Connector and corresponding connection system

Abstract

Connector for a connection system, the connector comprising a base including a flange (13) extended by a first end of a tube (16) and by a second end, opposite the first end, by a connection interface (17) intended to be associated with a female connector of the fluid connection system, the base being at least partly made of plastic, the connector comprising a capsule (28), also at least partly made of plastic, the capsule being arranged on the base by means of at least one elastically deformable ring (23) of the connector, the capsule thus having a portion attached to the base extended by a connection interface, an orifice (19) being provided in the connector so as to pass through at least the capsule and the base. Associated connection system. FIGURE IN ABRIDGED DIAGRAM: Fig. 3

Description

Title of the invention: Connector and corresponding connection system

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a connection system comprising such a connector.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Due to environmental and / or safety constraints, certain fluids must not be released into the atmosphere, such as refrigerants (like R1234 refrigerant) or hydrogen. Therefore, in applications involving the transfer of such fluids, i.e., fluids with a high risk of permeability, the connection systems between two components must be particularly leak-proof.

[0005] With reference to [Fig.1] is illustrated a male connector 1 of the prior art.

[0006] Such a connector comprises a flange 2 for its attachment to a female connector, flange 2 extended at the top by a tube 3 and at the bottom by a tubular connection interface 4. One or more grooves 5a, 5b are provided externally on the tubular connection interface in order to allow the installation of one or more O-rings 6a, 6b, O-rings 6a, 6b ensuring the sealing of the connection between the male connector 1 and the female connector.

[0007] Such a male connector 1 is usually made of stainless steel or aluminum and is a single piece. Thus, the flange 2, the tube 3 and the connection interface 4 form a single piece, usually made of metal.

[0008] Such a male connector 1, although effective from a sealing point of view, has the disadvantage of being rigid, which complicates its assembly in fluid transport installations.

[0009] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The invention aims in particular to provide a solution to facilitate the implementation of a connection system in a fluid (gas and / or liquid) transport installation. Summary of the invention

[0011] For this purpose, according to the invention, a connector for a connection system is provided, the connector comprising a base including a flange extended by a first side of a tube and by a second side, opposite to the first side, by a connection interface intended to be associated with a second connector of the fluidic connection system.

[0012] According to the invention, the base is at least partly made of plastic and the connector comprises a capsule, also at least partly made of plastic, arranged on the base, the capsule thus having a portion of attachment to the base extended by a connection interface, an orifice being provided in the connector so as to pass through at least the capsule and the base, at least one elastically deformable ring of the connector being arranged at least partly between the capsule and the base.

[0013] The invention thus makes it possible to make the connection system incorporating it more flexible, which facilitates the assembly of the connection system in fluid transport installations.

[0014] Furthermore, the invention proves particularly advantageous in demanding environments, especially those subject to vibrations. Indeed, the invention is less sensitive to vibrations than prior art systems. The invention thus ages less rapidly.

[0015] Moreover, such an invention proves to be relatively lightweight and / or inexpensive to produce.

[0016] For the purposes of this application, "plastic material" means any material comprising a non-zero percentage of at least one plastic. "Plastic material" may therefore also incorporate elements other than plastic, such as reinforcing fibers and, for example, glass fibers.

[0017] Optionally, the ring is at least partly made of elastomer.

[0018] Optionally, wherein the ring and the tube are provided with coupling means and / or wherein the ring and the capsule are provided with their coupling means.

[0019] Optionally, the coupling means comprise at least one male organ / female organ pair, the male organ being carried by a first element chosen from the ring, the tube or the capsule and the female organ being carried by a second element, different from the first element, second element chosen from the ring, the tube or the capsule, knowing that either the male organ or the female organ is carried by the ring.

[0020] Optionally, the male organ is shaped into a sausage-like form capable of being inserted into a groove formed by the female organ.

[0021] Optionally, the groove is rounded or frustoconical.

[0022] Optionally, the male organ and / or the female organ winds in a helix around the element bearing it.

[0023] Optionally, the connector includes a conduit fixed to the connection interface of the capsule, the capsule externally surrounding a section of said conduit.

[0024] Optionally, the conduit is only in contact with the capsule in the connector.

[0025] Optionally, the system has a gap between the ring and the flange on one side and between the capsule and the flange on the other.

[0026] Optionally, the capsule rests on the base only by means of the ring.

