Device for connecting a sanitary fitting to a fluid line

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for connecting a sanitary fitting (2) to a fluid line (3), wherein the device (1) comprises a plug-in connector (4) and an adapter connection piece (5), wherein the adapter connection piece (5) comprises a threaded portion (6) for screw-fastening to a thread of a fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2) and a connecting portion (8) for connecting to the plug-in connector (4), wherein the plug-in connector (4) has a receiving space (9) for receiving the connecting portion (8) and a coupling portion (10) for coupling to the fluid line (3), wherein the connecting portion (8) comprises a first cylinder portion (11) on which a locking groove (12) is provided, wherein the plug-in connector (4) comprises an inner sleeve (13) and an outer sleeve (14) surrounding the inner sleeve (13), wherein the plug-in connector (4) comprises a locking clip (15) which has a number of locking portions (16), wherein the outer sleeve (14) in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve (13) between a release position, in which the locking clip (15) is in a released state in which the connecting portion (8) is insertable into the receiving space (9), and a locking position, in which the locking clip (15) is in an engaged state in which the number of locking portions (16) are receivable in the locking groove (12) of the connecting portion (8), such that the connecting portion (8) is lockable on the plug-in connector (4).

Description

[0001] DEVICE FOR CONNECTING A SANITARY FITTING TO A FLUID LINE

[0002] The invention relates to a device for connecting a sanitary fitting, in particular an angle valve, to a fluid line, preferably a hose, wherein the device comprises a plug connector and an adapter socket, wherein the adapter socket comprises, at a first adapter end, a threaded portion with a first thread for screwing to a complementary second thread of a fluid outlet of the sanitary fitting and, at an opposite second adapter end, a connecting portion for connection to the plug connector. wherein the plug connector comprises, at a first connector end, a receiving space for receiving the connecting portion of the adapter socket and, at an opposite second connector end, a coupling portion for coupling to the fluid line. The invention also relates to a system comprising such a device and a sanitary fitting, in particular an angle valve.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a sanitary fitting, in particular an angle valve, comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet connected to the fluid inlet via a flow channel and a shut-off valve for shutting off the flow channel, as well as a system comprising the sanitary fitting and a plug-in connector.

[0004] Known sanitary fittings, especially angle valves, typically have a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet that are fluidically connected via an integrated flow channel. A shut-off valve is also provided to block the flow channel, preventing fluid from flowing from the inlet to the outlet. The shut-off valve is usually manually operated, for example, via a suitable rotary handle. The fluid inlet and outlet are usually arranged at a specific angle to each other, for example, an angle of 90°. Angle valves are often used to establish a connection between a pipe installation in the wall and a tapping point, such as a washbasin or kitchen faucet.

[0005] The fluid inlet often includes a plug-in connection or a thread for connection to a wall outlet. The fluid outlet of conventional angle valves, on the other hand, almost always has an external thread. The external thread can be connected to the washbasin faucet, for example, using a suitable connecting hose, usually via a union nut. Suitable seals can be provided at the connection points in a conventional manner.

[0006] Sanitary fittings, especially angle valves, are often located in areas that are difficult to access, such as inside kitchen cabinets or underneath bathroom sinks. These often include drainage piping, usually with a siphon, and possibly additional hoses or connections. Screwing the union nut of the connecting hose onto the external thread of the angle valve's fluid outlet therefore usually requires considerable skill from the installer. Furthermore, a considerable tightening torque is required to create a sufficient seal between the angle valve and the connecting hose. A suitable tool, such as an open-end wrench or pipe wrench, is usually used to apply the appropriate tightening torque. However, sufficient space is required to use the tool, which is not always available.In addition, improper use of the tool can lead to slipping, which can cause damage to the angle valve, the connecting hose or surrounding components, and there is also a certain risk of injury to the installer.

[0007] The object of the present invention was therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a device and a corner valve which enable easier handling during assembly.

[0008] This object is achieved by the device mentioned at the outset in that the connecting section comprises a first cylinder section on which at least one locking groove is provided, which extends in the circumferential direction at least over part of the circumference of the first cylinder section, in that the plug-in connector comprises an inner sleeve which forms the receiving space, and an outer sleeve surrounding the inner sleeve, in that the plug-in connector comprises a locking clip for locking the connecting section, which has a number of locking sections, wherein the outer sleeve can be moved in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve between a release position in which the locking clip is in a release state, in which the connecting section can be inserted into the receiving space or removed from the receiving space, and a locking position in which the locking clip is in an engaged state,in which the number of locking sections can be accommodated in the locking groove of the connecting section when the connecting section is located in the receiving space, so that the connecting section can be locked to the connector.,

[0009] The invention enables a simple and reliable connection. The adapter socket can, for example, be pre-assembled on the angle valve before it is installed. In areas that are difficult to access, e.g. underneath a washbasin, the plug-in connector can be very easily connected to the adapter socket. To do this, the outer sleeve can be moved into the release position before connection and pushed onto the connecting section so that the latter is in the receiving space. The outer sleeve can then be moved into the locking position, which completes the connection process. The coupling section of the plug-in connector can, for example, be connected to a suitable connecting hose before connection.

