Plug connector

Abstract

The present invention relates to a plug connector (1) for releasably connecting a first fluid conduit (2a) to a second fluid conduit (2b) by an insertion sleeve (3), wherein the plug connector (1) has a slide sleeve (5), the slide sleeve is slidable between a retained position (PP) in which the locking mechanism is deactivated and a locked position (VP) in which the locking mechanism is activated, the locking mechanism includes a trigger spring (6) having an actuating part (7) and a retaining part (8), the trigger spring (6) is preloaded in the retaining position (HP) of the slide sleeve (5) in which the retaining part (8) engages with a retaining projection (9) of an inner sleeve (4), the actuating part (7) in the retaining position (HP) protrudes radially inward through an actuating opening (10) provided in the inner sleeve (4) into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), and the insertion sleeve The plug connector (1) relates to a plug connector (1) in which, when (3) is inserted into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), the operating part (7) of the trigger spring (6) can be pushed radially away from the receiving space (AR) by the insertion sleeve (3), thereby releasing the retaining part (8) from the retaining projection (9) of the inner sleeve (4), and an operating force (FA) is applied to the slide sleeve (5) by the trigger spring (6), and the operating force allows the slide sleeve (5) to move from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), and a first guide device (14) is provided on the slide sleeve (5), and the first guide device is configured such that when the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guide force (FF1) is applied to the locking element (12), and the guide force allows the locking element (12) to move from the released position (FS) to the restrained position (SS).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug connector for releasably connecting a first fluid conduit to a second fluid conduit by means of an insertion sleeve, an assembly comprising such a plug connector, and the use of a plug connector for connecting a first fluid conduit to a second fluid conduit.

Background Art

[0002] Connectors of this type are used in various industrial fields for connecting two fluid conduits, preferably in a sealed state. This is usually done within the framework of the assembly process of a given fluid transport product. Depending on the specific field of application and the fluid used, the fluid conduit can be a substantially rigid tube or a flexible hose. However, the fluid conduit may also be integrated as one component. The fluid used may be a gaseous medium or a liquid medium. As the gaseous medium, for example, (compressed) air or a given process gas may be defined. As the liquid medium, for example, water, lubricating oil, coolant, refrigerant, etc. are used.

[0003] During the assembly process of a product, for example, it may be necessary to connect a first fluid conduit or fluid connection of a component to be assembled to a corresponding fluid conduit or corresponding fluid connection of an existing product. In order to avoid subsequent leakage, it is important that a connection with a high degree of reliability is made accurately. Based on the fact that the production process is becoming more and more efficient, usually the lead time in the assembly process is also shortened. As a result, the time available for each individual assembly step becomes shorter and shorter. Therefore, in addition to high reliability, a rapid connection of the fluid conduits by means of a plug connector is also desired. Usually, one side of the plug connector is directly connected to one of the two fluid conduits, and the other fluid conduit is first connected to the insertion sleeve. To connect the two conduits, the insertion sleeve is finally coupled to the plug connector, usually in a releasable manner.

[0004] Various plug connectors are known based on Patent Documents 1-3. The drawbacks of plug connectors known based on such documents are that there may be defects in the connection, or it is not possible to definitively confirm whether the plug connectors are properly joined to each other. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 144902A1 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2018 / 102213A1 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 3179148A1 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The object of the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a plug connector that enables reliable and rapid connection between the plug connector and the insertion sleeve. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Such problems are solved by the plug connector described in claim 1. With the plug connector according to the present invention, as soon as the insertion sleeve is positioned in a connection position for which it is intended, a trigger spring interacts with the slide sleeve and the locking element, thereby enabling the insertion sleeve to be automatically and reliably positively locked into the inner sleeve. The first guide device provides forced guidance of the locking element, thereby ensuring reliable movement of the locking element between the restrained position and the released position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] Preferably, the slide sleeve is movable by hand from a locked position to a retained position, advantageously by a gripping portion provided on its outer circumference, thereby allowing a compressive force opposite to the actuation force to be transmitted to the trigger spring, thereby returning the retaining portion to the retained position. The first guide device of the slide sleeve is configured such that when the slide sleeve is moved from the locked position to the retained position, a second guide force acts on the locking element, and the second guide force allows the locking element to move from a restrained position to a released position (FS). This allows the locking to be easily deactivated again, and forced guidance ensures reliable release.

[0009] The trigger spring may have a restoring force directed inward in the radial direction of the inner sleeve within the region of the retaining portion, and this restoring force causes the retaining portion to engage with the retaining projection when it reaches the retaining position. Alternatively, or in addition to this, a restoring projection may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the slide sleeve, which is formed to apply a restoring force directed inward in the radial direction of the inner sleeve to the trigger spring when the slide sleeve is moved from the locked position to the retaining position, and this restoring force causes the retaining portion of the trigger spring to engage with the retaining projection when it reaches the retaining position. This facilitates the engagement of the trigger spring in the retaining position. The restoring projection preferably has an inclined restoring surface directed toward the end of the first slide sleeve.

[0010] Preferably, the trigger spring has a spring wire comprising a first free wire end, a second free wire end, and a central portion located between the first and second free wire ends. The central portion is at least partially in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve and extends circumferentially over an angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, particularly preferably at least 60°, and specifically at least 90°. The central portion may be formed in a substantially S-shape or substantially V-shape. A fastening portion may be provided within the region of the first free wire end, which may be fastened to a fastening receiver located on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve within the region of the first axial inner sleeve end, and a retaining portion may be provided within the region of the second free wire end. This forms a structurally simple trigger spring. The trigger spring is housed radially in the space between the slide sleeve and the inner sleeve.

[0011] The locking recess is preferably formed as a circumferential groove and extends over a groove angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, and particularly preferably at least 90° in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve. Particularly preferably, the circumferential groove is located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve. The axial position of the locking recess in the inner sleeve is preferably defined according to the axial position of the engagement opening of the insertion sleeve, and / or the axial position of the operating opening in the inner sleeve is preferably defined according to the axial position of the conical portion of the insertion sleeve. This allows the locking mechanism to be adapted to a standardized insertion sleeve, specifically an insertion sleeve based on the VDA standard.

[0012] Preferably, the first guide device of the slide sleeve includes a first guide link and a second guide link, which are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the slide sleeve and arranged on the inner surface of the slide sleeve, and the locking element preferably includes a rod having a first free rod end and a second free rod end on the opposite side, with a first guide portion provided in the region of the first rod end, the first guide portion being positively guided within the first guide link, and a second guide portion provided in the region of the second rod end, the second guide portion being positively guided within the second guide link, and a restraining portion located between the free rod ends. This embodiment enables reliable guidance on both sides of the locking element and stable locking.