[0027] The invention also relates to a connection system comprising a connector as mentioned above, the connector being a first connector, and a second connector inserted into said first connector.

[0028] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of particular, non-limiting embodiments of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0029] Reference will be made to the attached drawings, among which:

[0030] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is an axial cross-sectional view of a prior art male connector;

[0031] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a front view of a connector according to a first mode of realization of the invention;

[0032] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an axial cross-sectional view of the connector illustrated in [Fig.2];

[0033] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a connection system including the connector shown in [Fig.2];

[0034] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is an exploded view of the connection system illustrated in [Fig.4]

[0035] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of a connection system incorporating a connector according to a third embodiment of the invention;

[0036] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is an axial cross-sectional view of a connector according to a second method of embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] With reference to figures 2 to 5, a connection system 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention will be described.

[0038] The connection system 10 comprises a first connector 11. The first connector 11 includes a base 12 comprising a mounting flange 13 having two main faces 14, 15. Preferably, the two main faces 14, 15 are parallel to each other. The flange 13 is here semi-oval in shape.

[0039] The base 12 also includes a tube 16 extending axially along a first axis X from a first of the main faces 14 of the flange 13 in the opposite direction to the second main face 15. For example, the first axis X forms a normal to the plane in which the first main face 14 and / or the second main face 15 extend.

[0040] The tube 16 is not centered on the flange 13 here. For example, the tube 16 extends from a first longitudinal end of the flange 13.

[0041] The base 12 also includes a connection interface 17 extending axially from the second main face 15 in the opposite direction to the first main face 14. Preferably, the connection interface 17 extends axially along an axis parallel to or coinciding with the first X axis. In the present case, the connection interface 17 extends axially along the first X axis. The connection interface 17 and the tube 16 thus extend coaxially with respect to each other.

[0042] The connection interface 17 is preferably tubular in shape.

[0043] At least one groove, and in the present case two grooves 18a, 18b, are provided on the outer perimeter of the connection interface 17. At least one groove surrounds the connection interface 17 at 360 degrees. At least one groove is a groove of rounded shape and for example a groove whose radial section is in arc of circle and for example in semicircle.

[0044] A first orifice 19 extends through the base 12. In particular, the first orifice 19 extends successively through the tube 16, the flange 13, and the connection interface 17. Preferably, the first orifice 19 extends axially along an axis parallel to or coinciding with the first X-axis. In the present case, the first orifice 19 extends axially along the first X-axis. The first orifice 19, the connection interface 17, and the tube 16 thus extend coaxially with respect to each other. The first orifice 19 is centered here within the tube 16 and the connection interface 17.

[0045] Furthermore, the flange 13 is provided with at least one second orifice 20 which also passes through it, just like the first orifice 19. The second orifice 20 extends, however, outside the tube 16 and the connection interface 17. The second orifice 20 thus opens at a first end level with the first longitudinal face 14 and at a second end level with the second longitudinal face 15.

[0046] Preferably, the second orifice 20 extends axially along a second axis A parallel but not coincident with the first axis X. In the present case, the second orifice 20 is thus offset from the first orifice 19.

[0047] The second orifice 20 is not centered on the flange 13 here. For example, the second orifice 20 extends into a second longitudinal end of the flange 13.

[0048] Base 12 is at least partly made of plastic. Preferably, the entire base 12 is made of plastic.

[0049] The plastic material is, for example, nylon-based or nylon-based. The plastic material is, for example, a composite with a plastic-based matrix (nylon, for example) reinforced with fibers (and, for example, glass fibers). Preferably, the tube 16, the connection interface 17, and the flange 13 are a single piece. The base 12 is therefore formed from a single piece. The base 12 is thus obtained, for example, by molding.

[0050] The first connector 11 preferably comprises at least one insert 21 arranged inside the second orifice 20. For example, the insert 21 is made of metal. For example, the base 12 is overmolded onto the insert 21.

[0051] The first connector 11 preferably comprises at least one O-ring arranged in a groove of the connection interface. In the present case, the connector 11 comprises two O-rings 22a, 22b, each O-ring 22a, 22b being arranged in one of the grooves 18a, 18b of the connection interface.

[0052] The first connector 11 also includes an elastically deformable ring 23 arranged on the base 12. More specifically, the ring 23 is arranged on the tube 16 of the base 12. The ring 23 is therefore arranged on the tube 16, externally to it. In particular, the ring 23 surrounds the tube 16 at least 360 degrees along at least one section thereof.