[0010] It is advantageous if the connecting section comprises a second cylinder section located closer to the second adapter end, having a second outer diameter that is smaller than a first outer diameter of the first cylinder section, wherein a tapered section, preferably conical, is provided between the first cylinder section and the second cylinder section, tapering toward the second cylinder section. The invention thus utilizes established technology from automotive engineering, since the shape of the connecting section corresponds to the geometry of the known and standardized VDA connector, which has become established in automotive engineering for connecting fluid lines.

[0011] Preferably, a circumferential groove is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, said groove comprising a number of first through-openings, each connecting the circumferential groove to an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, wherein a number of second through-openings are provided on the inner sleeve, each connecting an outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve to an inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve, wherein the locking clip is received in the circumferential groove of the outer sleeve in a radially prestressed manner, and wherein the number of locking sections are each located radially outside the receiving space in the released state and protrude radially through the number of first through-openings and the number of second through-openings into the receiving space in the engaged state,Preferably, in the release state of the locking clamp, at least one of the locking sections rests against the outer peripheral surface of the inner sleeve. This creates an advantageous structural embodiment. The pretensioning of the locking clamp allows for essentially automatic locking.

[0012] It is advantageous if the outer sleeve can be rotated from the locking position to the release position in opposite directions. This simplifies handling because the direction of rotation does not need to be observed during assembly.

[0013] The number of first through-openings preferably comprises at least one circumferential groove which extends in the circumferential direction over part of the outer sleeve. Alternatively or additionally, the number of second through-openings preferably comprises at least one circumferential groove which extends in the circumferential direction over part of the inner sleeve. It is advantageous if the at least one circumferential groove of the number of second through-openings is delimited in the circumferential direction by two groove ends, wherein the groove ends are designed to exert a displacement force on the respective locking section of the locking clip upon rotation of the outer sleeve from the locking position into the release position, by means of which displacement force the locking clip can be displaced from the engaged state into the release state. This enables simple and reliable release of the locking by rotating the outer sleeve.

[0014] The outer sleeve can be made of plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the inner sleeve can be made of a metallic material. This can reduce manufacturing costs, as the outer sleeve can be manufactured easily and from a relatively inexpensive material, e.g., by injection molding. Plastic also allows for more flexible shaping; a metallic inner sleeve has the advantage of achieving high dimensional stability, which is beneficial for a reliable connection and, in particular, for reliable sealing. Furthermore, improved force transmission to the locking clamp can be achieved, and wear in the contact area with the locking clamp can be reduced.

[0015] It is advantageous if the connector comprises a limiting device designed to limit a rotation angle of the outer sleeve relative to the inner sleeve. The limiting device preferably comprises a limiting groove and a limiting element received in the limiting groove. The limiting groove is preferably arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve and extends circumferentially over a portion of the inner sleeve, and the limiting element is preferably arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve. This allows a defined position to be provided for the release position and the locking position, preventing undesired rotation of the outer sleeve beyond the respective position.

[0016] Preferably, a number of retaining projections are provided on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, which are designed to cooperate with the locking clip in the release position of the outer sleeve in order to hold the locking clip in the released state. The number of retaining projections preferably comprises two retaining projections, and the locking clip preferably has two free ends that are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction and each comprise a retaining section, and the two retaining sections are designed to cooperate with the two retaining projections. This reliably prevents an undesired displacement of the locking clip into the engaged state, thereby further improving handling.

[0017] The locking clip can be made of spring steel and / or have a round cross-section. Alternatively or additionally, one or more locking sections of the locking clip can comprise a radially inwardly directed arc. The number of locking sections can be at least two, preferably at least three. By increasing the number, the reliability of the locking mechanism can be increased.

[0018] It is advantageous if, for each locking section of the locking clamp, a second through-opening is provided on the inner sleeve and / or a first through-opening is provided on the outer sleeve. The number of first through-openings and / or the number of second through-openings is preferably at least two, particularly preferably at least three.

[0019] On an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve, a plurality of elongated retaining grooves spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction are preferably arranged, wherein the retaining grooves extend in the longitudinal direction over part of the outer sleeve. This can simplify gripping and twisting of the outer sleeve, which further improves handling. The device is preferably used in a system comprising a sanitary fitting, in particular an angle valve. The first thread of the threaded portion of the adapter socket can be screwed or screwable to the second thread of the fluid outlet of the sanitary fitting, and the coupling portion of the plug-in connector can be connectable or connected to a fluid line, preferably a hose. This advantageously makes it possible to provide an entire assembly.

