Essential Catch Patents (Class 285/305)
  • Publication number: 20120133127
    Abstract: A threaded adapter is part of a quick-to-connect and quick-to-disconnect flexible hose coupling system. The adapter may provide a low-profile securement and seal between the port and the stem portion of the quick connect coupling. The adapter in combination with the fluid valve block orifice provides a seal that is further down in the valve block that the location of seals provided by other fluid couplings. Without a reliance on wrenching flats, the adapter is also provides effective access to the hoses for repair and therefore is a cost saving device. The adapter may be a safe, reliable, easy to connect and disconnect component in a hydraulic system and is adaptable to accommodate any coupling including those in high and low pressure fluid and other systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Donald R. Gilbreath, Jonathan Clark Swift
  • Patent number: 8181997
    Abstract: A water hose connector assembly has a main body, an elastic snapper seat, a sleeve and a pipe locking ring. A plurality of oblique guide blocks are formed on a tubular portion of the main body. The oblique guide blocks have an oblique guide surface. An elastic snapper seat has a C-shaped chassis and a plurality of elastic claws. The chassis is received in slots at a bottom of the oblique guide blocks. Elastic pushers are formed onto an inner wall of the sleeve and aligned with the oblique guide blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Hsin-Fa Wang
  • Publication number: 20120104748
    Abstract: A venturi adapter is provided and includes a first collar having an inward projection, a second collar having an outward projection and a shoulder defining an aperture extending between opposing axial faces thereof and having an axial projection, the first and second collars extending in opposing axial directions from the shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Jason Cristoffer Welch
  • Patent number: 8167339
    Abstract: There is provided a resin tube-equipped quick connector capable of connecting a fuel-transporting resin tube to a mating pipe without hindrance even if the resin tube has a small diameter. The quick connector is constructed such that it includes a connector body having a press-fitting portion, and a retainer. On the other hand, a press-fit undergoing portion of the resin tube into which the press-fitting portion is to be press-fitted is beforehand expanded in tube diameter prior to the press-fitting, and the press-fitting portion is press-fitted into the expanded press-fit undergoing portion in a withdrawal-preventing condition to provide the quick connector equipped with the resin tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignees: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuichi Yagisawa, Yasuaki Nagai, Kazuhiro Kato, Hirokazu Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20120091706
    Abstract: A pipe connector constructed in the interior of a joint pipe. In the pipe connector, an O-ring made of a flexible rubber, a stop ring which is in tight contact with and supports the outer circumference of the pipe inserted into the joint pipe, and an elastic stopper are installed in sequence such that the pipe connector can be pressed and fixed to the outer circumference of the pipe, which is inserted into and connected to the joint pipe, in order to provide air tightness and water tightness to the pipe. Consequently, the pipe is inserted into the joint pipe with one touch without being detached or dislodged, is coupled such that water tightness can be maintained, and is separated by pressure in the direction in which the pipe proceeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: LUCKY TECH CO.,LTD.