[0053] For example, the ring 23 extends axially along the tube 16 such that a first axial end of the ring 23 touches the flange 13 and / or such that the first end of the ring 23 extends without touching the flange 13. In the latter case, there will then be a clearance ji between the ring 12 and the flange 13 (the clearance being measured along the first X-axis). This clearance ji is, for example, between 0 (not included) and 5 millimeters.

[0054] For example, the ring 23 extends axially along the tube 16 such that a second axial end of the ring 23 extends beyond a free axial end of the tube 16. Preferably, said second axial end has a rim 24 covering at least part of at least one upper face 25 of said free axial end. For example, said upper face 25 forms a flat ring. Correspondingly, the rim 24 forms a flat ring resting on the flat ring forming the upper face 25. The contact between the rim 24 and the upper face 25 is then a plane-to-plane contact.

[0055] Preferably, the entire upper face 25 is covered by the second axial end of the ring 23. Of course, the first orifice 19 is not covered by said second axial end of the ring 23.

[0056] The ring 23 is preferably arranged so as to extend axially along an axis parallel to or coinciding with the first axis X. In the present case, the ring 23 extends axially along the first axis X. The ring 23 and the tube 16 thus extend coaxially with respect to each other. The ring 23 is therefore centered on the tube 16.

[0057] The ring 23 is preferably formed from a single piece.

[0058] The ring 23 is made of or based on at least one elastomer. Base 23 is, for example in or based on at least one of the following components: EPDM, NBR, HNBR, etc.

[0059] Preferably, the ring 23 and the tube 16 are provided with coupling means. For example, the coupling means comprise at least one pair of male organs 26 / female organ 27, at least one of the male organs 26 or female organs 27 being carried by the ring 23 and the other of the male organs 26 or female organs 27 being carried by the tube 16. For example, the female organ 26 is a groove and the male organ 27 is a tube adapted to fit into the groove. For example, the groove is a rounded groove, and for example, a groove whose radial section is an arc of a circle, and for example, a semicircle.

[0060] Preferably, the male organ 26 is integral with the element supporting it (tube 16 or ring 23). Preferably, the female organ 27 is formed directly within the element supporting it (tube 16 or ring 23).

[0061] Preferably, at least one of the coupling members is shaped so as to wind helically around the element carrying it (the screw thread of the helix being regular or not).

[0062] This makes it easier, for example, to manufacture the ring 23 and / or the base 12. This makes it possible, for example, to increase the contact surfaces between the ring 23 and the base 12, improving the retention of the ring 23 on the base 12.

[0063] For example, the male organ 26 winds helically around the associated element, and the associated female organ 27 forms a corresponding groove helically around the associated element. For example, at least one of the coupling organs makes at least one turn around the element bearing it, and optionally at least two turns, and optionally at least three turns.

[0064] Preferably, the male organ 26 helically surrounds the element bearing it over its entire height (along the first axis X) and / or the female organ 27 helically surrounds the element bearing it over its entire height (along the first axis X).

[0065] A helical groove with a regular pitch is here formed in the outer circumference of the tube 16. Correspondingly, the ring 23 has a helical bead with a regular pitch arranged on the inner circumference of the ring 23.

[0066] When the ring 23 is in place on the tube 16, it therefore externally covers an upper section of the tube 16 as well as the upper face 24 of said tube 16. The first orifice 19 thus also extends through the ring 23 which is arranged around the tube 16.

[0067] Advantageously, the bead can locally deform in case of relative displacement between the ring 23 and the tube 16.

[0068] The first connector 11 also includes a capsule 28 arranged on the base 12.

[0069] The capsule 28 is more particularly arranged here on the tube 16. The capsule 28 is therefore arranged on the tube 16, externally to it. In particular, the capsule 28 surrounds the tube at least one section of it, at a 360-degree angle.

[0070] For example, the capsule 28 extends axially along the tube 16 such that a first axial end of the capsule 28 touches the flange 13 and / or such that the first axial end of the capsule 28 extends without touching the flange 13. In the latter case, there will then be a gap between the capsule 28 and the flange 13 (the gap being measured along the first X-axis). This gap will then be, for example, between 0 (not included) and 5 millimeters. This gap will be, for example, equal to jb

[0071] For example, the capsule 28 extends axially along the tube 16 so that a second axial end of the capsule 28 extends beyond the free axial end of the tube 16.