[0013] It is advantageous if the locking mechanism includes at least two similar locking mechanisms, and the two locking mechanisms are positioned on the plug connector opposite each other, preferably in the diametrical direction, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve. This improves the locking action. The at least two similar locking mechanisms can operate simultaneously.

[0014] It is advantageous that the connecting portion of the first axial inner sleeve end includes a number of engaging recesses, the engaging recesses being formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging protrusions provided on the first fluid conduit to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential directions. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the connecting portion of the first axial inner sleeve end may include a number of engaging protrusions, the engaging recesses being formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging recesses provided on the first fluid conduit to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential directions. This allows for a stable and releasable connection with the first fluid conduit. The engaging recesses or engaging protrusions may be molded integrally with the inner sleeve, for example, and may be manufactured during the manufacture of the inner sleeve. This allows for easy and inexpensive manufacturing.

[0015] Preferably, a second guide device is provided for axially guiding the slide sleeve along the inner sleeve, the second guide device preferably including at least one first guide projection and at least one second guide projection arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction, and a guide bar provided on the inner circumferential surface of the slide sleeve and extending axially over at least a portion of the length of the slide sleeve, the guide bar being guided in the circumferential direction between the first guide projection and the second guide projection. This enables stable and reliable guidance of the slide sleeve along the inner sleeve. The guide projections may also be formed integrally with the inner sleeve and can also be manufactured directly during the production of the inner sleeve. Preferably, the guide bar is formed integrally with the return projection.

[0016] It is advantageous to have a number of positioning recesses on the inner sleeve, each of which extends from the second axial end of the inner sleeve across a portion of the inner sleeve towards the first axial end of the inner sleeve, and each connects the inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve to the outer circumferential surface, and the number of positioning recesses are formed to interact with a number of corresponding positioning protrusions provided on the insertion sleeve in order to position the insertion sleeve circumferentially relative to the inner sleeve at the connection position. This allows for easy positioning of the insertion sleeve relative to the inner sleeve, thereby enabling quick and easy access to the connection position.

[0017] Preferably, the plug connector has a display device in order to indicate to the user whether the slide sleeve is in the locked position and whether the locking element is in the restraining position. The display device can include a number of signal tabs, which are circumferentially distributed and arranged on the circumferential surface of the first axial inner sleeve end. A number of signal tabs project axially beyond the first axial inner sleeve end. Each of the number of signal tabs includes one signal surface. In the holding position of the slide sleeve, a first portion of the signal surface is covered by the slide sleeve, and in the locked position of the slide sleeve, a portion of the signal surface that is smaller than the first portion is covered by the slide sleeve, or the signal surface is completely exposed. At least one of the signal surfaces has a machine-readable code, specifically a QR code (registered trademark), displayed thereon. When the slide sleeve is in the locked position, it can be further advantageous if the machine-readable code is machine-readable. This provides an easy and reliable possibility for recognizing the locked state. Via the machine-readable code, for example, during assembly, it is preferably possible to automatically recognize whether the plug connector has been properly locked via a reading device, such as a camera system.

[0018] For a better understanding of the present invention, the present invention will be described in detail based on the following drawings.

[0019] The drawings are each highly simplified schematic views.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an exploded view showing a plug connector of an advantageous embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the inner sleeve of the plug connector. [Figure 3a] Figure 3a is a perspective longitudinal sectional view showing the plug connector before the insertion sleeve is locked. [Figure 3b] Figure 3b is a perspective longitudinal sectional view showing the plug connector during the locking of the insertion sleeve. [Figure 3c]FIG. 3c is a perspective longitudinal sectional view showing the plug connector after the insertion sleeve is locked. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the slide sleeve of the plug connector including the locking element. [Figure 5a] FIG. 5a is a view showing the plug connector assembly in a non-coupled state of the insertion sleeve. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b is a view showing the plug connector assembly in a coupled state of the insertion sleeve. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the plug connector assembly in a locked state of the insertion sleeve. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0021] First, it should be noted that in the embodiments described as various different ones, the same parts are given the same reference numerals or the same component symbols. The disclosure content included in the entire description can be diverted correspondingly to the same parts having the same reference numerals or the same component symbols. Also, the description regarding the selected positions in the description, for example, up, down, side, etc., is related to the directly described and illustrated drawings, and when the positions change, the descriptions regarding these positions can be diverted correspondingly to the new positions.

[0022] FIG. 1 is an exploded view showing the plug connector 1 according to the present invention in an advantageous non-limiting embodiment. The plug connector 1 serves to releasably connect the first fluid conduit 2a to the second fluid conduit 2b by means of an insertion sleeve 3. The first fluid conduit 2a, the insertion sleeve 3, and the second fluid conduit 2b are not part of the invention under consideration. The plug connector 1 has a substantially cylindrical inner sleeve 4 having an open first axially inner sleeve end 4a and an opposite open second axially inner sleeve end 4b. The inner sleeve 4 may be made of, for example, a suitable plastic or, in some cases, a metallic material. The inner sleeve 4 of the plug connector 1 is shown in detail in FIG. 2.

[0023] The following description refers to Figures 1-6. The same parts are referred to by the same reference numerals or component numerals. To avoid unnecessary repetition, detailed descriptions in previous drawings are cited or referenced as needed.

[0024] A connection portion V for connecting the inner sleeve 4 to the first fluid conduit 2a is provided within the region of the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. In the illustrated embodiment, the connection portion V has a number of engaging recesses 20. The engaging recesses are formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging protrusions 21 provided on the first fluid conduit 2a in order to form a positive connection. As shown in the illustration, a plurality of engaging recesses 20 may be provided distributed on the circumferential surface. In this embodiment, the positive connection can be formed in the axial and circumferential directions.

[0025] However, of course, the opposite embodiment (not shown) is also conceivable. In the opposite embodiment, a number of engaging protrusions 21 are provided on the connection portion V of the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. The engaging protrusions are formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging recesses 20 provided on the first fluid conduit 2a in order to form a positive connection. Of course, combinations of engaging protrusions 21 and engaging recesses 20 are also conceivable.