    Inventor: Jong Hwan KIM
  • Patent number: 8157296
    Abstract: A connector device comprising a connector socket, a connector housing, and a connector plug. In an embodiment, the connector socket and connector plug may be configured so that they can be formed, for example, on pipe ends in a cold-forming process. The connector housing may be a plastic part that can be produced in an injection-molding process. Detent elements may secure the connector housing to the connector socket. The connector plug in turn may secure the detent elements in a locked position, so that the connector housing cannot become detached from the connector socket as long as the connector plug remains in the socket. A locking ring can secure the connector plug in the connector housing. The locking ring can, if necessary or desired, be located and configured in such a way that it can be moved into a release position with a tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Fluid Power GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Ullrich, Daniel Buchmuller, Stefan Welle, Holger Ullrich
  • Publication number: 20120086197
    Abstract: A connecting element for a fluid connection having a housing that includes an insert region structured and arranged to axially receive a plug connector and a latching element, structured and arranged to latch the plug connector, being moveable in relation to the housing via an axial pulling movement between a first position and a second position. The connecting element also includes a safety element. In the second position, the latching element unblocks at least one space that is fillable by the safety element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: NORMA GERMANY GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas BAUER, Marc RASTETTER, Stephan MANN
  • Publication number: 20120086201
    Abstract: A detachable hose coupling includes a generally cylindrical female piece and a male piece having a first end of a size and configuration to permit insertion into the female piece and seat at a fixed point within the female piece, the male piece having a second end for connection to a hose and having a flange collar extending radially outward from the second end and which is longitudinally displaced a predetermined distance from an end of the female piece when said first end of the male piece is completely connected and seated within said female piece, and wherein the flange collar is provided with opposing flats. The female piece includes a notch in one end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Stevenson Murken
  • Patent number: 8146956
    Abstract: A coupling for a connector for fluid pipes includes a female base in which a male end-piece is inserted to produce a sealed connection. An elastically deformable C-shaped metal wire spring immobilizes the end-piece in the base. A locking sleeve is movable axially around the spring and the base between a first axial position in which the spring can deform radially towards the outside of the base, and a second axial position prohibiting the radial deformation of the spring. The sleeve has at least one radial interior recess into which the spring retracts when deformed by the end-piece in the first position. Each recess is offset axially with respect to the spring in the second position, preventing the radial deformation of the spring and thereby safeguarding the sealed connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventor: Jérome Chaupin
  • Publication number: 20120074146
    Abstract: In a female connector 15 of the present invention, a surface of an engagement wall 217 facing an engagement tab 14 when the female connector 15 is connected to a male connector 10 includes an inclined surface 222 which the engagement tab 14 mounts in a sliding direction of the engagement tab 14 with respect to the engagement wall 217 during the connection between the female connector 15 and the male connector 10. Further, in a male connector 30 of the present invention, a surface of the engagement tab 34 opposed to the engagement wall 417 when the female connector 35 is connected to the male connector 30 includes an inclined surface 34a which the engagement wall 417 mounts in a sliding direction of the engagement wall 417 with respect to the engagement tab 34 when during the connection between the female connector 35 and the male connector 30.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: JMS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takahiko Kunishige, Yoshihiko Kobashi
  • Patent number: 8141914
    Abstract: A water-conducting household appliance includes a water-conducting line having a line end which is connected in a connecting position to a connecting piece, and a securing element which attaches onto the line end and the connecting piece and holds the line end in the connecting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Haltmayer, Mathias Herrmann, Stefan Kasbauer, Claus Köther, Martin Weissenburger
  • Publication number: 20120066886
    Abstract: A quick-connecting coupler for connecting hoses, connectors together or to a faucet or other water accessories that allows ease of use by anyone, including the elderly, the infirm, and those suffering from disabilities. The quick-connecting coupler has a first male-end and a second female end. The second female end is provided with of spaced-apart through-slots or opening for receiving therethrough a pair of forks or leg-sections of a yoke. Each of the pair of forks or leg-sections is provided with at least one interior-facing linear thread or rib for engaging with the male threads of the mating male end of another hose, or the like. The second female end of the coupler of the invention has a pair diametrically opposed cutouts through which portions of the linear threads or ribs are exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: Gerald Cronley