[0072] The capsule 28 is preferably arranged so as to extend axially along an axis that is parallel to or coincides with the first axis X. In the present case, the capsule 28 extends axially along the first axis X. The capsule 28 and the tube 16 thus extend coaxially with respect to each other. The capsule 28 is therefore centered on the tube 16.

[0073] In fact, the capsule 28 is not in direct contact with the tube 16. Indeed, the ring 23 is arranged between the tube 16 and the capsule 28.

[0074] The capsule 28 is thus arranged on the ring 23. The capsule 28 is here in direct contact with the ring 23 i.e. no intermediate part is arranged between the ring 23 and the capsule 28 for at least one area of ​​the capsule 28.

[0075] The capsule 28 is therefore arranged on the ring 23, externally to it. In particular, the capsule 28 surrounds the ring 23 at least one segment of it at 360 degrees.

[0076] For example, the capsule 28 extends axially along the ring 23 so that the first axial end of the capsule 28 comes to the level of the first axial end of the ring 23. Preferably, the first axial end of the ring 23 and the first axial end of the capsule 28 extend in the same plane.

[0077] For example, the capsule 28 extends axially along the ring 23 so that a second axial end of the capsule 28 extends beyond the second axial end of the ring 23.

[0078] It is therefore understood that no portion of the capsule 28 is in direct contact with the tube 16 or the flange 13, or the base 12 in general. The capsule 28 is thus arranged on the base 12 only via the ring 23.

[0079] It is also understood that the capsule 28 and the ring 23 extend coaxially with respect to each other. The capsule 28 is thus centered on the ring 23.

[0080] The capsule 28 is here shaped so as to present an attachment portion 29 to the base 12, attachment portion 29 extended by a connection interface 30.

[0081] The capsule 28 is here shaped into a solid of revolution about an axis B. The axis B is preferably coincident with the X axis when the capsule 28 is in place on the ring 23. The attachment portion 29 is here shaped into a cylinder, as is the connection interface 30.

[0082] The attachment portion 29 has a cross-section (optionally a flat ring) whose external diameter (diameter being taken in the broadest mathematical sense in this application) is larger than that of the cross-section (optionally a flat ring) of the connection interface 30. Thus, the attachment portion 29 and the connection interface 30 together form a shoulder 31 of the capsule 28. The shoulder 31 is thus arranged on the external surface of the capsule 28. The shoulder 31 may be straight or have a fillet. The capsule 28 therefore narrows in the opposite direction to the base 12.

[0083] In fact, it is therefore the attachment portion 29 which is arranged on the tube 16 so that the first axial end of the attachment portion 29 is that at the level of the first attachment end of the ring 23. The second axial end of the attachment portion 29 forms the shoulder 31 with the first axial end of the connection interface 30.

[0084] The shoulder 31 is shaped so as to cover at least part of the rim 24 of the ring 23. In the present case, said rim 24 forms a flat ring and correspondingly the shoulder 31 forms a flat ring resting on said rim 24. The contact between the rim 24 and the shoulder is then a plane / plane contact.

[0085] Preferably, the entire rim 24 is covered by the capsule 28 and in particular by its shoulder 31. Of course, the first orifice 19 is not covered by the capsule 28.

[0086] It is therefore understood that the connection interface 30 extends entirely beyond the ring 23 along the first X axis.

[0087] Preferably, the ring 23 and the capsule 28 are provided with coupling means. For example, the coupling means comprise at least one pair of male organ 32 / female organ 33, with at least one of the male organs 32 or female organ 33 being carried by the ring 23 and the other of the male organs 32 or female organ 33 being carried by the capsule 28. In the present case, it is the attachment portion 29 of the capsule 28 that carries the coupling organ(s) of the capsule 28. For example, the female organ 33 is a groove and the male organ 32 is a bead adapted to fit into the groove. For example, the groove is a rounded groove, and for example, a groove whose radial cross-section is an arc of a circle, and for example, a semicircle.

[0088] Preferably, the male organ 32 is integral with the element bearing it (capsule 28 or ring 23). Preferably, the female organ 33 is formed directly within the element bearing it (capsule 28 or ring 23).

[0089] Preferably, at least one of the coupling members is shaped so as to wind helically around the element carrying it (the screw thread of the helix being regular or not).

