Plug-in connector for connecting conduits for liquid or gaseous media, and corresponding method

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug-in connector (2) for connecting conduits for liquid or gaseous media, said plug-in connector comprising: - a connector body (4) which has at least one first sleeve portion (9); - a locking element (5) which is designed to secure the plug-in connector (2) relative to a mating plug-in connector (3), wherein the locking element (5) has a first leg (13), a second leg (14), and a connecting portion (15) between the first leg (13) and the second leg (14), wherein a first recess (18) and a second recess (19) are formed in the first sleeve portion (9), wherein the first leg (13) of the locking element (5) is received in the first recess (18), and wherein the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) is received in the second recess (19), wherein the first leg (13) and the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) can be displaced between a release position (7) and a locking position (6).

Description

[0001] Plug connectors for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media and methods therefor

[0002] The invention relates to a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, as well as a method for producing the connector and a method for producing a plug connection between the connector and a mating connector.

[0003] EP2602531A1 discloses a locking member intended for equipping a snap-in connection device for fluid transfer. The locking member comprises a flanged male tubular sleeve with a converging and rounded connection end, and a female tubular sleeve surrounded by a coupling ring and axially extended, sealingly receiving the male sleeve. This member comprises two elastic locking wings connected between them by means of a gripping head and designed to be inserted transversely and reversibly through two respective symmetrical openings of the ring, so as to lock by snapping against and behind this flange after complete insertion of the male sleeve into the female sleeve.Each wing has a transverse cross-section that varies along its length, and two inner and outer sides connected by two front and rear sides relative to the insertion direction of the male sleeve. Furthermore, two plastic locking sleeves are provided, each firmly connected to the locking wings.

[0004] The locking device of EP2602531A1 has the disadvantage of having a complex structure, making it prone to failure and difficult to manufacture. Furthermore, the locking device is difficult to operate. Furthermore, it cannot be reliably prevented that the locking device will open when the lines are under pressure.

[0005] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide an improved connector.

[0006] This object is achieved by a device and a method according to the claims. The invention relates to a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, comprising:

[0007] - a connector body having at least a first shell portion with an outer shell surface and an inner shell surface, wherein the first shell portion surrounds a central axis and the inner shell surface forms a receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector, wherein the receiving space for receiving a part of the mating connector is open on a plug-in side;

[0008] - a locking element provided for securing the connector relative to the mating connector, wherein the locking element has a first leg, a second leg, and at least one connecting portion between the first leg and the second leg. A first recess is formed in the first shell portion, which completely penetrates the first shell portion in a transverse direction to the central axis and intersects the receiving space.Furthermore, a second recess is formed in the first casing section, which completely penetrates the first casing section in the transverse direction to the central axis and intersects the receiving space, wherein, viewed in a cross-section of the plug connector, a first web is formed which is delimited by the outer casing surface and the first recess, a central web is formed which is arranged between the first recess and the second recess, a second web is formed which is delimited by the outer casing surface and the second recess, wherein the first leg of the locking element is received in the first recess and wherein the second leg of the locking element is received in the second recess, wherein the first leg and the second leg of the locking element are displaceable between a release position and a locking position.

[0009] The connector according to the invention offers the advantage of enabling an improved connection to a mating connector. In particular, the connection can be more effectively protected against unwanted opening. Furthermore, the connector according to the invention is also easy to manufacture due to its simple design.

[0010] Furthermore, it may be expedient if the first recess has a first axial projection with a first contact surface, which extends in the axial direction of the central axis, and that the first leg has a first leg outer surface, and that the second recess has a second axial projection with a second contact surface, which extends in the axial direction of the central axis, and that the second leg has a second leg outer surface, and that the locking element is displaceable in an axial direction of the central axis between a first axial position and a second axial position, wherein the locking element is further away from the insertion side in the first axial position than in the second axial position, wherein in the first axial position the first leg outer surface is not covered by the first contact surface and the second leg outer surface is not covered by the second contact surface,so that the locking element can be transferred from the locking position to the release position, wherein in the second axial position, the first outer leg surface is covered outwards by the first contact surface and the second outer leg surface is covered outwards by the second contact surface, so that the locking element is locked in the locking position. This has the advantage that the locking element can be secured against unwanted transfer to the release position when the connector is subjected to pressure. The internal pressure of the liquid or gaseous medium pushes the mating connector away from the connector. In the process, the locking element, which corresponds to the mating connector, is transferred or pressed from the first axial position to the second axial position. Unless the connector and the mating connector are actively moved towards each other by applying force,During operation of the connector, the locking element remains in the second axial position and is thus secured against unwanted transfer to the release position.

[0011] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first contact surface, the first leg outer surface, the second contact surface and the second leg outer surface are aligned parallel to the central axis. This has the advantage that even when increased force is applied to the locking element, it cannot be undesirably transferred from the locked position to the release position. The axially parallel alignment of the contact surfaces can prevent undesired axial displacement of the locking element when the first leg and the second leg are pressed apart. Furthermore, it can be provided that the first axial projection and the second axial projection have a projection height between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, in particular between 0.15 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm.In particular, an axial projection with such a projection height can have sufficient strength to prevent unwanted opening of the locking element and at the same time be designed as small as possible.

