EP3524112B1 - Coupling system for connecting two fluid conduits - Google Patents

Coupling system for connecting two fluid conduits Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3524112B1
EP3524112B1 EP19153418.9A EP19153418A EP3524112B1 EP 3524112 B1 EP3524112 B1 EP 3524112B1 EP 19153418 A EP19153418 A EP 19153418A EP 3524112 B1 EP3524112 B1 EP 3524112B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sleeve
wall
coupling element
coupling
additional ring
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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EP19153418.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3524112A1 (en
Inventor
Joachim Klemm
Stefan Neumann
Tobias Volk
Michael Back
Gerhard Heid
Pascal Straub
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
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BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3524112A1 publication Critical patent/EP3524112A1/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/24—Hoses or pipes; Hose or pipe couplings
    • A47L9/242—Hose or pipe couplings

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a coupling system for the fluid-tight connection of two fluid lines, in particular for connecting a handle and a hose of a vacuum cleaner.
  • Vacuum cleaners have coupling systems at different points with which different air-conducting components of the vacuum cleaner can be connected to one another.
  • the handle of a vacuum cleaner can be connected to a hose via a coupling system, through which suction air can be guided into a collecting space for dust.
  • the connection of the hose to the handle is preferably carried out in such a way that the hose can rotate relative to the handle in order to prevent twisting or torsion of the hose when the vacuum cleaner is used.
  • the connection of the hose should be made as fluid-tight as possible in order to achieve the highest possible suction effect in an energy-efficient manner.
  • U.S. 4,941,689 A describes a coupling system with a sealing ring.
  • DE 10 2009 048 379 A1 describes a vacuum cleaner with a seal for an annular channel.
  • DE 10 2008 009 389 B3 describes a handle assembly on a suction hose.
  • DE 10 2005 041 802 A1 describes a Saurrohr connection unit.
  • DE 2005 030 457 A1 describes a coupling system for a vacuum cleaner.
  • the present document is concerned with the technical problem of providing a coupling system between two fluid lines, in particular between a handle and a hose of a suction device, suction device or vacuum cleaner, which in an efficient and reliable manner both a sealed fluid-conducting connection between the fluid lines and a Rotational movement of the fluid lines to each other allows.
  • a coupling system for connecting two fluid lines can be used to connect two fluid lines of a suction device or vacuum cleaner.
  • a first fluid line can correspond to a handle of the suction device or vacuum cleaner.
  • a second fluid line can correspond to a suction hose of the suction device or vacuum cleaner.
  • the components of the coupling system can be made at least partially from plastic.
  • the fluid lines can be set up to guide suction air.
  • the suction air can carry with it dust sucked up by the suction device and / or liquid sucked up by the suction device.
  • the coupling system comprises a first ring-shaped or tubular coupling element which is fixedly connected or can be connected to the first fluid line.
  • the first coupling element can be designed as a common component with the first fluid line. This can be the case in particular with the handle of a suction device or vacuum cleaner.
  • the coupling system comprises a second annular coupling element which is designed to enclose the second fluid line with a circular profile (e.g. the suction hose of a suction device or vacuum cleaner).
  • a circular profile e.g. the suction hose of a suction device or vacuum cleaner.
  • the coupling system further comprises an annular sleeve which can be fixedly connected to one end of the second fluid line.
  • the sleeve can be glued or welded to the end of the second fluid line.
  • the second coupling element can be pushed onto the second fluid line from the end.
  • the sleeve can then be firmly connected to the end of the second fluid line.
  • the second coupling element eg a so-called click ring
  • the Sleeve is preferably designed such that the second coupling element is blocked by the attached sleeve, so that the second coupling element can no longer be pulled off the second fluid line via the end to which the sleeve is attached.
  • the sleeve can have an outer wall and an inner wall which extend in the axial direction and which can form an annular gap for receiving the end of the second fluid line.
  • the end of the second fluid line can be pinched by the annular gap in order to form a fixed connection between the sleeve and the second fluid line.
  • the first coupling element and the second coupling element can be connected to one another in such a way that, in the connected state, the sleeve is rotatably supported by the first and second coupling elements and that a fluid-conducting connection is created between the first coupling element and the sleeve.
  • a fluid in particular suction air
  • the fluid-conducting connection can thus be enclosed by a wall of the first coupling element and by the inner wall of the sleeve.
  • the rotatable mounting of the sleeve enables the sleeve to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve.
  • the outer wall of the sleeve is surrounded in the radial direction by a system wall formed by the first and / or second coupling element.
  • the first and second coupling elements can be designed in such a way that a socket (in particular a pipe socket) of the second coupling element (which is referred to in this document as a second socket) can be inserted into a first socket (in particular a pipe socket) of the first coupling element in order to to connect the first and the second coupling element to one another.
  • the system wall surrounding the outer wall of the sleeve can then be formed at least partially by an (outer) wall of the first coupling element.
  • connection between the first and the second coupling element can typically not be made fluid-tight in an efficient manner. Furthermore the transition between the first coupling element and the sleeve can typically not be made reliably fluid-tight, especially since the sleeve is enclosed between the two coupling elements in such a way that the sleeve can be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve.
  • the sleeve comprises an additional ring which is rotatably mounted on the outer wall of the sleeve.
  • the additional ring can enclose the outer wall of the sleeve.
  • an annular, deformable seal is arranged on the additional ring which, in the connected state, is pressed against the system wall in order to seal the fluid-conducting connection.
  • the range of rotation of the sleeve is shifted away from the system wall to friction surfaces between the inside of the additional ring and the outer wall of the sleeve.
  • the seal of the additional ring and the friction surfaces can be designed in such a way that the rotatable mounting of the sleeve is shifted away from the system wall to the friction surfaces.
  • the rotary movement between the sleeve and the system wall can essentially take place entirely on the friction surfaces between the additional ring and the sleeve (and essentially not at all between the system wall and the seal of the additional ring).
  • the friction surfaces can be sealed in an efficient manner with a relatively high quality, in particular because the friction surfaces are not separated from one another during operation of the clutch system.
  • the use of a deformable seal enables a high-quality seal between the sleeve and the system wall in a reliable and efficient manner.
  • the outer wall of the sleeve can comprise an annular guide channel in which the additional ring is rotatably arranged.
  • the guide channel can be designed in an efficient manner as a recess (around the longitudinal axis of the sleeve) in the outer wall.
  • the guide channel can be designed to limit a movement of the additional ring in the axial direction (along the longitudinal axis of the sleeve).
  • the additional ring can have an inner surface oriented towards the outer wall of the sleeve and an outer surface oriented towards the system wall. Furthermore, the additional ring can be delimited in the axial direction by a first edge and a second edge. The first edge and the second edge can run circularly around the outer wall of the sleeve. The first edge can e.g. the first coupling element and the second edge can face the second coupling element.
  • the additional ring can have an annular projection at or relatively close to the first edge on the inner surface, which protrudes from the inner surface in the direction of the outer wall of the sleeve.
  • the annular projection can be arranged closer to the first edge than to the second edge.
  • the seal can be arranged at or relatively close to the second edge on the outer surface of the additional ring. The seal can thus protrude from the outer surface in the direction of the system wall.
  • the seal can be arranged closer to the second edge than to the first edge.
  • the annular projection can cause tension across the additional ring, with the tension causing an additional contact pressure on the seal in the direction of the system wall. The tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be further increased.
  • the outer wall of the sleeve and the inner surface of the additional ring can form friction surfaces which enable the additional ring to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve relative to the outer wall of the sleeve.
  • the friction surfaces are preferably designed such that a coefficient of friction of the friction surfaces in contact for static friction and / or sliding friction is equal to or less than 0.5.
  • the friction surfaces can each be relatively hard and / or each have a surface with a relatively low degree of roughness. Both a reliable seal and a reliable rotational mobility can thus be achieved.
  • the sleeve and / or the additional ring can have a certain diameter in the radial direction (for example 10 cm, 7 cm, 5 cm or less).
  • the additional ring can have a width in the axial direction which corresponds to 5%, 10%, 15% or more of the diameter of the sleeve and / or the additional ring.
  • the additional ring can thus be considered relative wide ring, so that the friction surfaces between the inner surface of the additional ring and the outer wall of the sleeve are relatively wide (along the longitudinal axis of the sleeve). Reliable rotational mobility and high-quality sealing of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be achieved.
  • the seal and the additional ring can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner as a common multiple, in particular two-component part (e.g. by means of an injection molding process).
  • a deformable material in particular an elastomer
  • a non-substantially deformable material in particular a duroplastic or a thermoplastic such as polyethylene (PE)
  • PE polyethylene
  • the seal on the additional ring can have a material that is more deformable than the material of the additional ring, in particular than the material of the inner surface of the additional ring.
  • the seal can have a plurality of annular, elastic projections which are arranged next to one another with respect to the axial direction of the sleeve in order to form a plurality of corresponding (ring-shaped or circular) sealing points on the system wall.
  • the first coupling element and the second coupling element can be releasably connectable to one another, in particular in order to be able to separate the first fluid line from the second fluid line (for example in order to remove a blockage in one of the fluid lines).
  • the second connector of the second coupling element can have at least one unlocking button, which in the connected state in at least one corresponding opening in a wall of the first connector of the first Coupling element is engaged. By pressing the one or more unlocking buttons, the one or more unlocking buttons can then be pushed out of the corresponding one or more openings in order to release the lock and thus to be able to pull the first connector of the first coupling element out of the second connector of the second coupling element.
  • the sleeve is typically also released in the process.
  • a relative movement of the first coupling element and the second coupling element in the axial and / or in the radial direction can be prevented in order to enable a stable and tight connection between the first and second fluid lines.
  • the first coupling element can comprise an annular projection which is surrounded by the wall of the first connecting piece and which, in the connected state, acts on an end face of the sleeve in order to limit a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction.
  • the outer wall of the sleeve can have an annular projection which, in the connected state, acts on an end face of the second coupling element in order to limit a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction.
  • Axial movement of the sleeve can thus be reliably prevented or limited. The reliability of the rotary movement and the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be increased.
  • the outer wall of the sleeve can comprise an annular sleeve connector which, in the connected state, is inserted into an annular connector (in particular into the second connector) of the second coupling element.
  • the (second) connecting piece of the second coupling element can have an at least partially circumferential latching projection on a side facing the sleeve.
  • the sleeve connector can have an at least partially encircling latching projection on a side facing the second coupling element.
  • at least one of the locking projections is completely circumferential.
  • the two locking projections can be designed in such a way that the two locking projections in the connected state allow the sleeve to be rotatably mounted on the second coupling element and that the two locking projections counteract a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction relative to the second coupling element in the connected state.
  • the latching projections in the connected state can counteract a pulling off of the sleeve from the second coupling element. So can a comfortable and reliable separation or a comfortable and reliable construction of the connection between the two fluid lines are made possible. Furthermore, the reliability of the rotary movement and the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can be increased in this way.
  • the diameter of the circumferential system wall (in particular the wall of the first connecting piece of the first coupling element) can be reduced in the axial direction away from the sleeve.
  • Such a reduction in the diameter can have the effect that the pressure from the system wall on the seal increases when the sleeve is pressed in the axial direction towards the first coupling element.
  • the system wall runs obliquely to the seal or to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve, which can lead to an increase in the contact area. Overall, the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be further increased.
  • a suction device or a suction device in particular a vacuum cleaner, which comprises a handle designed as a first fluid line and a suction hose designed as a second fluid line.
  • the suction device or the suction device comprises the coupling system described in this document, which is designed to connect the first fluid line and the second fluid line to one another in an essentially fluid-tight (in particular gas-tight) manner that when the suction device or suction device is in operation, the second fluid line can be rotated relative to the first fluid line.
  • a comfortable and energy-efficient vacuum cleaner in particular a vacuum cleaner, can be provided.
  • FIG. 1 an exemplary vacuum cleaner 4.
  • the vacuum cleaner 4 shown is sucked into the vacuum cleaner 4 by a motor-blower unit 8 from the dust collecting device designed as a floor nozzle 25 through a suction air duct 5 consisting of a length-adjustable suction pipe 15, a connector 14 and a flexible suction hose 16.
  • a dust separation unit 6 in the housing 26 of the vacuum cleaner 4 separates the dust contained in the sucked in air into a collecting space 7.
  • the connecting piece 14 can be designed as a handle.
  • connection piece 14 (hereinafter also referred to as a handle) is typically connected to the suction hose 16 via a coupling system 200.
  • the Figures 2a and 2 B show an exemplary coupling system 200, with a handle-side (first) coupling element 210 and a hose-side (second) coupling element 220.
  • the handle-side coupling element 210 can be formed by one end of the tubular handle 14.
  • the hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed as a ring which can be pushed onto the outside of the hose 16.
  • the hose-side coupling element 220 can typically be moved, in particular rotated, relative to the hose 16.
  • the coupling element 210 on the handle side is typically firmly connected to the handle 14.
  • the hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed to be plugged into the handle-side coupling element 210.
  • the coupling element 210 on the handle side can have one or more openings 511 in the wall 211 and the coupling element 220 on the hose side can have one or more unlocking buttons 521 on the wall, so that when plugged together, the one or more unlocking buttons 521 protrude into the one or more openings 511 thus creating a rigid connection between the two coupling elements 210, 220 (see Figure 5a ).
  • the coupling system 200 further comprises a sleeve 230 which can be connected, in particular glued, to the end of the hose 16. There can thus be a fluid-tight and rigid connection between the sleeve 230 and the hose 16.
  • the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed in such a way that a connection can be established between the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220, which on the one hand enables a rotation between the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220, but which on the other hand enables a relative movement in axial direction (based on the longitudinal direction of the hose 16 or the sleeve 230).
  • the sleeve 230 can have a latching projection 235 running around the hose 16, which latches with a surrounding latching cam 225 of the hose-side coupling element 220 (or vice versa). It can thus be ensured that the sleeve 230 and the hose 16 firmly connected to it can be rotated relative to the hose-side coupling element 220, but that on the other hand the sleeve 230 and the hose 16 firmly connected to it can only be rotated by overcoming a predefined tensile force in the axial direction hose-side coupling element 220 can be separated.
  • the sleeve 230 (firmly connected to the hose 16) and the hose-side coupling element 220 (surrounding the outside of the hose 16) can be connected to the handle-side coupling element 210.
  • the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220 can be at least partially inserted into the end of the handle-side coupling element 210.
  • the clutch element 210 on the handle side can have a circumferential projection 212 on an inside of the wall 211, which projection is designed such that an annular end face 232 of the sleeve 230 is pressed against the projection 212 in the connected state.
  • the contact pressure of the sleeve 230 is preferably so low that a rotation between the clutch element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230 or the hose 16 is still possible during normal operation of the vacuum cleaner 4.
  • the sleeve 230 can have an annular sealing element 231 on the outside of the outer wall of the sleeve 230 (e.g. between the end face 232 and the latching projection 235 for the hose-side coupling element 220), which is pressed against the inside of the wall 211 of the handle-side coupling element 210 around the sleeve 230 or the hose 16 to seal the clutch element 210 on the handle side.
  • the sealing element 231 is typically made of the hard material (e.g. a thermoset or thermoplastic, e.g. polyethylene (PE)) of the sleeve 230 in order to enable a relative rotary movement between the coupling element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230.
  • PE polyethylene
  • a hard seal 231 molded onto the adhesive sleeve 230 can thus be used to seal the handle 14 of a vacuum cleaner 4 on the inner surface of the handle 14.
  • the seal 231 rotates on the inner surface of the handle 14 and thus enables the hose 16 to rotate relative to the handle 14. Due to the rigidity of the molded seal 231 and due to the manufacturing tolerances and / or the out-of-roundness on the handle 14, a complete tightness cannot typically be achieved will.
  • the Figures 3a , 3b and 4a, 4b show sleeves 230, which allow an increased degree of tightness and furthermore good rotational mobility.
  • the sleeve 230 faces this Purpose an additional ring 332, which is arranged on the outside of the wall 33 of the sleeve 230 that the additional ring 332 can be rotated relative to the wall 333 of the sleeve 230.
  • the wall 333 of the sleeve 230 can have an annular guide groove 336 for the additional ring 332, so that the additional ring 332 can be rotated within the guide groove 336 or guide track around the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 230 and is guided through the edges of the guide groove 336.
  • a deformable, annular seal 331 can be attached to the additional ring 332.
  • the seal 331 and the additional ring 332 can be designed such that the deformable seal 331 is pressed against the inside of the wall 211 of the handle-side coupling element 210 in the connected state of the coupling system 200. In this way, a good seal between the deformable seal 331 and the inside of the wall 211 can be achieved.
  • the deformable seal 331 can compensate for tolerances and / or irregularities in the wall 211.
  • the additional ring 332 is pressed against the (outer) wall 333 of the sleeve 230, so that a good seal can also be achieved at the transition between the additional ring 332 and wall 333 of the sleeve 230.
  • the additional ring 332 can have a relatively large width in the axial direction of the sleeve 230, the sealing effect being able to be further increased as the width of the additional ring 332 increases.
  • the provision of a guide groove or recess 336 for guiding the additional ring 332 can contribute to increasing the sealing effect.
  • the additional ring 332 and the wall 333 of the sleeve 230 are preferably made hard (e.g. each made of a duroplastic or a thermoplastic such as polyethylene (PE)), there is still a reliable and smooth rotary movement between the additional ring 332 and the sleeve 230 allows.
  • the additional ring 332 and the seal 331 can be manufactured, for example, as a two-component part.
  • the seal 331 is stationary when a vacuum cleaner 4 is in operation and does not rotate or does not rotate significantly on the inner surface of the wall 211 of the handle 14.
  • the deformable seal 331 compensates for the tolerances and the out-of-roundness of the handle 14.
  • the adhesive sleeve 230 and the additional ring 332 can typically with a more precise diameter tolerance and a more precise Roundness can be made than the handle 14, so that the contact point between adhesive sleeve 230 and additional ring 332 can be sealed better and with increased efficiency.
  • the additional ring 332 with the molded soft seal 331 thus seals the tube 16 to the handle 14.
  • the geometry of the seal 331 can be designed differently, for example round, oval, trapezoidal, triangular, diamond-shaped, tab-shaped, etc., to be as high as possible To effect degree of tightness.
  • the additional ring 332 can have an annular projection 334 on a first edge 341 and on an inner surface 338.
  • the seal 331 can, as in Figure 3c shown, be arranged on an opposite second edge 342 on the outer surface 339 of the additional ring 332. In this way, a preload can be brought about within the additional ring 332, by means of which the pressing force of the seal 331 on the wall 211 of the clutch element 210 on the handle side and thus the sealing effect are further increased.
  • a retaining rib or a projection 335 can be molded onto the adhesive sleeve 230, which limits or prevents a displacement of the additional ring 332 in the axial direction. Furthermore, the retaining rib 335 can produce an additional sealing effect at the transition between adhesive sleeve 230 and additional ring 332.
  • the seal 331 can as in Figure 3c shown, applied to the additional ring 332, and / or as in Figure 4c are embedded in the additional ring 332.
  • Figures 5a and 5b show the coupling system 200 with a hose 16 which is firmly connected to the sleeve 230. It shows in particular Figure 5a the retaining rib 335 of the sleeve 335, which can rest on an end face 522 of the hose-side coupling element 220 in order to limit a movement of the sleeve 230 in the axial direction.
  • the coupling system 200 described in this document enables a reliable and robust sealing of a fluid-conducting connection between a Handle 14 and a suction hose 16 of a vacuum cleaner 4.
  • the coupling system 200 is designed to compensate for relatively large fluctuations in the shape of a handle 14. Handles 14 can thus be manufactured with a relatively large manufacturing tolerance and thus inexpensively.
  • the described coupling system 200 can avoid unpleasant hissing or whistling noises when operating a vacuum cleaner 4 (in particular when pulling and / or kinking the suction hose 16).
  • the described coupling system 200 can increase the energy efficiency and / or the suction capacity of a vacuum cleaner 4.

