Connector for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector (1) comprising an outer sleeve (5) and an inner sleeve (4) having two arresting jaws (6) which are located in a standby position in an initial position of the outer sleeve (5) and which are located in an arresting position in a locking position of the outer sleeve (5), wherein the outer sleeve (5) comprises a catch element (9) which has a first catch portion (10) that has an actuating protrusion (12) and is received between two adjacent arresting jaws (6) and has two second catch portions (11) that each have a catching protrusion (13) comprising a catching end face (13a), said second catch portions being connected to the first catch portion (10), wherein the arresting jaws (6) each have an actuating portion (14) which comprises a first and a second abutment end face (15a, 16a), wherein the actuating protrusion (12) is able to be pushed outwards such that the catching protrusions (13) are moved from the second abutment end faces (16a) to the first abutment end faces (15a).

Description

[0001] Connector for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line

[0002] The invention relates to a plug connector for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line, wherein the plug connector comprises an inner sleeve with an open first inner sleeve end and an open second inner sleeve end connected to the first inner sleeve end, and an outer sleeve surrounding the inner sleeve, which is movable relative to the inner sleeve between an initial position and a locking position, wherein the inner sleeve has a first connecting portion for connecting the first fluid line in the region of the first inner sleeve end and a second connecting portion for connecting the second fluid line in the region of the second inner sleeve end. Furthermore, the invention relates to a plug connector assembly and a use of the plug connector.

[0003] Generic connectors are used in a wide variety of industrial sectors to connect two fluid lines, preferably in a sealed manner. This is usually done as part of the assembly process of a specific fluid-carrying product. Depending on the specific application and the fluid used, the fluid lines can be essentially rigid pipes or flexible hoses. However, a fluid line can also be integrated into a component. The fluids used can be gaseous or liquid media. Gaseous media can be, for example, (compressed) air or certain process gases. Liquid media can be, for example, water, lubricating oil, coolant, refrigerant, etc.

[0004] During the assembly process of a product, it may be necessary, for example, to connect an initial fluid line or fluid connection of a component to be assembled with a corresponding fluid line or fluid connection of the existing product. Due to ever more efficient production processes, the throughput time in the assembly process is generally also shortened. This means that less and less time is available for the individual assembly steps. In addition to high reliability, a quick connection of the fluid lines using the connector is therefore also desired. As a rule, one side of the connector is connected directly to one of the two fluid lines and the other fluid line is first connected with an insert sleeve. To connect the two lines, the insert sleeve is then coupled to the connector, usually in a detachable manner.

[0005] Connectors of this type are known, for example, from EP 1 955 413 Bl, EP 3 286 477 Bl and EP 3 379 129 Bl.

[0006] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a connector which is easy to handle and which enables a reliable and rapid connection and disconnection of a fluid line.

[0007] This object is achieved by a connector according to claim 1. The connector according to the invention enables simple and ergonomic operation and permits multiple use. The connector is relatively simple in design and ensures a high level of connection security thanks to the clearly recognizable states. In particular, the outer sleeve can only be moved into the locked position when the connection has been correctly established. A further advantage is that the first fluid line can be rotated in the connected state. The spreading mechanism of the locking jaws enables easy insertion and, in particular, easy removal of the first fluid line with low insertion forces.

[0008] Preferably, the outer sleeve is movable longitudinally along the inner sleeve between the initial position and the locking position. This simplifies handling because no twisting of the outer sleeve is necessary.

[0009] Preferably, the locking jaws each have a free first jaw end, on which the first inner sleeve end lies, and an opposite second jaw end which is connected to the inner sleeve, wherein the first jaw ends are movable in a radial direction relative to the second jaw ends between the standby position and the locking position, wherein the locking jaws each have a circumferential groove on an inner circumferential surface which is arranged between the first jaw end and the second jaw end, wherein the circumferential grooves are designed to positively receive the holding section of the first fluid line in the locking position of the locking jaws. The one-piece construction can simplify production and the holding groove enables improved hold of the fluid line.Preferably, the at least one locking element is arranged on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve and has a free first locking element end facing the first inner sleeve end and an opposite second locking element end connected to the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, wherein the first locking element end is movable in the radial direction relative to the second locking element end. This allows the outer sleeve to be formed in one piece, simplifying production.

[0010] Preferably, the actuating projection on the first locking element end comprises a first actuating bevel, which is designed to cooperate with the holding portion of the first fluid line to displace the actuating projection upon insertion of the first fluid line into the first inner sleeve end, and / or a second actuating bevel on a side facing the second locking element end, which is designed to cooperate with the holding portion of the first fluid line to displace the actuating projection upon removal of the first fluid line from the first inner sleeve end. This can simplify the connection or disconnection of the fluid line.

[0011] It is advantageous if the first locking section is arranged centrally in the circumferential direction between the two second locking sections and encompasses the first locking element end, that the actuating projection on the first locking section is provided in the region of the first locking element end, and that the locking projections of the second locking sections are arranged in the longitudinal direction between the actuating projection and the second locking element end. The design is structurally simple and has proven itself in practical tests.

[0012] Preferably, in the initial position of the outer sleeve, the first inner sleeve end of the inner sleeve projects beyond the first outer sleeve end of the outer sleeve. This allows the locking jaws to be spread apart relatively widely in the radial direction, thus facilitating the insertion of the fluid line.

[0013] Preferably, at least three, particularly preferably at least four, locking jaws are provided and / or at least two locking elements are provided. A larger number of locking jaws and locking elements simplifies the connection and release process and improves the hold.