[0012] In particular, it can be provided that the first axial projection and the second axial projection are designed to have as sharp edges as possible.

[0013] Also advantageous is a configuration according to which it can be provided that the first leg has a first leg end face, wherein the first leg outer surface and the first leg end face are arranged at a right angle to one another, viewed in a leg cross-section, and form a sharp-edged transition, and that the second leg has a second leg end face, wherein the second leg outer surface and the second leg end face are arranged at a right angle to one another, viewed in a leg cross-section, and form a sharp-edged transition. In particular, an axial projection with such a projection height can have sufficient strength to prevent unwanted opening of the locking element.

[0014] Sharp-edged in the sense of this document means that the outer surface of the leg and the end surface of the leg have a maximum radius or a maximum chamfer of 0.1 mm at their transition.

[0015] According to a further development, it is possible for the connecting section to have a first connecting section end face, wherein a centering recess is formed in the first connecting section end face, wherein a centering projection is formed in the connector body, which corresponds to the centering recess. This has the advantage that this measure can ensure that the locking element is correctly positioned on the connector. In particular, this measure can ensure that the locking element is not rotated by 180° when mounted on the connector.

[0016] Furthermore, it may be expedient for the first casing section to have a receiving recess in the outer casing surface extending between the first recess and the second recess, in which the connecting section of the locking element is received when the latter is in the locking position. This has the advantage that the locking element, in its locking position, does not protrude beyond the outer casing surface of the connector body, in order to achieve a space-saving arrangement of the connector.

[0017] In particular, the receiving recess may be groove-shaped. The receiving recess may have a uniform depth.

[0018] Furthermore, it can be provided that the locking element is formed as a single piece from a plastic material, in particular from an injection-molded PA 12 with a glass fiber content of between 10% and 40%. This has the advantage that the locking element can have a simple structure and, moreover, can be easily manufactured in series production. In particular, locking elements with a complex component geometry can be easily manufactured in an injection molding process with high repeatability. The one-piece design of the locking element allows for easy handling of the locking element, thereby reducing the connector's susceptibility to errors. In particular, the specified material with a glass fiber content exhibits good elastic properties while simultaneously achieving high component strength.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the locking element may be made of polyketone.

[0020] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first insertion bevel is formed directly on the first leg of the locking element and that a second insertion bevel is formed directly on the second leg of the locking element. This has the advantage that this measure facilitates the insertion of the mating connector into the connector. The mating connector can then come into contact with the insertion bevel during insertion, thus pushing the legs of the locking element apart and moving them from the locked position to the release position.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment, it is possible for a first dirt wing to be formed on the locking element in extension of the connecting section, which protrudes relative to the first leg, and for a second dirt wing to be formed in extension of the connecting section, which protrudes relative to the second leg, wherein, in the locking position, the connecting section, with the adjoining first dirt wing and the adjoining second dirt wing, covers the first recess and the second recess. This has the advantage that this measure can largely prevent unwanted penetration of dirt into the connector, whereby the functionality of the connector can be maintained even in a contaminated environment.

[0022] According to an advantageous development, it can be provided that a first tool holder for engagement with a disassembly tool is formed on the first leg, and that a second tool holder for engagement with a disassembly tool is formed on the second leg. This has the advantage that this measure allows for easy release of the locking element or easy transfer of the locking element from the locking position to the release position. In particular, it can be provided that the first tool holder and the second tool holder are each designed in the form of a cylindrical opening.

[0023] In particular, it can be advantageous if the first leg of the locking element extends between the connecting section and a first longitudinal end, wherein a first securing leg directed toward the second leg is formed at the first longitudinal end, and the second leg of the locking element extends between the connecting section and a second longitudinal end, wherein a second securing leg directed toward the first leg is formed at the second longitudinal end. Additional protection against loss of the locking element can be achieved by the first securing leg and the second securing leg.

[0024] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first tool holder is formed on the first securing leg and that the second tool holder is formed on the second securing leg. This has the advantage that this measure allows the locking element to be easily transferred from the locking position to the release position.

[0025] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first securing lug is formed on the first leg and that a second securing lug is formed on the second leg. In the release position of the locking element, the first securing lug, in conjunction with the first web, and the second securing lug, in conjunction with the second web, secure the locking element against being pulled out of the connector body in the transverse direction. This has the advantage that this measure can also secure a locking element displaced into the release position against falling out of the connector body.

[0026] Also advantageous is a design according to which it can be provided that the first securing lug has a first securing surface on a side facing the connecting section, wherein the first securing lug has a first insertion ramp on a side facing away from the connecting section and that the second securing lug has a second securing surface on a side facing the connecting section, wherein the second securing lug has a second insertion ramp on a side facing away from the connecting section. On the one hand, this measure makes it possible to achieve good loss protection by means of the securing lug and, in addition, to easily assemble the locking element with the connector body because the insertion ramps make it possible to easily skip over the securing lugs when the locking element is pushed in in the transverse direction.

[0027] According to a further development, it is possible for the first securing leg to overlap the center bar and the second securing leg to overlap the center bar in the release position of the locking element, viewed in the transverse direction, whereby the locking element is secured against being pulled out in the transverse direction. This measure, on the one hand, provides good protection against loss.