[0026] In the circumferential direction, for example, recesses 20a may be provided between two mutually continuous engaging recesses 20 (or engaging protrusions 21). These recesses 20a extend from the first axial inner sleeve end 4a to the second axial inner sleeve end 4b, over a portion of the length of the inner sleeve 4 (see Figure 2). This forms a separate bending lug for each engaging recess 20. The bending lug allows for some elasticity in the radial direction. The bending lug can be bent outward when connected to the first fluid conduit 2a. This facilitates engagement at the engaging protrusions 21. However, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiment of the connection portion V is merely an example. Those skilled in the art can basically select other suitable connection configurations.

[0027] The second axial inner sleeve end 4b of the inner sleeve 4 surrounds the receiving space (AR). The open first axial insertion sleeve end 3a of the insertion sleeve 3 can be axially inserted into the receiving space. The open second axial insertion sleeve end 3b on the opposite side of the insertion sleeve 3 can be connected to the second fluid conduit 2b. The insertion sleeve 3 is not part of the present invention and may be a standardized or normalized component, for example, as will be described in more detail later. Depending on the structural configuration of the insertion sleeve 3, the second fluid conduit 2b may also be formed in various different forms. The second fluid conduit 2b is indicated only by a dashed line in Figure 2.

[0028] Furthermore, the plug connector 1 has a locking mechanism for positively locking the insertion sleeve 3 into the inner sleeve 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism includes, for example, two similar locking mechanisms. These locking mechanisms are located in the plug connector 1 opposite each other in the diametrical direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve 4. Three or more preferably similar locking mechanisms are also conceivable. For convenience, the present invention will be described in terms of locking mechanisms. When multiple locking mechanisms are present, it is advantageous for ease of handling if these locking mechanisms can act simultaneously for locking and unlocking.

[0029] The locking mechanism includes at least one locking recess 11 and at least one locking element 12. The locking recess 11 connects the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4 to the receiving space AR. When the insertion sleeve 3 is positioned in a defined connection position within the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4 (see Figure 3c), the locking element 12 can be moved within the locking recess 11 between a restrained position SS in which the restraining portion 12c of the locking element 12 (see Figure 2) engages with an engagement opening 13 located in the insertion sleeve 3, and a released position FS in which the restraining portion 12c does not engage with the engagement opening 13. When the locking element 12 is engaged with the engagement opening 13, the insertion sleeve 3 is positively connected to or locked to the inner sleeve 4 at least in the axial direction. Depending on the structural configuration of the locking element 12 and the engagement opening 13, positive locking in the circumferential direction may also be possible.

[0030] As is evident in Figure 1, and more specifically in Figure 2, the locking recess 11 is preferably formed as a circumferential groove. The circumferential groove may extend in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve 4 over a groove angle of, for example, at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, and particularly preferably at least 90°. The circumferential groove is preferably located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve 4.

[0031] The axial position of the locking recess 11 in the inner sleeve 4 may be defined, for example, according to the axial position of the engagement opening 13 of the insertion sleeve 3. Generally, the dimensions of the inner sleeve 4, such as the axial length and the inner diameter of the receiving space AR, can be adapted to, for example, the dimensions of a standardized insertion sleeve 3. Figure 1 shows, for example, an insertion sleeve 3. This insertion sleeve is preferably formed according to the standards of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).

[0032] The illustrated insertion sleeve 3 has a first cylindrical portion ZA1 within the region of the first axial insertion sleeve end 3a. The first cylindrical portion ZA1 is connected to a second cylindrical portion ZA2 via a conical portion 19. The second cylindrical portion ZA2 has a larger diameter than the first cylindrical portion ZA1. The engagement openings 13 are located on the outer circumferential surface AU3 of the second cylindrical portion ZA2 and are formed in a groove shape. In the illustrated embodiment, two engagement openings 13 are provided. These engagement openings are located on opposite sides in the diametrical direction and extend circumferentially over a predetermined angle. Each engagement opening 13 interacts with the locking mechanism of the plug connector 1, specifically with the locking element 12. Of course, such an embodiment is merely an example, and the engagement openings 13 may include only a single circumferential groove extending around the entire circumference.

[0033] According to the present invention, the plug connector 1 has a slide sleeve 5 located radially outside the inner sleeve 4. The slide sleeve 5 is movable axially along the inner sleeve 4 between a retained position PP (see Figure 5a) in which the locking mechanism is deactivated and a locked position VP (see Figure 5b) in which the locking mechanism is activated. Before the plug connector 1 can be coupled with the insertion sleeve 3, the slide sleeve 5 is of course in the retained position PP, or it is brought from the locked position VP to the retained position PP. This can be done by the user, for example, using the gripping portion 15.

[0034] The locking mechanism further includes a trigger spring 6 having an operating part 7 and a retaining part 8. When the slide sleeve 5 is in the retaining position PP, the trigger spring 6 is preloaded to the retaining position HP. In the retaining position, as shown in Figures 2 and 3a, the retaining part 8 is engaged with the retaining projection 9 of the inner sleeve 4.

[0035] The inner sleeve 4 is further provided with an operating opening 10. The operating opening connects the outer surface AU4 to the receiving space AR. When viewed in the axial direction of the inner sleeve 4, the operating opening 10 is located between the locking recess 11 and the first axial inner sleeve end 4b. The operating opening 10 is evident from the lower locking mechanism in Figure 2. When the trigger spring 6 is in the holding position HP, the operating part 7 protrudes radially inward through the operating opening 10 into the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4, as is also evident from the lower locking mechanism in Figure 2.

[0036] As indicated by the arrow in Figure 3a, when the insertion sleeve 3 is inserted axially into the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4 to form a lock, the actuating portion 7 of the trigger spring 6 is moved radially out of the receiving space AR by the insertion sleeve 3, for example by the conical portion 19, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 3b. This causes the retaining portion 8 of the trigger spring 6 to disengage from the retaining projection 9 of the inner sleeve 4, and an actuating force FA directed toward the second axial inner sleeve end 4b is applied to the slide sleeve 5 by the trigger spring 6, as shown in Figure 3c.

[0037] A force-absorbing projection 5v may be provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5. A trigger spring 6 acts on the force-absorbing projection 5v (Figure 3b). Due to the operating force FA (indicated by the arrow in Figure 3c), the slide sleeve 5 automatically moves from the retained position PP to the locked position VP (unless it is blocked).

[0038] Similar to the position of the locking recess 11, the axial position of the operating opening 10 of the inner sleeve 4 may also be defined, preferably according to the axial position of the conical portion 19 of the standardized insertion sleeve 3. This ensures that the operating portion 7 of the trigger spring 6 operates reliably and moves out of the receiving space AR when the insertion sleeve 3 is inserted into the receiving space AR.