[0014] Preferably, the actuating sections of the locking jaws each comprise a sliding surface connecting the first stop face to the second stop face, wherein the sliding surface comprises a blocking surface inclined toward the first jaw end. The blocking surface prevents unwanted release of the locking mechanism. Release only occurs upon a sufficiently large actuating force.

[0015] Preferably, the inner sleeve is made of plastic, the locking jaws being formed integrally with the inner sleeve, and the first jaw ends being elastically bendable between the locking position and the standby position. Alternatively or additionally, the outer sleeve can be made of plastic, the at least one locking element being formed integrally with the outer sleeve, and the first locking element end being elastically bendable in the radial direction relative to the second locking element end. This allows the connector to be manufactured simply and cost-effectively, and flexible shaping is possible.

[0016] Preferably, the outer sleeve is movable relative to the inner sleeve from the locking position via the initial position into a release position, wherein the first locking section of the at least one locking element comprises a first wedge surface on its circumferentially opposite sides, wherein the first wedge surfaces converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end, wherein the locking jaws, between which the first locking section is received, each comprise a second wedge surface on their sides facing each other in the circumferential direction, wherein the second wedge surfaces converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end, and wherein the first wedge surfaces are designed to cooperate with the second wedge surfaces during the movement of the outer sleeve from the initial position into the release position in order to spread the locking jaws from the standby position into a release position in which the locking of the first fluid line,In particular, the positive engagement of the retaining section in the circumferential grooves is completely detachable. This facilitates handling of the connector when releasing the fluid line, as the retaining section of the fluid line can be removed more easily from the circumferential grooves.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the outer sleeve is movable relative to the inner sleeve from the locking position via the initial position into a release position, that at least one spreading projection is provided on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, which is received in the circumferential direction between two adjacent locking jaws, that the spreading projection comprises a first wedge surface on its circumferentially opposite sides, wherein the first wedge surfaces converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end, that the locking jaws, between which the spreading projection is received, each comprise a second wedge surface on their sides facing each other in the circumferential direction, wherein the second wedge surfaces converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end, and that the first wedge surfaces are designed toDuring the movement of the outer sleeve from the initial position to the release position, they interact with the second wedge surfaces to spread the locking jaws from the standby position to a release position, in which the locking of the first fluid line, in particular the positive reception in the circumferential grooves, is completely releasable. Especially with more than two locking jaws, it can be advantageous to combine spreading projections and locking sections with wedge surfaces.

[0018] The connector preferably comprises at least one spring element designed to exert an actuating force on the outer sleeve in the initial position, which force is directed toward the first inner sleeve end. The spring element can, for example, comprise a helical spring that surrounds the inner sleeve, preferably in the region of the second jaw ends of the locking jaws. This facilitates handling because the locking mechanism can be triggered essentially automatically.

[0019] Preferably, the second connecting portion of the inner sleeve has a sealing arrangement designed to create a seal between the first fluid line and the second fluid line. The sealing arrangement can, for example, comprise at least two sealing rings and a spacer element arranged between the sealing rings, wherein an inner circumferential surface of the sealing rings is designed to bear against an outer circumferential surface of an end portion of the first fluid line and an outer circumferential surface of the sealing rings is designed to bear against an inner circumferential surface of an end portion of the second fluid line. This allows a direct seal to be created between the first fluid line and the second fluid line, whereby no special sealing requirements need to be placed on the connector.

[0020] The locking jaws can each comprise an insertion surface on an inner circumferential surface in the region of the first inner sleeve end, preferably in the region of the first jaw ends, which is inclined toward the first inner sleeve end. This facilitates handling of the connector when connecting the first fluid line because the locking jaws are automatically spread open.

[0021] It is advantageous for the second connecting section to have a plurality of circumferentially spaced, preferably flexible, connecting tabs that surround a receiving space for receiving an end section of the second fluid line. A locking opening is provided on each connecting tab, which penetrates the connecting tab in the radial direction and is designed to cooperate with a corresponding locking projection of the second fluid line to lock the second fluid line to the inner sleeve. Alternatively or additionally, a locking projection can be provided on an inner circumferential surface of each connecting tab, which is designed to cooperate with a corresponding locking opening of the second fluid line to lock the second fluid line to the inner sleeve. This enables a simple and positive connection of the second fluid line.

[0022] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a plug connector assembly comprising a plug connector according to the invention and a first fluid line that is connectable or connected to the first connection section, and / or a second fluid line that is connectable or connected to the second connection section, wherein the first fluid line has a holding section on an outer side for locking the first fluid line to the inner sleeve of the plug connector. Preferably, the plug connector comprises the circumferential grooves on the locking jaws, and the holding section of the first fluid line preferably has a circumferential bead that can be positively received in the circumferential grooves of the locking jaws of the inner sleeve.

[0023] The connector is preferably used by inserting a first fluid line, which comprises a holding section on an outer side, into the open first inner sleeve end of the inner sleeve, that the actuating projection of the at least one locking element is displaced radially outwards from the holding section when inserting the first fluid line, so that the locking projections of the locking element are released from the second stop projections of the actuating sections of the locking jaws of the inner sleeve and that the outer sleeve is moved from the initial position into the locking position, preferably by the actuating force of the spring element,until the locking end faces of the locking projections of the locking elements abut the first stop end faces of the first stop projections of the actuating sections of the locking jaws and the first jaw ends of the locking jaws are each in the locking position and the holding section of the first fluid line is locked to the inner sleeve, wherein preferably a connector according to claim 1 is used and the holding section preferably has a circumferential bead which is positively received in the circumferential grooves of the locking jaws of the inner sleeve.