[0028] In particular, the combination of the securing lugs with the securing legs ensures that, in the release position, both the securing lugs and the securing legs prevent the locking element from being pulled out in the transverse direction of the connector body. To insert the locking element into the connector body, the securing legs can rest against the central web. The insertion ramps of the securing lugs can rest against the first web or the second web, whereby the first leg or the second leg of the locking element can be elastically bent, and after the locking element has been fully inserted into the connector body, the securing lugs can spring into position behind the first web or the second web, thereby restoring the elastic bending of the first leg and the second leg. Furthermore, a plug assembly can be provided.The connector assembly comprises a connector and a mating connector, wherein the connector is designed according to one of the above embodiments and the mating connector has a shaped edge for establishing a positive connection with the first leg and the second leg of the locking element.

[0029] The invention further relates to a method for producing a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, comprising the method steps:

[0030] - Providing a connector body having at least a first shell section with an outer shell surface and an inner shell surface, wherein the first shell section surrounds a central axis and the inner shell surface forms a receiving space for receiving a part of a mating connector, wherein the receiving space for receiving a part of the mating connector is open on a plug-in side, wherein a first recess is formed in the first shell section, which completely penetrates the first shell section in a transverse direction to the central axis and intersects the receiving space, and a second recess is formed in the first shell section, which completely penetrates the first shell section in the transverse direction to the central axis and intersects the receiving space, wherein, viewed in a cross-section of the connector, a first web is formed which is delimited by the outer shell surface and the first recess,a central web is formed which is arranged between the first recess and the second recess, a second web is formed which is delimited by the outer surface and the second recess.,

[0031] - Providing a locking element which is intended to secure the connector relative to the mating connector, wherein the locking element has a first leg, a second leg and a connecting portion between the first leg and the second leg,

[0032] - Inserting the locking element into the connector body in the transverse direction, wherein the first leg of the locking element is received in the first recess and wherein the second leg of the locking element is received in the second recess, wherein the first leg and the second leg of the locking element are radially displaceable between a release position and a locking position.

[0033] The process has the advantage that the connector can be manufactured easily and thus the manufacturing process is less susceptible to errors.

[0034] Furthermore, it can be provided that when the locking element is inserted into the connector body in the transverse direction, the first leg and the second leg of the locking element are elastically deformed and, in the release position of the locking element, are secured by a positive connection against the locking element being pulled out of the connector body in the transverse direction. This offers the advantage of a good loss protection while enabling simple assembly.

[0035] Furthermore, a method for producing a plug connection between a connector for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media and a mating connector is provided. The method comprises the following steps:

[0036] - Providing a connector, in particular a connector according to one of the above embodiments, by means of the method steps for producing the connector;

[0037] - providing the counter connector;

[0038] - inserting the mating connector into the receiving space of the connector, wherein the locking element is pushed from the locking position into the release position by means of an insertion extension arranged on the mating connector, and the first leg is pressed radially outwards in the first recess and the second leg is pressed radially outwards in the second recess, wherein after overcoming the insertion extension, the first leg and the second leg fall behind a shaped edge of the mating connector, wherein the locking element is then in a first axial position. This enables easy joining of the mating connector and the connector.

[0039] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first securing lug is formed on the first leg and that a second securing lug is formed on the second leg, wherein in the release position of the locking element, the first securing lug in conjunction with the first web and the second securing lug in conjunction with the second web secure the locking element against withdrawal of the locking element from the connector body in the transverse direction. Furthermore, it can be provided that the locking element is formed in one piece from a plastic material, in particular from an injection-molded PA 12 with a glass fiber content of between 10% and 40%. In particular, it can be provided that the glass fiber content is 30%. A plastic of this type, PA 12 + GF30, is marketed, for example, under the brand name GRILAMID LV-3H.

[0040] Furthermore, the connector body can be formed in one piece from a plastic material, in particular from an injection-molded PA 12 with a glass fiber content of between 10% and 40%. In particular, the glass fiber content can be 30%. Such a plastic, PA12 + GF30, is marketed, for example, under the brand name GRILAMID LV-3H.

[0041] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0042] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[0043] Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the individual components of a first embodiment of the connector assembly;

[0044] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the plug assembly with a section through a first jacket section, wherein a locking element is in a locking position;

[0045] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the plug assembly with a cut through the first jacket section, wherein the locking element is in a release position;

[0046] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the plug assembly with a section through the first jacket section reversed to Fig. 2, wherein the locking element is hidden;

[0047] Fig. 5 a connector in a half section;

[0048] Fig. 6 shows a half-section of the connector and a mating connector; Fig. 7 shows a half-section of the connector and the mating connector in a partially mated state;

[0049] Fig. 8 shows a half-section of the connector and the mating connector in a fully mated state and a locking element in a locking position and in a first axial position;

[0050] Fig. 9 the connector and the mating connector in a fully mated state and a locking element in the locking position and in a second axial position in a half section.

[0051] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position.

[0052] Fig. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of the individual components of a connector assembly 1. The connector assembly 1 comprises a connector 2 and a mating connector 3. The connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are designed as coupling elements for the detachable coupling of line components. The line components can serve to convey media. In particular, the line components can serve to convey a fluid, in particular a gas or a liquid.