[0039] According to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the trigger spring 6 has a restoring force directed radially inward within the region of the retaining portion 8 of the inner sleeve 4. Due to this restoring force, when the retaining portion 8 reaches the retaining position HP, it engages well with the retaining projection 9.

[0040] Alternatively, or in addition to this, it may be advantageous to provide a restoring projection 23 on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5. The restoring projection 23 is formed to apply a radially inward restoring force to the trigger spring 6 when the slide sleeve 5 is moved from the locked position VP to the retained position PP. The restoring force causes the retaining portion 8 of the trigger spring 6 to engage with the retaining projection 9 when it reaches the retaining position HP. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the slide sleeve 5 includes two restoring projections 23 that are diametrically opposite to each other, i.e., one restoring projection 23 for each locking mechanism.

[0041] The restoring projection 23 may be formed, for example, as an elongated bar. The bar starts from the end 5b of the second slide sleeve and extends in the direction of the end 5a of the first slide sleeve over a portion of the length of the slide sleeve 5. An inclined restoring surface 23a may be provided at the end of the bar facing the end 5a of the first slide sleeve. The inclined restoring surface is formed to interact with the trigger spring 6 and, specifically, the central portion 6c (see Figure 2), which will be described below, in order to generate a restoring force. The restoring surface 23a is visible from the upper restoring projection 23 in Figure 1.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger spring 6 is formed from a spring wire and has a first free wire end 6a, a second free wire end 6b, and a central portion 6c located between the first and second free wire ends (see Figure 2). As is clear from Figure 2, the central portion 6c is at least partially in contact with the outer circumferential surface UA4 of the inner sleeve 4. In the circumferential direction, the central portion 6c may extend over an angle of, for example, at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, particularly preferably at least 60°, and specifically at least 90°. In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 6c (viewed from above) is formed in a substantially S-shape and has two arcs. However, the central portion 6c (viewed from above) may be formed in a substantially V-shape and have only one arc.

[0043] A fastening portion 17 may be provided within the region of the first free wire end 6a. The fastening portion is fastened to a fastening receiving portion 18. The fastening receiving portion is located on the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4 within the region of the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. As is clear from Figure 2, the inner sleeve has a collar that protrudes radially from the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. The collar extends circumferentially over a predetermined portion. An axial recess may be provided within such a collar. The axial recess can serve as the fastening receiving portion 18. A retaining portion 8 may be provided within the region of the second free wire end 6b. An operating portion 7 may also be provided within the region of the second free wire end 6b, and may be formed, for example, by a U-shaped portion of a spring wire.

[0044] In a further advantageous embodiment, a stopper projection 16 is provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5, and the stopper projection is circumferentially oriented to form a stopper for the second free wire end 6b of the trigger spring 6. The stopper projection 16 is shown in Figure 1. The stopper projection 16 may have a stopper surface 16a. When the slide sleeve 5 is in the retained position PP, the stopper surface is circumferentially oriented towards the second free wire end 6b of the trigger spring 6.

[0045] The end face of the second free wire end 6b of the trigger spring 6 restricts the second free wire end 6b in the circumferential direction and contacts the stopper surface 16a of the stopper projection 16. This prevents unwanted movement of the trigger spring 6 in the circumferential direction. The end face of the second free wire end 6b is only visible from the upper trigger spring 6 in Figures 1 and 2. A stopper projection 16 (not shown) may also be provided for the upper trigger spring 6. This stopper projection may be located on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5, on the diametrically opposite side of the lower stopper projection 16 shown in Figure 1.

[0046] The slide sleeve 5 is further provided with a first guide device 14 for guiding the locking element 12. The first guide device 14 is configured such that a first guide force FF1 acts on the locking element 12 when the slide sleeve 5 is moved from the retaining position PP to the locked position VP. As indicated by the arrows in Figure 3c, the guide force allows the locking element 12 to move from the released position FS to the restrained position SS (unless it is blocked). When the insertion sleeve 3 is in the connection position shown in Figure 3c, the engagement opening 13 aligns radially with the locking recess 11, and the locking element 12 engages with the engagement opening 13, thereby forming an engaging lock.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide device 14 of the slide sleeve 5 has a first guide link 14a and a second guide link 14b. The first guide link and the second guide link are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the slide sleeve 5 and are arranged on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5 (see Figure 1). The first guide link 14a of the first guide device 14 of the lower locking mechanism is clear from Figure 1. The second guide link 14b of the first guide device 14 of the lower locking mechanism, which is on the opposite side of the first guide link 14a, is not visible in Figure 1 and is therefore indicated by a dashed line. The two guide links 14a and 14b of the first guide device 14 of the upper locking mechanism are formed similarly, but this is not clear from Figure 1.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking element 12 has a cylindrical rod comprising a first free rod end and a second free rod end on the opposite side. A first guide portion 12a is provided within the region of the first rod end, and a second guide portion 12b is provided within the region of the second rod end. As is clear from Figure 2, the locking element 12 is positioned within the groove-shaped locking recess 11 such that the cylindrical rod is positioned substantially tangentially to the inner sleeve 4. The length of the cylindrical rod is sized such that the first guide portion 12a and the second guide portion 12b are located outside the periphery of the inner sleeve 4 in both the released position FS and the restrained position SS, and protrude beyond the outer circumferential surface UA4 of the inner sleeve 4.

[0049] With the slide sleeve 5 assembled to the inner sleeve 4, the first guide portion 12a is housed within the first guide link 14a and is positively guided by the first guide link 14a. Similarly, the second guide portion 12b is housed within the second guide link 14b and is positively guided by the second guide link 14b. With the insertion sleeve 3 assembled to the inner sleeve 4, the restraining portion 12c that engages with the engagement opening 13 of the insertion sleeve 3 is located within the free rod end or the central region between the guide portions 12a and 12b (see Figure 2).

[0050] The function of the first guide device 14 will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the slide sleeve 5 including the rod-shaped locking element 12. For convenience, only the upper half of the slide sleeve 5 is shown. As described above, the first guide device 14 has a first guide link 14a and a second guide link 14b (not shown in Figure 4) located on the opposite side of the plane of the figure. The second guide link 14b is configured to be almost identical to the first guide link 14a.

[0051] The slide sleeve 5 is movable axially along the inner sleeve 4 between a retained position PP (left side in Figure 4) and a locked position VP (right side in Figure 4). The locking element 12 is fixed axially to the inner sleeve 4 by being housed in a locking recess 11 of the inner sleeve 4 (not shown). In the radial direction, the locking element 12 is movable within the locking recess 11 relative to the inner sleeve 4 between a released position FS (see Figure 3b) and a restrained position SP (see Figure 3c).