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  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Kupplungssystem zur fluiddichten Verbindung zweier Fluidleitungen, insbesondere zur Verbindung eines Handgriffs und eines Schlauchs eines Staubsaugers.The invention relates to a coupling system for the fluid-tight connection of two fluid lines, in particular for connecting a handle and a hose of a vacuum cleaner.

Staubsauger weisen an unterschiedlichen Stellen Kupplungssysteme auf, mit denen unterschiedliche luftführende Komponenten des Staubsaugers miteinander verbunden werden können. Insbesondere kann der Handgriff eines Staubsaugers über ein Kupplungssystem mit einem Schlauch verbunden werden, durch den Ansaugluft in einen Sammelraum für Staub geführt werden kann. Die Anbindung des Schlauchs an den Handgriff erfolgt dabei bevorzugt derart, dass sich der Schlauch gegenüber dem Handgriff drehen kann, um ein Verdrehen bzw. eine Torsion des Schlauchs bei der Nutzung des Staubsaugers zu verhindern. Des Weiteren sollte die Anbindung des Schlauchs möglichst fluiddicht ausgebildet sein, um in energieeffizienter Weise eine möglichst hohe Saugwirkung zu erzielen.Vacuum cleaners have coupling systems at different points with which different air-conducting components of the vacuum cleaner can be connected to one another. In particular, the handle of a vacuum cleaner can be connected to a hose via a coupling system, through which suction air can be guided into a collecting space for dust. The connection of the hose to the handle is preferably carried out in such a way that the hose can rotate relative to the handle in order to prevent twisting or torsion of the hose when the vacuum cleaner is used. Furthermore, the connection of the hose should be made as fluid-tight as possible in order to achieve the highest possible suction effect in an energy-efficient manner.