[0053] In the view according to Fig. 1, the mating connector 3 is not plugged into the connector 2. For the sake of clarity, the connector 2 is shown in an exploded view so that the individual components of the connector 2 are visible.

[0054] In Fig. 2, the connector assembly 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view in the assembled state, wherein the same reference numerals and component designations as in the previous Fig. 1 are used for the same parts. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the previous Fig. 1. In Fig. 3, the connector assembly 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view in the assembled state, wherein the same reference numerals and component designations as in the previous Figs. 1 and 2 are used for the same parts. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the previous Fig. 1 and 2.

[0055] In the illustration according to Fig. 2 and 3, the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are shown plugged into each other.

[0056] The structure of the connector assembly is described using a summary of Figures 1 to 3.

[0057] The connector 2 and the mating connector 3 can each be coupled to a line element, although the line elements are not shown. The line elements can be designed, for example, in the form of tubes. The line element can be a rigid element, such as a plastic tube. In another embodiment, the line element can be designed as a flexible line made of a rubber material.

[0058] The connector 2 comprises a connector body 4 and a locking element 5. The locking element 5 can serve to secure the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 to each other in the plugged state.

[0059] The locking element 5 is designed in such a way that it can be easily activated and deactivated so that the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 can be separated or connected to each other as required.

[0060] The locking element 5 can be moved into a locking position 6, in which the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are secured to each other. Such a position of the locking element 5 is shown in Fig. 2.

[0061] Furthermore, the locking element 5 can be moved into a release position 7, in which the mating connector 3 can be inserted into or removed from the connector 2. Such a position of the locking element 5 is shown in Fig. 3. The elasticity of the locking element 5 can be used to move the locking element 5 between the locking position 6 and the release position 7.

[0062] As can be seen from Fig. 1, it can be provided that the mating connector 3 can be axially displaced along a central axis 8 of the connector 2 in order to insert the mating connector 3 into the connector 2.

[0063] As can be further seen in Fig. 1, it can be provided that a first jacket section 9 is formed on the connector body 4, which surrounds the central axis 8 of the connector 2 in a sleeve-like manner.

[0064] The first shell section 9 can have an inner shell surface 10 and an outer shell surface 11.

[0065] In the area of ​​the first sheath section 9, the connector 2 has a receiving space 12. The receiving space 12 can be surrounded by the first sheath section 9 and can serve to receive a part of the mating connector 3. In particular, the receiving space

[0066] 12 be limited by the inner surface 10 of the first shell section 9.

[0067] As can also be seen from Fig. 1, it can be provided that the locking element 5 has a first leg 13 and a second leg 14, which are coupled to one another by means of a connecting section 15. In particular, it can be provided that the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 are arranged substantially parallel to one another. By means of the connecting section 15, the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 can be arranged at a distance from one another. When transferred from the locking position 6 to the release position 7, the locking element 5 can be elastically deformed mainly in the region of the connecting section 15. To a lesser extent, when transferred from the locking position 6 to the release position 7, the first leg

[0068] 13 and the second leg 14 itself are elastically deformed.

[0069] Furthermore, it can also be provided that several of the connecting sections 15 are formed.

[0070] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first insertion bevel 16 is formed on the first leg 13. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second insertion bevel 17 is formed on the second leg 14. The insertion bevels 16, 17 can each be formed in the form of a chamfer on the legs 13, 14.

[0071] As can be further seen from Fig. 1, it can be provided that the connecting section 15 is designed in the form of a hollow cylinder segment.

[0072] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first recess 18 and a second recess 19 are formed in the first casing section 9 of the connector body 4. The first recess 18 can serve to receive the first leg 13 of the locking element 5. The second recess 19 can serve to receive the second leg 14 of the locking element 5.

[0073] In the locking position 6 of the locking element 5, which it assumes when plugged in and locked, the first leg 13 protrudes through the first recess 18 into the receiving space 12, and the second leg 14 protrudes through the second recess 19 into the receiving space 12. In this position, the locking element 5 interacts with a shaped edge 20 of the mating connector 3. In particular, the first leg 13 protrudes through the first recess 18, and the second leg 14 protrudes through the second recess 19, corresponding to the shaped edge 20 of the mating connector 3.

[0074] The shaped edge 20 of the mating connector 3 can, as can be seen from the present exemplary embodiment, be designed in the form of a recess, in particular in the form of a groove. Alternatively, the shaped edge 20 can also be designed in the form of a simple elevation.

[0075] As can be further seen from Fig. 1, it can be provided that an insertion extension 21 is arranged in front of the forming edge 20.

[0076] In particular, it can be provided that the mating connector 3 is inserted into a plug-in side 22 of the plug-in connector 2. In particular, it can be provided that an insertion section 24 is formed on the mating connector 3, which is intended to be received in the receiving space 12 of the plug-in connector 2.

[0077] When the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are joined, the insertion section 24 of the mating connector 3 can be received in the receiving space 12 of the connector 2. In particular, it can be provided that a sealing element 23 is arranged on the insertion section 24. The sealing element 23 can serve to seal the connector 2 from the mating connector 3. Furthermore, it can be provided that the insertion extension 21 and the shaped edge 20 are arranged on the insertion section 24 of the mating connector 3, following the sealing element 23.

