Fluid pipeline with corrugated pipes for guiding fluid

Abstract

A fluid line (1, 2) includes a corrugated pipe (1) and at least one pipe coupler (2). The pipe coupler (2) has a coupler body (22), which includes a connector section (3), and the corrugated pipe (1) is fitted onto the connector section (3). The pipe coupler (2) includes a mounting device (4), which mounts the corrugated pipe (1) to the connector section (3). The connector section (3) has a central axis (M), which defines an axial direction. The pipe coupler (2) includes at least one seal ring (6), which includes an elastomer. The connector section (3) includes at least one groove (7), and the seal ring (6) is disposed in the groove (7).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid line including a corrugated pipe and a line coupler, the line coupler having a coupler body, the coupler body including a connector section, the corrugated pipe being fitted onto the connector section, the line coupler including an attachment device, the attachment device attaching the corrugated pipe to the connector section, the connector section having a central axis, the central axis defining an axial direction. [Background technology]

[0002] Such a fluid line is known from WO 01 / 20216 and serves to guide flushing water at operating pressures of up to 3 bar. The mounting device includes two arms extending axially and arranged diametrically opposite each other relative to the central axis and the connector section. The inner surfaces of the arms each have three protrusions that can engage in grooves on the outer surface of the corrugated pipe. The arms are axially inwardly integrally molded with the line coupler or a flange of the line coupler, and have free axially outward ends that are not directly integrally molded with the line coupler. This allows the arms to easily and resiliently expand when the corrugated pipe is pressed onto the connector section of the line coupler. The protrusions of the arms then engage in locking grooves or wave troughs on the outer surface of the corrugated pipe, pressing the corrugated pipe toward the connector section. Finally, the locking ring is pressed axially inward onto the arm until it rests against the flange of the line coupler. The locking ring surrounds the arm, thereby securing the connection between the line coupler and the corrugated pipe. The locking ring has protrusions on its inner surface that engage in corresponding grooves on the outer surface of the arm, thereby fixing the protrusions in place. However, a disadvantage of this known fluid line is that at higher pressures, a sufficient seal cannot be achieved between the line coupler and the corrugated pipe.

[0003] Due to the very similar design of the fluid line described in DE 10 2005 007 217 A1, this fluid line also suffers from the drawback of insufficient sealing at higher pressures.In DE 197 23 410 A1, the fluid line also requires improvement at higher pressures.

[0004] This drawback is overcome by using an elastic sealing sleeve, as disclosed in German Patent Application No. 102011005220. The sealing sleeve has a corrugated profile, similar to that of the corrugated pipe, but its diameter is smaller than that of the corrugated pipe. This allows the sealing sleeve to be introduced into the corrugated pipe. The end of the sealing sleeve facing the pipe connector includes a flange that protrudes radially outward. The elastic flange of the sealing sleeve serves to seat against the end face of the corrugated pipe and thus to define the positioning of the sealing sleeve within the corrugated pipe. Furthermore, the corrugated pipe, together with the pressed-in sealing sleeve, is pressed onto the connector section, which in fact has a purely cylindrical, consistent surface. However, it has been found that leakage sometimes occurs despite the presence of the sealing sleeve. Therefore, when connecting, careful inspection must be made to ensure that the fluid line is actually sealed in the area of ​​the connector section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 01 / 20216 [Patent Document 2] German Patent Invention No. 102005007217 [Patent Document 3] DE 19723410 [Patent Document 4] German Patent Application Publication No. 102011005220 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Therefore, the problem underlying the present invention is to improve a fluid line having a line connector and a corrugated pipe for guiding a fluid, so that a reliably fluid-tight connection between the line connector and the corrugated pipe can be achieved with less effort. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This problem is solved by a fluid line comprising a corrugated pipe and at least one line coupler, the line coupler having a coupler body, the coupler body including a connector section, the corrugated pipe being fitted onto the connector section, the line coupler including an attachment device, the attachment device attaching the corrugated pipe to the connector section, the connector section having a central axis, the central axis defining an axial direction, the line coupler including at least one sealing ring, the sealing ring having an elastomer, the connector section including at least one groove, the sealing ring being disposed in the groove.

[0008] The present invention is based, firstly, on the recognition that when a corrugated pipe is pressed onto a connector section with an elastic sealing sleeve, as known from DE 10 2011 005 220 A1, a force or frictional connection occurs between the sealing sleeve and the connector section. This results in a large axial force that must be dissipated. This was found to be due, inter alia, to the relatively large axial extension of the sealing sleeve. This leads, firstly, to a laborious, force-consuming assembly and, secondly, to a slight slippage of the sealing sleeve into the corrugated pipe. This slippage can occur due to the elastically formed flange of the sealing sleeve, limiting the application. Furthermore, the sealing sleeve is no longer visible, and the installer cannot know whether the slippage of the sealing sleeve is critical for the fluid connection. Therefore, the present invention is based on the recognition that the installer must check the fluid-tightness, especially when the sealing sleeve is slightly misaligned but still installed fluid-tightly. This, in addition to the axial force dissipated during the press-on, results in a considerable amount of assembly effort.