[0090] This makes it easier to manufacture the capsule 28. This makes it possible, for example, to increase the contact surfaces between the ring 23 and the capsule 28, improving the hold of the capsule 28 on the ring 23.

[0091] For example, the male organ 32 winds helically around the associated element, and the associated female organ 33 forms a corresponding groove helically around the associated element. For example, at least one of the coupling organs makes at least one turn around the element bearing it, and optionally at least two turns, and optionally at least three turns. Preferably, the male organ 32 helically surrounds the element bearing it over its entire height (along the first X-axis), and / or the female organ 33 helically surrounds the element bearing it over its entire height (along the first X-axis).

[0092] A helical groove with a regular pitch is here provided in the inner circumference of the capsule 28. Correspondingly, the ring 23 has a helical bead with a regular pitch arranged on the outer circumference of the ring 23.

[0093] When the capsule 28 is in place on the ring 23, it therefore externally covers an upper portion of the ring 23 as well as the upper face of said ring 23. The first orifice 19 thus also extends through the capsule 28, which is arranged around the ring 23, and in particular extends through the capsule 28 along its entire height (height considered along the X-axis). It is therefore understood that the first orifice 19 extends successively through the capsule 28, the ring 23, and the base 12.

[0094] Advantageously, since the ring 23 is elastically deformable, the sausage can locally deform during the relative displacement between the ring 23 and the capsule 28.

[0095] The capsule 28 is at least partly made of plastic. Preferably, the entire capsule 28 is made of plastic. The plastic material is made of or based on nylon.

[0096] The capsule is obtained for example by molding.

[0097] Preferably, the ring 23 is not mounted on the base 12 and then the capsule 28 is mounted on the ring 23. In fact, and preferably, the capsule 28 is first mounted on the base 12 and then the ring 23 is obtained by overmolding into the base 12 and capsule 28 assembly. For this purpose, the capsule 28 is, for example, provided with at least one injection port (visible here in Figures 4 and 5): once the capsule 28 is in place on the base 12, a liquid material is, for example, injected through the injection port to reach the space extending between the capsule 28 and the base 12. When this material solidifies, It then forms ring 23 (optionally with a finishing machining step).

[0098] In this way, the ring 23 is manufactured relatively easily.

[0099] In this way, the ring 23 is "chemically" bonded to the capsule 28 on the one hand and to the base 12 on the other hand.

[0100] Preferably, the attachment portion 29, the connection interface 30, and the shoulder 31 are formed as a single unit. The capsule 28 is therefore formed as a single piece. The capsule 28 is thus obtained, for example, by molding.

[0101] Preferably, the first connector 11 also includes at least one conduit 34. The conduit 34 is shaped into a rigid tube.

[0102] The conduit 34 is more particularly arranged here in the connection interface 30 of the capsule 28. The capsule 28, and more particularly its connection interface 30, therefore externally surrounds a first axial end of the conduit 34. In particular, the capsule 28 surrounds the conduit 34 at least one segment of it, including said first axial end of the conduit 34, at 360 degrees.

[0103] Preferably, a seat 37 is provided in the connection interface 30 so that the first axial end of the conduit 34 can bear against this seat 37. In this way, the conduit 34 is in contact only with the connection interface 30 in the first connector 11. In particular, the conduit 34 is not in contact with either the ring 23 or the base 12. The seat 37 is, for example, formed by an internal shoulder in the connection interface 30. Preferably, the seat 37 is arranged at the first axial end of the connection interface 30. In this way, the conduit 34 is arranged in the connection interface 30 over a large part of the height of the connection interface 30. The seat 37 is, for example, formed by a bore in the connection interface 30.

[0104] Thus, the conduit 34 extends axially along the connection interface 30 so that its first axial end rests on the seat 37 of the connection interface 30.

[0105] For example, the conduit 34 extends axially along the connection interface 30 so that a second axial end of the conduit 34 extends beyond the second axial end of the connection interface 30 (and therefore of the capsule 38).

[0106] The conduit 34 is preferably arranged so as to extend axially along an axis parallel to or coinciding with the first axis X. In the present case, the conduit 34 extends axially along the first axis X. The conduit 34 and the capsule 28 thus extend coaxially with respect to each other. The conduit 34 is therefore centered on the capsule 28.

[0107] The conduit 34 is, for example, at least partly made of plastic. Preferably, the entire conduit 34 is made of plastic. The plastic material is, for example, made of or based on nylon.