[0020] The problem is further solved with the sanitary fitting mentioned above in that the fluid outlet comprises an integral connecting section for direct connection to a plug-in connector, wherein the connecting section comprises a first cylinder section on which at least one locking groove is provided, which extends in the circumferential direction over at least part of the circumference of the first cylinder section. As a result, an adapter connection is no longer necessary; instead, the plug-in connector can be connected directly to the sanitary fitting. Within the scope of the invention, the term "sanitary fitting" refers to all fittings, valves, etc. that are used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology.

[0021] Similar to the adapter connector, it is advantageous if the connecting section comprises a second cylinder section located closer to a free end of the fluid outlet and having a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter of the first cylinder section. A tapered section, preferably conical, is provided between the first cylinder section and the second cylinder section, tapering toward the second cylinder section. This again utilizes the well-known VDA geometry, which has proven itself many times over.

[0022] The sanitary fitting is preferably used in a system comprising a connector for connecting the fluid outlet of the sanitary fitting to a fluid line, wherein the connector comprises an inner sleeve forming the receiving space and an outer sleeve surrounding the inner sleeve, wherein the connector comprises a locking clip for locking the connector to the connecting section, which has a number of locking sections, wherein the outer sleeve is movable in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve between a release position in which the locking clip is in an open state, in which the connecting section can be inserted into the receiving space or removed from the receiving space, and a locking position in which the locking clip is in an engaged state, in which the number of locking sections can be received in the locking groove of the connecting section,when the connecting section is located in the receiving space so that the connector can be locked to the connecting section.

[0023] The device according to the invention (comprising the adapter socket) is preferably used by carrying out the following steps: providing a sanitary fitting, in particular an angle valve, which comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet which are connected via a flow channel, and a shut-off valve for shutting off the flow channel, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a second thread, screwing the first thread of the threaded portion of the adapter socket with the second thread of the fluid outlet of the sanitary fitting, inserting the connecting portion of the adapter socket into the receiving space of the plug-in connector, wherein the outer sleeve is in the release position, moving the outer sleeve from the release position into the locking position such that the number of locking portions are received in the locking groove of the connecting portion.

[0024] The system (comprising the sanitary fitting with integral connecting portion) is preferably used by performing the following steps: inserting the connecting portion from the fluid outlet portion of the sanitary fitting into the receiving space of the connector with the outer sleeve in the release position, and moving the outer sleeve from the release position to the locking position such that the plurality of locking portions are received in the locking groove of the connecting portion.

[0025] The coupling section of the plug connector can be connected to a fluid line, preferably a hose, before or after connecting the plug connector to the connecting section of the fluid outlet of the sanitary fitting or connecting to the connecting section of the adapter nozzle, preferably by means of a press connection comprising a press sleeve.

[0026] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0027] They each show in a highly simplified, schematic representation: Fig. 1 is a perspective exploded view of a system of an exemplary embodiment of the invention comprising a device with an adapter socket and a plug connector as well as an angle valve;

[0028] Fig. 2 is an exploded view of the system in a longitudinal section;

[0029] Fig. 3 the system in the assembled state in a longitudinal section;

[0030] Fig. 4 A cross-section through the connector with the outer sleeve in the release position;

[0031] Fig. 5 A cross-section through the connector with the outer sleeve in the locking position;

[0032] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a system of another exemplary embodiment of the invention comprising an angle valve and a connector;

[0033] Fig. 7 is an exploded view of the system in a longitudinal section;

[0034] Fig. 8 the system in the assembled state in a longitudinal section.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 1 to 5. Fig. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a system of a first embodiment of the invention, the system comprising a device 1 with a plug connector 4 and an adapter socket 5 as well as a sanitary fitting 2. Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of the system in a longitudinal section. Fig. 3 shows the system in the assembled state in a longitudinal section. Fig. 4 shows a cross-section through the plug connector 4 according to section line AA, with the outer sleeve 14, described in more detail below, in a release position. Fig. 5 shows a cross-section through the plug connector 4 according to section line AA, with the outer sleeve 14 in a locking position.

[0037] The sanitary fitting 2 is designed here as an angle valve, for example, but could also be designed differently, for example as a heating fitting, in particular for ceiling heating. The terms sanitary fitting and angle valve are used synonymously below. The angle valve 2 comprises a fluid inlet 28 and a fluid outlet 7, which are connected via a flow channel 29 (see Fig. 2). The angle valve 2 further comprises a shut-off valve 30 for shutting off the flow channel 29. The device 1 is designed to connect the angle valve 2 to a fluid line 3. The fluid line 3 can, for example, be a hose, such as the connecting hose mentioned above. The structure and function of the shut-off valve 30 are known, which is why the shut-off valve 30 is only indicated schematically. The shut-off valve can, for example, be actuated by manual turning in order to shut off or open the flow channel 29.

