38 of the locking ring and held at the bottom of the elongated housing 28 by the force of the spring 39. The position of the locking ring 30 relative to the body 10 when the coupling assembly is coupled is axially identical to the position of the locking ring 30 in the uncoupled configuration. The operating ring 50 is pushed forward by the protective sleeve 63 and is in tight contact forward with the annular bead 82 of the seal 81 of the complementary element 70.

[0120] Below, a method for uncoupling the coupling assembly described above, when it was coupled, is described.

[0121] For disengagement, as shown in [Fig. 7], the user moves the operating ring 50 back from the body 10. The operating ring 50 thus moves the locking ring 30 from the locking position to the release position by pushing the ring 50 rearward against the radial heel 32. This also releases a radial space for the locking balls 25 in the groove 55 of the operating ring 50. Also, the actuating balls 27 are pushed back by the collar 78 into the groove 55. The user then removes the additional element 70, which is also pushed back by the springs 21 and 76. The two elements 1 and 70 are thus dissociated, i.e. uncoupled.

[0122] Figures 8 and 9 show a fluidic fitting assembly according to a second embodiment, which is identical to that of Figures 1 to 7, except that a support ring 90 is interposed radially between the operating ring 50 and the locking ring 30. The support ring 90 is held in forward contact against the rear of the ring 59 by the action of a spring 91, positioned between the support ring 90 and the rear body 12. The spring 91 replaces the spring 39, which is absent in this embodiment. While the spring 39 is a return means for directly returning the locking ring 30 to the locked position, the spring 91 provides an indirect return means, which returns the locking ring 30 to the locked position by acting via the operating ring 50.

[0123] Figure 11 shows a fluidic coupling assembly according to a third embodiment, which is identical to that of Figures 1 to 7, except that the locking ring 30 and the operating ring 50 are fixed relative to each other. For this purpose, the locking ring 30 has an external thread 95, carried by the front cylindrical portion 31, and the inner medial wall 51 of the operating ring 50 has a corresponding thread. Ring 30 is screwed into ring 50 by screwing the external thread 95 into the tapped hole, so that ring 50 is always supported rearward against the heel 32 of ring 30. In this embodiment, ring 50 remains capable of driving ring 30 rearward via the heel 32, by being permanently supported against the heel 32. In this embodiment, the support ring 90 and the circlip 59 are not required.In the absence of ring 90 and rim 59, the dimensions of the rear groove 56 can be reduced, or the rear groove 56 can be removed.

[0124] Figures 11 and 12 show a fluidic fitting assembly according to a fourth embodiment, which is identical to that of Figures 1 to 7, except that the body 71 of the complementary element 70 comprises, in place of the external radial groove of the rear body 73 housing the seal 81, a groove open towards the front and housing an annular seal 94. The operating ring 50 no longer has the front extreme wall 62, but the front part 66, constituting the front end of the ring 50, here constitutes a front face perpendicular to the axis XI, which comes into axial contact with the seal 94. The front part 66 is here adjacent to the radial wall 52, since the wall 62 which separated them is absent.

[0125] For this embodiment, the fact that the rings 50 and 30 are movable relative to each other remains advantageous, since this allows the connecting assembly coupled to guarantee contact between the seal 94 and the ring 50 to maintain the seal between the two elements 1 and 70 at the level of the seal 94, by adapting the position of the ring 50 relative to the ring 30 in order to adapt to the geometry of the complementary element 70.

[0126] Any feature described above for one of the embodiments is applicable to the other embodiments, insofar as technically possible.