[0078] As can be seen particularly well from Fig. 2, it can be provided that the first recess 18 and the second recess 19 are arranged in the connector body 4 in such a way that a first web 25 is delimited by the outer circumferential surface 11 and the first recess 18.

[0079] Furthermore, a central web 26 can be formed, which can be delimited by the first recess 18 and the second recess 19. In particular, it can be provided that the central web 26 has a first central web 27 and a second central web part 28. The first central web part 27 and the second central web part 28 can be separated from one another by the inner circumferential surface 10.

[0080] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second web 29 is formed, which is limited by the outer circumferential surface 11 and the second recess 19.

[0081] As further evident from Fig. 2, it can be provided that the locking element 5 is pushed or inserted into the recesses 18, 19 in a transverse direction 30. In particular, it can be provided that, in the inserted state of the locking element 5, the connecting section 15 is arranged in the region of the first central web part 27. Furthermore, it can be provided that a first longitudinal end 31 of the first leg 13 and a second longitudinal end 32 of the second leg 14 are arranged in the region of the second central web part 28.

[0082] Furthermore, it can be provided that a centering recess 33 is formed in the connecting section 15, which corresponds to a centering projection 34 of the connector body 4. Furthermore, it can be provided that a receiving recess 35 is formed in the connector body 4 between the first recess 18 and the second recess 19. The receiving recess 35 can serve to receive the connection from section 15. In particular, it can be provided that the centering projection 34 is arranged in the receiving recess 35. Furthermore, it can be provided that a first dirt wing 36 and a second dirt wing 37 are formed on the locking element 5. The dirt wings 36, 37 can be designed as an extension of the connecting section 15. In particular, it can be provided that the first dirt wing 36 protrudes beyond the first leg 13.Furthermore, the second dirt wing 37 can be configured to protrude beyond the second leg 14. The first dirt wing 36 can serve to cover the first recess 18. The second dirt wing 37 can serve to cover the second recess 19. This can reduce the risk of dirt entering.

[0083] As can also be seen from the figures, the first leg 13 can have a first securing leg 38 at its first longitudinal end 31. Furthermore, the second leg 14 can have a second securing leg 39 at its second longitudinal end 32. The first securing leg 38 can extend toward the second leg 14. The second securing leg 39 can extend toward the first leg 13.

[0084] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first tool holder 40 is formed in the first securing leg 38. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second tool holder 41 is formed in the second securing leg 39.

[0085] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first securing lug 42 is formed on the first leg 13. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second securing lug 43 is formed on the second leg 14. In particular, it can be provided that the first securing lug 42 has a first securing surface 44 and a first insertion ramp 45. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second securing lug 43 has a second securing surface 47 and a second insertion ramp 48. The first securing surface 44 and the second securing surface 47 can face the connecting section 15, or the first securing surface 44 and the second securing surface 47 can be arranged closer to the connecting section 15 than the first insertion ramp 45 or the second insertion ramp 48.

[0086] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first leg outer surface 46 is formed on the first leg 13. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second leg outer surface 49 is formed on the second leg 14. The first leg outer surface 46 serves to bear against the first web 25, and the second leg outer surface 49 serves to bear against the second web 29. In particular, this can limit the maximum spreading of the legs 13, 14 and thus the release position 7.

[0087] Furthermore, the first leg 13 can have a first leg end face 50. Furthermore, the second leg 14 can have a second leg end face 51. In particular, it can be provided that the first insertion bevel 16 is formed on the first leg end face 50. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second insertion bevel 17 is formed on the second leg end face 51.

[0088] Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting section 15 has a first connecting section end face 52. The centering recess 33 can be arranged in the first connecting section end face 52.

[0089] The assembly of the connector 2, i.e. the insertion of the locking element 5 into the connector body 4, is now described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0090] The locking element 5 is positioned laterally next to the connector body 4, as shown in Fig. 1. It is then inserted into the connector body 4 in the transverse direction 30. The first leg 13 is inserted into the first recess 18, and the second leg 14 is inserted into the second recess 19. To insert the locking element 5, the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 must be widened or moved away from each other. This allows the first locking leg 38 and the second locking leg 39 to be moved over the first central web part 27.

[0091] Furthermore, it can be provided that during insertion, the first insertion ramp 45 comes to rest on the first web 25 and the second insertion ramp 48 comes to rest on the second web 29. Upon further insertion of the locking element 5, the first leg 13 or the second leg 14 can be elastically bent. When the locking element 5 is placed far enough on the connector body 4 that the first securing lug 42 comes to rest behind the first web 25 and the second securing lug 43 comes to rest behind the second web 29, the elastic deformation of the first leg 13 or the second leg 14 can be restored, whereby the bending of the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 can be reduced.When the locking element 5 is fully inserted into the connector body 4 and is in its locking position 6, the first securing leg 38 can be arranged in a first securing leg receptacle 53 and the second securing leg 39 can be arranged in a second securing leg receptacle 54.

[0092] The first securing leg receptacle 53 and the second securing leg receptacle 54 can be formed in the second central web part 28 as a recess in the outer circumferential surface 11.

