EP3022479A1

EP3022479A1 - Device for producing a sterile fluid connection

Info

Publication number: EP3022479A1
Application number: EP14739374.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Tolga Aydin
Original assignee: Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Germany GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Germany GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2013-07-17
Filing date: 2014-07-03
Publication date: 2016-05-25
Also published as: WO2015007538A1; WO2015007538A8; DE102013214068A1; DE112014003292A5

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1), in particular for producing a fluid connection, comprising a first connection element (2) and a second connection element (2). The two connection elements (2) are substantially identical and can be connected to each other in a fluid-tight manner, each connection element (2) having a flow channel (3), a connection region (5), and a closure bracket (4). The connection region (5) has a connection surface (21) which has an opening (29) that is fluidically connected to the flow channel (3), and each connection element (2) can be at least partly surrounded by the closure bracket (4) of the respective other connection element (2), said connection surface (21) being covered by a removable membrane (28), wherein at least the opening (29) is completely covered by the membrane (28).

Description

DEVICE FOR PRODUCING A NON-FLUID AIR CONNECTION

description

Technical area

The invention relates to a device, in particular for producing a Fluidver connection, with a first connection element and a second connection element, wherein the two connection elements are substantially identical and fluid-tightly connected to each other, each of the connection elements each have a flow channel, a connection area and a closure bracket wherein the connection region has a connection surface which has an opening which is in fluid communication with the flow channel, wherein each connection element is at least partially encompassable by the closure clip of the respective other connection element. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for mounting the device.

PRIOR ART In the state of the art, a large number of connection systems are known which enable a connection of fluid lines. These include, for example, plug connections, screw connections or connections with the aid of joining processes such as welding, soldering or gluing. Particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, high demands are placed on the lines and connecting parts. This is especially true with regard to the sterility of the used elements. In addition, it is desirable if a fluid connection between two fluid lines can be easily produced and separated again in a simple manner, wherein the connecting elements nevertheless produce a particularly secure connection. A disadvantage of the solutions in the prior art is that classic fluid compounds, such as those mentioned above, reach their limits, since they are either intended for permanent use and therefore can not be dissolved again or have sufficiently high sterility during and after the sterilization Have mounting. In order to achieve adequate sterility, classical fluid compounds must be subjected to a special cleaning process after use, which makes use expensive and expensive and adversely affects the flexibility with respect to various fluids conveyed through the lines. In addition, the assembly of the classic fluid connections must be done in a sterile atmosphere to prevent the entry of dirt particles and contaminants, such as germs.

Presentation of the invention, object, solution, advantages

Therefore, it is the object of the present invention to provide a device for producing a fluid connection, which is improved over the prior art and in particular allows a simple way to connect fluid lines, wherein the connecting elements are preferably sterile and through them without the aid of tools to simple Way a germ-free compound can be generated. In addition, it is the object of the invention to provide a method which comprises the assembly of the device.

The object of the present invention is achieved by a device for producing a fluid connection with the features of claim 1. An embodiment of the invention relates to a device, in particular for generating a fluid connection, with a first connection element and a second connection element, wherein the two connection elements are substantially identical and are fluid-tightly interconnectable, each of the connection elements each having a flow channel, a connection region and a closure bracket, wherein the connection region has a connection surface having an opening which communicates with the flow channel in fluid communication is, wherein each connection element from the closure bracket of the respective other connection element is at least partially encompassed, wherein the connection surface is covered with a removable membrane, wherein at least the opening is completely covered by the membrane. The membrane is advantageously applied in an aseptic, ie germ-free environment, on the pad, so that both the pad and the flow channel and the sealant are germ-free. This has the particular advantage that even in a non-germ-free environment a safe and germ-free fluid connection between two connection elements can be produced. This is particularly advantageous for pharmaceutical and chemical applications.

The connection of the connecting elements can be done completely manually without the aid of tools. The compound is detachable again and can be replaced in a simple process. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the connection of the fluid lines to the connection element is releasable again.

The device is thus advantageously suitable for a time-limited single use. Due to the high flexibility and ease of assembly, as well as the ease of manufacture, the connection elements are particularly versatile and allow a connection of fluid lines in a small amount of time.