[0052] The first guide link 14a and the (not shown) second guide link 14b are grooved and, as is clear from Figure 4, each have one first link portion 14_1 and one second link portion 14_2. To facilitate the assembly of the slide sleeve 5 into the inner sleeve 4, the first link portion 14_1 is here connected to the first axial slide sleeve end 5a of the slide sleeve 5.

[0053] The first link portion 14_1 is formed almost straight and extends over a portion of the length of the slide sleeve 5 in the direction of the second axial slide sleeve end 5b on the opposite side of the slide sleeve 5. The first link portion 14_1 extends almost parallel to the longitudinal axis A5 of the slide sleeve 5. As can be seen from Figure 4, the first link portion 14_1 also has a conical contour and tapers from the first axial slide sleeve end 5a in the direction of the second axial slide sleeve end 5b.

[0054] The second link portion 14_2 is adjacent to the first link portion 14_1 and is also formed straight, inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the first link portion 14_1. The second link portion 14_2, specifically the opposing walls of the groove, thereby form a kind of inclined plane for guiding the first guide portion 12a of the locking element 12. It is advantageous that the end of the second link portion 14_2, directed toward the second axial slide sleeve end 5b of the slide sleeve 5, is closed. However, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiment is merely an example, and the first guide link 14a may have, for example, a curved contour.

[0055] When the slide sleeve 5 is in the retained position PP, the locking element 12 is in the released position FS and is housed within the second link portion 14_2 of the first guide link 14a, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 4. When the slide sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP, the locking element 12 is in the constrained position SS and is housed within the first link portion 14_1 of the first guide link 14a, as also shown by the dashed line in Figure 4.

[0056] When the slide sleeve 5 is positioned between the retained position PP and the locked position VP, the locking element 12 is positioned between the released position FS and the restrained position SS (shown by a solid line in Figure 4). However, the drawing is only useful for showing the radial position of the locking element 12. The axial position of the locking element 12 remains constant during operation, because the locking element 12 is housed within the locking recess 11.

[0057] When the slide sleeve 5 is moved from the retained position PP to the locked position VP due to the operating force FA of the trigger spring 6 (see Figure 3c), the first guide force FF1 is applied to the locking element 12 by the second link portion 14_2 of the first guide link 14a (directed downward as indicated by the arrow in Figure 4). The first guide force FF1 moves the locking element 12 from the released position FS to the restrained position SS.

[0058] To release the lock, the slide sleeve 5 can be moved by hand from the locked position VP to the retained position PP by a gripping portion 15 preferably provided on the outer peripheral surface AU5. This allows the slide sleeve 5 to transmit a compressive force directed in the opposite direction to the operating force FA to the trigger spring 6, for example by the force-absorbing projection 5v, thereby returning the retaining portion 8 to the retaining position HP.

[0059] The first guide device 14 of the slide sleeve 5 is configured such that when the slide sleeve 5 is moved from the locked position VP to the retained position PP, a second guide force FF2 is applied to the locking element 12 by the second link portion 14_2 of the first guide link 14a (directed upward as indicated by the arrow in Figure 4). The second guide force FF2 moves the locking element 12 from the restrained position SS to the released position FS.

[0060] To improve the axial guidance of the slide sleeve 5 along the inner sleeve 4, it is advantageous to provide at least one second guide device 22. In the illustrated embodiment, two second guide devices 22 are provided, and these second guide devices are positioned on the plug connector 1 on opposite sides in the diametrical direction. The second guide device 22 preferably has at least one first guide projection 22a and at least one second guide projection 22b. These guide projections are positioned on the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4, spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, there are two first guide projections 22a spaced apart from each other in the axial direction and two second guide projections 22b spaced apart from each other in the axial direction. The guide projections 22a, 22b are preferably integrally molded with the inner sleeve 4.

[0061] The second guide device 22 further includes guide bars 32. The guide bars are provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the slide sleeve 5 and extend axially over at least a portion of the length of the slide sleeve 5. In the illustrated embodiment, two guide bars 32 are provided. Each of these guide bars starts from the second axial slide sleeve end 5b and extends in the direction of the first axial slide sleeve end 5b over a portion of the length of the slide sleeve 5. The guide bars 32 are evident from Figure 1. In Figure 1, only the front end of the upper guide bar 32 is evident, and the rest is not visible, so it is shown with a dashed line. With the slide sleeve 5 assembled to the inner sleeve 4, each guide bar 32 is positioned circumferentially between at least one first guide projection 22a and at least one second guide projection 22b, and is guided by the guide projections 22a, 22b.

[0062] As is clear from Figure 1, the guide bar 32 and the restoring projection 23 may be formed as a single bar. The portion of the bar facing the end 5b of the second slide sleeve can function as the guide bar 32, and the portion of the bar facing the end 5a of the first slide sleeve (this portion is provided with an inclined restoring surface 23a) can function as the restoring projection 23.

[0063] In a further advantageous configuration, the inner sleeve 4 is provided with a number of positioning recesses 24. Each positioning recess extends from the second axial inner sleeve end 4b across a portion of the inner sleeve towards the first axial inner sleeve end 4a, and each connects the inner circumferential surface IU4 of the inner sleeve 4 to the outer circumferential surface AU4 (see Figure 2). The number of positioning recesses 24 are formed to interact with a number of corresponding positioning protrusions 25 (see Figure 1) provided on the insertion sleeve 3 in order to position the insertion sleeve 3 circumferentially relative to the inner sleeve 4 at the connection position. The number, position, and size of the positioning recesses 24 are preferably based on the structural configuration of the insertion sleeve 3. In the illustrated embodiment, as an example, two positioning recesses 24 are provided. These positioning recesses are located on inner sleeves 4 on opposite sides in the diametrical direction.

[0064] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the plug connector 1 includes a display device A to indicate to the user whether the slide sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP and therefore the locking element 12 is in the restrained position SS. In the illustrated embodiment, the display device A includes a number of signal tabs 26 (e.g., four). The signal tabs are distributed circumferentially on the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. The number of signal tabs 26 may protrude axially beyond the first axial inner sleeve end 4a. Each of the number of signal tabs 26 may include one signal surface 27. In the restrained position PP of the slide sleeve 5, a first portion of the signal surface 27 is covered by the slide sleeve 5, and in the locked position VP of the slide sleeve 5, a smaller portion of the signal surface 27 than the first portion is covered by the slide sleeve 5, or the signal surface 27 is fully exposed.