US 4 941 689 A beschreibt ein Kupplungssystem mit einem Dichtungsring. DE 10 2009 048 379 A1 beschreibt einen Staubsauger mit einer Abdichtung für einen Ringkanal. DE 10 2008 009 389 B3 beschreibt eine Griffanordnung an einem Saugschlauch. DE 10 2005 041 802 A1 beschreibt eine Saurrohranschlusseinheit. DE 2005 030 457 A1 beschreibt ein Kupplungssystem für einen Staubsauger. U.S. 4,941,689 A describes a coupling system with a sealing ring. DE 10 2009 048 379 A1 describes a vacuum cleaner with a seal for an annular channel. DE 10 2008 009 389 B3 describes a handle assembly on a suction hose. DE 10 2005 041 802 A1 describes a Saurrohr connection unit. DE 2005 030 457 A1 describes a coupling system for a vacuum cleaner.

Das vorliegende Dokument befasst sich mit der technischen Aufgabe, ein Kupplungssystem zwischen zwei Fluidleitungen, insbesondere zwischen einem Handgriff und einem Schlauch eines Saugers, Sauggeräts bzw. Staubsaugers, bereitzustellen, das in effizienter und zuverlässiger Weise sowohl eine abgedichtete fluidleitende Verbindung zwischen den Fluidleitungen als auch eine Rotationsbewegung der Fluidleitungen zueinander ermöglicht.The present document is concerned with the technical problem of providing a coupling system between two fluid lines, in particular between a handle and a hose of a suction device, suction device or vacuum cleaner, which in an efficient and reliable manner both a sealed fluid-conducting connection between the fluid lines and a Rotational movement of the fluid lines to each other allows.

Die Aufgabe wird durch den Gegenstand des unabhängigen Patentanspruchs gelöst. Vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen sind insbesondere in den abhängigen Patentansprüchen definiert, in nachfolgender Beschreibung beschrieben oder in der beigefügten Zeichnung dargestellt.The object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent patent claim. Advantageous embodiments are in particular in the dependent claims defined, described in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawing.

Gemäß einem Aspekt der Erfindung wird ein Kupplungssystem zur Verbindung zweier Fluidleitungen beschrieben. Das Kupplungssystem kann zur Verbindung zweier Fluidleitungen eines Saugers bzw. Staubsaugers verwendet werden. Dabei kann eine erste Fluidleitung einem Handgriff des Saugers bzw. Staubsaugers entsprechen. Des Weiteren kann eine zweite Fluidleitung einem Saugschlauch des Saugers bzw. Staubsaugers entsprechen. Die Komponenten des Kupplungssystems können zumindest teilweise aus Kunststoff hergestellt sein. Die Fluidleitungen können eingerichtet sein, Saugluft zu führen. Dabei kann die Saugluft von dem Sauger aufgesaugten Staub und/oder von dem Sauger aufgesaugte Flüssigkeit mit sich führen.According to one aspect of the invention, a coupling system for connecting two fluid lines is described. The coupling system can be used to connect two fluid lines of a suction device or vacuum cleaner. A first fluid line can correspond to a handle of the suction device or vacuum cleaner. Furthermore, a second fluid line can correspond to a suction hose of the suction device or vacuum cleaner. The components of the coupling system can be made at least partially from plastic. The fluid lines can be set up to guide suction air. The suction air can carry with it dust sucked up by the suction device and / or liquid sucked up by the suction device.

Das Kupplungssystem umfasst ein erstes ring- oder rohrförmiges Kupplungselement, das fest mit der ersten Fluidleitung verbunden ist oder verbindbar ist. Insbesondere kann das erste Kupplungselement als gemeinsames Bauteil mit der ersten Fluidleitung ausgebildet sein. Dies kann insbesondere bei dem Handgriff eines Saugers bzw. Staubsaugers der Fall sein.The coupling system comprises a first ring-shaped or tubular coupling element which is fixedly connected or can be connected to the first fluid line. In particular, the first coupling element can be designed as a common component with the first fluid line. This can be the case in particular with the handle of a suction device or vacuum cleaner.

Außerdem umfasst das Kupplungssystem ein zweites ringförmiges Kupplungselement, das ausgebildet ist, die zweite Fluidleitung mit einem kreisförmigen Profil (z.B. den Saugschlauch eines Saugers bzw. Staubsaugers) zu umschließen. Dabei besteht typischerweise keine mechanisch feste Verbindung zwischen dem zweiten Kupplungselement und der zweiten Fluidleitung, um es zu ermöglichen, dass das zweite Kupplungselement und die zweite Fluidleitung relativ zueinander verdreht werden können. Beispielsweise kann das zweite Kupplungselement auf ein Ende der zweiten Fluidleitung aufgeschoben werden.In addition, the coupling system comprises a second annular coupling element which is designed to enclose the second fluid line with a circular profile (e.g. the suction hose of a suction device or vacuum cleaner). There is typically no mechanically fixed connection between the second coupling element and the second fluid line in order to enable the second coupling element and the second fluid line to be rotated relative to one another. For example, the second coupling element can be pushed onto one end of the second fluid line.

Ferner umfasst das Kupplungssystem eine ringförmige Hülse, die fest mit einem Ende der zweiten Fluidleitung verbindbar ist. Beispielsweise kann die Hülse mit dem Ende der zweiten Fluidleitung verklebt oder verschweißt werden. Dabei kann zunächst das zweite Kupplungselement von dem Ende her auf die zweite Fluidleitung geschoben werden. Anschließend kann die Hülse fest mit dem Ende der zweiten Fluidleitung verbunden werden. Dabei sind das zweite Kupplungselement (z.B. ein sogenannter Klickring) und die Hülse bevorzugt derart ausgebildet, dass das zweite Kupplungselement durch die befestigte Hülse blockiert wird, so dass das zweite Kupplungselement nicht mehr über das Ende, an dem die Hülse befestigt ist, von der zweiten Fluidleitung abgezogen werden kann.The coupling system further comprises an annular sleeve which can be fixedly connected to one end of the second fluid line. For example, the sleeve can be glued or welded to the end of the second fluid line. First, the second coupling element can be pushed onto the second fluid line from the end. The sleeve can then be firmly connected to the end of the second fluid line. The second coupling element (eg a so-called click ring) and the Sleeve is preferably designed such that the second coupling element is blocked by the attached sleeve, so that the second coupling element can no longer be pulled off the second fluid line via the end to which the sleeve is attached.

Die Hülse kann eine Außenwand und eine Innenwand aufweisen, die sich in axialer Richtung erstrecken und die einen ringförmigen Spalt zur Aufnahme des Endes der zweiten Fluidleitung bilden können. Das Ende der zweiten Fluidleitung kann durch den ringförmigen Spalt eingeklemmt werden, um eine feste Verbindung zwischen der Hülse und der zweiten Fluidleitung zu bilden.The sleeve can have an outer wall and an inner wall which extend in the axial direction and which can form an annular gap for receiving the end of the second fluid line. The end of the second fluid line can be pinched by the annular gap in order to form a fixed connection between the sleeve and the second fluid line.

Das erste Kupplungselement und das zweite Kupplungselement sind derart miteinander verbindbar, dass in dem verbundenen Zustand die Hülse drehbar gelagert von dem ersten und zweiten Kupplungselement umschlossen wird, und dass eine fluidleitende Verbindung zwischen dem ersten Kupplungselement und der Hülse entsteht. Über die fluidleitende Verbindung kann dann ein Fluid (insbesondere Saugluft) von der ersten Fluidleitung, über das erste Kupplungselement, über die ringförmige Hülse in die zweite Fluidleitung strömen. Die fluidleitende Verbindung kann somit durch eine Wand des ersten Kupplungselements und durch die Innenwand der Hülse umschlossen sein. Die drehbare Lagerung der Hülse ermöglicht dabei eine Drehung der Hülse um die Längsachse der Hülse.The first coupling element and the second coupling element can be connected to one another in such a way that, in the connected state, the sleeve is rotatably supported by the first and second coupling elements and that a fluid-conducting connection is created between the first coupling element and the sleeve. A fluid (in particular suction air) can then flow via the fluid-conducting connection from the first fluid line, via the first coupling element, via the annular sleeve into the second fluid line. The fluid-conducting connection can thus be enclosed by a wall of the first coupling element and by the inner wall of the sleeve. The rotatable mounting of the sleeve enables the sleeve to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve.

Die Außenwand der Hülse ist in dem verbundenen Zustand in radialer Richtung von einer durch das erste und/oder zweite Kupplungselement gebildeten Systemwand umgeben. Insbesondere können das erste und zweite Kupplungselement derart ausgebildet sein, dass ein Stutzen (insbesondere ein Rohrstutzen) des zweiten Kupplungselements (der in diesem Dokument als zweiter Stutzen bezeichnet wird) in einen ersten Stutzen (insbesondere einen Rohrstutzen) des ersten Kupplungselements eingeführt werden kann, um das erste und das zweite Kupplungselement miteinander zu verbinden. Die die Außenwand der Hülse umgebende Systemwand kann dann zumindest teilweise durch eine (Außen-) Wand des ersten Kupplungselements gebildet werden.In the connected state, the outer wall of the sleeve is surrounded in the radial direction by a system wall formed by the first and / or second coupling element. In particular, the first and second coupling elements can be designed in such a way that a socket (in particular a pipe socket) of the second coupling element (which is referred to in this document as a second socket) can be inserted into a first socket (in particular a pipe socket) of the first coupling element in order to to connect the first and the second coupling element to one another. The system wall surrounding the outer wall of the sleeve can then be formed at least partially by an (outer) wall of the first coupling element.