It is particularly advantageous if a plurality of first projections is provided laterally at the connection region and the closure clip is rotatably mounted on first projections, wherein at least some of the first projections can be grasped by the closure clip of the respective other connection element. The projections serve as an abutment in which the closure bracket can be attached. It is characterized given a fixation of the two connection elements together. It is also preferable if a sealing means is provided on the connection surface along the radial boundary of the opening.

The sealant ensures the fluid-tight connection. In addition, its design supports the connection process and the sterilization of the flow channels during the connection process. The design in particular provides for a projecting of the sealant beyond the connection surface, whereby a preload between the two sealing means of the connection elements can be generated during assembly. It is particularly advantageous if the connection surface has a groove running around the opening into which the sealing means can be inserted.

A groove is particularly advantageous for quickly and easily positioning the sealant.

Furthermore, it is preferable if the connection surface has second projections and recesses corresponding to the second projections.

These second projections and the recesses are particularly advantageous in order to position the two connection elements against each other.

It is also expedient if the second projections and / or the recesses are arranged on diagonally opposite corner regions of the connection surface. The arrangement of the second projections and the recesses on opposite corner regions is particularly advantageous in order to ensure easy connectivity of the connection elements with each other. Advantageously, in each case a second projection and a recess are arranged in the upper corner regions, wherein in each case a second projection and a recess opposite to the upper corner regions are advantageously arranged in the lower corner regions.

In addition, it is advantageous if the connection region is formed by a flat planar plate, which has an extension in two of the three spatial directions, which is greater than the extension of the plate in the third spatial direction.

Such a configuration of the attachment area is particularly advantageous in order to be able to advantageously position the necessary elements, such as, for example, the first projections, the second projections and the recesses, on the connection area.

In addition, it is expedient if the first projections are arranged on two opposite surfaces of the plate of the connection region, which run along the third spatial direction,

This makes it possible to arrange the shutter bracket so that they are rotatable about an axis around the connection area, whereby the connection is simplified.

Furthermore, it is preferable if a first latching lip is provided at the connection region and a second latching lip is provided.

The two locking lips are particularly advantageous so that a locking element, which is arranged on the handle element or on the closure bar, can engage there and the closure bar is fixed above it in different positions. This is particularly advantageous since, during the assembly process, advantageously least two firmly defined positions of the closure bracket are provided in order to enable a fluid-tight and germ-free connection.

It is also expedient if the closure bar of the first connection element can be latched to the first latching lip and / or on the second latching lip of the first connection element and the closure latch of the second connection element can be latched to the first latching lip and / or to the second latching lip of the second connection element is.

This latching of the closure clip to the respective locking lips of the own connection element is necessary to allow fixed positions in the assembly process, which are necessary to produce the fluid-tight and germ-free connection.

According to a particularly advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the first connection element with its connection surface can be placed on the connection surface of the second connection element, wherein the second projections of the first connection element are insertable into the recesses of the second connection element and the second projections of the second Connection element can be inserted into the recesses of the first connection element.

By placing the pads on each other, or the membranes on the pads to each other, the connecting elements are brought into contact with each other. The second projections are used with the recesses together positioning and fixing the connection elements against each other.

In addition, it is advantageous if two of the first projections of the first connection element can be gripped by the closure clip of the second connection element and two of the first projections of the second connection element can be grasped by the closure clip of the first connection element. The respectively encompassed first projections form abutments for the closure bar of the respective other connection element, this improves the fixation of the connection elements to one another.

It is also preferable if a fluid line can be connected to the end region of the flow channel facing away from the connection region.

This is advantageous in order to be able to flow through the connecting elements with a fluid. In this case, it is particularly advantageous if the connection between the fluid lines and the end region of the connection element is likewise detachable again and can be produced in a simple manner.

In addition, it is preferable if two first locking lips and two second locking lips are arranged on the connection region, wherein in each case a first locking lip and a second locking lip are arranged at opposite end regions of the connecting region.

This arrangement of the locking lips on the connection region is particularly advantageous in order to be able to use the connection element as independent of direction as possible. It is irrelevant to which of the first projections of the closure bracket is mounted, since both sides locking lips are provided. This makes the connection element universally applicable and easy to install.

It is also advantageous if the connection elements and / or the membrane and / or the sealing means are formed from a plastic.

A structure made of a plastic is particularly advantageous in terms of manufacturability. The available forming processes are particularly diverse for plastics. A production is also particularly favorable, which makes a one-time use of the connection elements economical. Plastic as a material is further advantageous in terms of sterility. It is also preferable if the connecting elements are designed punksymmetrisch to the central axis.