  • Publication number: 20120061953
    Abstract: A quick release connector has a body, a sealing valve and an outer sleeve. The body is hollow, is manufactured as a single piece and has a connecting end, a holding end, an air inlet chamber, a mounting recess, an air outlet chamber, multiple ball holes, multiple releasing holes, a returning spring and multiple balls. The sealing valve is movably mounted in the body. The sealing valve selectively abuts a sealing ring of the body and has an external surface, a closed end, an open end, at lease one air inlet and a pressing ring. The outer sleeve is slidably mounted around the body and has a mounting end, a pushing end, an internal surface, a spring recess, an abutting recess, a holding recess and a pressing spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: HSIU-HSIUNG LIU
  • Publication number: 20120056419
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pipe coupling for connecting the ends of two tubular conduits comprising: an annular gasket arrangement comprising: an annular ring for straddling two such conduit ends, wherein the annular ring is formed with a pair inwardly facing annular recesses; and a pair of annular sealing elements each located in a corresponding one of the annular recesses and each for sealing around a corresponding one of two such conduit ends; and a casing arrangement comprising a plurality of casing elements connected together by fixing elements so as to surround the gasket arrangement, wherein the casing arrangement comprises a pair of radially inwardly extending projection arrangements, each projection arrangement for engaging an annular groove formed in each such conduit end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: COUPLING TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventor: Paul Anthony Davidson
  • Publication number: 20120046654
    Abstract: A device for the sealing connection of a pressure hose with a grip element of a surgical instrument. The device comprising at least one sealing element that, in an assembled state, is interposed between the grip element and the pressure hose in a connecting region to create a seal. A support element is provided and arranged in the connecting region in the interior of the pressure hose such that the sealing element is clamped, or can be clamped, between the support element and the pressure hose on one side and the grip element on the other side. In addition, a handle for a surgical device, in particular a cryogenic surgical instrument, comprising a grip element for holding the surgical instrument and comprising at least one pressure hose that is connected, or can be connected, with the grip element via the device for the sealing connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Hansjörg Besch, Markus Amann, Christian Sick
  • Publication number: 20120037247
    Abstract: A rapid-connect gas coupler is shown and described herein. In an embodiment, the rapid-connect gas coupler includes a spring-loaded probe within a probe cavity, which is defined by a housing and one or more latch segment. The probe can engage with a gas connector, which causes the latch segment to engage and couple with the gas connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: MACRO TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Howard M. Konishi
  • Publication number: 20120038149
    Abstract: A releasable nut-free C-clip secured pipe fitting includes a pipe to be jointed, a C-clip, a sealing ring, and a pipe fitting. The pipe has a jointed end forming a circumferential groove for receiving the C-clip. The C-clip is a ring like member having an opening, which allows for expansion and contraction of the C-clip so as to allow the C-clip to be disposed in a converging surface formed on an inside wall of the pipe fitting. The sealing ring is received in a sealing ring groove defined in the inside wall of the pipe fitting. The pipe fitting has a tube end forming a holding bore having an inside diameter smaller than a diameter of the converging surface. The tube end of the pipe fitting forms openings through which a tool can extend into the pipe fitting to contract the C-clip for releasing the C-clip and the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: MING-YI LEE
  • Patent number: 8113546
    Abstract: A latching female tubing coupler comprises an opening, a collet finger, and an actuation member. The opening is adapted to guide a male connector along a first line of action as the male connector passes into the opening to be received within the latching female tubing coupler. The collet finger includes an engagement feature adapted to engage a coupling feature of the male connector and displace along a second line of action generally normal to the first line of action. The actuator member is adapted to displace along a third line of action generally normal to the first and second lines of action in order to disengage the engagement feature from the coupling feature of the male connector. When the engagement feature is engaged with the coupling feature on a male connector, a fluid conduit of the male connector is held in fluid communication with a fluid conduit of the latching female tubing coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Value Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jensen, James D. Pisula, Jr., Ralph E. Burns, Raymond Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