[0108] Pipe 34 is for example single-layer or multi-layer.

[0109] For example, at least one of the conduit 34 or the capsule 28 is made of a thermoplastic material.

[0110] The capsule 28 is for example overmolded onto the pipe 34 and / or welded to the pipe 34 and / or glued to the pipe 34 and / or is one piece with the pipe 34 (i.e. the capsule 28 and the pipe 34 form a single piece).

[0111] In the case of welding and / or gluing, the welded and / or glued areas preferably belong to the side walls opposite the conduit 34 and the connection interface 30.

[0112] If the pipe 34 is welded to the capsule 28, the pipe 34 and / or the capsule is preferably made of a material compatible with a welding process intended (for example in the case of a laser welding process, the pipe 34 and / or the capsule are made of a plastic material transparent to laser radiation) and / or are made of materials compatible with each other by welding.

[0113] The weld is for example a friction weld and / or a laser weld.

[0114] In all cases, it is therefore understood here that the ring 23 is fixed to the capsule 28 on the one hand and base 12 on the other. The ring 23 + capsule 28 + base 12 assembly therefore forms a unitary assembly.

[0115] The various elements described (and in particular the ring 23) are sealed against the fluid transported by the connection system 10.

[0116] Moreover, the first orifice 19 extends successively through the conduit 34, the capsule 28, the ring 23 and the base 12. The first orifice 19 has the same diameter over its entire length (considered along the first axis X) when it passes through each of these four elements.

[0117] The first connector 11 thus described is multi-material with in particular elastomer for the ring 23 and plastic material for the base 12 and the capsule 28. The flexible ring 23 is thus implanted in a more rigid assembly (base 12 and capsule 28).

[0118] Chemical adhesion is thus made possible between the base 12, the ring 23 and the capsule 28 thanks to the manufacturing process of the ring 23.

[0119] As more clearly seen in [Fig. 5], the connection system 10 also includes a second connector 111. The second connector 111 here includes a mounting flange 113 having two main faces 114, 115. Preferably, the two main faces 114, 115 are parallel to each other. The flange 113 is here semi-oval in shape.

[0120] The flange 113 also includes a connection interface 117: said connection interface 117 is here formed as an orifice extending axially through the flange 113 along an axis which is parallel or coincident with the first axis X when the two flanges 13, 113 are fixed together.

[0121] The connection interface 117 is not centered on the flange 113 here. For example, the connection interface 117 extends from a first longitudinal end of the flange 113.

[0122] In fact, when the two main faces 14, 114 of the two flanges are in contact with each other, the connection interface 17 of the base 12 is arranged inside the tubular connection interface 117. The second connector 111 is therefore here a female connector and the first connector 11 a male connector.

[0123] The two flanges 13, 113 are further fixed to each other so as to be rigidly attached. For example, the two flanges 13, 113 are fixed to each other by a stud / nut assembly. For example, the flange 113 is provided with a stud 121 arranged to pass through the hole 20 of the flange 13. The stud 121 is, for example, screwed into the flange 113 so as to be rigidly attached to the flange 113. The stud 121 extends, for example, from the main face 114 towards the first connector 11.

[0124] The second connector 111 is at least partly made of plastic. Preferably, the entire second connector 111 is made of plastic. The plastic material is, for example, nylon-based. The plastic material is, for example, a composite with a plastic-based matrix (nylon, for example) reinforced with fibers (and, for example, glass fibers).

[0125] Advantageously, the second connector can be a prior art connector.

[0126] The described connection system 10 can, for example, be implemented in a medium-pressure fluid transport installation, i.e., for pressures ranging from approximately 35 to 45 bars.

[0127] Such a connection system 10 can for example be implemented in a refrigerant transport installation such as for example in an air conditioning installation.

[0128] Such a connection system 10 can for example be implemented in a fluid transport installation such as a land vehicle such as a car.

[0129] Such a connection system 10 is for example installed in an air conditioning system of a land vehicle.

[0130] In all the aforementioned applications, the fluid may be, for example, a refrigerant. In all the aforementioned applications, the fluid may be, for example, carbon dioxide (thus forming a refrigerant) and / or hydrogen and / or a R1234yf refrigerant and / or R1234ze refrigerant and / or R123 refrigerant and / or R1234 refrigerant, etc.

[0131] If the fluid is hydrogen, the ring 23 shall preferably be made of or based on NBR or HNBR. If the fluid is a refrigerant, the ring 23 shall preferably be made of or based on EPDM.