This is particularly advantageous in terms of a universal, direction-independent use of the connection elements.

Furthermore, it is expedient if the membrane is formed from a plastic such as polyethersulfone (PES).

An embodiment of a plastic and in particular of polyethersulfone makes the membrane particularly resistant. This is especially true for the resistance to chemicals, the impact resistance and the tear strength of the membrane. This is advantageous for the assembly process, the storage and transport of the connection elements with the applied membranes. In addition, plastics such as polyethersulfone are very temperature resistant and easy to keep germ-free.

It is also advantageous if the membrane is applied detachably on the connection surface again by a joining method, wherein the joining method is in particular an adhesive method and / or a welding method.

A releasable joining method is particularly advantageous since the membrane is to be removed again from the connection surface in the course of the assembly process. It is therefore particularly advantageous for the membrane to be detached from the connection surface without residue. The joining process is particularly advantageous if it allows the production of a germ-free compound.

In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the contact area between the membrane and the connection surface and / or the sealant and / or the flow channel are germ-free. A germ-free contact region is particularly advantageous, since in this way an overall germ-free connection of the connecting elements can be produced with one another. In this way, also the flow channel can be kept germ-free. In particular, the connection surfaces are preferably kept germ-free, so that no contamination of the fluid, which can flow through the fluid connection, take place.

The object of the method is achieved by a method having the features of claim 18. An embodiment of the invention relates to a method for connecting the two connecting elements with one another, wherein the following steps are carried out: a) aligning the first connecting element and the second connecting element relative to one another so that the respective connecting surfaces are opposite one another and aligned parallel to one another, wherein the openings of the Connecting surfaces are in a common flight,

b) turning a connection element through 180 degrees around the third spatial direction or the center axis of the flow channel, c) placing the connection surfaces or the membranes on the connection surfaces on each other, wherein the second projections of the first connection element are inserted into the recesses of the second connection element and the second projections of the second connection element are inserted into the recesses of the first connection element,

d) start of the closing operation, wherein the closure clips are rotated about the respective first projections, which serve as a bearing for the respective closure clip, e) interruption of the closing operation after the locking clips are engaged on the first locking lip of their respective connecting element,

f) removing the membranes from the connection elements,

g) continuing the closing operation by further twisting the locking clip about their respective storage,

h) completing the closing operation after the closure clips are engaged on the second locking lip of their respective connection element. The method is particularly advantageous because the connection elements are easily aligned with each other. The connection elements can be used independently of direction. By closing the closure clip until the first latching position, a first fixation of the connection elements to one another is achieved. At this point, the sealants are located across the membranes in a preloaded plant. Pulling out the diaphragms in this state causes the sealant to be pulled out into direct contact with each other to the same extent as the membrane is pulled out. It is guaranteed at all times a complete germ-free sealing of the enclosed area of the sealants. By continuing the closing operation up to the second locking position, the final connection state is achieved, wherein in this state the pressure on the sealing means is further increased by pulling the connection elements together. The drawing is achieved in particular by the shape of the closure bracket or the arcuate arm of the closure bracket.

It is also preferable if the end regions of the flow channels facing away from the connection region are each connected to a fluid line before the connection process begins. The connection of the fluidic connections to the respective connection elements before the connection process is particularly advantageous, since in this way the mechanical loads acting on the connection can be minimized,

Advantageous developments of the present invention are described in the subclaims and in the following description of the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the following, the invention is explained in detail by means of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the drawings show:

1 is a perspective view of a fluid connection, which is produced from two identical connection elements, wherein the connection without the aid of tools in a simple manner can be produced and released,

2 shows an exploded view of a connection element, wherein additionally a sealing means inserted in a groove in the connection surface is shown as well as a membrane which covers the connection surface and the opening of the flow channel and keeps germ-free,

3 is a detail view of the upper connecting portion of a connecting element, wherein the locking bar is shown in a first basic position corresponding to an open position, a side view of two oppositely disposed connecting elements, wherein one of the connecting elements along the central axis of its flow channel is rotated by 180 degrees and the closure clips of both connection elements are positioned in the open basic position according to FIG. 3,

5 shows a sectional view of the connecting elements according to FIG. 4, wherein the section runs through the center axis of the flow channels aligned with one another, FIG.