Die Verbindung zwischen dem ersten und dem zweiten Kupplungselement kann typischerweise nicht in effizienter Weise fluiddicht ausgebildet werden. Darüber hinaus kann der Übergang zwischen dem ersten Kupplungselement und der Hülse typischerweise nicht zuverlässig fluiddicht ausgebildet werden, zumal die Hülse derart zwischen den beiden Kupplungselementen eingeschlossen ist, dass eine Drehung der Hülse um die Längsachse der Hülse ermöglicht wird.The connection between the first and the second coupling element can typically not be made fluid-tight in an efficient manner. Furthermore the transition between the first coupling element and the sleeve can typically not be made reliably fluid-tight, especially since the sleeve is enclosed between the two coupling elements in such a way that the sleeve can be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve.

Um sowohl eine Drehbewegung der Hülse relativ zu den beiden Kupplungselementen als auch eine hochwertige Abdichtung der fluidleitenden Verbindung zu ermöglichen, umfasst die Hülse einen Zusatzring, der drehbar auf der Außenwand der Hülse gelagert ist. Mit anderen Worten, der Zusatzring kann die Außenwand der Hülse umschließen. Des Weiteren ist auf dem Zusatzring eine ringförmige, verformbare Dichtung angeordnet, die in dem verbundenen Zustand gegen die Systemwand gedrückt wird, um die fluidleitende Verbindung abzudichten. Durch den Zusatzring mit verformbarer und/oder elastischer Dichtung wird der Drehbereich der Hülse von der Systemwand weg zu Reibflächen zwischen der Innenseite des Zusatzrings und der Außenwand der Hülse verlagert. Mit anderen Worten, die Dichtung des Zusatzrings und die Reibflächen können derart ausgebildet sein, dass die drehbare Lagerung der Hülse von der Systemwand weg zu den Reibflächen verlagert ist. Dabei kann die Drehbewegung zwischen Hülse und Systemwand im Wesentlichen vollständig an den Reibflächen zwischen dem Zusatzring und der Hülse erfolgen (und im Wesentlichen gar nicht zwischen der Systemwand und der Dichtung des Zusatzringes). Die Reibflächen können in effizienter Weise mit relativ hoher Güte abgedichtet werden, insbesondere deshalb, weil die Reibflächen während des Betriebs des Kupplungssystems nicht voneinander getrennt werden. Des Weiteren wird durch die Verwendung einer verformbaren Dichtung in zuverlässiger und effizienter Weise eine qualitativ hochwertige Abdichtung zwischen Hülse und Systemwand ermöglicht.In order to enable both a rotary movement of the sleeve relative to the two coupling elements and a high-quality seal of the fluid-conducting connection, the sleeve comprises an additional ring which is rotatably mounted on the outer wall of the sleeve. In other words, the additional ring can enclose the outer wall of the sleeve. Furthermore, an annular, deformable seal is arranged on the additional ring which, in the connected state, is pressed against the system wall in order to seal the fluid-conducting connection. With the additional ring with a deformable and / or elastic seal, the range of rotation of the sleeve is shifted away from the system wall to friction surfaces between the inside of the additional ring and the outer wall of the sleeve. In other words, the seal of the additional ring and the friction surfaces can be designed in such a way that the rotatable mounting of the sleeve is shifted away from the system wall to the friction surfaces. The rotary movement between the sleeve and the system wall can essentially take place entirely on the friction surfaces between the additional ring and the sleeve (and essentially not at all between the system wall and the seal of the additional ring). The friction surfaces can be sealed in an efficient manner with a relatively high quality, in particular because the friction surfaces are not separated from one another during operation of the clutch system. In addition, the use of a deformable seal enables a high-quality seal between the sleeve and the system wall in a reliable and efficient manner.

Die Außenwand der Hülse kann eine ringförmige Führungsrinne umfassen, in der der Zusatzring drehbar angeordnet ist. Die Führungsrinne kann in effizienter Weise als eine (um die Längsachse der Hülse) umlaufende Vertiefung in der Außenwand ausgestaltet sein. Dabei kann die Führungsrinne ausgebildet sein, eine Bewegung des Zusatzrings in axialer Richtung (entlang der Längsachse der Hülse) zu begrenzen. Durch die Bereitstellung einer Führungsrinne kann die Zuverlässigkeit der Drehbeweglichkeit der Hülse erhöht werden. Des Weiteren kann durch eine Führungsrinne die Dichtheit der Reibflächen zwischen dem Zusatzring und der Außenwand der Hülse erhöht werden.The outer wall of the sleeve can comprise an annular guide channel in which the additional ring is rotatably arranged. The guide channel can be designed in an efficient manner as a recess (around the longitudinal axis of the sleeve) in the outer wall. The guide channel can be designed to limit a movement of the additional ring in the axial direction (along the longitudinal axis of the sleeve). By providing a guide channel, the reliability of the rotational mobility of the sleeve can be increased. Furthermore, the tightness of the friction surfaces between the additional ring and the outer wall of the sleeve can be increased by means of a guide channel.

Der Zusatzring kann eine zur Außenwand der Hülse hin orientierte Innenfläche und eine zur Systemwand hin orientierte Außenfläche aufweisen. Des Weiteren kann der Zusatzring in axialer Richtung durch eine erste Kante und durch eine zweite Kante begrenzt sein. Die erste Kante und die zweite Kante können dabei kreisförmig um die Außenwand der Hülse verlaufen. Die erste Kante kann z.B. dem ersten Kupplungselement und die zweite Kante kann dem zweiten Kupplungselement zugewandt sein.The additional ring can have an inner surface oriented towards the outer wall of the sleeve and an outer surface oriented towards the system wall. Furthermore, the additional ring can be delimited in the axial direction by a first edge and a second edge. The first edge and the second edge can run circularly around the outer wall of the sleeve. The first edge can e.g. the first coupling element and the second edge can face the second coupling element.

Der Zusatzring kann an oder relativ nah an der ersten Kante an der Innenfläche einen ringförmigen Vorsprung aufweisen, der aus der Innenfläche heraus in Richtung zur Außenwand der Hülse ragt. Der ringförmige Vorsprung kann dabei näher an der ersten Kante als an der zweiten Kante angeordnet sein. Des Weiteren kann die Dichtung an oder relativ nah an der zweiten Kante an der Außenfläche des Zusatzrings angeordnet sein. Die Dichtung kann somit aus der Außenfläche heraus in Richtung zur Systemwand ragen. Die Dichtung kann dabei näher an der zweiten Kante als an der ersten Kante angeordnet sein. Durch den ringförmigen Vorsprung kann eine Spannung quer über den Zusatzring bewirkt werden, wobei die Spannung eine zusätzliche Anpresskraft auf die Dichtung in Richtung Systemwand bewirkt. Somit kann die Dichtheit der fluidleitenden Verbindung weiter erhöht werden.The additional ring can have an annular projection at or relatively close to the first edge on the inner surface, which protrudes from the inner surface in the direction of the outer wall of the sleeve. The annular projection can be arranged closer to the first edge than to the second edge. Furthermore, the seal can be arranged at or relatively close to the second edge on the outer surface of the additional ring. The seal can thus protrude from the outer surface in the direction of the system wall. The seal can be arranged closer to the second edge than to the first edge. The annular projection can cause tension across the additional ring, with the tension causing an additional contact pressure on the seal in the direction of the system wall. The tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be further increased.

Wie bereits oben dargelegt, können die Außenwand der Hülse und die Innenfläche des Zusatzrings Reibflächen bilden, die eine Drehung des Zusatzrings um die Längsachse der Hülse relativ zu der Außenwand der Hülse ermöglichen. Dabei sind die Reibflächen bevorzugt derart ausgebildet, dass ein Reibungskoeffizient der in Kontakt stehenden Reibflächen für Haftreibung und/oder Gleitreibung gleich wie oder kleiner als 0,5 ist. Insbesondere können die Reibflächen jeweils relativ hart sein und/oder jeweils eine Oberfläche mit einem relativ niedrigen Rauheitsgrad aufweisen. So können sowohl eine zuverlässige Abdichtung als auch eine zuverlässige Rotationsbeweglichkeit bewirkt werden.As already explained above, the outer wall of the sleeve and the inner surface of the additional ring can form friction surfaces which enable the additional ring to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the sleeve relative to the outer wall of the sleeve. The friction surfaces are preferably designed such that a coefficient of friction of the friction surfaces in contact for static friction and / or sliding friction is equal to or less than 0.5. In particular, the friction surfaces can each be relatively hard and / or each have a surface with a relatively low degree of roughness. Both a reliable seal and a reliable rotational mobility can thus be achieved.

Die Hülse und/oder der Zusatzring können einen bestimmten Durchmesser in radialer Richtung aufweisen (z.B. 10 cm, 7 cm, 5 cm oder weniger). Der Zusatzring kann eine Breite in axialer Richtung aufweisen, die 5 %, 10 %, 15 % oder mehr des Durchmessers der Hülse und/oder des Zusatzrings entspricht. Der Zusatzring kann somit als relativ breiter Ring ausgebildet sein, so dass auch die Reibflächen zwischen der Innenfläche des Zusatzrings und der Außenwand der Hülse relativ breit (entlang der Längsachse der Hülse) sind. So können eine zuverlässige Drehbeweglichkeit und eine hochwertige Abdichtung der fluidleitenden Verbindung bewirkt werden.The sleeve and / or the additional ring can have a certain diameter in the radial direction (for example 10 cm, 7 cm, 5 cm or less). The additional ring can have a width in the axial direction which corresponds to 5%, 10%, 15% or more of the diameter of the sleeve and / or the additional ring. The additional ring can thus be considered relative wide ring, so that the friction surfaces between the inner surface of the additional ring and the outer wall of the sleeve are relatively wide (along the longitudinal axis of the sleeve). Reliable rotational mobility and high-quality sealing of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be achieved.

Die Dichtung und der Zusatzring können in kosteneffizienter Weise als ein gemeinsames Mehr-, insbesondere Zwei-, Komponententeil gefertigt sein (z.B. mittels eines Spritzgussverfahrens). Dabei können für die Dichtung ein verformbares Material (insbesondere ein Elastomer) und für den Zusatzring ein nicht wesentlich verformbares Material (insbesondere ein Duroplast bzw. ein Thermoplast, etwa Polyethylen (PE)) verwendet werden, um eine zuverlässige Drehbeweglichkeit und eine hochwertige Abdichtwirkung der fluidleitenden Verbindung zu ermöglichen. Mit anderen Worten, die Dichtung auf dem Zusatzring kann ein Material aufweisen, das stärker verformbar ist als das Material des Zusatzrings, insbesondere als das Material der Innenfläche des Zusatzrings. Es können somit unterschiedliche Materialien für die Dichtung auf dem Zusatzring und für den Zusatzring selbst bzw. für die Innenfläche des Zusatzrings verwendet werden. So können in zuverlässiger Weise eine Dichtwirkung zwischen Dichtung und Systemwand sowie eine Drehbewegung zwischen der Innenfläche des Zusatzrings und der Außenfläche der Hülse bewirkt werden.The seal and the additional ring can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner as a common multiple, in particular two-component part (e.g. by means of an injection molding process). A deformable material (in particular an elastomer) can be used for the seal and a non-substantially deformable material (in particular a duroplastic or a thermoplastic such as polyethylene (PE)) for the additional ring to ensure reliable rotational mobility and a high-quality sealing effect of the fluid-conducting Enable connection. In other words, the seal on the additional ring can have a material that is more deformable than the material of the additional ring, in particular than the material of the inner surface of the additional ring. Different materials can thus be used for the seal on the additional ring and for the additional ring itself or for the inner surface of the additional ring. In this way, a sealing effect between the seal and the system wall and a rotary movement between the inner surface of the additional ring and the outer surface of the sleeve can be brought about in a reliable manner.