[0009] It has been found that a sealing ring significantly reduces the axial force consumption compared to a sealing sleeve. However, at the same time, this reduces the sealing performance, which would discourage a person skilled in the art from taking such measures. However, the present invention is based very particularly on the recognition that this drawback can be overcome by providing a groove in the connector section for accommodating the sealing ring. This groove provides a sufficient positive fit for the sealing ring, which reliably prevents it from slipping out of place. Surprisingly, it has been found that a sealing ring held in the connector section by a groove still provides a completely sufficient and always reliable seal, even though the corrugated pipe has a significantly alternating surface on its inner surface. This is because the positive fit achieved by the groove allows a greater force to act on the sealing ring in the radial direction from the corrugated pipe. This greater radial force achieves a greater sealing effect. At the same time, the connection between the corrugated pipe and the pipe connector can be produced with little effort and maintenance, since the sealing ring can occupy a significantly smaller axial extension due to its improved sealing effect and therefore causes a correspondingly smaller force or frictional connection. This results in a reliably fluid-tight fluid line, in which the corrugated pipe does not have smooth sections and can therefore be produced and fitted continuously with little effort. This consequently solves the problem set forth at the beginning, and a reliably sealed fluid line is achieved. This fluid line can be produced and fitted with little effort, despite the presence of the corrugated pipe.

[0010] It has been found that the groove in the connector shaft is particularly important for fluid tightness compared to the fluid line described in DE 197 23 410 A1, because the groove allows the sealing ring to contact the connector section at exactly three points (both groove walls and the groove bottom), whereas the sealing ring described in DE 197 23 410 A1 only contacts the cylindrical surface. Furthermore, the groove also contributes to improving the tensile strength, since the sealing ring engages not only with the corrugated pipe but also with the connector section. This allows for a better fluid tightness even in the event of higher axial tensile forces.

[0011] The term "corrugated pipe" preferably refers to a pipe with alternating inner and outer diameters, which may be sinusoidally corrugated, or alternatively square- or sawtooth corrugated, for example. The term "corrugated pipe" has historically broadened its meaning and, as a technical term, usually also refers to a square-wave corrugation of the wall. Terms like "corrugated" or terms with the root "wave" preferably refer to a corrugation in a broader sense, thus alternating inner and outer diameters, and are not specifically limited to a sinusoidal corrugation of the wall.

[0012] The terms "trench" and "crest" preferably relate to the outer surface of the corrugated pipe, so that the troughs advantageously form grooves in the outer surface of the corrugated pipe, in which case the troughs are advantageously alternately separated from one another in the axial direction by crests. The term "axial" preferably relates to the longitudinal axis or central axis of the connector section or conduit coupler or respectively the section of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the central axis specifies the axial, radial and circumferential direction components.

[0013] The coupler body may include a coupling section for coupling to another component that guides fluid. Preferably, the coupler body includes a fluid passage for fluidly connecting the connector section and the coupling section. The other component that guides fluid may be, for example, another pipe or unit. The unit may be a tank, a pump, a valve, a nozzle, etc. The coupling section of the coupler body may preferably be located at an end of the coupler body opposite the connector section in the flow direction.

[0014] The coupling section may be a component for a form-fit, force-fit, and / or material-fit coupling with another fluid-guiding component. For example, the coupling section may be a force-fit, press-fit component between one line coupler or coupler body and another fluid-guiding component. The coupling section may also be connected to the other fluid-guiding component by welding. According to an embodiment, the coupling section of the line coupler or coupler body is integrally connected to the other fluid-guiding component. The coupling section or coupler body may also be integrally molded with the other fluid-guiding component, for example by injection molding.

[0015] Preferably, the connector section includes an end wall. Advantageously, one end of the connector section tapers toward the end wall, thereby facilitating fitting of the corrugated pipe onto the connector section. The term "axially inward" preferably refers to the axial direction of the connector section, pointing from the end face of the connector section to the interior of the connector section, or coupler body, or conduit coupler. Preferably, the term "axially inward" also applies to corrugated pipes, since corrugated pipes do not have an inherent frame of reference for the orientations "inward" or "outward." Thus, the term "axially inward" with respect to corrugated pipes advantageously means "toward the conduit coupler."

[0016] According to a highly preferred embodiment, the section of the corrugated pipe that is fitted onto the connector section is corrugated at least along a certain section, preferably completely. Preferably, the entire corrugated pipe is corrugated along at least 50%, 70%, 90%, or 99% of its axial length. Very particularly preferably, the corrugated pipe is corrugated throughout its entire axial length. This achieves that, during the production of the corrugated pipe, attention is not required to the exact axial length of the corrugated or non-corrugated sections. This simplifies production, in particular shaping and cutting to length after extrusion or co-extrusion.

[0017] Highly preferably, the mounting device has or can have at least one positive connection with the corrugated pipe in the axial direction. Preferably, the mounting device engages with at least one wave valley on the outer surface of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the mounting device includes at least one retaining protrusion, more preferably at least two retaining protrusions. Advantageously, one or more retaining protrusions engage with at least one wave valley of the corrugated pipe. Advantageously, the two retaining protrusions are located diametrically opposite each other with respect to the central axis. In an axial or longitudinal cross section of the fluid line, multiple retaining protrusions may be arranged one behind the other. Preferably, the one or more retaining protrusions project radially.