6 is a detailed view of the upper connecting portion of the two connecting elements, wherein the two membranes are brought in the representation in abutment with each other and the lock bracket has been rotated to a second position, which corresponds to a first latching position,

7 is a side view of the two brought into contact connection elements, wherein the lock straps are positioned in a position shown in FIG. 6,

8 shows a sectional view of the connection elements according to FIG. 7, the sectional plane running along the center axis of the flow channels, FIG.

9 shows a detailed view of the upper connecting region of the two connecting elements, wherein the membranes have been removed from the connecting surfaces and the sealing means inserted in the grooves of the connecting surface are pretensioned with one another under pretension,

10 shows a side view of the two connection elements according to FIG. 9 without the diaphragms with the closure clips in the first latching position, FIG. 11 shows a sectional view according to FIG. 10, the sectional plane running along the center axes of the flow channels, a detailed view of the upper connection region of the two connection elements, wherein the closure clip is further rotated in a third position, which corresponds to a second latching position, FIG.

13 is a side view of the two connection elements according to FIG.

12, the closure brackets are fixed in the second locking position, and a fluid-tight and germ-free fluid compound is generated, and a sectional view through the two connection elements according to the FIG. 13 _"with the cutting plane along the center axis of the flow channels extends.

Preferred embodiment. the invention

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a device 1, which in particular represents a fluid connection.

The device 1 is essentially formed from two connection elements 2 which are connected to one another in a fluid-tight manner and preferably aseptically. The reference numerals used in FIG. 1 are further used via the following FIGS. 2 to 14 and, if appropriate, supplemented by new reference symbols for newly added elements. The description of the elements shown in FIGS. 1 to 14 relates in each case to one of the connecting elements 2. The second connecting element 2 is in each case formed identically to this first one. The two connection elements 2 are only rotated by 180 degrees to each other. The connection element 2 has a flow channel 3 and a closure clip 4, which is arranged on a connection region 5 The closure clip

4 is rotatable about first projections 6, which laterally on the connection area

5 are arranged, stored. For this purpose, at least one first projection 6 is arranged both on the side facing the viewer and on the side of the connection region 5 facing away from the observer. In the exemplary embodiment shown, two mutually spaced first projections 6 are arranged on each of the two sides.

The lower in Fig. 1 first projection 6 of the right connection element 2 serves as an abutment for the lock bracket 4 of the left-hand connection element 2. Similarly, the upper first projection 6 of the left connection element 2 serves as an abutment for the lock bracket 4 of the right connection element. 2

The closure bracket 4 has a U-shaped design. At the base of the U-shaped closure clip 4, a grip element 8 is arranged, which can be used to rotate the closure clip 4 by its bearing on the first projection 6.

The flow channel 3 essentially has three sections. On the left, a funnel-shaped region 9 is arranged, which is in direct contact with the connection region 5. The flow channel 3 tapers with increasing distance from the connection region 5. Finally, the flow channel 3 merges into a cylindrical region 10, which finally merges into a region which is arranged on the end region 7 facing away from the connection region 5. The end region 7 is designed in such a way that, in particular, fluid lines, such as, for example, pipelines, can be connected to the end region 7. For this purpose, the end region 7 has a peripheral shoulder on which, for example, clamping elements, such as hose clamps can be fixed. The end portion 7 can be dimensioned in different versions in each case according to the fluid line to be connected. Among others are For example, circular cross sections are useful for connecting 1/4 "pipes, 3/8" pipes, 1/2 "pipes or 5/8" pipes. Alternatively, hoses and other flexible fluid lines can be connected instead of rigid piping. Other cross-sectional shapes of the end region 7 can also be provided in alternative embodiments. Depending on the fluid lines to be used, connection elements 2 with different end regions 7 can also be used.

1, an assembly of two connection elements 2 is shown. The connection is produced by the closure of the closure clip 4 about the respective first projections 6, which serve as abutments for the respective closure clip 4.