[0132] The connection system 10 described has many advantages.

[0133] For example, base 12 provides a rigid connection with the second connector 111.

[0134] For example, the base 12 allows the first connector 11 to better withstand mechanical stresses (for example, pressure and / or temperature).

[0135] For example, the ring 23 makes it possible to create a rigid connection between the base 12 and with a pipe connected to the conduit 34.

[0136] For example, the ring 23 allows the first connector 11 to better withstand mechanical stresses (for example, pressure and / or temperature).

[0137] For example, the coupling means make it possible to increase the adhesion surfaces between the ring 23 and the base 12 on the one hand and between the ring 23 and the capsule 28 on the other hand.

[0138] For example, the coupling means make it possible to increase the mechanical resistance of the first connector 11.

[0139] For example, the coupling means allow for a better distribution of stresses on the ring 23 (in tension and / or compression and / or shear) and / or vibration stresses. This slows down the aging of the ring 23.

[0140] For example, the coupling means make it possible to ensure better resistance of the ring 23 in at least one, and for example in all, the directions of space.

[0141] For example, the first connector 11 exhibits good vibration resistance. This is particularly advantageous when the connection system 10 is part of a vehicle's air conditioning system. Indeed, in such a system, the connection system 10 is particularly exposed to vibrations induced by a compressor of the air conditioning system and / or by a vehicle engine and / or by the vehicle body.

[0142] For example, the connection system 10 has better endurance and / or ages more slowly.

[0143] For example, the connection system 10 is relatively inexpensive to produce and repair.

[0144] For example, the connection system 10 makes it possible to do away, at least in part, with prior art mounting elements (such as flexible tubing) which aged quickly and / or were expensive.

[0145] For example, the connection system 10 is easier to mount in a fluid transport installation.

[0146] With reference to [Fig.6], a second embodiment will now be described.

[0147] Whereas in the first embodiment base 12 was formed from a single piece, in the second embodiment, the base 12 is formed of a first piece 12a and a second piece 12b.

[0148] The first part 12a is here formed by the flange 13. Preferably, the first part 12a is at least partly made of metal. Preferably, the entire first part 12a is made of metal. The metal may, for example, be made of or based on aluminum and / or iron and / or stainless steel,

[0149] The second part 12b is here formed by the tube 16 + connection interface 17 assembly. Preferably, this tube 16 + connection interface 17 assembly is a single piece, i.e., forms a single and same part.

[0150] Preferably, the second part 12b is at least partly made of plastic. Preferably, the entire second part 12b is made of plastic. The plastic material is, for example, made of or based on nylon.

[0151] The two parts 12a and 12b can be fixed together, to form the base 12, by any known means and for example by overmolding and / or gluing and / or screwing and / or external fixing means of screw / nut type and / or by welding, etc.

[0152] Apart from what has just been indicated, everything that has been said for the first embodiment is also applicable to the second embodiment.

[0153] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0154] Thus the first connector and / or the second connector may be different from what has been indicated.

[0155] For example, although here the first connector has two grooves, the first connector may have a single groove or more grooves than two.

[0156] For example, although here the first connector has two sealing gaskets (such as O-rings), the first connector may have a single sealing gasket or more than two sealing gaskets.

[0157] For example, the second axial end of the capsule may be flat and / or beveled (preferably with a bevel in the direction of the inside of the conduit).

[0158] Although here the rim of the ring and the upper face of the free axial end of the base tube are shaped into flat rings, this is not limiting and said rim or said upper face may have another shape. For example, said upper face may be convex towards the ring and / or said rim It can be curved in the opposite direction to the ring. Thus, instead of being flat, the contact between said rim and said upper face can be surface-like and, for example, partly hemispherical.

[0159] Furthermore, although here the rim of the ring and the shoulder of the capsule are shaped into flat rings, this is not limiting, and said rim or shoulder may have another shape. For example, said shoulder may be convex in the opposite direction to the ring and / or said rim may be convex in the direction of the shoulder. Thus, instead of being flat, the contact between said rim and said shoulder may be surface-based and, for example, partly hemispherical. The coupling means may differ from what has been indicated. Therefore, there may be a different number of male / female organ pairs than indicated between the base and the ring and / or between the ring and the capsule. The organs carried by an element may then be distributed (or not) at regular intervals along said element.The male organs may optionally be carried by one element and the female organs by the other element (or vice versa).