[0038] The adapter connector 5 has a threaded portion 6 with a first thread G1 at a first adapter end 5a (see Fig. 2). The fluid outlet 7 comprises a second thread G2, which is complementary to the first thread G1 of the adapter connector 5 (see Fig. 2). In the example shown, the first thread G1 of the adapter connector 5 is an internal thread, and the second thread G2 of the fluid outlet 7 is an external thread. Of course, it could also be the other way around. The adapter connector 5 can thus be screwed onto or into the fluid outlet 7 of the angle valve 2.

[0039] In the example shown, both the plug connector 4 and the adapter socket 5 are straight. Of course, the plug connector 4 and / or the adapter socket 5 could also be angled or curved. A connecting section 8 is provided on a second adapter end 5b of the adapter socket 5 opposite the first adapter end 5a. The connecting section 8 serves to connect the adapter socket 5 to the plug connector 4. The connecting section 8 of the adapter socket 5 has a first cylindrical section 11 on which a locking groove 12 is provided. In the example shown, the locking groove 12 extends in the circumferential direction over the entire circumference of the first cylindrical section 11. The plug connector 4 has a receiving space 9 at a first plug connector end 4a for receiving the connecting section 8 of the adapter socket 5.At a second connector end 4b opposite the first connector end 4a, the connector 4 comprises a coupling section 10 for coupling the connector 4 to the fluid line 3. The connector 4 comprises an inner sleeve 13 and an outer sleeve 14 surrounding the inner sleeve 13. The inner sleeve 13 forms the receiving space 9 or at least a part thereof. The connector 4 also comprises a locking clip 15 for locking the connection from section 8 of the adapter socket 5. The locking clip 15 has a plurality of locking sections 16. The outer sleeve 14 can, for example, be made of a suitable plastic and the inner sleeve 13 of a suitable metallic material.

[0040] The outer sleeve 14 can be rotated circumferentially relative to the inner sleeve 13 between a release position (see Fig. 4) and a locking position (see Fig. 5). In the release position, the locking clip 15 is in a released state. In the locked position, the locking clip 15 is in an engaged state. In the released state, the locking sections 16 are located radially outside the receiving space 9, so that the connecting section 8 of the adapter socket 5 can be inserted into the receiving space 9 or removed from the receiving space 9.

[0041] When the adapter connector 5 is arranged in the receiving space 9, the outer sleeve 14 can be rotated from the release position to the locking position, so that the locking clip 15 is displaced into the engaged state. In the engaged state, the locking sections 16 are received in the locking groove 12 of the connecting section 8 of the adapter connector 5, so that the connecting section 8 is locked on the connector 4 in the axial direction, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0042] The coupling section 10 of the plug connector 4 can be connected to a fluid line 3, preferably a hose. The connection can, for example, also be made before the connection to the adapter socket 5, e.g., during pre-assembly. The coupling section 10 is provided here on a separate coupling sleeve 33. The coupling sleeve 33 comprises a cylindrical section 34, which is arranged at an end of the coupling sleeve 33 opposite the coupling section 10. An outer diameter of the cylindrical section 34 essentially corresponds to an inner diameter of the inner sleeve 13. The cylindrical section 34 of the coupling sleeve 33 can thus be received within the inner sleeve 13.

[0043] Depending on requirements, the coupling sleeve 33 can be made, for example, from a suitable metallic material or from a suitable plastic. Due to the modular design, different coupling sleeves 33 can be provided, each having different coupling sections 10. Depending on the desired connection type, a suitable coupling sleeve 33 can be used in the connector 4. In the illustrated embodiment, an external press connection with a plastically deformable press sleeve 31 is provided as an example. However, other coupling sections 10 could of course also be provided, e.g., a cutting ring screw connection, an internal press connection, a welded connection, etc.

[0044] In the example shown, the inner sleeve 13 has a bent end 13a, which forms an end face facing the first connector end 4a. An end face 34a of the cylindrical section 34 of the coupling sleeve 33 (see Fig. 1) facing the coupling section 10 rests, in the assembled state, against the end face of the bent section 13a of the inner sleeve 13 (see Fig. 2). An open end of the coupling sleeve 33 in the region of the cylindrical section forms part of the receiving space 9.

[0045] In the example shown, the connecting section 8 of the adapter connector 5 also has a second cylinder section 17 located closer to the second adapter end 5b. The second cylinder section 17 has a smaller second outer diameter relative to a first outer diameter of the first cylinder section 11. The first cylinder section 11 and the second cylinder section 17 are connected via a tapered section 18, which tapers toward the second cylinder section 17. The tapered section 18 is preferably conical.