In particular, the flow channel 3, the connection region 5 and the closure clip 4 are advantageously made of a plastic, such as a polycarbonate (PC). The connecting elements 2 are therefore able to be produced, in particular in an injection molding process or in other shaping materials common to plastic materials. This makes the production particularly inexpensive and easy, whereby the unit price of the connection elements 2 can be minimized. 2 shows an exploded view of the right connection element 2. In addition to the elements already described in FIG. 1, in particular the connection surface 21 can be seen in FIG. 2, which faces the respective other connection element 2. In the connection surface 21, an annular groove 22 is arranged, which extends at the radial boundaries of an opening 29. This groove 22 serves to receive a sealant 20, which is shown in Fig. 2 with a distance from the connection element 2. The sealant 20 is advantageously a molded part made of a liquid rubber (LSR Liquid Silicone Rubber). Other materials are providable in alternative embodiments. The groove 22 is formed such that when the sealant 20 is inserted in the groove 22, the sealing means 20 protrudes slightly beyond the connection surface 21. This serves in particular the generation of a bias voltage between the sealing means 20 of the two connection elements 2 in the assembly process.

The connection surface 21 also has two second projections 25 as well as two recesses 26. The recesses are arranged on diagonally opposite corner areas in the top left and bottom right. The second projections 25 are correspondingly arranged on the other diagonally opposite corner areas below left and top right. The second projections 25 and the recesses 26 serve to position the two connection elements 2 against each other. The connection region 5 is essentially formed from a cuboid base body, which has an extent in the first spatial direction 32 and the second spatial direction 33, which is greater than the extent in the third spatial direction 34. The three spatial directions 32, 33 and 34 are in 2 represented by a coordinate system. The third spatial direction 34 extends parallel to the central axis of the flow channel 3, which is referred to in the following figures as the central axis 31.

The first projections 6 are arranged in particular on the opposite lateral surfaces of the connection region 5, which lie in the plane of the first spatial direction 32 and the third spatial direction 34. The structure of the connecting element 2 and in particular the flow channel 3 and the connection region 5 with its projections 6, 25 and recesses 26 is point-symmetrical to the central axis of the flow channel 3. At the upper end region of the connection region 5, a first latching lip 23 and a second latching lip 24 are shown in FIG. 2. In this case, the second latching lip 24 is formed on a surface of the connection region 5, which extends along the second spatial direction 33 and the third spatial direction 34. The first locking lip 23 is connected via an arm at the connection area 5. The arm is thereby based on a surface which runs parallel to the connection surface 21 and is arranged on the side of the interference region 5 facing the end region 7. The connection region 5 furthermore has a first latching lip 23 and a second latching lip 24 at the lower end region. The lower locking lips 23 and 24 are analogous to the upper locking lips 23, 24 are arranged. This results in particular from the point symmetry about the central axis of the flow channel 3.

To the left of the sealing means 20, the closure clip 4 is shown. From FIG. 2 it can be seen that the closure bar 4 has a U-shaped construction, wherein a handle element 8 is arranged on the upwardly directed base of the closure bar 4. This grip element 8 serves to actuate the closure clip 4 and is particularly advantageous, since manual operation of the closure clip 4 is facilitated by the grip element 8.

At the two opposite webs of the U-shaped portion of the closure clip 4 are each a bore 27 and a latch 12 and a latch 13 are arranged. The bores 27 serve to receive in each case a first projection 6, as a result of which the closure clip 4 is rotatably mounted on the connection region 5.

The locking lugs 12 and 13 are arranged on an arcuate arm 1 1. The arcuate arm 1 1 thus generates a receiving area between the opposite webs of the U-shaped closure clip 4 and the top of the arcuate. Arms 1 1, in which a corresponding first projection 6 of the respective other Anschlußseseiementes 2 can be accommodated. Here, the locking lugs 12 and 13 are formed such that the arcuate arm 1 1 can be held in two different positions on each used as an abutment first projection 6.

Due to the shape of the arcuate arm 11, twisting of the closure clip 4 results in the connection elements 2 being attracted to one another. This increases the pressure on the sealing means 20 and leads to a fluid-tight contact of the connection surfaces 21 to each other. The arcuate arm 1 1 is in particular, formed so _'that is reduced by a rotation of the closure strap 4 around the rotational axis, the distance between the first projections 6 of the two connection elements. 2

The left of the lock strap 4 is arranged _»which orzug as s- is made of a plastic, a membrane 28th Advantageously, this plastic is a polyethersulfone (PES).

In an assembly of this connection element 2, the closure clip 4 is rotatably mounted on the upper first projections 6 and the sealing means 20 is inserted into the groove 22. The membrane 28 is applied in an assembly on the pad 21. For this purpose, it can for example be welded or glued.