[0065] At least one of the signal surfaces 27 displays a machine-readable code, preferably a QR code (registered trademark), and it is advantageous that the machine-readable code is machine-readable when the slide sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP. This allows for automatic detection of whether the insertion sleeve 3 is properly coupled to the plug connector 1. Detection can be performed, for example, by a camera system and industrial image processing.

[0066] Figure 5a shows a plug connector assembly. The plug connector assembly includes a plug connector 1, a first fluid conduit 2a, an insertion sleeve 3, and a second fluid conduit 2b. The first fluid conduit 2a is attached to the plug connector 1 by engaging a projection 21 of the first fluid conduit 2a with a recess 20 of the connection portion V of the inner sleeve 4. Furthermore, the insertion sleeve 3 is connected to the second fluid conduit 2b. The second fluid conduit 2b is shown only schematically. In Figure 5a, the insertion sleeve 3 is not coupled to the plug connector 1, and the slide sleeve 5 is in the retained position PP. In the retained position PP, at least a portion of the signal surface 27 of the signal tab 26 is covered by the slide sleeve 5 and is not visible from the outside. This means that the QR code® displayed on the signal surface 27 is partially covered and cannot be read.

[0067] Figure 5b shows the plug connector assembly in the coupled state of the insertion sleeve 3 and the plug connector 1. In this case, the slide sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP. In the locked position, as shown in Figure 3c, both locking elements 12 (generally at least one locking element 12) are in the restrained position SS. The restraining portions 12c of the locking elements 12 engage with the respective engagement openings 13 of the insertion sleeve 3 in the restrained position SS. The positioning projections 25 of the insertion sleeve 3 engage with the positioning recesses 24, thereby ensuring that the insertion sleeve 3 is positioned in the correct connection position in the circumferential direction.

[0068] As is further evident from Figure 5b, in the locked position VP, the slide sleeve 5 is positioned axially relative to the inner sleeve 4 such that the second axial slide sleeve end 5b of the slide sleeve 5 protrudes beyond the second axial inner sleeve end 4b of the inner sleeve 4. This exposes a larger portion of the signal surface 27 of the signal tab 26 than in the retained position PP (Figure 5a), allowing the QR code® displayed on the signal surface to be read. Preferably, the signal surface 27 is almost completely exposed. Reading can be performed, for example, automatically or manually by an assembly worker, using, for example, a suitable camera or QR code® scanner. If the QR code® cannot be read, this means that the slide sleeve 5 has not reached the locked position VP, and the coupling operation was therefore not performed correctly. This information can be used, for example, to repeat the coupling operation until a correct coupling is achieved.

[0069] Figure 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the plug connector assembly with the insertion sleeve 3 coupled. What is shown in Figure 6 is substantially equivalent to what is shown in Figure 3C. The inner circumferential surface IU2 of the end portion of the first fluid conduit 2a is provided with a first circumferential shoulder 28 having a first annular end face 28a. The first annular end face is oriented axially toward the open end of the first fluid conduit 2a. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface IU4 of the inner sleeve 4 is provided with a second circumferential shoulder 29 having a second annular end face 29a. The second annular end face is oriented toward the first axial inner sleeve end 4a which is axially open.

[0070] A seal space 30 is formed between the first annular end face 28a and the second annular end face 29a when viewed in the axial direction, and between the inner circumferential surface IU2 of the end portion of the first fluid conduit 2a and the outer circumferential surface AU3 of the first cylindrical portion ZA1 of the insertion sleeve 3 when viewed radially. A seal element 31 is positioned within the seal space. The illustrated seal element 31 has a substantially cylindrical outer circumferential surface. The outer circumferential surface is in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the end portion of the first fluid conduit 2a. This allows the seal element 31 to be pre-assembled, for example, to the first fluid conduit 2a.

[0071] The inner circumferential surface is convex or curved and is in contact with the outer circumferential surface AU3 of the first cylindrical portion ZA1 of the insertion sleeve 3. The sealing element 31 can create a sealing effect between the insertion sleeve 3 and the first fluid conduit 2a when the insertion sleeve 3 is coupled. As the sealing element 31, for example, a sealing ring made of a suitable material may be used. Depending on the application (for example, depending on pressure, temperature, type of fluid, etc.), various materials such as rubber and silicone can also be used.

[0072] These embodiments illustrate possible modifications. It should be noted here that the present invention is not limited to the specifically shown modifications, but rather various combinations of these modifications are possible, and such modifications are possible within the scope of the skills of those skilled in the art, based on the teachings for the technical acts of the invention.

[0073] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the specification and drawings can be used to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features of the various illustrated and described embodiments may themselves be independent solutions of the present invention. The problems underlying these independent solutions of the present invention are evident from the specification.

[0074] All numerical values ​​relating to value ranges in this description should be understood to include any and all subranges. For example, the number 1-10 includes all subranges starting from a lower limit of 1 and an upper limit of 10; that is, all subranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, such as 1-1.7, or 3.2-8.1, or 5.5-10.

[0075] Finally, and this is purely a formality, I would like to point out that, in order to better understand the structure, the elements are shown not at a fixed scale, and / or enlarged and / or reduced in some cases. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0076] 1. Plug connector 2a 1st fluid conduit 2b Second fluid conduit 3 Insertion sleeve 3a First axial insertion sleeve end 3b Second axial insertion sleeve end 4. Inner sleeve 4a First axial insertion sleeve end 4b Second axial insertion sleeve end 5 slide sleeves 6. Trigger spring 7. Operating parts 8 Holding part 9 Holding protrusion 10 Operating opening 11 Locking opening 12 Locking elements 12a 1st guide section 12b Second Guide Section 12c restraint part 13 Engagement opening 14. First guide device 14a First Guide Link 15 Gripping part 16 Stopper protrusion 16a Stopper surface 17 Fastening section 18 Fastening receiving part 19. Cone section 20 Engagement recess 21 Engagement protrusion 22 Second Guiding Device 22a First guide projection 22b Second guide projection 23 Restoration protrusion 23a Restoration surface 24 Positioning recess 25 Positioning protrusion 26 Signal Tab 27 Signal surface 28 First circumferential shoulder 28a First annular end face 29 Second circumferential shoulder 29a Second annular end face 30 seal space 31 Seal elements 32 Guide Bar IU2 Inner circumferential surface of the end portion of the first fluid conduit IU4 Inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve IU5 Slide Sleeve Inner Circumferential Surface Outer surface of AU3 insertion sleeve Outer surface of the AU4 inner sleeve Outer surface of AU5 slide sleeve V connection part PP hold position VP lock position AR reception space FS release position SS restraint position FA actuation force FF 1st Guidance Power FF2 Second Guidance Power HP holding position ZA1 First cylindrical section ZA2 Second cylindrical section α groove angle