[0024] Preferably, the outer sleeve is moved relative to the inner sleeve from the locking position via the initial position into the release position, wherein the first wedge surfaces of the first locking section of the at least one locking element and / or the first wedge surfaces of the at least one spreading projection interact with the second wedge surfaces of the locking jaws, whereby the locking jaws are spread from the standby position into the release position, in which the holding section of the first fluid line can be released from the inner sleeve.

[0025] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0026] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[0027] Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a connector assembly including a connector of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Fig. 2 the inner sleeve of the connector in a perspective view and two detailed views;

[0029] Fig. 3 the outer sleeve of the connector in a perspective view and a detailed view;

[0030] Fig. 4 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the initial position;

[0031] Fig. 5 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view, with the outer sleeve of the connector between the initial position and the locking position; Fig. 6 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the locking position;

[0032] Fig. 7 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the release position;

[0033] Fig. 8 shows a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a second locking section, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the initial position;

[0034] Fig. 9 shows a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a first locking section, wherein the outer sleeve of the connector is in the initial position;

[0035] Fig. 10 is a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a second locking section, wherein the outer sleeve of the connector is in a first position between the initial position and the locking position;

[0036] Fig. 11 is a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a first locking section, wherein the outer sleeve of the connector is in the first position between the initial position and the locking position;

[0037] Fig. 12 shows a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a second locking section, wherein the outer sleeve of the connector is in the locking position;

[0038] Fig. 13 shows a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a first locking section, wherein the outer sleeve of the connector is in the locking position;

[0039] Fig. 14 is a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a second locking section, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the release position;

[0040] Fig. 15 shows a longitudinal section through the connector assembly in the region of a first locking section, with the outer sleeve of the connector in the release position. By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or identical component designations, whereby the disclosures contained in the entire description can be transferred mutatis mutandis to identical parts with identical reference symbols or identical component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., relates to the directly described and illustrated figure, and in the event of a change in position, these positional information must be transferred mutatis mutandis to the new position.

[0041] Fig. 1 shows a connector assembly of an exemplary embodiment in a perspective exploded view. The connector assembly comprises a connector 1 in an advantageous embodiment of the invention, as well as a first fluid line 2 and a second fluid line 3. The connector 1 is designed to connect the first fluid line 2 to the second fluid line 3.

[0042] The connector 1 comprises an inner sleeve 4 with an open first inner sleeve end 4a and an open second inner sleeve end 4b connected to the first inner sleeve end. The inner sleeve 4 is shown here as a straight design only, for example. However, the inner sleeve 4 could, of course, also be curved or angled.

[0043] The connector 1 further comprises an outer sleeve 5 surrounding the inner sleeve 4, which is movable relative to the inner sleeve 4 at least between an initial position and a locking position. In the example shown, the outer sleeve 5 is movable in a longitudinal direction along the inner sleeve 4 between the initial position and the locking position. The outer sleeve 5 has a first outer sleeve end 5a and an opposite second outer sleeve end 5b, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0044] The inner sleeve 4 has, in the region of the first inner sleeve end 4a, a first connecting section VI for connecting the first fluid line 2. In the region of the second inner sleeve end 4b, the inner sleeve 4 has a second connecting section V2 for connecting the second fluid line 3.

[0045] In the example shown, the second connecting section V2 comprises a plurality of connecting tabs 25 spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction. The connecting tabs 25 are preferably flexible, so that they can be bent outward in the radial direction. The connecting tabs 25 surround a receiving space for receiving an end section of the second fluid line 3.

[0046] A locking opening 26 is provided on each connecting tab 25, which penetrates the respective connecting tab 25 in the radial direction. The locking openings 26 are designed to cooperate with corresponding locking projections 27 on the second fluid line 3 to lock the second fluid line 3 to the inner sleeve 4. For connection, the second fluid line 3 can be inserted into the receiving space until the locking projections 27 engage in the locking openings 26.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, a locking projection could also be provided on the inner circumferential surface of each connecting tab 25, which is designed to cooperate with a corresponding locking opening on the second fluid line 3 for locking the second fluid line 3 to the inner sleeve 4. Of course, the specific embodiment of the second connecting section V2 is to be understood only as an example, and the person skilled in the art could also provide another suitable embodiment.

[0048] The connecting tabs 25 can preferably be used to signal to a user whether the outer sleeve 5 is in the locking position. This can be recognized in the embodiment shown in that the connecting tabs 25 protrude from the outer sleeve 5 in the locking position in the axial direction such that outer circumferential surfaces of the connecting tabs 25 are exposed (see Fig. 6 + Fig. 12). Optionally, a machine-readable code, e.g., a QR code, can also be provided on the connecting tabs 25 in order to be able to automatically detect the locking position, e.g., using a suitable reading device.

[0049] The second connecting section V2 of the inner sleeve 4 can also comprise a sealing arrangement 22, which is designed to create a seal between the first fluid line 2 and the second fluid line 3. The sealing arrangement here comprises two sealing rings 23 and a spacer element 24, which is arranged between the sealing rings 23, as seen in the axial direction of the inner sleeve 4. An inner circumferential surface of the sealing rings 23 is designed to bear against an outer circumferential surface of an end section of the first fluid line 2. An outer circumferential surface of the sealing rings 23 is designed to bear against an inner circumferential surface of an end section of the second fluid line 3, as can be seen, for example, in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. In the embodiment shown, the first connecting section VI comprises, by way of example, four locking jaws 6. Within the scope of the invention, however, it would generally be sufficient if at least two locking jaws 6 were provided.Three or more than four locking jaws 6 could also be provided. The locking jaws 6 are arranged spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, so that a gap is formed between each two adjacent locking jaws 6. The gap is dimensioned such that a first locking portion 10 of a locking element 9 of the outer sleeve 5, described in more detail below, can be received therein, as well as, if appropriate, an expanding projection 20, described in more detail below. The locking jaws 6 each have a free first jaw end 6a, on which the first inner sleeve end 4a lies, and an opposite second jaw end 6b, which is connected to the inner sleeve 4.