[0018] Preferably, the retaining projection(s) have a lead-in surface on their axially outer side, which is rounded or chamfered for easy lead-in of the crests of the corrugated pipe. The axially inner surface of the retaining projection(s) can also be formed differently from the lead-in surface. Preferably, the corrugated pipe is more difficult to extract, so that the tensile force acting on the corrugated pipe axially outward for extraction is greater than the pressing force acting on the corrugated pipe axially inward for fitting the corrugated pipe onto the connector section. Advantageously, the axially inner surface of the retaining projection(s) has a contour that extends radially larger in a longitudinal cross section than the contour of the axially outer surface of the retaining projection(s).

[0019] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the mounting device, or the arm, or the fixing element exerts a clamping force in the radial direction on the corrugated pipe or the sealing ring. This firstly achieves a particularly fluid-tight construction of the fluid line. Furthermore, the high clamping force assists in the mechanical positioning of the corrugated pipe in the line coupler. In particular, the radially acting clamping force assists in the positive connection between the mounting device and the corrugated pipe.

[0020] Particularly preferably, the mounting device includes at least two, more preferably at least three or four arms. Advantageously, two arms are arranged diametrically opposite each other with respect to the central axis, or four arms are arranged diametrically opposite each other in pairs with respect to the central axis. Advantageously, the greatest extension length of the arms extends in the axial direction or substantially in the axial direction. Advantageously, the axially inner ends of the arms are connected to the connector section and / or the coupling section, and / or the pipe stopper, and / or the flange of the pipe coupler or coupler body. Preferably, the axially outer ends of the arms are free, and thus preferably radially resiliently movable. Preferably, the arms and the connector section define an intermediate chamber in longitudinal cross section, into which the corrugated pipe can be or is pressed. Most preferably, the arms apply a radial clamping force to the corrugated pipe or the sealing ring. Particularly preferably, the arms each have one or more retaining projections on their radially inner surfaces.

[0021] Advantageously, the fluid line, the attachment device, or the corrugated pipe includes at least one inner element, which preferably comprises an elastomer or is rubber-elastic and is preferably arranged radially between the attachment device or the arm and the corrugated pipe. The at least one inner element may be arranged on or attached to the radial inner surface of the arm. The at least one inner element may have one or more retaining projections. One inner element may be associated with each arm. The inner element may be attached to the inner surface of the arm by adhesive.

[0022] Preferably, the inner element is arranged on or attached to the outer surface of the corrugated pipe. Very preferably, the inner element is configured as a sleeve. Preferably, the inner element surrounds the end of the corrugated pipe that is fitted onto the connector section. Very preferably, the inner element is configured corrugated. Particularly preferably, the inner element is attached to the end of the corrugated pipe by force and / or form-fitting. Advantageously, the inner element is configured as a corrugated sleeve and is attached to the end of the corrugated pipe by force-fitting. The elastic inner element causes a stronger force or frictional connection between the attachment device or arm and the corrugated pipe. This improves the attachment of the corrugated pipe in the pipe coupler. Very preferably, the arm is spring-elastic and / or the inner element is rubber-elastic.

[0023] Highly preferably, the pipe coupler includes a pipe stopper for axially abutting the end face of the corrugated pipe in the axial direction. Advantageously, the corrugated pipe is cut to length and / or the pipe coupler is formed or the pipe stopper is positioned or dimensioned so that the sealing ring contacts or is received by the inner surface of the crests of the corrugated pipe when the corrugated pipe is fully pressed onto the connector section or when abutting against the pipe stopper. Advantageously, the corrugated pipe is cut to length and / or the pipe coupler is formed or the pipe stopper is positioned or dimensioned so that one or more retaining projections of the mounting device or one or more arms engage one or more wave troughs or grooves of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the retaining projections are arranged axially outward of the sealing ring of the corrugated pipe in the fully pressed-over state, so that the sealing ring preferably contributes to fixing the position of the corrugated pipe or engages the retaining projections from behind. Advantageously, the corrugated tube is made flexible so that a smaller tolerance for the complete press-on of the corrugated tube is permissible, with the sealing ring nevertheless contacting the inner surface of the corrugated tube.

[0024] Preferably, the connector section includes a cylindrical surface or outer surface at least in a predetermined section, and preferably along at least 20%, 30%, 40% or 50% of the length of the connector section, so that no forces directed axially outward from the connector section act on the corrugated pipe.

[0025] Advantageously, the coupler body is formed in one piece, preferably integrally, in particular by injection molding. Advantageously, the line coupler and / or the corrugated pipe comprise plastic. The corrugated pipe can have a single-layer or multi-layer wall. Advantageously, the corrugated pipe is extruded or coextruded. Preferably, the coupler body is manufactured separately from the other pipe or other fluid component. Advantageously, the coupling section includes an end wall, which, in practice, faces the other fluid component.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the line coupler or mounting device defines an open state for introducing the corrugated pipe and a closed state for fixing the corrugated pipe. Advantageously, the arms define the open and closed states. Advantageously, the arms are radially spaced apart from one another more widely in the open state of the mounting device than in its closed state. Advantageously, less spring-like return energy is stored in the arms in the open state than in the closed state. Preferably, the line coupler is configured such that the arms or mounting device are fixable in the closed state, whereby the return energy contained in the arms or mounting device is stored by the fixing element / said fixing element and is preferably releasable by removing the fixing element. Preferably, the return energy stored in the arms or mounting device can be released only when the fixing element is removed or moved.