In this case, it is particularly advantageous if the membrane 28 is applied in an aseptic working space to the likewise aseptically held connection element 2. In this way it can be ensured that both the connection surface 21 and the interior of the flow channel 3 remain aseptic, ie germ-free. The end region 7 can likewise be provided with a membrane-like material or an end cap, so that the entire inner flow channel 3 can be kept germ-free.

Such germ-free design of the connection element 2 is particularly advantageous for an application of the connection element 2 in a pharmaceutical application.

3 shows a detailed sectional view of the upper end region _" in particular of the connection region 5 of the connection element 2. The closure clip 4 is folded to the right and is in an open position. At the handle element 8 facing away from surface of the closure clip 4, a latching element 30 is arranged. This latching element serves for latching the closure clip 4 behind the first latching lip 23 or the second latching lip 24. The individual positions NEN of the closure clip 4 are explained in detail in the following figures.

In particular, the arrangement of the sealant 20 within the groove 22 can be seen in the sectional view. In Fig. 3 it can be further seen that the sealing means 20 projects slightly beyond the connection surface 21.

Furthermore, in FIG. 3, the membrane 28 is shown, which is applied to the connection surface 21 and thereby covers not only the opening 29 but also the sealing means 20. 4 shows two connecting elements 2, which are arranged opposite each other. The two connection surfaces 21 are each aligned parallel to each other and the central axes 31 of the flow channels 3 and the openings 29 are in alignment with each other. The left connection element 2 is rotated by 180 degrees about the third spatial direction 34, which runs parallel to the central axis 31, so that the connection bracket 4 is directed at the left connection element 2 downwards.

Due to the identical construction of the two connection elements 2, such a rotation ensures that the second projections 25 of the left connection element 2 engage in the recesses 26 of the right connection element 2 and vice versa. The projections 25 and the recesses 26 thus serve in particular the positioning and fixing of the two connection elements 2 against each other in the assembly process. FIG. 4 shows a representation in which both closing stirrups 4 are completely opened. The membranes 28 are still applied to the pads 21 here.

FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of the arrangement of the connecting elements 2, as has already been shown in FIG. 4. In the sectional view can be seen particularly that the respective connecting bracket are still in their starting position and neither the locking lugs 12 and 13 nor the locking element 30 are engaged in their respective abutments. 5

FIG. 8 shows an arrangement in which the two connection elements 2 are positioned on one another such that the connection surfaces 21 or the membranes 28 rest on one another and the second projections 25 engage in the corresponding recesses 26. Furthermore, it is shown in Fig. 6 that the Verschlüssl e ironing 4 was rotated by an actuation on the handle member 8 upwards counterclockwise about the upper first projections 6.

The locking clip 4 has been rotated in such a counterclockwise direction that the locking element 30 has been led beyond the first locking lip 23 and of

15 of this locking lip 23 is supported. The latching lip 23 is in particular designed such that it has an insertion bevel, on which the latching element 30 can slide along coming from the right until it is finally passed over the locking lip 23. Due to the design of the connecting elements 2 made of a plastic, the material has a sufficiently high degree of flexibility to allow a passing of the latching element 30 on the first latching lip 23.

Furthermore, it can be seen in FIG. 6 that both sealing means 20 protrude slightly beyond the connection surface 21. Fig. 7 shows a side view of the two locking elements in a position as already shown in Fig. 6. In addition to FIG. 6, it can be seen in FIG. 7 that the arcuate arm 11 with its first detent 12 now engages behind the respective abutment formed by the first projection 6 of the respective other connection element 2. The locking clip 4 is thus held by a fixation over 0, the locking lug 12 on the first projection 6 and a fixation of the locking element 30 to the first locking lip 23 in the position shown in Fig. 7.

8 shows a sectional view along the central axis 31 of the flow channel 3 according to the representation of FIG. 7. In FIG. 8, in particular, the latching 5 of the latching element 30 can be seen behind the latching lip 23. FIG. 9 shows a detailed sectional view of the upper region of the connection of the two connection elements 2 according to FIG. 6. In contrast to FIG. 6, the two membranes 28 have been pulled out of the region between the connection elements 2. In Fig. 9 it can be seen that the two sealing elements 20 due to the fact that they each stand slightly beyond the respective terminal surface 21, already in abutment with each other and the connection elements 2 each seal against each other.