[0046] As a result, the geometry of the adapter socket 5 essentially corresponds to the geometry of the standardized VDA socket. The outer diameter of the second cylinder section 17 essentially corresponds to an inner diameter of the coupling sleeve 33 in the region of the cylindrical section 34. The outer diameter of the first cylinder section 11 essentially corresponds to an inner diameter of the inner sleeve 13. As a result, the adapter socket 5 can be inserted into the receiving space 9 of the plug-in connector 4 such that the first cylinder section 11 is guided on the inner sleeve 13 and the second cylinder section 17 is guided on the coupling sleeve 33. On an inner circumferential surface of the coupling sleeve 33 in the region of the cylindrical section 34, a circumferential groove for receiving a seal 32 is preferably provided. The seal 32 can, for example, be a well-known O-ring (see Fig. 1). However, another type of seal would also be conceivable, for example a profile seal.The seal 32 may already be pre-assembled in the connector 4. When the adapter socket 5 is connected to the connector 4, the seal 32 interacts with an outer peripheral surface of the second cylinder portion 17 of the adapter socket 5 to create a seal, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0047] As can be seen in Fig. 1, a circumferential groove 19 is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 14, which extends over a portion of the circumference. Furthermore, a plurality of first through-openings 20 are provided, each of which connects the circumferential groove 19 with an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 14 (see also Fig. 4 and Fig. 5). On the inner sleeve

[0048] 13, a plurality of second through-openings 21 are provided, each connecting an outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve 13 with an inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve 13.

[0049] The locking clamp 15 is pre-tensioned in the radial direction and received in the circumferential groove 19 of the outer sleeve 14. In the released state, the locking sections 16 are each located radially outside the receiving space 9 (see Fig. 4). In the engaged state, the locking sections 16 each protrude radially through the number of first through-openings 20 and the number of second through-openings 21 into the receiving space 9. In the released state of the locking clamp 15, the locking sections 16 rest against the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve 13 (see Fig. 5). The outer sleeve

[0050] 14 can be rotated from the locking position in opposite directions to the release position, as indicated by the double arrows in Fig.5.

[0051] The first through-openings 20 are designed here as circumferential grooves, each extending in the circumferential direction over a portion of the outer sleeve 14. The second through-openings 21 are also designed as circumferential grooves, each extending in the circumferential direction over a portion of the inner sleeve 13. The second through-openings 21 are delimited in the circumferential direction by two groove ends. The groove ends are designed to exert a displacement force on the respective locking portion 16 of the locking clip 15 upon rotation of the outer sleeve 14 from the locking position to the release position, by means of which the locking clip 15 can be displaced from the engaged state to the released state.

[0052] In the example shown, the plug connector 4 further comprises a limiting device 22 which is designed to limit a rotation angle of the outer sleeve 14 relative to the inner sleeve

[0053] 13, the limiting device 22 comprises a limiting groove 23 and a limiting element 24 received in the limiting groove 23 (see Fig. 2). The limiting groove 23 is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve 13 and extends in the circumferential direction over a defined part of the inner sleeve 13. The limiting element 24 is arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 14 and is formed integrally with the outer sleeve 5. The angle of rotation is limited by the limiting element 24 abutting the ends of the circumferential groove 23 that limit the limiting groove 23 in the circumferential direction.

[0054] Two retaining projections 25 are provided on the outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 14. The retaining projections 25 are designed to be in the release position of the outer sleeve

[0055] 14 cooperates with the locking clip 15 to hold the locking clip 15 in the released state. The locking clip 15 has two free ends 15a, 15b that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction (see Fig. 5). The free ends 15a, 15b each comprise a holding portion 26 that cooperates with a corresponding holding projection 25.

[0056] The locking clip 15 can be made of a suitable spring steel. The locking clip 15 here has a round cross-section. The locking sections 16 each comprise a radially inwardly directed arc. This facilitates the displacement of the locking sections 16 by the inner sleeve 13. In the example shown, three locking sections 16 are provided, but there could also be more or fewer, but preferably at least two.

[0057] For each locking section of the locking clip 15, a second through-opening 21 is provided on the inner sleeve 13 and a first through-opening 20 is provided on the outer sleeve 14. Accordingly, for example, three first through-openings 20 and three second through-openings 21 can be provided. As can be seen in Fig. 1, a plurality of elongated retaining grooves 27 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve 14, spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, each extending in the longitudinal direction over a part of the outer sleeve 14. The retaining grooves 27 make it easier for a user to grip and rotate the outer sleeve.

[0058] The illustrated system of the first embodiment can be used by performing the following steps. First, the sanitary fitting 2, in particular the angle valve, is provided, which comprises a fluid outlet 7 with a thread G2. Subsequently, the first thread G1 of the threaded portion 6 of the adapter connector 5 can be screwed to the second thread G2 of the fluid outlet 7. If necessary, a seal (not shown) can also be provided, e.g., a flat seal.