Die Dichtung kann mehrere ringförmige, elastische Vorsprünge aufweist, die in Bezug auf die axiale Richtung der Hülse nebeneinander angeordnet sind, um mehrere entsprechende (ring- bzw. kreisförmige) Dichtstellen an der Systemwand zu bilden. Durch die Verwendung von mehreren elastischen und/oder verformbaren Vorsprüngen zur Abdichtung können Herstellungstoleranzen und/oder Verformungen der Systemwand in besonders zuverlässiger Weise ausgeglichen werden, um eine besonders hohe Dichtheit der fluidleitenden Verbindung zu bewirken.The seal can have a plurality of annular, elastic projections which are arranged next to one another with respect to the axial direction of the sleeve in order to form a plurality of corresponding (ring-shaped or circular) sealing points on the system wall. By using a plurality of elastic and / or deformable projections for sealing, manufacturing tolerances and / or deformations of the system wall can be compensated in a particularly reliable manner in order to achieve a particularly high level of tightness in the fluid-conducting connection.

Das erste Kupplungselement und das zweite Kupplungselement können lösbar miteinander verbindbar sein, insbesondere um die erste Fluidleitung von der zweiten Fluidleitung trennen zu können (z.B. um eine Verstopfung in einer der Fluidleitungen zu beheben). Zu diesem Zweck kann der zweite Stutzen des zweiten Kupplungselements zumindest eine Entriegelungstaste aufweisen, die in dem verbundenen Zustand in zumindest einer entsprechenden Öffnung einer Wand des ersten Stutzens des ersten Kupplungselements eingerastet ist. Durch Drücken auf die ein oder mehreren Entriegelungstasten können dann die ein oder mehreren Entriegelungstasten aus den entsprechenden ein oder mehreren Öffnungen gedrückt werden, um die Verriegelung zu lösen und um so den ersten Stutzen des ersten Kupplungselements aus dem zweiten Stutzen des zweiten Kupplungselements ziehen zu können. Dabei wird typischerweise auch die Hülse freigegeben. Andererseits kann bei Verriegelung zuverlässig eine Relativbewegung des ersten Kupplungselements und des zweiten Kupplungselements in axialer und/oder in radialer Richtung unterbunden werden, um eine stabile und dichte Verbindung zwischen der ersten und zweiten Fluidleitung zu ermöglichen.The first coupling element and the second coupling element can be releasably connectable to one another, in particular in order to be able to separate the first fluid line from the second fluid line (for example in order to remove a blockage in one of the fluid lines). For this purpose, the second connector of the second coupling element can have at least one unlocking button, which in the connected state in at least one corresponding opening in a wall of the first connector of the first Coupling element is engaged. By pressing the one or more unlocking buttons, the one or more unlocking buttons can then be pushed out of the corresponding one or more openings in order to release the lock and thus to be able to pull the first connector of the first coupling element out of the second connector of the second coupling element. The sleeve is typically also released in the process. On the other hand, when locked, a relative movement of the first coupling element and the second coupling element in the axial and / or in the radial direction can be prevented in order to enable a stable and tight connection between the first and second fluid lines.

Das erste Kupplungselement kann einen von der Wand des ersten Stutzens umgebenen, ringförmigen Vorsprung umfassen, der in dem verbundenen Zustand auf eine Stirnfläche der Hülse einwirkt, um eine Bewegung der Hülse in axialer Richtung zu begrenzen. Alternativ oder ergänzend kann die Außenwand der Hülse einen ringförmigen Vorsprung aufweisen, der in dem verbundenen Zustand auf eine Stirnfläche des zweiten Kupplungselements einwirkt, um eine Bewegung der Hülse in axialer Richtung zu begrenzen. So kann zuverlässig eine axiale Bewegung der Hülse unterbunden bzw. begrenzt werden. Somit können die Zuverlässigkeit der Drehbewegung und die Dichtheit der fluidleitenden Verbindung erhöht werden.The first coupling element can comprise an annular projection which is surrounded by the wall of the first connecting piece and which, in the connected state, acts on an end face of the sleeve in order to limit a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction. Alternatively or additionally, the outer wall of the sleeve can have an annular projection which, in the connected state, acts on an end face of the second coupling element in order to limit a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction. Axial movement of the sleeve can thus be reliably prevented or limited. The reliability of the rotary movement and the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be increased.

Die Außenwand der Hülse kann einen ringförmigen Hülsen-Stutzen umfasst, der in dem verbundenen Zustand in einen ringförmigen Stutzen (insbesondere in den zweiten Stutzen) des zweiten Kupplungselements eingeführt ist. Der (zweite) Stutzen des zweiten Kupplungselements kann an einer der Hülse zugewandten Seite einen zumindest teilweise umlaufenden Rastvorsprung aufweist. Des Weiteren kann der Hülsen-Stutzen an einer dem zweiten Kupplungselement zugewandten Seite einen zumindest teilweise umlaufenden Rastvorsprung aufweisen. Typischerweise ist zumindest einer der Rastvorsprünge vollständig umlaufend ausgebildet. Die beiden Rastvorsprünge können dabei derart ausgebildet sein, dass die beiden Rastvorsprünge in dem verbundenen Zustand eine drehbare Lagerung der Hülse an dem zweiten Kupplungselement ermöglichen und dass die beiden Rastvorsprünge in dem verbundenen Zustand einer Bewegung der Hülse in axialer Richtung relativ zu dem zweiten Kupplungselement entgegenwirken. Insbesondere können die Rastvorsprünge in dem verbundenen Zustand einem Abziehen der Hülse von dem zweiten Kupplungselement entgegenwirken. So kann eine komfortable und zuverlässige Trennung bzw. ein komfortabler und zuverlässiger Aufbau der Verbindung zwischen den beiden Fluidleitungen ermöglicht werden. Des Weiteren können so die Zuverlässigkeit der Drehbewegung und die Dichtheit der fluidleitenden Verbindung erhöht werden.The outer wall of the sleeve can comprise an annular sleeve connector which, in the connected state, is inserted into an annular connector (in particular into the second connector) of the second coupling element. The (second) connecting piece of the second coupling element can have an at least partially circumferential latching projection on a side facing the sleeve. Furthermore, the sleeve connector can have an at least partially encircling latching projection on a side facing the second coupling element. Typically, at least one of the locking projections is completely circumferential. The two locking projections can be designed in such a way that the two locking projections in the connected state allow the sleeve to be rotatably mounted on the second coupling element and that the two locking projections counteract a movement of the sleeve in the axial direction relative to the second coupling element in the connected state. In particular, the latching projections in the connected state can counteract a pulling off of the sleeve from the second coupling element. So can a comfortable and reliable separation or a comfortable and reliable construction of the connection between the two fluid lines are made possible. Furthermore, the reliability of the rotary movement and the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can be increased in this way.

Der Durchmesser der umlaufenden Systemwand (insbesondere der Wand des ersten Stutzens des ersten Kopplungselements) kann sich in axialer Richtung von der Hülse weg reduzieren. Durch eine derartige Reduzierung des Durchmessers kann bewirkt werden, dass sich der Druck von der Systemwand auf die Dichtung erhöht, wenn die Hülse in axialer Richtung zu dem ersten Kupplungselement hin gedrückt wird. Des Weiteren verläuft die Systemwand aufgrund des sich reduzierenden Durchmessers an der Kontaktstelle zwischen der Dichtung und der Systemwand schräg zu der Dichtung bzw. zu der Längsachse der Hülse, was zu einer Erhöhung der Kontaktfläche führen kann. Insgesamt kann so die Dichtheit der fluidleitenden Verbindung weiter erhöht werden.The diameter of the circumferential system wall (in particular the wall of the first connecting piece of the first coupling element) can be reduced in the axial direction away from the sleeve. Such a reduction in the diameter can have the effect that the pressure from the system wall on the seal increases when the sleeve is pressed in the axial direction towards the first coupling element. Furthermore, due to the decreasing diameter at the contact point between the seal and the system wall, the system wall runs obliquely to the seal or to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve, which can lead to an increase in the contact area. Overall, the tightness of the fluid-conducting connection can thus be further increased.

Gemäß einem weiteren Aspekt wird ein Sauger bzw. ein Sauggerät, insbesondere ein Staubsauger, beschrieben, der einen als erste Fluidleitung ausgebildeten Handgriff und einen als zweite Fluidleitung ausgebildeten Saugschlauch umfasst. Des Weiteren umfasst der Sauger bzw. das Sauggerät das in diesem Dokument beschriebene Kupplungssystem, das ausgebildet ist, die erste Fluidleitung und die zweite Fluidleitung derart im Wesentlichen fluiddicht (insbesondere gasdicht) miteinander zu verbinden, dass bei Betrieb des Saugers bzw. Sauggeräts die zweite Fluidleitung relativ zu der ersten Fluidleitung verdreht werden kann. So kann ein komfortabler und energieeffizienter Sauger, insbesondere Staubsauger, bereitgestellt werden.According to a further aspect, a suction device or a suction device, in particular a vacuum cleaner, is described which comprises a handle designed as a first fluid line and a suction hose designed as a second fluid line. Furthermore, the suction device or the suction device comprises the coupling system described in this document, which is designed to connect the first fluid line and the second fluid line to one another in an essentially fluid-tight (in particular gas-tight) manner that when the suction device or suction device is in operation, the second fluid line can be rotated relative to the first fluid line. In this way, a comfortable and energy-efficient vacuum cleaner, in particular a vacuum cleaner, can be provided.

Es ist zu beachten, dass jegliche Aspekte des in diesem Dokument beschriebenen Systems und/oder Staubsaugers in vielfältiger Weise miteinander kombiniert werden können. Insbesondere können die Merkmale der Patentansprüche in vielfältiger Weise miteinander kombiniert werden.It should be noted that all aspects of the system and / or vacuum cleaner described in this document can be combined with one another in many ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined with one another in many ways.