By withdrawing the membrane 28, only the opening 29 of the flow channel 3 is released. Due to the fact that the sealing means 20 were already stored in the production process below the membrane 28 and were completely covered by the membrane 28, the sealing means 20 are completely germ-free. By bringing the two sealing means 20 into contact with each other and removing the membrane 28, the region which is enclosed by the sealing means 20 remains germ-free.

FIG. 10 shows an overall view of the two connection elements 2 in a state as already shown in FIG. 9. The latching lugs 12 of the arcuate arm 11 are in each case still in abutment with the first projections 6 of the respective other connection element 2 and the latching element 30 of the closure bar 4 is still in abutment with the first latching lip 23.

Fig. 1 1 shows a sectional view through the arrangement shown in Fig. 10. In Fig. 1 1 can be seen in particular that the second projections 25 engage in the corresponding recesses 26 of the respective other connection element 2. Furthermore, the germ-free area formed by the sealing means 20 between the connection surfaces 21 and the two flow channels 3 can be seen.

FIG. 12 shows a detailed sectional view through the upper region of the connection of the two connecting elements 2, wherein the locking clip 4 of the connecting element 2 is locked in its end position. For this purpose, the closure clip 4 is further turned counterclockwise via an actuation on the handle element 8. has been rotated, whereby the locking element 30 has been moved past the second locking lip 24 and is held by the locking lip 24 there.

Furthermore, it can be seen in FIG. 12 that the two sealing means 20 are now arranged under pressure in the opposing grooves 22. This pressure on the sealing means 20 is produced in particular by the dimensioning of the respective sealing means 20. The more strongly the projection of the sealing means is formed over the connecting surface 21 in the unassembled state, the stronger the pressure prevailing in the mounted state. FIG. 13 shows an overall view of the two connected connection elements 2, wherein the respective closure clips 4 are in a position corresponding to that of FIG. 12. In addition, it can be seen in Fig. 13 that the arcuate arm 1 1 is engaged with its second latching lug 13 on the first projection 6 of the respective other connection element 2. The locking clip 4 is thus effectively held by the latching of the latching lug 13 on the first projection 6 and by the latching of the latching element 30 on the second latching lip 24 already shown in FIG. 12.

Finally, FIG. 14 shows a sectional view through an arrangement according to FIG

Fig. 13.

It can be seen that the two flow channels 3 are now completely fluid-tight and germ-tight connected to each other. It is thus formed along the two flow channels 3, a fluid flow path. The closure clips 4 are respectively engaged on the latching elements 30 on the second locking lip 24.

The elements described in the preceding figures respectively for the right connection element 2 and the movement of the closure clip 4 apply analogously analogously to the left connection element and its closure clip 4. FIGS. 2 to 14 show, in particular, that the connection elements 2 are each one the central axis 31 point-symmetrical structure. Of the Due to the formation of both first locking lips 23 and second locking lips 24 at the upper and at the lower end region of the connection region 5 and the arrangement of the second projections 25 or recesses 26 on the connection surface 21 and the arrangement of the first projections 6 on the lateral surfaces of the connection region 5, a direction-independent use of the respective connection element 2 is possible.

The connecting elements 2 shown in FIGS. 1 to 14 form a fluid connection in the connected state, which is also referred to in the jargon as hermaphrodite. A hermaphrodite is a connection of two identical plugs or connecting elements with each other. Such compounds have the particular advantage that they can be produced without much effort and use only identical parts. Therefore, no special pairing of, for example, male and female plugs or connecting parts must be made.

The achieved by the connection elements 2 fluid connection can be achieved without the use of tools. The closure clips 4 can each be actuated by a manual operation. The section through the connection elements 2 shown in FIGS. 5, 8, 11 and 14 shows that the flow channel 3 corresponding to the outer sections 9 and 10, which form a funnel-shaped region 9 and a cylindrical region 10, is located inside the respective connection elements 2 extends. In the illustrated examples, the flow channel 3 each has a circular cross-section. In alternative embodiments, however, a shaping deviating from this is foreseeable.

The features shown in FIGS. 1 to 14 can each be combined with each other. The illustrations of FIGS. 1 to 14 have no limiting character. In particular with regard to the geometric design, the dimensions and the position nierung the individual elements to each other, the figures have no restrictive effect. They serve only to clarify the inventive idea.