Claims

1. A plug connector (1) for releasably connecting a first fluid conduit (2a) to a second fluid conduit (2b) by an insertion sleeve (3), The plug connector (1) has an inner sleeve (4) which has an open first axial inner sleeve end (4a) and an open second axial inner sleeve end (4b) on the opposite side, A connection portion (V) for connecting the inner sleeve (4) to the first fluid conduit (2a) is provided within the region of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a), The second axial inner sleeve end (4b) surrounds the receiving space (AR), and the open first axial insertion sleeve end (3a) of the insertion sleeve (3) can be inserted axially into the receiving space (AR). The open second axial insertion sleeve end (3b) on the opposite side of the insertion sleeve (3) is connectable to the second fluid conduit (2b), The plug connector (1) has a locking mechanism for positively locking the insertion sleeve (3) to the inner sleeve (4), the locking mechanism having a locking recess (11) and a locking element (12), the locking recess (11) connecting the outer circumferential surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4) to the receiving space (AR), In a plug connector (1), when the insertion sleeve (3) is positioned in a connection position defined within the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), the locking element (12) inside the locking recess (11) is movable between a restrained position (SS) in which the restraining portion (12c) of the locking element (12) engages with an engagement opening (13) located in the insertion sleeve (3), and a released position (FS) in which the restraining portion (12c) does not engage with the engagement opening (13), The plug connector (1) has a slide sleeve (5), which is located radially outside the inner sleeve (4) and is movable axially along the inner sleeve (4) between a retained position (PP) in which the locking mechanism is deactivated and a locked position (VP) in which the locking mechanism is activated. The locking mechanism has a trigger spring (6) comprising an operating portion (7) and a retaining portion (8), the trigger spring (6) is preloaded to the retaining position (HP) from the retaining position (PP) of the slide sleeve (5), the retaining portion (8) engages with the retaining projection (9) of the inner sleeve (4) in the retaining position (HP), the operating portion (7) protrudes radially inward through an operating opening (10) provided in the inner sleeve (4) into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4) in the retaining position (HP), The operating opening (10) is positioned between the locking recess (11) and the first axial inner sleeve end (4b) when viewed in the axial direction of the inner sleeve (4), and when the insertion sleeve (3) is inserted into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), the operating portion (7) of the trigger spring (6) can move radially out of the receiving space (AR) by the insertion sleeve (3). As a result, the retaining portion (8) of the trigger spring (6) can be disengaged from the retaining projection (9) of the inner sleeve (4), and an operating force (FA) directed toward the second axial inner sleeve end (4b) acts from the trigger spring (6) to the slide sleeve (5), and the operating force makes the slide sleeve (5) movable from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), and a first guide device (14) for guiding the locking element (12) is provided on the slide sleeve (5), and the first guide device is configured such that when the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guide force (FF1) acts on the locking element (12), and the first guide force (FF1) makes the locking element (12) movable from the released position (FS) to the restrained position (SS), characterized in that a first guide device (14) for guiding the locking element (12) is provided on the slide sleeve (5), and when the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guide force (FF1) acts on the locking element (12), and the first guide force (FF1) makes the locking element (12) movable from the released position (FS) to the restrained position (SS).

2. The slide sleeve (5) is preferably movable by hand from the locked position (VP) to the retained position (PP) by a gripping portion (15) provided on the outer peripheral surface (AU5). As a result, a compressive force opposite to the actuation force (FA) can be transmitted to the trigger spring (6), thereby returning the holding portion (8) to the holding position (HP), and the first guide device (14) of the slide sleeve (5) is configured such that when the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the locked position (VP) to the retaining position (PP), a second guide force (FF2) acts on the locking element (12), and the second guide force allows the locking element (12) to move from the restrained position (SS) to the released position (FS), as described in claim 1.

3. The plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the trigger spring (6) has a restoring force (FR) directed inward in the radial direction of the inner sleeve (4) within the region of the retaining portion (8), and when it reaches the retaining position (HP), the retaining portion (8) engages with the retaining projection (9) due to the restoring force (FR), and / or a restoring projection (23) is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the slide sleeve (5), and the restoring projection (23) is formed to apply a restoring force (FR) directed inward in the radial direction of the inner sleeve (4) to the trigger spring (6) when the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the locked position (VP) to the retaining position (PP), and when it reaches the retaining position (HP), the retaining portion (8) of the trigger spring (6) engages with the retaining projection (9) due to the restoring force (FR).

4. The trigger spring (6) has a spring wire comprising a first free wire end (6a), a second free wire end (6b), and a central portion (6c) located between the first free wire end and the second free wire end, wherein the central portion (6c) at least partially contacts the outer circumferential surface (UA4) of the inner sleeve (4) and preferably extends over an angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, particularly preferably at least 60°, specifically at least 90° in the circumferential direction, and the central portion (6c) is preferably formed in a substantially S-shape or a substantially V-shape, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A fastening portion (17) is provided within the region of the first free wire end (6a), and the fastening portion (17) is fastened to a fastening receiving portion (18) located on the outer peripheral surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4) within the region of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a). The plug connector (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the retaining portion (8) is provided within the region of the second free wire end (6b).

6. The plug connector (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that a stopper projection (16) is provided on the inner circumferential surface (IU5) of the slide sleeve (5), and the stopper projection (16) is formed in the circumferential direction to form a stopper for the second free wire end (6b) of the trigger spring (6).

7. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking recess (11) is formed as a circumferential groove and extends over a groove angle (α) of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, and particularly preferably at least 90° in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve (4), and the circumferential groove is preferably located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve (4).

8. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the axial position of the locking recess (11) in the inner sleeve is defined according to the axial position of the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3), and / or the axial position of the operating opening (10) in the inner sleeve (4) is defined according to the axial position of the conical portion (19) of the insertion sleeve (3).