[0093] The locking element 5 can be limited in its movement in the transverse direction 30 by the first central web part 27 and the second central web part 28, whereby a loss protection of the locking element 5 can be achieved.

[0094] As can be seen particularly well from Fig. 2, a mating connector 3 inserted into the receiving space 12 of the connector body 4 can be secured against being pulled out in the axial direction by the shaped edge 20 coming into contact with the first leg 13 or the second leg 14 and thereby preventing the mating connector 3 from being pulled out in a form-fitting manner.

[0095] By means of an opening tool, which can engage in the first tool holder 40 or the second tool holder 41, the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 can be spread apart so that they can be transferred into the release position 7. In this case, the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 can be disengaged from the shaped edge 20, whereby the mating connector 3 is released for axial withdrawal from the connector 2.

[0096] As can be seen from Fig. 3, the first securing surface 44 can come into contact with the first web 25 and the second securing surface 47 can come into contact with the second web 29. In this way, the locking element 5 can be secured against unintentional withdrawal in the transverse direction 30. Furthermore, the spreading of the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 can be limited by the first leg outer surface 46 coming into contact with the first web 25 and the second leg outer surface 49 coming into contact with the second web 29. Fig. 4 shows the plug connector 2 and the mating plug connector 3 in a further inverted cross-sectional view, wherein again the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 1 to 3. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 1 to 3.

[0097] In the illustration according to Fig. 4, the locking element 5 is hidden.

[0098] As can be seen from Fig. 4, it can be provided that a first axial projection 55 is formed in the first recess 18. The first axial projection 55 can have a first contact surface 56. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second axial projection 57 is formed in the second recess 19. The second axial projection 57 can have a second contact surface 58. The first axial projection 55 and the second axial projection 57 can be arranged in the region of an axial contact surface 59 of the first recess 18 and the second recess 19, respectively. In particular, the first axial projection 55 and the second axial projection 57 can be formed so as to protrude from the axial contact surface 59.

[0099] Figures 5 to 9 each show the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 in a half-section in different joining positions, whereby the same reference symbols or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 1 to 4. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 1 to 4.

[0100] The individual process steps for inserting the mating connector 3 into the connector 2 are described using Figures 5 to 9. The individual components are shown in a half-section. In the illustrations according to Figures 5 to 9, the first longitudinal end 31 of the first leg 13 and the second longitudinal end 32 of the second leg 14 are facing the viewer.

[0101] In the illustration according to Fig. 5, the locking element 5 is located in the connector body 4 and remains in its locking position 6. The connector 2 is thus ready for the insertion of a mating connector 3.

[0102] When inserting the mating connector 3 into the receiving space 12 of the connector 2 according to Fig. 6, the mating connector 3 comes into contact with the first insertion bevel 16 of the first leg 13 or with the second insertion bevel 17 of the second leg 14, whereby the locking element 5 is urged in the direction of its release position 7.

[0103] In the illustration according to Fig. 7, the locking element 5 is located approximately in its release position 7, wherein by means of the first insertion bevel 16 or the second insertion bevel 17 and in the counterpart corresponding thereto by means of the insertion extension 21, the legs 13, 14 of the locking element 5 have been pushed further outwards compared to the position according to Fig. 6.

[0104] When the mating connector 3 is correctly inserted into the connector 2, the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 spring behind the shaped edge 20 of the mating connector 3 due to the elastic spring force of the locking element 5, as shown in Fig. 8. The mating connector 3 is thus secured against axial disengagement. In the illustration according to Fig. 8, the locking element 5 is in a first axial position 60.

[0105] If an internal pressure is now applied inside the connector 2 or the mating connector 3, the pressure force of the internal pressure pushes the mating connector 3 away from the connector 2.

[0106] The locking element 5 is displaced from one of the axial positions 60, as shown in Fig. 8, into a second axial position 61, as shown in Fig. 9.

[0107] In the second axial position 61, the first axial projection 55 is arranged outside the first leg 13, and the second axial projection 57 is arranged outside the second leg 14. Thus, the first axial projection 55 and the second axial projection 57 can prevent the first leg 13 and the second leg 14 from expanding or moving into the release position 7. Thus, the locking element 5 is secured in the locking position 6.

[0108] In particular, the first leg outer surface 46 can be overlaid by the first contact surface 56. Furthermore, the second leg outer surface 49 can be overlaid by the second contact surface 58. Upon expansion of the first leg 13 and the second leg 14, the first leg outer surface 46 would come to bear against the first contact surface 56, and the second leg outer surface 49 would come to bear against the second contact surface 58.

[0109] Furthermore, it can be provided that the second leg end face 51 or the first leg end face 50 rests against the axial contact surface 59 when the locking element 5 is in the second axial position 61.

[0110] In order to be able to move the locking element 5 from the locking position 6 to the release position 7, the locking element 5 must first be moved from the second axial position 61 to the first axial position 60. This can be done, for example, by actively inserting the mating connector 3 into the connector 2. Subsequently, as already described, an opening tool can be inserted into the first tool holder 40 or the second tool holder 41 in order to move the locking element 5 from its locking position 6 to its release position 7.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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. For the sake of clarity, it should be pointed out that in order to improve understanding of the structure, some elements have been shown out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced.