[0027] The connector section may have an axial length from the end wall to the tube stop / said tube stop, and the sealing ring or groove may be located in one of the middle three fifths of the axial length of the connector section. Preferably, the sealing ring and / or groove may be located in the middle fifth of the axial length of the connector section. Advantageously, the surface normal of the groove bottom extends in the radial direction. Advantageously, the sealing ring has a cross-section that is rounded along the longitudinal cross-section of the connector section, preferably elliptical or toric.

[0028] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the line coupler or fluid line includes a fixing element for fixing the closed state of the attachment device / said closed state. Preferably, the fixing element can be pressed onto the attachment device, preferably in the axial direction, and particularly preferably in the axially outward direction. Advantageously, the fixing element is formed separately from the coupling body or attachment device. Advantageously, the fixing element comprises plastic. Preferably, the fixing element is formed annularly. Preferably, the fixing element surrounds at least a predetermined portion, and preferably completely, of one end of the attachment device or coupling body or corrugated pipe in the circumferential direction.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the line coupler or fluid line is configured such that the locking element is movable relative to the coupling body from the open position to the closed position and from the closed position to the open position. Very preferably, the transition from the open position to the closed position can be achieved by sliding the locking element, preferably in the axial direction, particularly preferably in the axially outward direction. Preferably, the locking element fixes or defines the closed state / said closed state of the attachment device. The locking / said locking of the attachment device in the closed state by the locking element can be configured in a force-locking and / or form-locking manner. Advantageously, the locking element is locked to the coupling body or attachment device in the open position and / or the closed position. Advantageously, the locking element is in the closed position while the attachment device is simultaneously in the closed state. Advantageously, the locking element is in the open position while the attachment device is in the open state. Advantageously, the coupling body or attachment device includes a guide for guiding the locking element from the open position to the closed position and preferably from the closed position to the open position. Preferably, the guide only allows movement of the fixing element in the axial direction.

[0030] It is highly preferred that the fixing element presses the arms radially inward when transitioning from the open position to the closed position, thereby transitioning the mounting device to the closed state. It is particularly preferred that the pipe coupler or the fixing element or the coupling body or the mounting device is configured so that when transitioning from the open position to the closed position, the fixing element moves the arms of the mounting device radially closer to each other, preferably by sliding axially, particularly preferably axially outward, thereby preferably applying a clamping force radially to the corrugated pipe or an additional clamping force to the sealing ring.

[0031] The advantage of the fixing element is that, on the one hand, it fixes the closed state of the mounting device. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the fixing element can exert a large radial clamping effect on the mounting device, the corrugated pipe or the sealing ring. Furthermore, the fixing element provides an indicator function, allowing a very simple visual distinction between the closed and open states of the mounting device.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one part of the attachment device is manufactured or injection-molded separately from the coupling body. Advantageously, the attachment device, or the entire attachment device, or at least one part of the attachment device manufactured separately from the coupling body, is connected to the coupling body by force-, form-, or material-fitting. Advantageously, at least one part of the attachment device manufactured separately from the coupling body is not integrally connected to the coupling body. The at least one part of the attachment device manufactured separately from the coupling body preferably includes an arm, more preferably an arm sleeve. The arm sleeve is preferably at least partially annular, preferably completely annular. Preferably, the arm is connected to the arm sleeve, preferably integrally connected to the arm sleeve. At least one part of the attachment device, including the arm and the arm sleeve, is manufactured separately from the coupling body, preferably by injection molding. At least one part of the attachment device manufactured separately from the coupling body can be subsequently connected to the coupling body as one piece (but not integrally) by welding. The arm sleeve may include an arm sleeve attachment portion. The arm sleeve attachment portion may be configured as a locking element for locking to the coupler body or the pipe stopper. The arm sleeve may be attached to the coupler body, the pipe stopper, the connector section, or the connecting section preferably by the arm sleeve attachment portion in a force-locking, form-locking, or material-locking manner. Advantageously, the coupler body or the pipe stopper includes a locking means for connecting with the arm sleeve attachment portion. Separate production of at least one part of the attachment device, and in particular the arm, separate from the coupler body, can sometimes make the production of the pipe coupler inexpensive based on a relatively simple injection molding geometry.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the pipe coupler includes a closure body that is rotatable at least by a predetermined distance about its central axis and configured so that the closure body can engage with at least one wave valley of the corrugated pipe by rotation. Preferably, the closure body includes at least two closure body arms. Advantageously, at least one closure body arm includes a retaining projection / retaining projection for engaging with a wave valley of the corrugated pipe. Advantageously, the closure body has a closure body sleeve. Advantageously, the closure body arms are connected to the closure body sleeve. Preferably, the closure body is formed in one piece, and in particular integrally, preferably by injection molding. Preferably, the closure body is radially compressible. Most preferably, the closure body arms move radially closer to each other upon rotation of the closure body. Advantageously, the closure body sleeve is rotatably supported on the coupler body. Advantageously, the closure body or closure body arms are continuously radially pushed / moved closer to each other based on rotation about the central axis and based on contact with the radially inner surfaces of the arms of the mounting device. The closure body preferably defines an open position and / or a closed position. The open position may be defined by a stop or locking means of the closure body provided on the coupling body and / or the mounting device. The closed position of the closure body may be defined by a stop or locking means provided on the coupling body or the mounting device. The closed position of the closure body can be defined based on a force connection between the closure body arms and the arms of the mounting device.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the attachment device is configured to lock onto the attachment device when the corrugated pipe is pressed onto the connector section. This achieves extremely fast coupling. The arms of the attachment device are configured such that, in a relaxed state, one or more retaining protrusions of each arm engage one or more wave troughs of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the corrugated pipe or arm is configured such that the wave crests press the arm radially outward, thereby storing elastic return energy in the arm until the one or more retaining protrusions can (re)engage with the wave troughs. Preferably, the arm or retaining protrusion exerts a clamping force acting radially inward on the one or more wave troughs upon engagement with the one or more wave troughs. Preferably, the pipe coupler, coupler body, attachment device, arm, or corrugated pipe is configured such that the corrugated pipe encounters multiple locking protrusions one after the other during pressing.