  • Patent number: 8113549
    Abstract: A coupling part (1) for a fluid line coupling is provided with a locking element for locking in place a plug-in part that is to be introduced into the coupling (1), and with a checking element (8) to verify proper locking of the plug-in part. The checking element (8) is equipped with axially flexible spring arms (11, 12), which comprise an engagement structure (14, 15) devised to engage with a latching structure (15), and which, in a first checking position, block the checking element (8) from shifting into a second checking position if the plug-in part is not properly locked. After the second checking position has been assumed, as a result of the actuation by the plug-in part of an actuating structure formed on each spring arm (11, 12), the checking element (8) is out of engagement with the plug-in part, and it is therefore possible to remove the plug-in part from the coupling part in the second checking position of the checking part (8), as well, by actuating the locking element (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventors: Sven Bokühn, Axel Feger, Bernd Grünmüller, Daniel Utz, Patrick Borderie, Jacques Boyer
  • Patent number: 8113548
    Abstract: A quick connector coupling to releasably connect a rigid tube into a hollow body component bore with a resilient seal member creating a fluid tight seal. A seat member retainer includes legs abutting the body component. It includes an insertion sleeve that receives the axial insertion forces to insert the seal member retainer into the bore. A protective cap is arranged to contain preassembled seal and retainer components for assembly onto the rigid tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen Gunderson
  • Publication number: 20120012074
    Abstract: A coupling device for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line may include a first connecting piece having a first outer latching contour on its outside and may be connected to at least one of the first fluid line and the first outer latching contour. The coupling device may also include a second connecting piece having a second outer latching contour on its outside and being connected to at least one of the second fluid line and the second outer latching contour. A sleeve may also be provided in which both connecting pieces may be inserted on opposite ends thereof. The sleeve may have inner latching contours on its inner side, the inner latching contours being complementary to the outer latching contours and latching with the outer latching contours when the connecting pieces are inserted. The sleeve may be enclosed by a protective cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Helge Adrian, Sjard Potscher
  • Patent number: 8087702
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a dialysate port of a dialyzer with a dialysate-carrying line and a dialyzer. The connector has a recess with a shift element on the end which accommodates the dialyzer port. The shift element is accommodated in the recess and is displaceable between a first position and a second position perpendicular to the direction of the lumen on the first end. The shift element does not pass through the lumen in the first position. In the second position, the lumen is constricted so that the connector with the shift element can be placed on the dialysate port and the connector locked on the dialysate port through engagement of the shift element behind an undercut on the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110304135
    Abstract: A wet-mateable connector for making a connection underwater comprises a male component 10 having a male pin 14 and a female component 20 having a female socket 24 for receiving the male pin. The male component has a male wiper seal assembly 16 which moves between a decoupled and a coupled position during coupling of the male component 10 and female component 20 so as to wipe at least a portion of the male pin 14. A latch 42a, 48 is provided which is arranged to latch the male wiper seal assembly 16 to the female component 20 during coupling such that when the male and female components are decoupled, the male wiper seal assembly 16 is returned to the decoupled position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: RMSpumptools Limited
    Inventor: Eric CHAIZE
  • Patent number: 8070188
    Abstract: A quick-connecting coupler for connecting hoses, connectors together or to a faucet or other water accessories that allows ease of use by anyone, including the elderly, the infirm, and those suffering from disabilities. The quick-connecting coupler has a first male-end and a second female end. The second female end is provided with of spaced-apart through-slots or opening for receiving therethrough a pair of forks or leg-sections of a yoke. Each of the pair of forks or leg-sections is provided with at least one interior-facing linear thread or rib for engaging with the male threads of the mating male end of another hose, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Gerald Cronley
  • Publication number: 20110291404
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a quick connector for fluid lines, including: a connecting piece which is adapted to be plugged in a sealing fashion into a receiving opening of a counterpart and to be lockingly engaged, via a latch, with the counterpart, the quick connector having at least one support for supporting the connecting piece on the counterpart such that it is secured against tilting. In order to provide a certain mobility of the quick connector also in the condition of locking engagement, the support can be movable relative to the connecting piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: VERITAS AG