[0059] As soon as the adapter nozzle 5 is mounted on the angle valve 2, the connection s can be inserted from section 8 of the adapter nozzle 5 into the receiving space 9 of the plug connector 4 by pushing the plug connector 4 onto the adapter nozzle 5. The outer sleeve 14 is preferably in the release position, so that the locking clip 15 is in the released state, in which the locking sections 16 are arranged outside the receiving space 9. However, if the outer sleeve 14 is already in the locking position, in which the locking clip 15 is in the engaged state, in which the locking sections 16 protrude into the receiving space 9, the outer sleeve 14 could also first be brought into the release position by twisting.

[0060] When the connecting section 8 of the adapter socket 5 is arranged in the intended end position in the receiving space 9, the outer sleeve 14 can be moved from the release position into the locking position, whereby the locking clamp 15 assumes the locked state and the locking sections 16 are received in the locking groove 12 of the connecting section 8. The connected state is shown in Fig. 3. The end position of the adapter socket 5 can be defined, for example, by a stop on the coupling sleeve 33. As can be seen in Fig. 3, the seal 32 rests against the outer peripheral surface of the second cylinder section 17 of the adapter socket 5.

[0061] If the outer sleeve 14 is already in the locking position before plugging on, the locking sections 16 could alternatively be displaced radially out of the receiving space 9 by the tapered section 18 of the adapter connector 5, counter to the preload force of the locking clamp 15. Upon reaching the end position, the locking sections 16 engage in the locking groove 12 of the connecting section 8.

[0062] The coupling section 10 of the connector 4 can be connected to a fluid line 3, preferably a hose, before or after connecting the connector 4 to the connecting section 8 of the adapter socket 5. For this purpose, the fluid line 3 can be attached to the coupling section 10, for example, by means of an external or internal press connection. The press connection can, for example, comprise a press sleeve 31 that is plastically deformable to clamp the fluid line in the radial direction, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0063] To release the connection, the outer sleeve 5 can be rotated from the locking position back to the release position, whereby the locking clip 15 is moved from the engaged state to the release state and the locking sections 16 are disengaged from the locking groove 12 of the connecting section 8. The connector 4 can then be removed again in the opposite direction.

[0064] A second embodiment of a system is explained in more detail below with reference to Fig. 6 to Fig. 8. Fig. 6 shows a perspective exploded view of the system, wherein the system comprises a connector 4 and a sanitary fitting 2. Fig. 7 shows an exploded view of the system in a longitudinal section and Fig. 8 shows the system in the assembled state in a longitudinal section. The same reference numerals and component designations as in the previous Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 are used for the same parts. To avoid unnecessary repetition, only the differences from the first embodiment are described in detail below. With regard to the common features, reference is made to the description of the previous Fig. 1 to Fig. 5.

[0065] The sanitary fitting 2 is again designed as an angle valve. The angle valve has a fluid inlet 28 and a fluid outlet 7, which are connected via a flow channel 29; moreover, a shut-off valve 30 is provided for shutting off the flow channel 29. In contrast to the first embodiment, the fluid outlet 7 comprises an integral connecting section 8 for direct connection to the plug-in connector 4. The connecting section 8 has a first cylinder section 11, on which a locking groove 12 is provided, which extends in the circumferential direction around the entire circumference of the first cylinder section 11. As already noted, however, this is only to be understood as an example, and the locking groove 12 could also extend over only part of the circumference. Several locking grooves 12 spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction could also be provided.

[0066] The connecting section 8 also has a second cylinder section 17 located closer to a free end of the fluid outlet 7, said second cylinder section having a smaller second outer diameter relative to a first outer diameter of the first cylinder section 11. The first cylinder section 11 and the second cylinder section 17 are connected via a tapered section 18, which tapers toward the second cylinder section 17 and is preferably conical. The connecting section 8 is thus designed analogously to the previously described adapter connector 5 (see Figs. 1 and 2) and essentially corresponds to the standardized VDA geometry.

[0067] The connector 4 is designed identically to the first embodiment. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the above explanations, which also apply analogously to the second embodiment.

[0068] The illustrated system of the second embodiment can be used by first providing the sanitary fitting 2, in particular the angle valve, which has a fluid outlet 7 with an integral connecting portion 8. The connecting portion 8 of the fluid outlet 7 can then be connected to the connector 4. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment, which also applies analogously to the second embodiment.