Im Weiteren wird die Erfindung anhand von in der beigefügten Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen näher beschrieben. Dabei zeigen

  • Figur 1 einen beispielhaften Staubsauger;
  • Figuren 2a und 2b ein beispielhaftes Kupplungssystem zur Verbindung des Saugschlauchs mit dem Verbindungsstück bzw. Handgriff zum Saugrohr eines Staubsaugers;
  • Figuren 3a, 3b, 3c ein beispielhaftes Kupplungssystem gemäß einer ersten Ausgestaltung;
  • Figuren 4a, 4b, 4c ein beispielhaftes Kupplungssystem gemäß einer zweiten Ausgestaltung; und
  • Figuren 5a und 5b die in diesem Dokument beschriebenen Kupplungssysteme mit einem Saugschlauch.
The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawing. Show it
  • Figure 1 an exemplary vacuum cleaner;
  • Figures 2a and 2 B an exemplary coupling system for connecting the suction hose to the connector or handle to the suction tube of a vacuum cleaner;
  • Figures 3a , 3b, 3c an exemplary clutch system according to a first embodiment;
  • Figures 4a, 4b , 4c an exemplary clutch system according to a second aspect; and
  • Figures 5a and 5b the coupling systems described in this document with a suction hose.

Wie eingangs dargelegt, befasst sich das vorliegende Dokument mit der Bereitstellung eines Kupplungssystems, das in zuverlässiger und effizienter Weise eine verdrehbare und fluiddichte Verbindung zwischen zwei Fluidleitungen, insbesondere zwischen einem Saugschlauch und dem Verbindungsstück bzw. Handgriff zu einem Saugrohr eines Staubsaugers, ermöglicht. In diesem Zusammenhang zeigt Fig. 1 einen beispielhaften Staubsauger 4. Bei dem in Fig. 1 dargestellten Staubsauger 4 wird von der als Bodendüse 25 ausgebildeten Staubaufnahmeeinrichtung der Staub durch eine Saugluftführung 5 bestehend aus einem längenverstellbaren Saugrohr 15, einem Verbindungsstück 14 und einem flexiblen Saugschlauch 16 in den Staubsauger 4 durch eine Motor-Gebläse-Einheit 8 eingesaugt. Eine Staubabscheideeinheit 6 im Gehäuse 26 des Staubsaugers 4 scheidet den in der angesaugten Luft enthaltenen Staub in einen Sammelraum 7 ab. Das Verbindungsstück 14 kann dabei als Handgriff ausgebildet sein.As stated above, the present document is concerned with the provision of a coupling system that enables a rotatable and fluid-tight connection between two fluid lines, in particular between a suction hose and the connection piece or handle to a suction tube of a vacuum cleaner, in a reliable and efficient manner. In this context shows Fig. 1 an exemplary vacuum cleaner 4. In the case of the in Fig. 1 The vacuum cleaner 4 shown is sucked into the vacuum cleaner 4 by a motor-blower unit 8 from the dust collecting device designed as a floor nozzle 25 through a suction air duct 5 consisting of a length-adjustable suction pipe 15, a connector 14 and a flexible suction hose 16. A dust separation unit 6 in the housing 26 of the vacuum cleaner 4 separates the dust contained in the sucked in air into a collecting space 7. The connecting piece 14 can be designed as a handle.

Das Verbindungstück 14 (im Folgenden auch als Handgriff bezeichnet) ist typischerweise über ein Kupplungssystem 200 mit dem Saugschlauch 16 verbunden. Die Figuren 2a und 2b zeigen ein beispielhaftes Kupplungssystem 200, mit einem griffseitigen (ersten) Kupplungselement 210 und einem schlauchseitigen (zweiten) Kupplungselement 220. Das griffseitige Kupplungselement 210 kann durch ein Ende des rohrförmigen Handgriffs 14 gebildet werden. Das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 kann als ein Ring ausgebildet sein, der auf die Außenseite des Schlauchs 16 geschoben werden kann. Das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 kann typischer relativ zu dem Schlauch 16 bewegt, insbesondere gedreht, werden. Andererseits ist das griffseitige Kupplungselement 210 typischerweise fest mit dem Handgriff 14 verbunden.The connection piece 14 (hereinafter also referred to as a handle) is typically connected to the suction hose 16 via a coupling system 200. The Figures 2a and 2 B show an exemplary coupling system 200, with a handle-side (first) coupling element 210 and a hose-side (second) coupling element 220. The handle-side coupling element 210 can be formed by one end of the tubular handle 14. The hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed as a ring which can be pushed onto the outside of the hose 16. The hose-side coupling element 220 can typically be moved, in particular rotated, relative to the hose 16. On the other hand, the coupling element 210 on the handle side is typically firmly connected to the handle 14.

Das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 kann ausgebildet sein, um in das griffseitige Kupplungselement 210 gesteckt zu werden. Dabei können das griffseitige Kupplungselement 210 ein oder mehrere Öffnungen 511 in der Wand 211 und das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 ein oder mehrere Entriegelungstasten 521 an der Wand aufweisen, so dass im zusammengesteckten Zustand, die ein oder mehreren Entriegelungstasten 521 in die ein oder mehreren Öffnungen 511 ragen und so eine starre Verbindung zwischen den beiden Kupplungselementen 210, 220 bewirken (siehe Fig. 5a).The hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed to be plugged into the handle-side coupling element 210. The coupling element 210 on the handle side can have one or more openings 511 in the wall 211 and the coupling element 220 on the hose side can have one or more unlocking buttons 521 on the wall, so that when plugged together, the one or more unlocking buttons 521 protrude into the one or more openings 511 thus creating a rigid connection between the two coupling elements 210, 220 (see Figure 5a ).

Das Kupplungssystem 200 umfasst ferner eine Hülse 230, die mit dem Ende des Schlauchs 16 verbunden, insbesondere verklebt, werden kann. Es kann somit eine fluiddichte und starre Verbindung zwischen Hülse 230 und Schlauch 16 bestehen. Des Weiteren können die Hülse 230 und das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 derart ausgebildet sein, dass zwischen Hülse 230 und schlauchseitigem Kupplungselement 220 eine Verbindung erstellt werden kann, die einerseits eine Verdrehung zwischen der Hülse 230 und dem schlauchseitigen Kupplungselement 220 ermöglicht, die aber andererseits eine Relativbewegung in axialer Richtung (bezogen auf die Längsrichtung des Schlauchs 16 bzw. der Hülse 230) unterbindet. Beispielsweise kann die Hülse 230 zu diesem Zweck einen um den Schlauch 16 umlaufenden Rastvorsprung 235 aufweisen, der mit einer umlaufenden Rastnocke 225 des schlauchseitigen Kupplungselements 220 verrastet (oder umgekehrt). Somit kann bewirkt werden, dass die Hülse 230 und der damit fest verbundene Schlauch 16 relativ zu dem schlauchseitigen Kupplungselement 220 gedreht werden können, dass aber andererseits die Hülse 230 und der damit fest verbundene Schlauch 16 nur bei Überwinden einer vordefinierten Zugkraft in axialer Richtung von dem schlauchseitigen Kupplungselement 220 getrennt werden können.The coupling system 200 further comprises a sleeve 230 which can be connected, in particular glued, to the end of the hose 16. There can thus be a fluid-tight and rigid connection between the sleeve 230 and the hose 16. Furthermore, the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220 can be designed in such a way that a connection can be established between the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220, which on the one hand enables a rotation between the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220, but which on the other hand enables a relative movement in axial direction (based on the longitudinal direction of the hose 16 or the sleeve 230). For example, for this purpose the sleeve 230 can have a latching projection 235 running around the hose 16, which latches with a surrounding latching cam 225 of the hose-side coupling element 220 (or vice versa). It can thus be ensured that the sleeve 230 and the hose 16 firmly connected to it can be rotated relative to the hose-side coupling element 220, but that on the other hand the sleeve 230 and the hose 16 firmly connected to it can only be rotated by overcoming a predefined tensile force in the axial direction hose-side coupling element 220 can be separated.

Die (mit dem Schlauch 16 fest verbundene) Hülse 230 und das (die Außenseite des Schlauchs 16 umschließende) schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 können mit dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 verbunden werden. Insbesondere können die Hülse 230 und das schlauchseitige Kupplungselement 220 zumindest teilweise in das Ende des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 gesteckt werden. Das griffseitige Kupplungselement 210 kann an einer Innenseite der Wand 211 einen umlaufenden Vorsprung 212 aufweisen, der derart ausgebildet ist, dass in dem verbundenen Zustand eine ringförmige Stirnfläche 232 der Hülse 230 gegen den Vorsprung 212 gedrückt wird. Durch den ringförmigen Kontakt zwischen der Stirnfläche 232 der Hülse 230 und dem Vorsprung 212 an der Innenseite der Wand 211 des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 kann ein gewisser Grad an Abdichtung zwischen dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 und der Hülse 230 bzw. dem Schlauch 16 bewirkt werden. Dabei ist die Anpresskraft der Hülse 230 jedoch bevorzugt derart gering, dass weiterhin bei üblichem Betrieb des Staubsaugers 4 eine Verdrehung zwischen dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 und der Hülse 230 bzw. dem Schlauch 16 ermöglicht wird.The sleeve 230 (firmly connected to the hose 16) and the hose-side coupling element 220 (surrounding the outside of the hose 16) can be connected to the handle-side coupling element 210. In particular, the sleeve 230 and the hose-side coupling element 220 can be at least partially inserted into the end of the handle-side coupling element 210. The clutch element 210 on the handle side can have a circumferential projection 212 on an inside of the wall 211, which projection is designed such that an annular end face 232 of the sleeve 230 is pressed against the projection 212 in the connected state. Due to the annular contact between the end face 232 of the sleeve 230 and the projection 212 On the inside of the wall 211 of the clutch element 210 on the handle side, a certain degree of sealing between the clutch element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230 or the hose 16 can be produced. In this case, however, the contact pressure of the sleeve 230 is preferably so low that a rotation between the clutch element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230 or the hose 16 is still possible during normal operation of the vacuum cleaner 4.