[0035] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the line coupler has a display device, in particular a display element and / or a display marker, for indicating the closed state of the attachment device / said closed state. The display element may be configured to be movable or stationary. Advantageously, the fixing element / said fixing element or the closing body / said closing body is the display element, whereby the closed state of the attachment device or the fluid line is indicated via the position of the fixing element / said closing body. Preferably, the display element is movable in the axial and / or radial direction.

[0036] It is very particularly preferred that the indicator marker comprises a visually or electromagnetically readable device. The electromagnetically readable device can be read wirelessly. The fluid line may comprise a sensor for detecting the closed state of the attachment device. The sensor may be connected to a communication unit, e.g., an RFID chip, so that the state of the attachment device can be read, preferably by an external reader. The visually readable device may be, for example, a symbol, a bar code, or a QR code. According to a preferred embodiment, the visually readable device appears upon transition of the fastening element or closure body from the open position to the closed position. It is very particularly preferred that the indicator marker or visually readable device is covered in the open position of the fastening element or closure body and optically readable by a reader in the closed position of the fastening element or closure body, or covered in the closed position of the fastening element or closure body and optically readable by a reader in the open position of the fastening element or closure body.

[0037] The object set forth at the outset is achieved by using a fluid line in a vehicle, preferably in a land vehicle, more preferably in a road vehicle, preferably an electric vehicle having a battery for driving an electric motor, preferably a fluid line being a component of a coolant circuit for cooling the battery.

[0038] The invention will now be described with reference to several exemplary embodiments and to several schematic drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a first fluid line according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 4 is a longitudinal section of a second fluid line according to the invention with the attachment device in an open state; FIG. [Figure 3] 3 shows the fluid line shown in FIG. 2 with the attachment device in a closed state. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a third fluid line according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a fourth fluid line according to the present invention. [Figure 6A] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid line shown in FIG. 5 with the attachment device in an open position. [Figure 6B] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid line shown in FIG. 5 with the attachment device in a closed state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention in the form of a fluid conduit 1, 2 comprising a corrugated pipe 1 and a conduit coupler 2. The corrugated pipe 1 may comprise one or more plastics and may in particular be formed as a multilayer pipe. The conduit coupler 2 comprises a coupler body 22, which is preferably formed in one piece, and particularly preferably integrally. The coupler body 22 comprises a connector section 3, which is inserted into the corrugated pipe 1. The connector section 3 has a central axis M which defines axial, radial and circumferential directions.

[0041] The coupler body 22 preferably includes a coupling section 23. In practice, a fluid passage 16 fluidly connects the connector section 3 to the coupling section 23. The coupling section 23 may be force-, form- or material-coupled to another component (not shown) for guiding a fluid. The other component for guiding a fluid may be another pipe or a unit. The unit may be, for example, a pump, a nozzle, a tank, etc. However, the coupling section 23 may also be integrally coupled to the other component for guiding a fluid. It is possible for the coupler body 2 to be integrally molded to the other component for guiding a fluid, for example by injection molding. Advantageously, the fluid passage 16 fluidly connects the corrugated pipe 1 to the other component for guiding a fluid.

[0042] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the corrugated pipe 1 is sinusoidally corrugated. In another embodiment not shown, the corrugated pipe may be rectangularly corrugated. Advantageously, wave troughs 5 and wave crests 15 alternate on the outer surface of the corrugated pipe 1. Preferably, the corrugated pipe 1 is corrugated at least in certain sections in the axial overlap region with the connector section 3, preferably in a consistently corrugated form. Very particularly preferably, the entire corrugated pipe 1 is consistently corrugated.

[0043] 1 further shows that the conduit coupler 2 includes a sealing ring 6. The sealing ring 6 preferably includes an elastic material, and more preferably consists exclusively of an elastic material. The sealing ring 6 is disposed in a groove 7, which is disposed in the region of the connector section 3 and preferably on the outer surface of the connector section 3. The groove 7 advantageously includes a groove bottom 9.