Claims

1. Demands Fluidic connection element (1), configured to be coupled with a complementary fluidic connection element (70), the fluidic connection element (1) comprising: • a body (10), coaxial with a central axis (XI) and into which the complementary fluidic connection element (70) is fitted during coupling; • at least one locking ball (25), movable relative to the body (10), radially relative to the central axis (XI), between: • a locking position, in which said at least one locking ball (25) is capable of locking the additional fluidic connection element (70) fitted into the body (10), and • an unlocking position, in which said at least one locking ball (25) does not oppose the removal of the additional fluidic connection element (70); • a locking ring (30), movable relative to the body (10) along the central axis (XI) between: • a locking position, in which said at least one locking ball (25) is locked in the locking position, • a release position, in which said at least one locking ball (25) is free to be moved to the unlock position; • at least one actuating ball (27), received in an elongated housing (28) of the body (10) and configured to be pushed by the complementary fluidic connection element (70) along the elongated housing (28), during coupling with the complementary fluidic connection element (70), so as to axially drive the locking ring (30) from the locking position to the release position, the diameter of said at least one actuating ball (27) being greater than the diameter of said at least one ball of locking (25), said at least one actuating ball (27) extending radially outside a front annular portion (14) belonging to the body (10); • return means (39; 91), for returning the locking ring (30) to the locking position; characterized in that: • the connecting element comprises an operating ring (50), movable relative to the body (10) along the central axis (XI), mounted around the locking ring (30) and comprising an internal radial wall (52), radially opposite the front annular portion (14) of the body (10) at the front of the elongated housing (28), and whose diameter is less than the diameter of a cylinder (C52) coaxial with the central axis (XI) and comprising said at least one actuating ball (27); and • the locking ring (30) includes a radial heel (32), to be driven from the locking position to the release position by the operating ring (50).

2. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to claim 1, wherein the operating ring (50) comprises: • a median inner wall (51), receiving the locking ring (30) and located behind the internal radial wall (52), and • a rear inner wall (53), extending along the central axis (XI) between the median inner wall (51) and a rear end (54) of the operating ring (50) and whose diameter is strictly greater than the outside diameter of the radial heel (32).

3. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to claim 2, wherein the operating ring (50) comprises an internal cylindrical groove (55), arranged in front of the internal median wall (51), of a diameter greater than the diameter of the internal radial wall (52) and adapted to receive said at least one actuating ball (27) when the locking ring (30) is in the release position.

4. Fluidic connection element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external diameter of the front annular part (14) is substantially equal to the diameter of the internal radial wall (52) of the operating ring (50).

5. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the return means (39) comprise a spring, which bears on the radial heel (32) and on the body (10) and which returns the locking ring (30) to the locking position.

6. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating ring (50) and the locking ring (30) comprise stop means (59) through which the operating ring (50) is driven backwards when the locking ring (30) is moved from the locking position to the release position.

7. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to claim 6, wherein: • the operating ring (50) comprises a rear internal groove (56); and • the stop means comprise a ring (59), interposed between a rear edge (69) of the radial heel (32) and a rear edge (61) of the rear internal groove (56).

8. Fluidic coupling element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating ring (50) is axially movable relative to the locking ring (30), between: • an extreme forward position, in which a front portion (66) of the operating ring (50) protrudes forward from the body (10) by a first overhang length (L50A) and in which a return means (63) drives the operating ring (50) towards the extreme forward position; and • an advanced position, rearward relative to the extreme forward position, in which the operating ring (50) bears against the radial heel (32) of the locking ring (30) and in which the front portion (66) of the operating ring (50) protrudes forward from the body (10) by a second overhang length (L50B) less than the first overhang length (L50A).

9. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking ring (30) comprises a front cylindrical portion (31), of internal diameter equal to the external diameter of the front annular portion (14) of the body (10), and by means of which the locking ring (30) bears radially on a front bearing surface (35) belonging to the body (10) and on a rear bearing surface (36) belonging to the body (10), in the locking position and in the release position.

10. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to claim 9, wherein the front bearing (35) and the rear bearing (36) are axially separated by a length greater than one third, preferably greater than half the internal diameter of the front cylindrical part (31).

11. Fluidic coupling element (1) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein: • the locking ring (30) comprises a front face (38); and • during coupling, said at least one actuating ball (27) presses on the front face (38) to axially drive the locking ring (30) to the release position.

12. Fluidic coupling element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the uncoupled configuration, the locking ring (30) is abutted forward against said at least one actuating ball (27).

13. Fluidic connecting element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or 9 to 12, wherein the operating ring (50) and the locking ring (30) are screwed into each other.

14. Fluidic connection assembly, comprising: • the fluidic connection element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; and • the complementary fluidic connection element (70).

15. Fluidic connection assembly according to claim 14, wherein: • the additional fluidic connection element (70) comprises a seal (81) forming an annular bead (82); and the operating ring (50) includes a front extreme wall (62), which is conical and diverging forward, the front extreme wall (62) being configured to come into contact with the annular bead (82), when the fluidic connection element (1) is coupled with the complementary fluidic connection element (70), with said at least one locking ball (25) in the locked position.

Images