[0114] Reference symbol list

[0115] Connector assembly 32 Second longitudinal end of connector 33 Centering recess of mating connector 34 Centering projection of connector body 35 Receptacle recess of locking element 36 First dirt wing, locking position 37 Second dirt wing, release position 38 First securing leg

[0116] Central axis of the connector 39 second securing leg first casing section 40 first tool holder inner casing surface 41 second tool holder outer casing surface 42 first securing lug receiving space 43 second securing lug first leg 44 first securing surface second leg 45 first insertion ramp connecting section 46 first leg outer surface first insertion bevel 47 second securing surface second insertion bevel 48 second insertion ramp first recess 49 second leg outer surface second recess 50 first leg end face shaped edge 51 second leg end face

[0117] Insertion extension 52 first connection s section end insertion side surface sealing element 53 first securing leg insertion section receptacle first web 54 second securing leg middle web receptacle first middle web part 55 first axial projection second middle web part 56 first contact surface second web 57 second axial projection

[0118] Transverse direction 58 Second contact surface First longitudinal end 59 Axial contact surface 60 First axial position

[0119] 61 second axial position

Claims

Patent claims 1. Connector (2) for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous Media, including: - a connector body (4) which has at least a first jacket section (9) with an outer jacket surface (11) and an inner jacket surface (10), wherein the first jacket section (9) surrounds a central axis (8) and the inner jacket surface (10) forms a receiving space (12) for receiving a part of a mating connector (3), wherein the receiving space (12) is open on a plug-in side (22) for receiving a part of the mating connector (3); - a locking element (5) which is provided for securing the plug connector (2) relative to the mating plug connector (3), wherein the locking element (5) has a first leg (13), a second leg (14) and at least one connecting section (15) between the first leg (13) and the second leg (14), characterized in that a first recess (18) is formed in the first casing section (9), which completely penetrates the first casing section (9) in a transverse direction (30) to the central axis (8) and intersects the receiving space (12), and a second recess (19) is formed in the first casing section (9), which completely penetrates the first casing section (9) in the transverse direction (30) to the central axis (8) and intersects the receiving space (12), wherein, viewed in a cross section of the plug connector (2), a first web (25) is formed which passes through the outer casing surface (11) and the first recess (18) is limited,a central web (26) is formed, which is arranged between the first recess (18) and the second recess (19), a second web (29) is formed, which is delimited by the outer circumferential surface (11) and the second recess (19), wherein the first leg (13) of the locking element (5) is received in the first recess (18) and wherein the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) is received in the second recess (19), wherein the first leg (13) and the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) are displaceable between a release position (7) and a locking position (6).

2. Connector (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first recess (18) has a first axial projection (55) with a first contact surface (56), which extends in the axial direction of the central axis (8), and in that the first leg (13) has a first leg outer surface (46), and in that the second recess (19) has a second axial projection (57) with a second contact surface (58), which extends in the axial direction of the central axis (8), and in that the second leg (14) has a second leg outer surface (49), and in that the locking element (5) is displaceable in an axial direction of the central axis (8) between a first axial position (60) and a second axial position (61), wherein the locking element (5) is further away from the insertion side (22) in the first axial position (60) than in the second axial position (61),wherein in the first axial position (60) the first leg outer surface (46) is not covered by the first contact surface (56) and the second leg outer surface (49) is not covered by the second contact surface (58), so that the locking element (5) from the locking position, (6) can be transferred into the release position (7), wherein in the second axial position (61) the first leg outer surface (46) is covered outwards by the first contact surface (56) and the second leg outer surface (49) is covered outwards by the second contact surface (58), so that the locking element (5) is locked in the locking position (6).

3. Connector (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that the first contact surface (56), the first leg outer surface (46), the second contact surface (58) and the second leg outer surface (49) are aligned parallel to the central axis (8).

4. Connector (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first axial projection (55) and the second axial projection (57) have a projection height between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, in particular between 0.15 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm.

5. Connector (2) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the first leg (13) has a first leg end face (50), wherein the first leg outer surface (46) and the first leg end face (50) are in a seen in a leg cross-section are arranged at a right angle to each other and form a sharp-edged transition and that the second leg (14) has a second leg end face (51), wherein the second leg outer surface (49) and the second leg end face (51) are arranged at a right angle to each other seen in a leg cross-section and form a sharp-edged transition.

6. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting section (15) has a first connecting section end face (52), wherein a centering recess (33) is formed in the first connecting section end face (52), wherein a centering projection (34) is formed in the connector body (4), which corresponds to the centering recess (33).

7. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first jacket section (9) in the outer jacket surface (11) has a receiving recess (35) extending between the first recess (18) and the second recess (19), in which the connecting section (15) of the locking element (5) is received when the latter is in the locking position (6).

8. Connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (5) is formed in one piece from a plastic material, in particular from an injection-molded PA 12 with a glass fiber content of between 10% and 40%.

9. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first insertion bevel (16) is formed directly on the first leg (13) of the locking element (5) and that a second insertion bevel (17) is formed directly on the second leg (14) of the locking element (5).

10. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first dirt wing (36) is formed on the locking element (5) in extension of the connecting section (15), which is opposite the first leg (13) protrudes and that in extension of the connecting section (15) a second dirt wing (37) is formed, which protrudes relative to the second leg (14), wherein in the locking position (6) the connecting section (15) with the adjoining first dirt wing (36) and the adjoining second dirt wing (37) covers the first recess (18) and the second recess (19).

11. Connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first tool holder (40) for engagement with a disassembly tool is formed on the first leg (13) and that a second tool holder (41) for engagement with a disassembly tool is formed on the second leg (14).

12. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first leg (13) of the locking element (5) extends between the connecting section (15) and a first longitudinal end (31), wherein a first securing leg (38) directed in the direction of the second leg (14) is formed at the first longitudinal end (31), and in that the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) extends between the connecting section (15) and a second longitudinal end (32), wherein a second securing leg (39) directed in the direction of the first leg (13) is formed at the second longitudinal end (32).

13. Connector (2) according to claim 11 and 12, characterized in that the first tool holder (40) is formed on the first securing leg (38) and that the second tool holder (41) is formed on the second securing leg (39).

14. Plug connector (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first securing lug (42) is formed on the first leg (13) and that a second securing lug (43) is formed on the second leg (14), wherein in the release position (7) of the locking element (5), the first securing lug (42) in conjunction with the first web (25) and the second securing lug (43) in conjunction with the second web (29) secures the locking element (5) against withdrawal of the locking element (5) from the connector body (4) in the transverse direction (30).

15. Plug connector (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that the first securing lug (42) has a first securing surface (44) on a side facing the connecting section (15), wherein the first securing lug (42) has a first insertion ramp (45) on a side facing away from the connecting section (15), and in that the second securing lug (43) has a second securing surface (47) on a side facing the connecting section (15), wherein the second securing lug (43) has a second insertion ramp (48) on a side facing away from the connecting section (15).

16. Connector (2) according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that in the release position (7) of the locking element (5) seen in the transverse direction (30), the first securing leg (38) overlaps with the central web (26) and the second securing leg (39) overlaps with the central web (26), wherein the locking element (5) is secured against withdrawal of the locking element (5) in the transverse direction (30).

17. A method for producing a connector (2) for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media, comprising the method steps: - Providing a connector body (4) which has at least a first jacket section (9) with an outer jacket surface (11) and an inner jacket surface (10), wherein the first jacket section (9) surrounds a central axis (8) and the inner jacket surface (10) forms a receiving space (12) for receiving a part of a mating connector (3), wherein the receiving space (12) for receiving a part of the mating connector (3) is open on a plug-in side (22), wherein a first recess (18) is formed in the first jacket section (9), which completely penetrates the first jacket section (9) in a transverse direction (30) to the central axis (8) and intersects the receiving space (12), and a second recess (19) is formed in the first jacket section (9), which completely penetrates the first jacket section (9) in the transverse direction (30) to the central axis (8) and intersects the receiving space (12),wherein, viewed in a cross-section of the plug connector (2), a first web (25) is formed which is delimited by the outer casing surface (11) and the first recess (18), a central web (26) is formed which is arranged between the first recess (18) and the second recess (19), a second web (29) is formed which is delimited by the outer casing surface (11) and the, second recess (19) is limited, - Providing a locking element (5) which is provided for securing the plug connector (2) relative to the mating connector (3), wherein the locking element (5) has a first leg (13), a second leg (14) and a connecting section (15) between the first leg (13) and the second leg (14), - Inserting the locking element (5) into the connector body (4) in the transverse direction (30), wherein the first leg (13) of the locking element (5) is received in the first recess (18) and wherein the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) is received in the second recess (19), wherein the first leg (13) and the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) are radially displaceable between a release position (7) and a locking position (6).

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that when the locking element (5) is inserted into the connector body (4) in the transverse direction (30), the first leg (13) and the second leg (14) of the locking element (5) are elastically deformed and are secured in the release position (7) of the locking element (5) by a positive connection against withdrawal of the locking element (5) from the connector body (4) in the transverse direction (30).

19. Method for producing a plug connection between a plug connector (2) for connecting lines for liquid or gaseous media and a mating connector (3), comprising the method steps: - Providing a connector (2), in particular a connector (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16 by means of the method steps of claims 17 or 18; - providing the counter connector (3); - inserting the mating connector (3) into the receiving space (12) of the plug connector (2), wherein by means of an insertion extension (21) arranged on the mating connector (3), the locking element (5) is pressed from the locking position (6) into the release position (7) and in the process the first leg (13) in the first recess (18) is pressed outwards in the radial direction and the second leg (14) in the second recess (19) is pressed outwards in the radial direction, wherein after overcoming the insertion extension (21), the first leg (13) and the second leg (14) are pushed behind a shaped edge (20) of the mating connector (3), wherein the locking element (5) is then in a first axial position (60).

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that when an internal pressure is applied in the plug connector (2) and the mating plug connector (3), these move away from each other, whereby the locking element (5) is thereby displaced into a second axial position (61), whereby in the second axial position (61) a first leg outer surface (46) of the first leg (13) is covered outwards by a first contact surface (56) of the connector body (4) and a second leg outer surface (49) of the second leg (14) is covered outwards by a second contact surface (58) of the connector body (4), so that the locking element (5) is locked in the locking position (6).

Images