Claims

Patent claims

1. Device (1), in particular for generating a fluid connection, with a first connection element (2) and a second connection element (2), wherein the two connection elements (2) are essentially identical and can be connected to one another in a fluid-tight manner, each of which Connection elements (2) each have a flow channel (3), a connection area (5) and a closure bracket (4), the connection area (5) having a connection surface (21) which has an opening (29) which is connected to the flow channel ( 3) is in fluid communication, wherein each connection element (2) can be at least partially encompassed by the closure bracket (4) of the other connection element (2), characterized in that the connection surface (21) is covered with a removable membrane (28), wherein at least the opening (29) is completely covered by the membrane (28).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of first projections (6) are provided on the side of the connection area (5) and the locking bracket (4) is rotatably mounted on first projections (6), at least some of which first projections (6) can be encompassed by the locking bracket (4) of the other connecting element (2),

3. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sealant (20) is provided on the connection surface (21) along the radial boundary of the opening (29}.

4. Device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the connection surface (21) has a groove (22) running around the opening (29), into which the sealant (20) can be inserted.

5. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection surface (21) has second projections (25) and with has recesses (26) corresponding to the second projections (25).

6. Device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the second projections (25) and / or the recesses (26) are arranged on diagonally opposite corner regions of the connection surface (21).

7. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection area (5) is formed by a flat, flat plate which has an extension in two of the three spatial directions (32, 33) that is greater than the extension of the plate into the third

Spatial direction (34).

8. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first projections (6) are arranged on two opposite surfaces of the plate of the connection area (5), which run along the third spatial direction (34).

9. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first locking lip (23) is provided on the connection area (5) and a second locking lip (24) is provided.

10. Device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the locking bracket (4) of the first connection element (2) can be snapped into place on the first locking lip (23) and/or on the second locking lip (24) of the first connection element (2). and the locking bracket (4) of the second connection element (2) can be snapped into place on the first latching lip (23) and/or on the second latching lip (24) of the second connection element (2).

1 1 . Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first connection element (2) has its connection surface (21) on the connection surface (21) of the second connection element (2). can be placed, wherein the second projections (25) of the first connection element (2) can be inserted into the recesses (26) of the second connection element (2) and the second projections (25) of the second connection element (2) can be inserted into the recesses (26) of the first connection element (2) can be inserted.

12. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two of the first projections (6) of the first connection element (2) can be encompassed by the locking bracket (4) of the second connection element (2) and two of the first projections (6 ) of the second connection element (2) can be encompassed by the locking bracket (4) of the first connection element (2).

13. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two first latching lips (23) and two second latching lips (24) are arranged on the connection area (5), each having a first latching lip (23) and a second latching lip ( 24) are arranged at opposite end regions of the connection area (5).

14. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting elements (2) are designed point-symmetrically to the central axis (31).

1 5. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane (28) is formed from a plastic such as polyethersulfone (PES).

16. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane (28) is releasably applied to the connection surface (21) by a joining process, the joining process being in particular an adhesive process and/or a welding process.

1 / Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact area between the membrane (28) and the connection surface (21) and / or the sealant (20) and / or the flow channel (3) are germ-free.

18. A method for connecting the two connection elements (2) to one another, characterized in that the following steps are carried out: a) aligning the first connection element (2) and the second connection element (2) against one another so that the respective connection surfaces (21) are aligned with one another lie opposite each other and are aligned parallel to one another, the openings (29) of the connection surfaces (21) being in common alignment,

b) rotating a connection element (2) by 180 degrees around the third spatial direction (34) or the central axis (31) of the flow channel (3), c) placing the connection surfaces (2) or the membranes (28) on the connection surfaces ( 21) on top of each other, the second projections (25) of the first connection element (2) being inserted into the recesses (26) of the second connection element (2) and the second projections (25) of the second connection element (2) being inserted into the recesses (26). the first connection element (2) can be inserted,

d) Starting the closing process, the locking brackets (4) being twisted around the respective first projections (6), which serve as bearings for the respective locking bracket (4),

e) interruption of the closing process after the locking brackets (4) have snapped into place on the first locking lip (23) of their respective connecting element (2),

f) removing the membranes (28) from the connecting elements (2), g) continuing the closing process by further turning the locking brackets (4) around their respective bearings, Completing the closing process after the locking brackets (4) have snapped into place on the second locking lip (24) of their respective connecting element (2).