[0160] Regardless of the number of male / female organ pairs in the associated connector, the shape of at least one of said organs may be different from what has been indicated.

[0161] Figure 7 thus illustrates a configuration in which at least one groove, forming a female organ 35, is a trapezoidal groove, for example, a groove whose radial section is trapezoidal, for example, a regular trapezoid. Preferably, the shape of the sausage-shaped element, forming a male organ 36, is similar to that of the groove receiving it. Thus, in the case of Figure 7, the sausage-shaped element associated with the trapezoidal groove is itself trapezoidal in shape.

[0162] Regardless of the number of male / female organ pairs in the associated connector and the shape of its radial cross-section, although here each male and female organ winds helically around the supporting element, at least one of the organs may be shaped differently. For example, at least one of the organs may be shaped as a ring wound around the supporting element (the ring being arranged concentrically or non-concentrically with the supporting element). Such a configuration is shown, for example, in [Fig. 7]. It is also possible to have at least one male / female organ pair of the gear type with teeth (the male organs) fitting into grooves (the female organs). The gear may then be circumferential and / or axial. Generally, it is possible to have at least one male / female organ pair (of the raised element / recessed element type) of the helical and / or gear and / or sinusoidal type (etc.).) whether in the circumferential and / or axial and / or radial direction.

[0163] Although here the ring only includes male organs, the ring may include only female organs and / or a mix of female and male organs. Such a configuration is shown for example in [Fig.7].

[0164] The capsule and / or the ring and / or the base and / or the conduit may be shaped so that the first orifice does not maintain a constant cross-section over its entire length.

[0165] Although here the ring is obtained by overmolding after the capsule and base are assembled, the ring may be obtained by overmolding only one of the base or the capsule. The base may also be obtained separately and then assembled onto the capsule and the base.

[0166] Although here the second connector is a female connector and the first connector a male connector, the roles can be reversed so that the first connector has a tubular connection interface into which the connection interface of the second connector is received.

[0167] Although the various elements described here (ring, capsule, base) are always in one piece in the first embodiment, at least one of the described elements may be in two or more pieces regardless of the embodiment described. This may facilitate the overall manufacture of the first connector. For example, the capsule may comprise two sub-capsules that are subsequently fixed together (or one may be overmolded onto the other).

[0168] The conduit may be made of or based on metal.

[0169] The different embodiments can of course be mixed together.

Claims

Demands

1. Connector for connection system, the connector comprising a base (12) including a flange (13) extended by a first side of a tube (16) and by a second side, opposite to the first side, by a connection interface (17) intended to be associated with a female connector of the fluidic connection system, characterized in that the base is at least partly made of plastic and the connector includes a capsule (28), also at least partly made of plastic, the capsule being arranged on the base, the capsule thus having a portion of attachment to the base extended by a connection interface, an orifice (19) being provided in the connector so as to pass through at least the capsule and the base, at least one elastically deformable ring (23) of the connector being arranged at least partly between the capsule and the base.

2. Connector according to claim 1, wherein the ring (23) is at least partly made of elastomer.

3. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ring (23) and the tube (16) are provided with coupling means and / or wherein the ring and the capsule (28) are provided with their coupling means.

4. Connector according to claim 3, wherein the coupling means comprise at least one male organ / female organ pair, the male organ being carried by a first element selected from the ring (23), the tube (16) or the capsule (28) and the female organ being carried by a second element, different from the first element, second element selected from the ring, the tube or the capsule, knowing that either the male organ or the female organ is carried by the ring.

5. Connector according to claim 4, wherein the male member is shaped into a sausage-shaped piece suitable for fitting into a groove formed by the female member.

6. Connector according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the groove is rounded or frustoconical.

7. Connector according to claim 4 or claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the male and / or female member winds helically around the element bearing it.

8. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a conduit (34) fixed to the connection interface (30) of the capsule (28), the capsule externally surrounding a section of said conduit.

9. Connector according to claim 8, wherein the conduit (34) is only in contact with the capsule (28) in the connector.

10. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, having a clearance between the ring (23) and the flange (13) on the one hand and between the capsule (28) and the flange on the other hand.

11. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule (28) rests on the base (12) only by means of the ring (23).

12. Connection system comprising a connector according to any one of the preceding claims, the connector being a first connector, and a second connector inserted into said first connector.

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