[0050] In the embodiment shown, the locking jaws 6 each have a circumferential groove 7 on an inner circumferential surface. The circumferential grooves 7 are visible in Fig. 1. The circumferential grooves 7 are arranged in the axial direction between the first jaw end 6a and the second jaw end 6a. The circumferential grooves 7 are designed to positively receive a holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 when the locking jaws 6 are in the locking position. As can be seen in Fig. 1, the holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 is advantageously designed as a circumferential bead that preferably extends around the entire circumference. The position and dimension of the circumferential grooves 7 and the dimension of the first fluid line 2, in particular the position and dimension of the circumferential bead, are preferably coordinated with one another.

[0051] The plug connector 1 preferably also comprises a spring element 21, which is designed to exert an actuating force on the outer sleeve 5 in the initial position of the outer sleeve 5, which actuation force is directed in the direction of the first outer sleeve end 5a or the first inner sleeve end 4a. The outer sleeve 5 is thus pretensioned in the initial position and, when the first fluid line 2 is connected, can be moved by the spring force, preferably automatically, from the initial position into the locking position. In the example shown, the spring element 21 comprises, for example, a helical spring, which surrounds the inner sleeve 4 in the assembled state in the region of the second jaw ends 6b of the locking jaws 6. Of course, a person skilled in the art could also choose another suitable structural design.To facilitate the insertion of the first fluid line 2 into the first inner sleeve end 4a of the inner sleeve 4, the locking jaws 6 can each comprise an insertion surface 28 on an inner circumferential surface in the region of the first inner sleeve end 4a, which is inclined toward the first inner sleeve end 4a. The insertion surface 28 is shown in Fig. 1.

[0052] Fig. 2 shows the inner sleeve 4 in a perspective view as well as two detailed views, Detail A and Detail B. The first jaw ends 6a can be moved in a radial direction relative to the respective second jaw ends 6b between the standby position and the locking position. The inner sleeve 4 can be made of plastic, wherein the locking jaws 6 can be formed integrally with the inner sleeve 4. The first jaw ends 6a can thus advantageously be bent elastically between the locking position and the standby position.

[0053] The locking jaws 6 each have an actuating section 14 on their outer circumferential surfaces. The actuating sections 14 are visible in detail A and particularly in detail B in Fig. 2. The actuating sections 14 are arranged in the region of ends of the locking jaws 6 facing each other in the circumferential direction (between which the intermediate space is formed). The actuating sections 14 extend along the respective locking jaw 6 between the first jaw end 6a and the second jaw end 6b.

[0054] The actuating sections 14 each have a first stop projection 15 with a first stop end face 15a and a second stop projection 16 with a second stop end face 16a. The first stop end face 15a and the second stop end face 16a face the second inner sleeve end 4b. The first stop end face 15a is closer to the first inner sleeve end 4a or first jaw end 6a than the second stop end face 16a. The actuating sections 14 serve to interact with second locking sections 11 of a locking element 9 of the outer sleeve 5, which will be described in more detail later. The exact function will be described in more detail later.

[0055] In the example shown, the actuating sections 14 of the locking jaws 6 each comprise a sliding surface 17 which connects the first stop face 15a to the second stop face 16a. The sliding surface 17 has a locking surface 17a inclined in the direction of the first jaw end 6a, as can be seen in detail B. The function of the locking surface is described in more detail below. Fig. 3 shows the outer sleeve 5 in a perspective view and, in detail C, a detailed view of a locking element 9. In the embodiment shown, the outer sleeve 5 comprises two locking elements 9 which are arranged diametrically opposite one another. If the inner sleeve only has two locking jaws 6, it would generally be sufficient if only one locking element 9 were provided on the outer sleeve 5.

[0056] The locking elements 9 each have a first locking section 10, which is received in the circumferential direction between two adjacent locking jaws 6 of the inner sleeve 4 (see, for example, Fig. 6), and two second locking sections 11, which are connected to the first locking section 10. The locking elements 9 are arranged here on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 5. The locking elements 9 each have a free first locking element end 9a, which faces the first outer sleeve end 5a or, in the assembled state, the first inner sleeve end 4a, and an opposite second locking element end 9b, which is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 5.

[0057] The first locking element end 9a is movable in the radial direction relative to the second locking element end 9b. The outer sleeve 5 is preferably made of a suitable plastic, whereby the locking elements 9 can be formed integrally with the outer sleeve 5. In this case, the first locking element ends 9a can be elastically bent relative to the respective second locking element end 9b.

[0058] The first locking section 10 has an actuating projection 12 directed radially inward. The second locking sections 11 each have a locking projection 13 directed radially inward, which includes a locking end face 13a facing the first outer sleeve end 5a. In the assembled state, the locking end face 13a also faces the first inner sleeve end 4a.