Die Hülse 230 kann an der Außenseite der Außenwand der Hülse 230 (z.B. zwischen der Stirnfläche 232 und dem Rastvorsprung 235 zum schlauchseitigen Kupplungselement 220) ein ringförmiges Dichtelement 231 aufweisen, das gegen die Innenseite der Wand 211 des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 gedrückt wird, um die Hülse 230 bzw. den Schlauch 16 zu dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 hin abzudichten. Das Dichtelement 231 ist dabei jedoch typischerweise aus dem harten Material (z.B. einem Duroplast bzw. Thermoplast, etwa Polyethylen (PE)) der Hülse 230 gebildet, um eine relative Drehbewegung zwischen dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 und der Hülse 230 zu ermöglichen. Das Dichtelement 231 kann somit als harte angeformte Dichtung ausgebildet sein.The sleeve 230 can have an annular sealing element 231 on the outside of the outer wall of the sleeve 230 (e.g. between the end face 232 and the latching projection 235 for the hose-side coupling element 220), which is pressed against the inside of the wall 211 of the handle-side coupling element 210 around the sleeve 230 or the hose 16 to seal the clutch element 210 on the handle side. However, the sealing element 231 is typically made of the hard material (e.g. a thermoset or thermoplastic, e.g. polyethylene (PE)) of the sleeve 230 in order to enable a relative rotary movement between the coupling element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230. The sealing element 231 can thus be designed as a hard molded seal.

Es kann somit eine harte, an der Klebehülse 230 angeformte Dichtung 231 verwendet werden, um den Handgriff 14 eines Staubsaugers 4 an der Innenfläche des Handgriffs 14 abzudichten. Die Dichtung 231 rotiert an der Innenfläche des Handgriffs 14 und ermöglicht so eine Drehbeweglichkeit des Schlauchs 16 relativ zum Handgriff 14. Aufgrund der Steifigkeit der angeformten Dichtung 231 und aufgrund der Fertigungstoleranzen und/oder der Unrundheiten am Handgriff 14 kann eine komplette Dichtigkeit jedoch typischerweise nicht bewirkt werden.A hard seal 231 molded onto the adhesive sleeve 230 can thus be used to seal the handle 14 of a vacuum cleaner 4 on the inner surface of the handle 14. The seal 231 rotates on the inner surface of the handle 14 and thus enables the hose 16 to rotate relative to the handle 14. Due to the rigidity of the molded seal 231 and due to the manufacturing tolerances and / or the out-of-roundness on the handle 14, a complete tightness cannot typically be achieved will.

Aufgrund von Toleranzen der Abmessungen des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 und der Hülse 230 kann es somit bei Verwendung eines harten Dichtelements 231 zu Undichtigkeiten zwischen dem griffseitigen Kupplungselement 210 und dem Schlauch 16 kommen. Dies führt zu einer reduzierten Saugwirkung und/oder zu einem erhöhten Energieverbrauch eines Staubsaugers 4.Due to tolerances in the dimensions of the clutch element 210 on the handle side and the sleeve 230, when a hard sealing element 231 is used, leaks between the clutch element 210 on the handle side and the hose 16 can occur. This leads to a reduced suction effect and / or to an increased energy consumption of a vacuum cleaner 4.

Die Figuren 3a, 3b bzw. 4a, 4b zeigen Hülsen 230, die einen erhöhten Grad an Dichtheit und weiterhin eine gute Drehbeweglichkeit ermöglichen. Die Hülse 230 weist zu diesem Zweck einen Zusatzring 332 auf, der derart an der Außenseite der Wand 33 der Hülse 230 angeordnet ist, dass der Zusatzring 332 relativ zu der Wand 333 der Hülse 230 gedreht werden kann. Die Wand 333 der Hülse 230 kann eine ringförmige Führungsrille 336 für den Zusatzring 332 aufweisen, so dass der Zusatzring 332 innerhalb der Führungsrille 336 bzw. Führungsspur um die Längsachse der Hülse 230 gedreht werden kann und dabei durch die Ränder der Führungsrille 336 geführt wird. An dem Zusatzring 332 kann eine verformbare, ringförmige Dichtung 331 befestigt sein. Die Dichtung 331 und der Zusatzring 332 können derart ausgebildet sein, dass die verformbare Dichtung 331 im verbundenen Zustand des Kupplungssystems 200 gegen die Innenseite der Wand 211 des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 gepresst wird. So kann eine gute Abdichtung zwischen der verformbaren Dichtung 331 und der Innenseite der Wand 211 bewirkt werden. Insbesondere können durch die verformbare Dichtung 331 Toleranzen und/oder Unrundheiten der Wand 211 ausgeglichen werden.The Figures 3a , 3b and 4a, 4b show sleeves 230, which allow an increased degree of tightness and furthermore good rotational mobility. The sleeve 230 faces this Purpose an additional ring 332, which is arranged on the outside of the wall 33 of the sleeve 230 that the additional ring 332 can be rotated relative to the wall 333 of the sleeve 230. The wall 333 of the sleeve 230 can have an annular guide groove 336 for the additional ring 332, so that the additional ring 332 can be rotated within the guide groove 336 or guide track around the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 230 and is guided through the edges of the guide groove 336. A deformable, annular seal 331 can be attached to the additional ring 332. The seal 331 and the additional ring 332 can be designed such that the deformable seal 331 is pressed against the inside of the wall 211 of the handle-side coupling element 210 in the connected state of the coupling system 200. In this way, a good seal between the deformable seal 331 and the inside of the wall 211 can be achieved. In particular, the deformable seal 331 can compensate for tolerances and / or irregularities in the wall 211.

Des Weiteren wird der Zusatzring 332 gegen die (Außen-) Wand 333 der Hülse 230 gepresst, so dass auch eine gute Abdichtung am Übergang zwischen dem Zusatzring 332 und Wand 333 der Hülse 230 bewirkt werden kann. Dabei kann der Zusatzring 332 eine relativ große Breite in axialer Richtung der Hülse 230 aufweisen, wobei mit steigender Breite des Zusatzrings 332 die Dichtwirkung weiter erhöht werden kann. Außerdem kann die Bereitstellung einer Führungsrille bzw. Vertiefung 336 zur Führung des Zusatzrings 332 zur Erhöhung der Dichtwirkung beitragen. Dennoch wird aufgrund der Tatsache, dass der Zusatzring 332 und die Wand 333 der Hülse 230 bevorzugt hart ausgebildet sind (z.B. jeweils aus einem Duroplast bzw. einem Thermoplast, etwa Polyethylen (PE)), weiterhin eine zuverlässige und leichtgängige Drehbewegung zwischen Zusatzring 332 und Hülse 230 ermöglicht.Furthermore, the additional ring 332 is pressed against the (outer) wall 333 of the sleeve 230, so that a good seal can also be achieved at the transition between the additional ring 332 and wall 333 of the sleeve 230. The additional ring 332 can have a relatively large width in the axial direction of the sleeve 230, the sealing effect being able to be further increased as the width of the additional ring 332 increases. In addition, the provision of a guide groove or recess 336 for guiding the additional ring 332 can contribute to increasing the sealing effect. Nevertheless, due to the fact that the additional ring 332 and the wall 333 of the sleeve 230 are preferably made hard (e.g. each made of a duroplastic or a thermoplastic such as polyethylene (PE)), there is still a reliable and smooth rotary movement between the additional ring 332 and the sleeve 230 allows.

Durch den Einsatz eines Zusatzrings 332 mit angeformter, weicher Dichtung 331 kann somit eine Drehbeweglichkeit zwischen der Klebehülse 230 und der Innenseite des Zusatzrings 332 ermöglicht werden. Der Zusatzring 332 und die Dichtung 331 können z.B. als ein Zweikomponenten-Teil hergestellt werden. Die Dichtung 331 steht dabei im Betrieb eines Staubsaugers 4 fest und rotiert nicht bzw. nicht wesentlich an der Innenfläche der Wand 211 des Handgriffs 14. Die verformbare Dichtung 331 gleicht die Toleranzen und die Unrundheiten des Handgriffs 14 aus. Die Klebehülse 230 und der Zusatzring 332 können typischerweise mit einer genaueren Durchmessertoleranz und einer genaueren Rundheit gefertigt werden als der Handgriff 14, so dass die Kontaktstelle zwischen Klebehülse 230 und Zusatzring 332 besser und mit erhöhter Effizienz abgedichtet werden kann.By using an additional ring 332 with an integrally molded, soft seal 331, rotational mobility between the adhesive sleeve 230 and the inside of the additional ring 332 can thus be made possible. The additional ring 332 and the seal 331 can be manufactured, for example, as a two-component part. The seal 331 is stationary when a vacuum cleaner 4 is in operation and does not rotate or does not rotate significantly on the inner surface of the wall 211 of the handle 14. The deformable seal 331 compensates for the tolerances and the out-of-roundness of the handle 14. The adhesive sleeve 230 and the additional ring 332 can typically with a more precise diameter tolerance and a more precise Roundness can be made than the handle 14, so that the contact point between adhesive sleeve 230 and additional ring 332 can be sealed better and with increased efficiency.

Der Zusatzring 332 mit der angeformten weichen Dichtung 331 übernimmt somit die Abdichtung des Schlauchs 16 zum Handgriff 14. Die Geometrie der Dichtung 331 kann unterschiedlich ausgeführt sein, beispielsweise rund, oval, trapezförmig, dreiecksförmig, rautenförmig, laschenförmig, etc., um einen möglichst hohen Grad der Dichtheit zu bewirken.The additional ring 332 with the molded soft seal 331 thus seals the tube 16 to the handle 14. The geometry of the seal 331 can be designed differently, for example round, oval, trapezoidal, triangular, diamond-shaped, tab-shaped, etc., to be as high as possible To effect degree of tightness.

Durch eine Vorspannung des Zusatzrings 332 zur Klebehülse 230 kann die Dichtigkeit zwischen Klebehülse 230 und Zusatzring 332 weiter verbessert werden. Beispielsweise kann der Zusatzring 332 an einer ersten Kante 341 und an einer Innenfläche 338 einen ringförmigen Vorsprung 334 aufweisen. Die Dichtung 331 kann, wie in Fig. 3c dargestellt, an einer gegenüberliegenden zweiten Kante 342 an der Außenfläche 339 des Zusatzrings 332 angeordnet sein. So kann eine Vorspannung innerhalb des Zusatzrings 332 bewirkt werden, durch die die Anpresskraft der Dichtung 331 auf die Wand 211 des griffseitigen Kupplungselements 210 und damit die Dichtwirkung weiter erhöht werden.By pretensioning the additional ring 332 with respect to the adhesive sleeve 230, the tightness between the adhesive sleeve 230 and the additional ring 332 can be further improved. For example, the additional ring 332 can have an annular projection 334 on a first edge 341 and on an inner surface 338. The seal 331 can, as in Figure 3c shown, be arranged on an opposite second edge 342 on the outer surface 339 of the additional ring 332. In this way, a preload can be brought about within the additional ring 332, by means of which the pressing force of the seal 331 on the wall 211 of the clutch element 210 on the handle side and thus the sealing effect are further increased.