9. The first guide device (14) of the slide sleeve (5) comprises a first guide link (14a) and a second guide link (14b), and the first guide link and the second guide link are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the slide sleeve (5) and are arranged on the inner circumferential surface (IU5) of the slide sleeve (5). The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the locking element (12) comprises a rod having a first free rod end and a second free rod end on the opposite side, a first guide portion (12a) provided in the region of the first free rod end, the first guide portion being positively guided within the first guide link (14a), a second guide portion (12b) provided in the region of the second free rod end, the second guide portion being positively guided within the second guide link (14b), and the restraining portion (12c) located between the two free rod ends.

10. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least two similar locking mechanisms, the two locking mechanisms are arranged in the plug connector (1) on opposite sides to each other, preferably in the diametrical direction, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve (4).

11. The connecting portion (V) of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a) includes a number of engaging recesses (20), which are formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging protrusions (21) provided on the first fluid conduit (2a) to form a positive locking connection in the axial and / or circumferential directions, and / or The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the connection portion (V) of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a) includes a number of engaging protrusions (21), and the engaging recess (20) is formed to interact with a number of corresponding engaging recesses (20) provided in the first fluid conduit (2a) to form a positive lock connection in the axial and / or circumferential direction.

12. A plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a second guide device is provided to guide the slide sleeve (5) axially along the inner sleeve (4), and the second guide device (22) preferably includes at least one first guide projection (22a) and at least one second guide projection (22b) disposed on the outer circumferential surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4) at a distance from each other in the circumferential direction, and a guide bar (32) provided on the inner circumferential surface (IU5) of the slide sleeve (5) and extending axially over at least a portion of the length of the slide sleeve (5), wherein the guide bar (32) is guided in the circumferential direction between the first guide projection (22a) and the second guide projection (22b).

13. A plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a number of positioning recesses (24) are provided in the inner sleeve (4), each of the number of positioning recesses (24) extends from the second axial inner sleeve end (4b) across a portion of the inner sleeve in the direction of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a), and each connects the inner circumferential surface (IU4) of the inner sleeve (4) to the outer circumferential surface (AU4), and the number of positioning recesses (24) are configured to interact with a number of corresponding positioning protrusions (25) provided on the insertion sleeve (3) in order to position the insertion sleeve (3) circumferentially relative to the inner sleeve (4) at the connection position.

14. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the plug connector (1) has a display device (A) that indicates to the user whether the slide sleeve (5) is in the locked position (VP) and the locking element (12) is in the restrained position (SS).

15. The plug connector (1) according to claim 14, wherein the display device (A) comprises a plurality of signal tabs (26), the plurality of signal tabs (26) are distributed around the first axial inner sleeve end (4a), the plurality of signal tabs (26) protrude beyond the first axial inner sleeve end (4a) in the axial direction, each of the plurality of signal tabs (26) comprises one signal surface (27), in the retained position (PP) of the slide sleeve (5), a first portion of the signal surface is covered by the slide sleeve (5), in the locked position (VP) of the slide sleeve (5), a smaller portion of the signal surface (27) relative to the first portion is covered by the slide sleeve (5), or the signal surface (27) is completely exposed, preferably at least one of the signal surfaces (27) displays a machine-readable code, specifically a QR code (registered trademark), and the code is machine-readable when the slide sleeve (5) is in the locked position (VP).

16. A plug connector assembly comprising a plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, a first fluid conduit (2a), an insertion sleeve (3), and preferably a second fluid conduit (2b).

17. The plug connector assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that the connection portion (V) of the inner sleeve (4) is connected to the first fluid conduit (2a), the insertion sleeve (3) is positioned inside the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4) at the connection position, the slide sleeve (5) is positioned in the locked position (VP), at least one locking element (12) is positioned in the restrained position (SS) and engages with the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3), and the second axial insertion sleeve end (3b) is connected to the second fluid conduit (2b).

18. A first circumferential shoulder portion (28) having a first annular end face (28a) is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the end portion of the first fluid conduit (2a) which is connected to the connecting portion (V) of the inner sleeve (4), and is oriented toward the inner sleeve (4) in the axial direction. The plug connector assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that a second circumferential shoulder portion (29) having a second annular end face (29a) is provided on the inner circumferential surface (IU4) of the inner sleeve (4) and faces the first fluid conduit (2a), and a sealing element (31) is arranged in a sealing space between the first annular end face (28a) and the second annular end face (29a) when viewed in the axial direction, and between the inner circumferential surface (IU2) of the end portion of the first fluid conduit (2a) and the outer circumferential surface (AU3) of the insertion sleeve (3) when viewed radially.

19. In the use of a plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15 for connecting a first fluid conduit (2a) to a second fluid conduit (2b), The connection portion (V) of the inner sleeve (4) of the plug connector (1) is connected to the first fluid conduit (2a), and the insertion sleeve (3) is connected to the second fluid conduit (2b) by the second axial insertion sleeve end (3b), The first axial insertion sleeve end (3a) of the insertion sleeve (3) is inserted into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4) of the plug connector (1) until the insertion sleeve (3) is in the connection position. During insertion, the retaining portion (8) of the trigger spring (6) is moved out of the receiving space (AR) by the conical portion of the insertion sleeve (3), and the retaining portion (8) is released from the retaining position. After release, an operating force (FA) is applied to the slide sleeve (5) by the retaining portion (8), and the slide sleeve (5) is moved from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP) by the operating force (FA). The use of a plug connector (1), characterized in that, during the movement of the slide sleeve (5) from the retaining position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guide force (FF1) is applied to the locking element (12) by the first guide device (14) of the slide sleeve (5), the first guide force (FF1) causes the locking element (12) to move from the released position (FS) to the restrained position (SS) inside the locking recess (11), and the restrained portion (12c) of the locking element (12) engages with an engagement opening (13) located in the insertion sleeve (3) to positively lock the insertion sleeve (3) with the inner sleeve (4) at least in the axial direction.

20. The slide sleeve (5) is preferably moved by hand from the locked position (VP) to the retained position (PP) by a gripping portion (15) provided on the outer circumferential surface (AU5). During movement via the slide sleeve (5), a compressive force opposite to the operating force (FA) is applied to the retaining portion (8) of the trigger spring (6). This compressive force returns the retaining portion (8) to the retaining position (HP), engaging with the retaining projection (9), and the slide sleeve (5) moves from the locked position (VP) to the retained position (PP). The use of the plug connector (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that, during movement to the retaining position (PP), the first guide device (14) applies a second guide force (FF2) to the locking element (12), and the second guide force (FF2) moves the locking element (12) back from the restrained position (SS) to the released position (FS), thereby releasing the restrained portion (12c) of the locking element (12) from the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3) in order to release the positive lock.

Images