[0059] As can be seen in Fig. 3, the first locking section 10 can be arranged centrally in the circumferential direction between the two second locking sections 11 and encompass the first locking element end 9a. The actuating projection 12 is arranged on the first locking section 10 in the region of the first locking element end 9a. The locking projections 13 of the second locking sections 11 are each arranged in the longitudinal direction between the actuating projection 12 and the second locking element end 9b. The second locking sections 11 are formed integrally with the first locking section 10 lying therebetween. The actuating projection 12 can comprise a first actuating bevel 29 on the first locking element end 9a, which is designed to cooperate with the holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 to displace the actuating projection 12 when the first fluid line 2 is inserted into the first inner sleeve end 4a.The actuating projection 12 also includes a second actuating bevel 30 on a side facing the second locking element end 9b, which is designed to cooperate with the holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 to displace the actuating projection 12 upon removal of the first fluid line 2 from the first inner sleeve end 4a. The function of the actuating bevels 29, 30 will be described in more detail below.

[0060] In the example shown, the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9 each comprise first wedge surfaces 18 on their circumferentially opposite sides, which converge toward the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, toward the second inner sleeve end 4b. One of the two first wedge surfaces is visible in detail C in Fig. 3.

[0061] In the example shown, the locking jaws 6 of the inner sleeve 4 comprise second wedge surfaces 19 on their side surfaces facing one another in the circumferential direction (between which the intermediate space for receiving the first locking section 10 of the locking element 9 of the outer sleeve 5 is formed). The second wedge surfaces 19 converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b or the second jaw ends 6b, as can be seen in detail A in Fig.2.

[0062] The first wedge surfaces 18 of the locking elements 9 are designed to interact with the corresponding second wedge surfaces 19 of the locking jaws 6 upon movement of the outer sleeve 5 in order to radially expand the locking jaws 6. This function is described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15.

[0063] In the example shown, two expansion projections 20 are also provided on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 5. The expansion projections 20 are arranged diametrically opposite one another here. The expansion projections 20 are each spaced from the locking elements 9 at an angle of 90° in the circumferential direction, as can be seen in Fig. 3. Analogous to the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9, the expansion projections 20 also have first wedge surfaces 18 on their circumferentially opposite sides, which converge in the direction of the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b, as can be seen in Figs. 14 and 15. The locking jaws 6 of the inner sleeve 4 comprise second wedge surfaces 19 on their side surfaces facing one another in the circumferential direction (between which the intermediate space for receiving the expansion projections 20 of the outer sleeve 5 is formed).The second wedge surfaces 19 converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b or the second jaw ends 6b, as can also be seen in Fig.14.

[0064] The first wedge surfaces 18 of the expansion projections 20 are designed to interact with the corresponding second wedge surfaces 19 of the locking jaws 6 upon movement of the outer sleeve 5 in order to expand the locking jaws 6. This function is described in more detail below.

[0065] The function of connector 1 is described in more detail below using Fig.4 to Fig.15.

[0066] Fig. 4 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view. The second fluid line 3 is connected to the second connecting section V2 (see Fig. 1) of the connector 1, and the first fluid line 1 is in a state prior to connection to the connector 1. The outer sleeve 5 of the connector 1 is in the initial position. Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 each show a longitudinal section through the connector assembly from Fig. 4, with the sectional plane in Fig. 8 lying in the region of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9, and in Fig. 9 lying in the region of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9.

[0067] The locking jaws 6 of the inner sleeve 4 are in the initial position of the outer sleeve 5 in the ready position, in which the first fluid line 2 can be inserted through the first inner sleeve end 4a, as indicated by the corresponding arrow in Fig. 4. As can be seen in Fig. 9, the actuating projections 12 of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9 are in a position in which they can be actuated by the holding section 8, in particular the circumferential bead, of the first fluid line 2.

[0068] As can be seen in Fig. 8, the locking end faces 13a of the locking projections 13 of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9 of the outer sleeve 5 rest against the corresponding second stop end faces 16a of the second stop projections 16 of the actuating sections 14 of the locking jaws 6 of the inner sleeve 4. The outer sleeve 5 is thus fixed in the initial position. In the initial position, the first inner sleeve end 4a of the inner sleeve 4 preferably projects beyond the first outer sleeve end 5a of the outer sleeve 5.

[0069] Fig. 5 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view. The second fluid line 3 is in turn connected to the second connecting section V2 of the connector 1, and the first fluid line 1 is in a position during the connection process with the first connecting section VI of the connector 1. The outer sleeve 5 of the connector 1 is in a position between the initial position and the locking position. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 each show a longitudinal section through the connector assembly from Fig. 5, wherein the sectional plane in Fig. 10 again lies in the region of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9, and in Fig. 11 lies in the region of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9.

[0070] As can be seen in Fig. 11, when the first fluid line 2 is inserted into the first inner sleeve end 4a through the holding section 8, in particular the circumferential bead, an actuating force FB can be exerted in a radially outward direction on the actuating projections 12 of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9. Because the second locking sections 11 are connected to the first locking section 10, the locking projections 13 can be released from the second stop projections 16 by the actuating force FB. As a result, the outer sleeve 5 can be released from the inner sleeve 4 and moved from the initial position into the locking position. The movement is preferably assisted by the spring element 21 or, if necessary, occurs automatically. The outward displacement of the locking elements 9 can be facilitated by the first actuating bevels 29 on the actuating projections 12.

[0071] Fig. 6 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view. The second fluid line 3 is again connected to the second connecting section V2 of the connector 1, and the first fluid line 1 is connected to the first connecting section VI (see Fig. 1) of the connector 1. The outer sleeve 5 of the connector 1 is accordingly in the locked position. Figs. 12 and 13 each show a longitudinal section through the connector assembly from Fig. 6, with the sectional plane in Fig. 12 lying in the region of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9, and in Fig. 13 lying in the region of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9.