[0044] The pipe coupler 2 shown in Figure 1 comprises a mounting device 4 for mounting the corrugated pipe 1 to the connector section 3. Advantageously, the mounting device 4 comprises at least two arms 8, which are preferably located diametrically opposite one another with respect to the central axis M. Preferably, the mounting device 4 or the arms 8 each have at least one retaining projection 12 projecting radially inwards. Preferably, the retaining projection 12 is arranged at the free axial end of the arm 8. Preferably, the outer axial surface of the retaining projection 12 has an inclined lead-in surface for easy lead-in of the corrugated pipe 1.

[0045] 1 are preferably configured to be radially spring-elastic at their free ends, so that when the corrugated pipe 1 is fitted onto the connector section 3, the wave crests 15 elastically load the arms 8 radially outwards. The arms 8 or the retaining projections 12 then release the stored return energy when they reach the next adjacent wave trough 5 and engage with the corresponding wave trough 5. Preferably, the inner axial surface of the retaining projections 12 is not configured with a chamfer or radius, so that pulling out of the corrugated pipe 1 is correspondingly more difficult or ideally prevented.

[0046] Very preferably, the mounting device 4 has a pipe stop 13 (see FIG. 1 ). Advantageously, the pipe coupler 2 is configured in such a way that, when the corrugated pipe 1 is completely pressed onto the connector section 3, an end face 14 of the corrugated pipe 1 rests against the pipe stop 13. Advantageously, the pipe stop 13 defines the axial length of the overlap between the corrugated pipe 1 and the connector section 3. Very particularly preferably, the corrugated pipe 1 and / or the pipe coupler 2 are configured in such a way that, when the corrugated pipe 1 is completely pressed onto the connector section 3, the sealing rings 6 come into contact with the recesses on the inner side of the wave crests 15. Very preferably, the mounting device 4 is configured in such a way that, when the corrugated pipe 1 is completely pressed onto the connector section 3, the retaining projections 12 engage in the wave troughs 5 of the corrugated pipe 1.

[0047] 1, the tube stop 13 is preferably integrally connected in one piece with the arm 8 or the retaining projection 12. Advantageously, the tube stop 13 or the arm 8 is preferably integrally connected in one piece with the connector section 3 and / or the coupling section 23 or the coupling body 22.

[0048] Particularly preferably, the arms 8 or retaining projections 12 shown in Fig. 1 exert a force acting radially inwards on the corrugation troughs 5, preferably when the corrugated pipe 1 is fully pressed onto the connector section 3. This increases the force connection with the sealing ring 6. The embodiment shown in Fig. 1 as a whole is particularly suitable for forming a fluid-tight connection between the line coupler 2 and the corrugated pipe 1 exclusively by means of a fitting movement. The embodiment according to Fig. 1 is rather suitable for fluid lines 1, 2 or fluid applications with relatively low pressure.

[0049] In an embodiment not shown, the retaining projections 12 engage in the wave troughs 5 adjacent to the wave crests 15 carrying the sealing rings 6 when the corrugated tube 1 is fully pushed in. Very particularly preferably, the retaining projections 12 are located in the wave troughs 5 that directly follow the wave crests 15 carrying the sealing rings 6 in the axially outward direction.

[0050] The second embodiment shown in Figure 2 is identical in terms of the corrugated pipe 1. The line coupler 2 is also identical to the first embodiment in terms of the fluid passage 16, the coupling section 23, the connector section 3, the sealing ring 6 and the groove 7. The difference between the first embodiment shown in Figure 1 and the second embodiment shown in Figure 2 is mainly found in the mounting device 4.

[0051] According to Fig. 2, the mounting device 4 preferably includes at least two arms 8. Preferably, the longitudinal extension of these arms 8 runs in the axial direction. The conduit coupler 2 advantageously includes a tube stop 13. The tube stop 13 is preferably connected in one piece or integrally with the coupling section 23 or the connector section 3. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the tube stop 13 is connected in one piece and preferably integrally with the arm 8. The mounting device 4 or the arm 8 may have one retaining lug 12 or, respectively, multiple retaining lugs 12, so that the retaining lugs 12 of the mounting device 4 can engage multiple wave valleys 5.

[0052] Preferably, the mounting device 4 shown in FIG. 2 includes at least one inner element 17. The at least one inner element is preferably arranged on the inner surface of each arm 8 and preferably includes one or more retaining projections 12. Advantageously, the inner element 17 or inner elements 17 comprise or consist of an elastomer. The inner elements 17 can be glued to the inner surface of the corresponding arm 8. Preferably, the arms 8 are configured such that their free ends have a greater radial distance from one another in the relaxed state than in the tightened state. Most preferably, the relaxed state of the arms 8 corresponds to the open state of the mounting device 4. Advantageously, the tightened state of the arms 8 corresponds to the closed state of the mounting device 4.

[0053] Preferably, the pipe coupler 2 shown in Fig. 2 includes a fixing element 10 for fixing the closed state of the attachment device. The fixing element 10 is preferably formed in an annular shape. Preferably, the fixing element 10 is arranged so as to be axially slidable relative to the attachment device 4 or relative to the coupler body 22. Preferably, as shown in Fig. 2, when the attachment device 4 is in an open state, the fixing element 10 is in an open position.