[0069] 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 in the ability of the person skilled in the art in this technical field due to the honor of technical action through the objective invention.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] For the sake of clarity, it should finally be pointed out that, in order to better understand the structure, some elements have been shown out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0073] Reference symbols

[0074] Device 25 holding projection

[0075] Sanitary fitting 26 holding section

[0076] Fluid line 27 Retaining grooves connector 28 Fluid inlet a First connector end 29 Flow channel b Second connector end 30 Shut-off valve adapter socket 31 Press sleeve a First adapter end 32 Seal b Second adapter end 33 Coupling sleeve threaded section 34 Cylindrical section fluid outlet 34a End face

[0077] Connecting section Gl First thread Receiving space G2 Second thread Coupling section 1 First cylinder section 2 Locking groove 3 Inner sleeve 3a Bent end 4 Outer sleeve 5 Locking clamp 5a First free end 5b Second free end 6 Locking section 7 Second cylinder section 8 Tapered section 9 Circumferential groove 0 First through opening 1 Second through opening 2 Limiting device 3 Limiting groove 4 Limiting element

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e 1. Device (1) for connecting a sanitary fitting (2), in particular a corner valve, to a fluid line (3), preferably a hose, wherein the device (1) comprises a plug connector (4) and an adapter socket (5), wherein the adapter socket (5) comprises, at a first adapter end (5a), a threaded portion (6) with a first thread for screwing to a complementary second thread of a fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2), and at an opposite second adapter end (5b), a connecting portion (8) for connection to the plug connector (4), and wherein the plug connector (4) comprises, at a first plug connector end (4a), a receiving space (9) for receiving the connecting portion (8) of the adapter socket (5), and at an opposite second plug connector end (4b), a coupling portion (10) for coupling to the fluid line (3), characterized in thatthat the connecting section (8) comprises a first cylinder section (11) on which at least one locking groove (12) is provided, which extends in the circumferential direction at least over part of the circumference of the first cylinder section (11), that the plug-in connector (4) comprises an inner sleeve (13) which forms the receiving space (9), and an outer sleeve (14) surrounding the inner sleeve (13), that the plug-in connector (4) comprises a locking clip (15) for locking the connecting section (8), which has a number of locking sections (16), wherein the outer sleeve (14) is rotatable in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve (13) between a release position, in which the locking clip (15) is in a release state, in which the connecting section (8) can be inserted into the receiving space (9) or removed from the receiving space (9), and a locking position,in which the locking clip (15) is in an engaged state in which the number of locking sections (16) can be received in the locking groove (12) of the connecting section (8) when the connecting section (8) is located in the receiving space (9), so that the connecting section (8) can be locked on the connector (4).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting section (8) comprises a second cylinder section (17) located closer to the second adapter end (5b) and having a second outer diameter which is smaller than a first outer diameter of the first cylinder section (11), wherein between the first cylinder section (11) and the second cylinder section (17) a A tapered, preferably conical, tapered section (18) is provided in the cylinder section (17).

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (14) a circumferential groove (19) is provided, which comprises a number of first through-openings (20), which each connect the circumferential groove (19) with an inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (14), that on the inner sleeve (13) a number of second through-openings (21) are provided, which each connect an outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve (13) with an inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve (13), that the locking clip (15) is received in the circumferential groove (19) of the outer sleeve (14) in a pre-tensioned manner in the radial direction, and that the number of locking sections (16) are each located in the radial direction outside the receiving space (9) in the released state and are each radially separated by the number of first through-openings (20) and the number of second through-openings (21) in the Receiving space (9) protrude,wherein, preferably in the release state of the locking clamp (15), at least one of the number of locking sections (16) rests against the outer peripheral surface of the inner sleeve (13).

4. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the outer sleeve (14) can be rotated from the locking position in opposite directions of rotation into the release position.

5. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the number of first through-openings (20) comprises at least one circumferential groove (19) which extends in the circumferential direction over a part of the outer sleeve (14) and / or that the number of second through-openings (21) comprises at least one circumferential groove (19) which extends in the circumferential direction over a part of the inner sleeve (13).

6. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one circumferential groove (19) of the number of second through-openings (21) is limited in the circumferential direction by two groove ends, wherein the groove ends are designed to rotate upon rotation of the outer sleeve (14) from the locking position into the Release position to exert a displacement force on the respective locking section of the locking clamp (15), by means of which the locking clamp (15) can be displaced from the engaged state into the released state.

7. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the outer sleeve (14) is made of a plastic and / or that the inner sleeve (13) is made of a metallic material.

8. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the plug connector (4) comprises a limiting device (22) which is designed to limit an angle of rotation of the outer sleeve (14) relative to the inner sleeve (13), wherein the limiting device (22) preferably comprises a limiting groove (23) and a limiting element (24) received in the limiting groove (23), wherein the limiting groove (23) is preferably arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve (13) and extends in the circumferential direction over part of the inner sleeve (13) and the limiting element (24) is preferably arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (14).

9. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a number of holding projections (25) are provided on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (14), which holding projections are designed to cooperate with the locking clip (15) in the release position of the outer sleeve (14) in order to hold the locking clip (15) in the release state, wherein the number of holding projections (25) preferably comprises two holding projections (25) and the locking clip (15) preferably has two free ends (15a, 15b) which are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction and each comprise a holding section (26), and that the two holding sections (26) are designed to cooperate with the two holding projections (25).

10. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the locking clamp (15) is formed from a spring steel and / or that the locking clamp (15) has a round cross-section, and / or that at least one of the number of locking sections (16) has a radially inwardly directed arch and / or that the number of locking sections (16) is at least two, preferably at least three.

11. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that a second through-opening (21) is provided on the inner sleeve (13) for each locking section of the locking clamp (15) and / or that a first through-opening (20) is provided on the outer sleeve (14) for each locking section of the locking clamp (15) and / or that the number of first through-openings (20) is at least two, preferably at least three and / or that the number of second through-openings (21) is at least two, preferably at least three.

12. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that on an outer circumferential surface of the outer sleeve (14) a plurality of elongated retaining grooves (27) spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction are arranged, which extend in the longitudinal direction over a part of the outer sleeve (14).

13. System comprising a sanitary fitting (2), in particular a corner valve, which comprises a fluid inlet (28) and a fluid outlet (7) which are connected via a flow channel (29), and a shut-off valve (30) for shutting off the flow channel (29), wherein the fluid outlet (7) comprises a second thread, characterized in that the system comprises a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first thread of the threaded portion (6) of the adapter socket (5) is screwed or can be screwed to the second thread of the fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2) and wherein the coupling portion (10) of the plug-in connector (4) can be connected or is connected to a fluid line (3), preferably a hose.

14. Sanitary fitting (2), in particular a corner valve, comprising a fluid inlet (28), a fluid outlet (7) connected to the fluid inlet (28) via a flow channel (29) and a shut-off valve (30) for shutting off the flow channel (29), characterized in that the fluid outlet (7) comprises an integral connecting section (8) for direct connection to a plug-in connector (4), wherein the connecting section (8) comprises a first cylinder section (11) on which at least one locking groove (12) is provided which extends in the circumferential direction at least over part of the circumference of the first cylinder section (11).

15. Sanitary fitting (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that the connecting section (8) comprises a second cylinder section (17) located closer to a free end of the fluid outlet (7) and having a second outer diameter that is smaller than a first outer diameter of the first cylinder section (11), wherein a tapered section (18), preferably conical, tapered in the direction of the second cylinder section (17) is provided between the first cylinder section (11) and the second cylinder section (17).

16. System comprising a sanitary fitting (2) according to claim 14 or 15 and a plug connector (4) for connecting the fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2) to a fluid line (3), characterized in that the plug connector (4) comprises an inner sleeve (13) forming the receiving space (9), and an outer sleeve (14) surrounding the inner sleeve (13), that the plug connector (4) comprises a locking clip (15) for locking the plug connector (4) to the connecting section (8), which has a number of locking sections (16), wherein the outer sleeve (14) is movable in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve (13) between a release position, in which the locking clip (15) is in a release state, in which the connecting section (8) can be inserted into the receiving space (9) or removed from the receiving space (9), and a locking position, in which the locking clip (15) is in an intervention state,in which the number of locking sections (16) can be accommodated in the locking groove (12) of the connecting section (8) when the connecting section (8) is located in the receiving space (9), so that the plug connector (4) can be locked on the connecting section (8).

17. System according to claim 16, characterized in that the connector (4) is designed like the connector (4) in one of claims 3 to 12.

18. Use of a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the following steps are carried out: - Providing a sanitary fitting (2), in particular an angle valve, which has a fluid inlet (28) and a fluid outlet (7) connected via a flow channel (29), and a shut-off valve (30) for shutting off the flow channel (29), wherein the fluid outlet (7) comprises a second thread, - screwing the first thread of the threaded section (6) of the adapter socket (5) with the second thread of the fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2), - Inserting the connecting section (8) of the adapter socket (5) into the receiving space (9) of the connector (4), with the outer sleeve (14) in the release position, - Moving the outer sleeve (14) from the release position to the locking position so that the number of locking sections (16) are received in the locking groove (12) of the connecting section (8).

19. Use of a system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the following steps are carried out: - Inserting the connecting section (8) of the fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2) into the receiving space (9) of the plug-in connector (4), wherein the outer sleeve (14) is in the release position, and - Moving the outer sleeve (14) from the release position to the locking position so that the number of locking sections (16) are received in the locking groove (12) of the connecting section (8).

20. Use according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the coupling section (10) of the plug-in connector (4) is connected to a fluid line (3), preferably a hose, before or after the plug-in connector (4) is connected to the connecting section (8) of the fluid outlet (7) of the sanitary fitting (2) or to the connecting section (8) of the adapter socket (5), preferably by means of a press connection comprising a press sleeve (31).

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