Des Weiteren kann eine Halterippe bzw. ein Vorsprung 335 an der Klebehülse 230 angeformt werden, die ein Verschieben des Zusatzrings 332 in axialer Richtung begrenzt bzw. unterbindet. Des Weiteren kann durch die Halterippe 335 eine zusätzliche Dichtwirkung am Übergang zwischen Klebehülse 230 und Zusatzring 332 bewirkt werden.Furthermore, a retaining rib or a projection 335 can be molded onto the adhesive sleeve 230, which limits or prevents a displacement of the additional ring 332 in the axial direction. Furthermore, the retaining rib 335 can produce an additional sealing effect at the transition between adhesive sleeve 230 and additional ring 332.

Die Dichtung 331 kann wie in Fig. 3c dargestellt, auf den Zusatzring 332 aufgebracht, und/oder wie in Fig. 4c dargestellt, in den Zusatzring 332 eingebettet werden.The seal 331 can as in Figure 3c shown, applied to the additional ring 332, and / or as in Figure 4c are embedded in the additional ring 332.

Figuren 5a und 5b zeigen das Kupplungssystem 200 mit einem Schlauch 16, der fest mit der Hülse 230 verbunden ist. Dabei zeigt insbesondere Fig. 5a die Halterippe 335 der Hülse 335, die an einer Stirnfläche 522 des schlauchseitigen Kupplungselements 220 anliegen kann, um eine Bewegung der Hülse 230 in axialer Richtung zu begrenzen. Figures 5a and 5b show the coupling system 200 with a hose 16 which is firmly connected to the sleeve 230. It shows in particular Figure 5a the retaining rib 335 of the sleeve 335, which can rest on an end face 522 of the hose-side coupling element 220 in order to limit a movement of the sleeve 230 in the axial direction.

Das in diesem Dokument beschriebene Kupplungssystem 200 ermöglicht eine zuverlässige und robuste Abdichtung einer fluidleitenden Verbindung zwischen einem Handgriff 14 und einem Saugschlauch 16 eines Staubsaugers 4. Das Kupplungssystem 200 ist ausgebildet, relativ große Schwankungen der Form eines Handgriffs 14 auszugleichen. Somit können Handgriffe 14 mit einer relativ großen Fertigungstoleranz und damit kostengünstig hergestellt werden. Des Weiteren können durch das beschriebene Kupplungssystem 200 unangenehme Zisch- bzw. Pfeifgeräusche beim Betrieb eines Staubsaugers 4 (insbesondere beim Ziehen und/oder Knicken des Saugschlauchs 16) vermieden werden. Ferner können durch das beschriebene Kupplungssystem 200 die Energieeffizienz und/oder die Saugfähigkeit eines Staubsaugers 4 erhöht werden.The coupling system 200 described in this document enables a reliable and robust sealing of a fluid-conducting connection between a Handle 14 and a suction hose 16 of a vacuum cleaner 4. The coupling system 200 is designed to compensate for relatively large fluctuations in the shape of a handle 14. Handles 14 can thus be manufactured with a relatively large manufacturing tolerance and thus inexpensively. Furthermore, the described coupling system 200 can avoid unpleasant hissing or whistling noises when operating a vacuum cleaner 4 (in particular when pulling and / or kinking the suction hose 16). Furthermore, the described coupling system 200 can increase the energy efficiency and / or the suction capacity of a vacuum cleaner 4.

Die vorliegende Erfindung ist nicht auf die gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiele beschränkt. Insbesondere ist zu beachten, dass die Beschreibung und die Figuren nur das Prinzip des vorgeschlagenen Systems veranschaulichen sollen.The present invention is not restricted to the exemplary embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and the figures are only intended to illustrate the principle of the proposed system.

Claims (14)

  1. Coupling system (200) for connecting two fluid conduits (14, 16), wherein
    - the coupling system (200) comprises a first annular or tubular coupling element (210) which is or can be fixedly connected to a first fluid conduit (14);
    - the coupling system (200) comprises a second annular coupling element (220) which is embodied to enclose a second fluid conduit (16) with a circular profile;
    - the coupling system (200) comprises an annular sleeve (230) which can be fixedly connected to one end of the second fluid conduit (16);
    - the first coupling element (210) and the second coupling element (220) can be connected to one another such that in the connected state the sleeve (230) is rotatably mounted and surrounded by the first and second coupling elements (210, 220), and that a fluid-conducting connection is created between the first coupling element (210) and the sleeve (230);
    - the sleeve (230) in the connected state is surrounded in the radial direction by a system wall (211) formed by the first and/or second coupling element (210, 220);
    - the sleeve (230) comprises an additional ring (332) which is rotatably mounted on an outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230);
    characterised in that
    - an annular, deformable seal (331) is arranged on the additional ring (332) and, in the connected state, is pressed against the system wall (211) in order to seal the fluid-conducting connection;
    - the additional ring (332) comprises an inner surface (338) which is oriented towards the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) and is made of a material that is not substantially deformable; and
    - the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) and the inner surface (338) of the additional ring (332) form friction surfaces which allow the additional ring (332) to rotate about an axis of the sleeve (230) relative to the outer wall (333).
  2. Coupling system (200) according to claim 1, wherein
    - the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) comprises an annular guide channel (336) in which the additional ring (332) is rotatably arranged; and
    - the guide channel (336) is embodied to limit a movement of the additional ring (332) in the axial direction.
  3. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - the additional ring (332) comprises an inner surface (338) oriented towards the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) and an outer surface (339) oriented towards the system wall (211);
    - the additional ring (332) is delimited in the axial direction by a first edge and by a second edge;
    - the additional ring (332) has an annular projection (334) at or relatively close to the first edge on the inner surface; and
    - the seal (331) is arranged at or relatively close to the second edge on the outer surface of the additional ring (332).
  4. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - a coefficient of friction of the friction surfaces in contact is equal to or less than 0.5 for static friction and/or sliding friction.
  5. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - the sleeve (230) has a sleeve diameter in the radial direction; and
    - the additional ring (332) has a width in the axial direction which corresponds to 5%, 10%, 15% or more of the sleeve diameter.
  6. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the seal (331) and the additional ring (332) form a common multi-component part, in particular a two-component part.
  7. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the seal (331) has a plurality of annular, elastic projections which are arranged next to one another with respect to the axial direction in order to form a plurality of corresponding sealing points to the system wall (211).
  8. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling element (210) and the second coupling element (220) can be detachably connected to one another.
  9. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - the first and/or second coupling elements (210, 220) are designed such that a second connector of the second coupling element (220) can be inserted into a first connector of the first coupling element (210) in order to connect the first and second coupling elements (210 , 220) to one another; and
    - the second connector has at least one unlocking button (521) which, in the connected state, is engaged in at least one corresponding opening (511) in a wall of the first connector; and
    - the system wall (211) is at least partially formed by the wall of the first connector.
  10. Coupling system (200) according to claim 9, wherein
    - the first coupling element (210) comprises an annular projection (212) which is surrounded by the wall of the first connector and which, in the connected state, acts on an end face (232) of the sleeve (230) in order to limit a movement of the sleeve (230) in an axial direction; and/or
    - the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) has an annular projection (335) which, in the connected state, acts on an end face (522) of the second coupling element (230) in order to limit a movement of the sleeve (230) in the axial direction.
  11. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - the outer wall (333) of the sleeve (230) comprises an annular sleeve connector which, in the connected state, is inserted into an annular connector of the second coupling element (220);
    - the connector of the second coupling element (220) has an at least partially circumferential latching projection (225) on a side facing the sleeve (230);
    - the sleeve connector has an at least partially circumferential latching projection (235) on a side facing the second coupling element (220);
    - the two latching projections (225, 235) enable a rotatable mounting of the sleeve (230) on the second coupling element (220) in the connected state; and
    - the two latching projections (225, 235) counteract a movement of the sleeve (230) in the axial direction relative to the second coupling element (220) in the connected state.
  12. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
    - the fluid conduits (14, 16) are part of a suction device (4), in particular a vacuum cleaner; and/or
    - the first coupling element (210) and the first fluid conduit (14) form a handle of a suction device (4); and/or
    - the second fluid conduit (16) is a suction hose of a suction device (4).
  13. Coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a diameter of the circumferential system wall (211) is reduced in the axial direction away from the sleeve (230), such that a pressure from the system wall (211) onto the seal (331) increases when the sleeve (230) is pressed in the axial direction towards the first coupling element (210).
  14. Suction device (4), which comprises,
    - a handle embodied as a first fluid conduit (14);
    - a suction hose embodied as a second fluid conduit (16); and
    - a coupling system (200) according to one of the preceding claims, which is embodied to connect the first fluid conduit (14) and the second fluid conduit (16) to one another in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that, when the suction device (4) is in operation, the second fluid conduit (16) can be rotated relative to the first fluid conduit (14).
EP19153418.9A 2018-01-25 2019-01-24 Coupling system for connecting two fluid conduits Active EP3524112B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102018201144.3A DE102018201144A1 (en) 2018-01-25 2018-01-25 Coupling system for connecting two fluid lines

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3524112A1 EP3524112A1 (en) 2019-08-14
EP3524112B1 true EP3524112B1 (en) 2020-11-04

Family

ID=65228407

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19153418.9A Active EP3524112B1 (en) 2018-01-25 2019-01-24 Coupling system for connecting two fluid conduits

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3524112B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102018201144A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN213371752U (en) * 2020-06-16 2021-06-08 天佑电器（苏州）有限公司 Sealing connecting piece, scrubbing brush subassembly, dust catcher and cleaning device

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
SE460331B (en) * 1988-02-09 1989-10-02 Electrolux Ab COUPLING
DE102005030457A1 (en) * 2005-06-28 2007-01-04 Mahle International Gmbh coupling system
DE102005041802A1 (en) * 2005-09-02 2007-03-08 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Intake manifold connection unit for a vacuum cleaner nozzle
DE102008009389B3 (en) * 2008-02-14 2009-04-16 Truplast Kunststofftechnik Gmbh Handle arrangement on a suction hose
DE102009048379A1 (en) * 2008-10-08 2010-04-15 Robert Thomas Metall- Und Elektrowerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Vacuum cleaner i.e. wet vacuum cleaner, has flexible suction hose detachably connected with housing by housing-sided connection, and connecting piece fixedly and lockably connected with connection in axial direction
DE102014119249A1 (en) * 2014-12-19 2016-06-23 Festool Gmbh Suction hose fitting

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3524112A1 (en) 2019-08-14
DE102018201144A1 (en) 2019-07-25

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