[0054] 3 shows the second embodiment shown in FIG. 2, in which the fluid lines 1, 2 or the mounting device 4 are in a closed state and the fixing element 10 is in a closed position. Highly preferably, the fixing element 10 is arranged axially further outward in the closed / mentioned closed position compared to the open position. Advantageously, the closed and / or open positions are determined by locking elements (not shown) provided on the coupling body 22 or the mounting device 4 and the fixing element 10. Highly preferably, the fixing element 10 and the mounting device 4 are configured such that the arms 8 can be moved radially toward each other depending on the closed position of the fixing element 10. Advantageously, the retaining projections 12 engage with the wave troughs 5 in the closed state of the mounting device 4, forming a positive lock.

[0055] Very particularly preferably, the fixing element 10 in the closed position and the mounting device 4 in the closed state are configured in such a way that the arms 8 exert a force acting radially inwards on the corrugated pipe 1 or the sealing ring 6. Advantageously, due to the force exerted by the fixing element 10 on the arms 8, a force connection is formed between the outer surface of the corrugated pipe 1 and the inner element 17 or the arms 8. Preferably, the closed position of the fixing element 10 increases the force connection between the sealing ring 6 and the corrugated pipe 1 compared to the open state of the mounting device 4 or the fluid lines 1, 2. Due to the fixing element 10 and / or the inner element 17, the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3 are suitable for higher fluid pressures.

[0056] 4 shows the third embodiment with the mounting device 4 in a closed state. The corrugated pipe 1 of the third embodiment is identical to the corrugated pipe 1 of the first two embodiments. Again, the difference from the other embodiments can be seen in the mounting device 4. Preferably, the pipe coupler 2 or coupler body 22 includes a pipe stopper 13. The pipe stopper 13 of this embodiment is advantageously connected to the coupling section 23 or connector section 3 in one piece or integrally.

[0057] However, in the third embodiment, the tube stopper 13 is not integrally connected to the arms 8. Preferably, at least two, and preferably at least four, arms 8 are connected to one another via arm sleeves 18. Advantageously, the arms 8 and the arm sleeves 18 are connected to one another in one piece, preferably integrally. Preferably, the arm sleeves 18 include arm sleeve attachment portions 19. The arm sleeve attachment portions 19 may be formed as locking elements that interact with, and preferably engage with, the tube stopper 13.

[0058] Preferably, the mounting device 4 of the third embodiment includes an inner element 17 as already described for the second embodiment. Preferably, the arms 8 of the mounting device 4 of the third embodiment are formed such that in the open state, the arms 8 have a greater radial spacing from one another than in the closed state shown in FIG.

[0059] The fixing element 10 of the third embodiment extends more axially than the fixing element 10 of the second embodiment. Advantageously, the closed and / or open positions (not shown) of the fixing element 10 shown in FIG. 4 are defined between the arm 8 or arm sleeve 18 and the fixing element 10 via a locking element. Preferably, the fixing element 10 is arranged further axially inward in the open / open position than in the closed / closed position. Particularly preferably, the fixing element 10 exerts a greater radially inward force on the arm 8 or inner element 17 or corrugated pipe 1 or sealing ring 6 in the closed position than in the open position. Therefore, the main difference between the third embodiment and the second embodiment is the separately manufactured arm 8. This allows for simpler injection molding tools for the pipe coupler 2. Furthermore, this allows for a better attachment of the inner element 17 to the inner surface of the arm 8.

[0060] 5 shows a fourth embodiment of fluid lines 1, 2 according to the present invention. The fluid lines 1, 2 include a corrugated pipe 1 and a line coupler 2. The corrugated pipe 1 is configured identically to the corrugated pipe 1 of the other embodiment. The line coupler 2 includes a mounting device 4 and a fluid passage 16. The fluid passage 16 is formed by a connector section 3, and preferably by a coupling section 23. The connector section 3, the coupling section 23, the sealing ring 6, and the groove 7 are configured identically to the other embodiment.

[0061] The conduit coupler 2 includes a pipe stopper 13, which is preferably connected in one piece, and more preferably integrally, with the connector section 3 or the coupling section 23. Advantageously, the mounting device 4 includes two arms 8. Advantageously, the arms 8 of the fourth embodiment are arranged diametrically opposite one another with respect to the central axis M. Preferably, the arms 8 are connected in one piece, and more preferably integrally, with the pipe stopper 13.

[0062] Particularly preferably, the pipe coupler 2 includes a closure body 11. The closure body 11 is arranged on the inner surface of the arm 8. The closure body 11 is preferably configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction relative to the arm 8, as is clear from the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 6A and 6B. FIG. 6A shows the closure body 11 in the open position, while FIG. 6B shows the closure body 11 in the closed position. The closure body 11 preferably includes two closure body arms 20, which are located diametrically opposite each other with respect to the central axis M. The closure body arms 20 are circumferentially connected to each other via a closure body sleeve (not shown). Advantageously, the closure body sleeve is located axially further inward than the closure body arms 20.