[0072] In the locking position of the outer sleeve 5, the locking jaws 6 are each in the locking position in which the holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 is locked to the inner sleeve 4. In particular, in the example shown, the circumferential bead of the first fluid line 2 is positively received in the circumferential grooves 7 of the locking jaws 6, as can be seen in Fig. 12. As can also be seen in Fig. 12, the locking end faces 13a of the locking projections 13 of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9 rest against the corresponding first stop faces 15a of the first stop projections 15 of the actuating sections 14 of the locking jaws 6.

[0073] To release, the outer sleeve 5 can first be moved, preferably manually by a user, from the locking position back to the initial position. An undesired movement of the outer sleeve 5 from the locking position to the initial position can be prevented, on the one hand, by the inclined locking surfaces 17a of the sliding surfaces 17 of the actuating sections 14, since a certain amount of force is required to overcome the locking surfaces 17a by the locking projections 13. In addition, the spring force of the spring element 21 counteracts an undesired release of the outer sleeve 5.

[0074] Once the outer sleeve 5 has been moved back to its initial position, the locking projections 13 can again engage the corresponding second stop faces 16a, and the first fluid line 2 can essentially be pulled out of the inner sleeve 4. The holding portion 8, in particular the circumferential bead, of the first fluid line 2 can interact with the second actuating bevels 30 on the actuating projections 12 to facilitate the removal of the first fluid line 2.

[0075] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, however, the outer sleeve 5 can be moved relative to the inner sleeve 4 from the locking position via the initial position into a release position. The release position serves to facilitate the removal of the first fluid line 2 from the first connection section VI.

[0076] Fig. 7 shows the connector assembly in a perspective view. The second fluid line 3 is connected to the second connecting section V2 of the connector 1 and the first fluid line 1 is in a state after being detached from the connector 1. The outer sleeve 5 of the connector 1 is in the release position. Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 show a longitudinal section through the connector assembly from Fig. 7, wherein the sectional plane in Fig. 14 lies in the region of the second locking sections 11 of the locking elements 9 and in Fig. 15 lies in the region of the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9. As already described with reference to Fig. 3, the first locking sections 10 of the locking elements 9 in the embodiment shown have first wedge surfaces 18 which converge in the direction of the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b.In addition, the locking jaws 6 each have second wedge surfaces 19 on their side surfaces facing each other in the circumferential direction (in the spaces in which the first locking sections 10 are received), which converge in the direction of the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b (see Fig. 2).

[0077] As also already described with reference to Fig. 3, in the embodiment shown, two expanding projections 20 are provided on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 5. The expanding projections 20 are each received in a space between two adjacent locking jaws 6 in the circumferential direction (specifically, in those spaces in which no locking elements 9 are provided). The expanding projections 20 each have first wedge surfaces 18 on their circumferentially opposite side surfaces, which converge toward the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, toward the second inner sleeve end 4b, as can also be seen in Figs. 14 and 15.

[0078] In addition, the locking jaws 6 each have second wedge surfaces 19 on their side surfaces facing each other in the circumferential direction (in the corresponding spaces in which the spreading projections 20 are received), which converge in the direction of the second outer sleeve end 5b or, in the assembled state, in the direction of the second inner sleeve end 4b (see Fig.2 and Fig.14 + Fig.15).

[0079] When the outer sleeve 5 is moved from the initial position (shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 8 + Fig. 9) into the release position (shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 14 + Fig. 15), the first wedge surfaces 18 of the locking elements 9 and the first wedge surfaces 18 of the spreading projections 20 interact with the respective second wedge surfaces 19 of the locking jaws 6 to spread the locking jaws 6 from the ready position into a release position. The release position can be seen in Fig. 7 and in Fig. 14 + Fig. 15. In the release position, the locking jaws 6 are spread open in the radial direction to such an extent that the locking of the holding section 8 of the first fluid line 2 on the inner sleeve 4, in particular the positive reception of the circumferential bead in the circumferential grooves 7, is completely released. The first fluid line 2 can thus be easily detached from the connector 1, as indicated by the arrows in Fig.14 + Fig.15.

[0080] After the first fluid line 2 has been released, the outer sleeve 5 can be moved back into the initial position, preferably again supported by the release spring 21. The components of the connector 1 are preferably in a relieved state in the initial position, so that material fatigue, in particular relaxation of the plastic, can be avoided.

[0081] The embodiments show possible embodiments, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiments with each other are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in the art in this technical field due to the teaching of technical action by means of the objective invention.

[0082] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and drawings must be used to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the various embodiments shown and described may represent independent inventive solutions. The problem underlying these independent inventive solutions can be derived from the description.