[0063] The closure arms 20 are preferably spring-elastic in the radial direction. The arms 8 are preferably rigid. Most preferably, the closure 11 is pressed radially by the arms 8 through a rotational movement, or the closure arms 20 are moved radially toward each other, so that the closure arms 20 engage with at least one wave trough or two wave crests. As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6B, the closure arms 20 or the holding projections 12 of the closure arms 20 thereby engage with the wave crests.

[0064] Preferably, the circumferential overlap between the closure body arms 20 and the arms 8 in the open position is smaller than the overlap in the closed position. Preferably, the closure body arms 20 taper in the circumferential direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) of the cross section. Preferably, the arms 8 taper in the circumferential direction (counterclockwise or clockwise) of the cross section. Very preferably, the closure body 11 exerts a force acting radially inward on the corrugated pipe 1 or on the sealing ring 6 in the closed position. Preferably, the closure body 11 has neither a force-lock nor a positive-lock with the corrugated pipe 1 when the closure body is in the open position (FIG. 6A).

[0065] In an embodiment not shown, the fixing element 10 or the closing body 11 may be an indicator element 10, 11 for indicating the open or closed position. In the open position, the indicator element 10, 11 can cover an indicator marker (not shown), for example in the form of a QR code on the coupling body 22. In the respective closed position, the indicator marker is released from the indicator element 10, 11, so that a scanner can use the indicator marker to read the state of the indicator element 10, 11. [Explanation of symbols]

[0066] 1 corrugated tube 2 Pipe coupler 3 Connector Classification 4 Mounting device 5 Namiya 6 Seal protrusion 7 grooves 8 Arm 9 Groove bottom 10 Fixed Elements 11 Closed body 12 Retaining protrusion 13 Pipe stopper 14 End section 15 Wave Mountain 16 Fluid passage 17 Inner Elements 18 Arm Sleeves 19 Arm sleeve attachment point 20 Closure arm 21 End wall 22 Combiner body 23 Combined category M center axis 10,11 Display elements 1,2 Fluid line

Claims

1. A fluid line (1, 2) including a corrugated pipe (1) and at least one line coupler (2), wherein the line coupler (2) includes a coupler body (22), the coupler body (22) having a connector section (3), the corrugated pipe (1) being fitted onto the connector section (3), the line coupler (2) including a mounting device (4), the mounting device (4) attaching the corrugated pipe (1) to the connector section (3) or the coupler body (22), the connector section (3) having a central axis (M), the central axis (M) defining an axial direction, The fluid pipeline (1, 2), characterized in that the pipeline coupler (2) includes at least one sealing ring (6), the sealing ring (6) having an elastomer, the connector section (3) includes at least one groove (7), and the sealing ring (6) is disposed in the groove (7).

2. 2. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the section of the corrugated pipe (1) that is fitted onto the connector section (3) is formed in a corrugated form at least in a predetermined section, and preferably completely.

3. 3. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (4) is or can be positively coupled to the corrugated pipe (1) in at least one axial direction.

4. 4. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (4) or the line coupler (2) exerts a clamping force on the corrugated pipe (1) or the sealing ring (6) in the radial direction.

5. 5. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (4) comprises at least two arms (8) preferably arranged diametrically opposite each other with respect to the central axis (M), the arms (8) preferably extending in the axial direction.

6. 6. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the fluid line (1, 2) or the mounting device (4) or the corrugated pipe (1) has at least one inner element (17), which preferably comprises an elastomer or is rubber-elastic, and which is preferably arranged radially between the mounting device (4) or the arm (8) and the corrugated pipe (1).

7. 7. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the line coupler (2) comprises a pipe stop (13) for axially abutting an end face (14) of the corrugated pipe (1).

8. 8. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the connector section (3) has a cylindrical surface or outer surface at least in certain sections.

9. 9. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the pipeline coupler (2) or the mounting device (4) defines an open state for introducing the corrugated pipe (1) and a closed state for fixing the corrugated pipe (1) in place.

10. 10. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the line coupler (2) comprises a fixing element (10) for fixing the closed state of the mounting device (4), and preferably the fixing element (10) can be pressed onto the mounting device (4), preferably in the axial direction, and in particular in the axially outward direction, to fix the closed state of the mounting device (4).

11. 11. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein at least one portion (8, 19) of the mounting device (4) is manufactured separately from the coupling body (22), and the separately manufactured portion (8, 19) of the mounting device (4) is connected to the coupling body (22).

12. 12. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the pipeline coupler (2) includes a closure body (11) that is rotatable at least a predetermined distance around the central axis (M), and the closure body (11) is formed so that the closure body (11) can engage with at least one wave valley (5) of the corrugated pipe (1) by rotation.

13. 13. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (4) is configured such that the corrugated pipe (1) engages with the mounting device (4) when the corrugated pipe (1) is pressed onto the connector section (3).

14. 14. The fluid line (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein the line coupler (2) has a display device, in particular a display element (10, 11) and / or a display marker, for displaying the closed state / closed state of the attachment device (4).

15. 15. Use of a fluid line (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 in a vehicle, preferably a land vehicle, more preferably a road vehicle, preferably wherein the vehicle is an electric vehicle and has a battery for driving an electric motor, the fluid line being a component of a coolant circuit, preferably for cooling the battery.

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