[0083] All information on value ranges in this description is to be understood as including any and all sub-ranges thereof, e.g. the information 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10, ie all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, e.g. 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0084] For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that, for a better understanding of the structure, some elements have been shown not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0085] Connector 22 Sealing arrangement

[0086] First fluid line 23 sealing ring

[0087] Second fluid line 24 spacer element

[0088] Inner sleeve 25 Connecting taba First inner sleeve end 26 Locking openingb Second inner sleeve end 27 Locking projection

[0089] Outer sleeve 28 Lead-in surface a First outer sleeve end 29 First actuating bevel b Second outer sleeve end 30 Second actuating bevel

[0090] Locking jaws VI First connecting section

[0091] Circumferential groove V2 Second connecting section

[0092] Holding section FB actuating force

[0093] Locking element a First locking element end b Second locking element end 0 First locking section 1 Second locking section 2 Actuating projection 3 Locking projection 3a Locking end face 4 Actuating section 5 First stop projection 5a First stop end face 6 Second stop projection 6a Second stop end face 7 Sliding surface 7a Braking surface 8 First wedge surface 9 Second wedge surface 0 Expanding projection 1 Spring element

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e 1. A connector (1) for connecting a first fluid line (2) to a second fluid line (3), wherein the connector (1) comprises an inner sleeve (4) with an open first inner sleeve end (4a) and an open second inner sleeve end (4b) connected to the first inner sleeve end, and an outer sleeve (5) surrounding the inner sleeve (4) and movable relative to the inner sleeve (4) between an initial position and a locking position, wherein the inner sleeve (4) has a first connecting section (VI) for connecting the first fluid line (2) in the region of the first inner sleeve end (4a) and a second connecting section (V2) for connecting the second fluid line (3) in the region of the second inner sleeve end (4b), characterized in that the first connecting section (VI) comprises at least two locking jaws (6) spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction,which, in the initial position of the outer sleeve (5), are in a standby position in which the first fluid line (2) can be inserted into the first inner sleeve end (4a), and, in the locking position of the outer sleeve (5), are in a locking position in which a holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) can be locked to the inner sleeve (4), wherein the outer sleeve (5) comprises at least one locking element (9) having a first locking section (10) which is received in the circumferential direction between two adjacent locking jaws (6) of the inner sleeve (4) and has two second locking sections (11) which are connected to the first locking section (10), wherein the first locking section (10) comprises an actuating projection (12) and the second locking sections (11) each comprise a locking projection (13) with a locking end face (13a) facing the first inner sleeve end (4a),wherein the locking jaws (6) each have at least one actuating section (14) on an outer circumferential surface, which comprises a first stop projection (15) with a first stop end face (15a) and a second stop projection (16) with a second stop end face (16a), wherein the locking end faces (13a) of the locking projections (13) in the initial position of the outer sleeve (5) abut the second stop end faces (16a) of the second stop projections (16), and wherein the actuating projection (12) can be displaced radially outwards by the holding section (8) upon insertion of the first fluid line (2) into the first inner sleeve end (4a), so that the locking projections (13) can be released from the second stop projections (16) and the outer sleeve (5) can be moved from the initial position into the locking position, in which, the locking end faces (13a) of the locking projections (13) rest on the first stop end faces (15a) of the first stop projections (15).

2. Connector (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer sleeve (5) is movable in a longitudinal direction along the inner sleeve (4) between the initial position and the locking position and / or that in the initial position of the outer sleeve (5) the first inner sleeve end (4a) of the inner sleeve (4) projects beyond a first outer sleeve end (5a) of the outer sleeve (5).

3. Plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the locking jaws (6) each have a free first jaw end (6a) on which the first inner sleeve end (4a) lies, and an opposite second jaw end (6b) which is connected to the inner sleeve (4), wherein the first jaw ends (6a) are movable in a radial direction relative to the second jaw ends (6b) between the standby position and the locking position, wherein the locking jaws (6) each have a circumferential groove (7) on an inner circumferential surface which is arranged between the first jaw end (6a) and the second jaw end (6a), wherein the circumferential grooves (7) are designed to receive the holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) in a form-fitting manner in the locking position of the locking jaws (6).

4. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one locking element (9) is arranged on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (5) and has a free first locking element end (9a) which faces the first inner sleeve end (4a), and an opposite second locking element end (9b) which is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (5), wherein the first locking element end (9a) is movable in the radial direction relative to the second locking element end (9b).

5. Plug connector (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the actuating projection (12) on the first locking element end (9a) comprises a first actuating bevel (29) which is designed to engage with the holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) when the first fluid line (2) is inserted into the first inner sleeve end (4a) to displace the Actuating projection (12) and / or that the actuating projection (12) comprises, on a side facing the second locking element end (9b), a second actuating bevel (30) which is designed to cooperate with the holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) to displace the actuating projection (12) when the first fluid line (2) is removed from the first inner sleeve end (4a).

6. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first locking section (10) is arranged centrally in the circumferential direction between the two second locking sections (11) and comprises the first locking element end (9a), that the actuating projection (12) is provided on the first locking section (10) in the region of the first locking element end (9a), and that the locking projections (13) of the second locking sections (11) are each arranged in the longitudinal direction between the actuating projection (12) and the second locking element end (9b).

7. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least three, preferably at least four locking jaws (6) are provided and / or that at least two locking elements (9) are provided.

8. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the actuating sections (14) of the locking jaws (6) each comprise a sliding surface (17) which connects the first stop end surface (15a) to the second stop end surface (16a), wherein the sliding surface (17) comprises an inhibiting surface (17a) inclined in the direction of the first jaw end (6a).

9. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the inner sleeve (4) is made of plastic, wherein the locking jaws (6) are formed integrally with the inner sleeve (4) and wherein the first jaw ends (6a) are elastically bendable between the locking position and the standby position and / or that the outer sleeve (5) is made of plastic, wherein the at least one locking element (9) is formed integrally with the outer sleeve (5) and wherein the first locking element end (9a) is elastically bendable in the radial direction relative to the second locking element end (9b).

10. Connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the outer sleeve (5) is movable relative to the inner sleeve (4) from the locking position via the initial position into a release position, in that the first locking portion (10) of the at least one locking element (9) comprises a first wedge surface (18) on each of its circumferentially opposite sides, wherein the first wedge surfaces (18) converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end (4b), in that the locking jaws (6), between which the first locking portion (10) is received, each comprise a second wedge surface (19) on their sides facing one another in the circumferential direction, wherein the second wedge surfaces (19) converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end (4b), and in that the first wedge surfaces (18) are designed to cooperate with the second wedge surfaces (19) during the movement of the outer sleeve (5) from the initial position into the release position,to spread the locking jaws (6) from the standby position into a release position in which the locking of the first fluid line (2), in particular the positive reception of the holding section (8) in the circumferential grooves (7), is completely releasable.

11. Connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the outer sleeve (5) is movable relative to the inner sleeve (4) from the locking position via the initial position into a release position, that at least one expanding projection (20) is provided on an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (5), which is received in the circumferential direction between two adjacent locking jaws (6), that the expanding projection (20) comprises on its sides opposite in the circumferential direction a first wedge surface (18), wherein the first wedge surfaces (18) converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end (4b), that the locking jaws (6), between which the expanding projection (20) is received, each comprise on their sides facing each other in the circumferential direction a second wedge surface (19), wherein the second wedge surfaces (19) converge in the direction of the second inner sleeve end (4b), and that the first Wedge surfaces (18) are designed toduring the movement of the outer sleeve (5) from the initial position to the release position, to cooperate with the second wedge surfaces (19) in order to spread the locking jaws (6) from the standby position to a release position in which the locking of the first fluid line (2), in particular the positive reception in the circumferential grooves (7), is completely releasable.

12. Connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the connector (1) comprises at least one spring element (21) which is designed to exert an actuating force on the outer sleeve (5) in the initial position, which actuating force is directed in the direction of the first inner sleeve end (4a).

13. Connector (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the spring element (21) comprises a helical spring which surrounds the inner sleeve (4), preferably in the region of the second jaw ends (6b) of the locking jaws (6).

14. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the second connection section (V2) of the inner sleeve (4) comprises a sealing arrangement (22) which is designed to create a seal between the first fluid line (2) and the second fluid line (3).

15. Plug connector (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the sealing arrangement comprises at least two sealing rings (23) and a spacer element (24) which is arranged between the sealing rings (23), wherein an inner circumferential surface of the sealing rings (23) is designed to bear against an outer circumferential surface of an end section of the first fluid line (2) and an outer circumferential surface of the sealing rings (23) is designed to bear against an inner circumferential surface of an end section of the second fluid line (3).

16. Connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the locking jaws (6) each comprise, on an inner circumferential surface in the region of the first inner sleeve end (4a), preferably in the region of the first jaw ends (6a), an insertion surface (28) which is inclined in the direction of the first inner sleeve end (4a).

17. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the second connecting section (V2) has a plurality of circumferentially spaced, preferably flexible, connecting tabs (25) which surround a receiving space for receiving an end section of the second fluid line (3), that on the connecting tabs (25) a locking opening (26) is provided in each case, which Connecting tab (25) penetrates in the radial direction and is designed to cooperate with a corresponding locking projection (27) of the second fluid line (3) for locking the second fluid line (3) to the inner sleeve (4) and / or that on an inner circumferential surface of each of the connecting tabs (25) a locking projection is provided which is designed to cooperate with a corresponding locking opening of the second fluid line (3) for locking the second fluid line to the inner sleeve (4).

18. A connector assembly comprising a connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17 and a first fluid line (2) which is connectable or connected to the first connecting section (VI), and / or a second fluid line (3) which is connectable or connected to the second connecting section (V2), wherein the first fluid line (2) has on an outer side a holding section (8) for locking the first fluid line (2) to the inner sleeve (4) of the connector (1), wherein the connector (1) is preferably designed according to claim 3 and the holding section (8) preferably has a circumferential bead which can be received in a form-fitting manner in the circumferential grooves (7) of the locking jaws (6) of the inner sleeve (4).

19. Use of a plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that a first fluid line (2), which comprises a holding section (8) on an outer side, is inserted into the open first inner sleeve end (4a) of the inner sleeve (4), that the actuating projection (12) of the at least one locking element (9) is displaced radially outwards from the holding section (8) upon insertion of the first fluid line (2), so that the locking projections (13) of the locking element (9) are released from the second stop projections (16) of the actuating sections (14) of the locking jaws (6) of the inner sleeve (4), and that the outer sleeve (5) is moved from the initial position into the locking position, preferably by the actuating force of the spring element (21),until the locking end faces (13a) of the locking projections (13) of the locking elements (9) rest against the first stop end faces (15a) of the first stop projections (15) of the actuating sections (14) of the locking jaws (6) and the first jaw ends (6a) of the locking jaws (6) are each in the locking position and the holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) is locked to the inner sleeve (4), wherein preferably a plug connector (1) according to claim 3 is used and the holding section (8) preferably has a circumferential bead, which is positively received in the circumferential grooves (7) of the locking jaws (6) of the inner sleeve (4).

20. Use according to claim 19, wherein the plug connector (1) is designed according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the outer sleeve (5) is moved relative to the inner sleeve (4) from the locking position via the initial position into the release position, wherein the first wedge surfaces (18) of the first latching section (10) of the at least one latching element (9) and / or the first wedge surfaces (18) of the at least one spreading projection (20) interact with the second wedge surfaces (19) of the locking jaws (6), whereby the locking jaws (6) are spread open from the standby position into the release position, in which the holding section (8) of the first fluid line (2) can be released from the inner sleeve (4).

Images