    Inventor: Norbert Pernikl
  • Publication number: 20110285126
    Abstract: A multi-barbed connection suitable for use in connecting a piece of flexible irrigation tubing is provided, where one of the barbs is a circumferential barb configured for forming a generally fluid tight connection with the tubing and another of the barbs is a corner barb having one or more corners configured for biting into the tubing for at least partially assisting in retaining the tubing on the connection. The connection can be part of a fitting for fluidly joining multiple pieces of tubing or part of an irrigation device, such as a pop-up irrigation sprinkler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Rowshan Jahan
  • Publication number: 20110266006
    Abstract: A connector to secure a blow out preventer to tubing or a casing head of a well or wellhead and a method of securing a blow out preventer to the well utilizing the connector. The connector may be configured to secure the blow out preventer adapter to the wellhead and provide, within fifteen minutes, a seal operable to withstand ten thousand pounds per square inch of pressure. The connector may include both a hydraulically operated locking segment and a separate mechanical locking segment, and wherein both locking segments may be transitioned from a fully retracted position to a fully locked position within fifteen minutes. The connector may be configured to accommodate up to ten degrees of misalignment between the blow out preventer and the tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: T-3 PROPERTY HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael A. LACHENY, Wassee SYED, Saurabh KAJARIA
  • Patent number: 8033575
    Abstract: A quick connector can surely prevent incomplete connection of a tube thereto and is provided with a retainer which can be easily returned to its releasing position without being subject to restrictive conditions including working space when the tube connected to the quick connector needs to be removed from the quick connector. A retainer 16 is provided with arms 31a and 31b extending so as to be in contact with diametrically opposite parts, respectively, of the outer surface of a housing 12. Locking hooks 34a and 34b are formed on free end parts of the arms 31a and 31b, respectively. First stoppers 35a and 35b are formed on the outer surface of the housing 12 so as to engage with the locking hooks 34a and 34b of the retainer 16 such that the retainer 16 can be moved from the releasing position only in a direction in which the retainer 16 is pressed into the housing 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Sanoh Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kazuyuki Tsurumi
  • Publication number: 20110221187
    Abstract: Embodiments provide an inkjet cartridge refilling system. The system may include a drill station configured to drill at least one refilling hole in an inkjet printer cartridge. The system may include an evacuation station configured to remove excess ink from the inkjet printer cartridge. In some embodiments, the excess ink is removed via a vacuum source. The system may also include a filling station configured to provide any of a plurality of inks into the cartridge. Some embodiments provide the ink to the inkjet cartridge via a hole drilled in the cartridge. Other embodiments provide the ink via inkjet nozzles of the inkjet printer cartridge. The system may also include a test station configured to test the refilled cartridge to determine whether it is functioning properly after being filled with ink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Retail Inkjet Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Herb Sarnoff, Jason Guhse, Brian J. Fox, Scott Shultz, Cecilia Gonzales, George N. Popa, III, Keith Kopitzke, Keith Emery
  • Publication number: 20110204621
    Abstract: A female receiving connector for connecting sections of tubing is provided. The female receiving connector includes a housing having a top housing portion and a bottom housing portion coupled to the top housing portion. The female receiving connector also includes a button moveably coupled within the housing. A locking plate is coupled to the button and configured to move with the button. The locking plate has a profile lead-in having an interfacing surface located at a proximal side of the profile lead-in for interfacing a male connector. The interfacing surface extends along at least a portion of at least three sides of an aperture of the locking plate and is tapered along one or more of the at least three sides. Additionally, the profile lead-in includes a locking surface located at a distal side of the profile lead-in for securing the male connector within the housing of the female receiving connector. A substantially flat surface is located between the interfacing surface and the locking surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: Value Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl T. Whitaker, Peter D. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8002315
    Abstract: There is provided embodiments of a fluid fitting, and system incorporating the fluid fitting therein, which is compatible with harsh, caustic environments such as those environments found in the automotive industry. In one embodiment, the fluid fitting can comprise a conductive element with a fluid pathway for transporting a fluid, e.g., fuel. The fluid fitting can also comprise a non-conductive element that is coupled to the conductive element in a manner discharging electrons from the conductive body. The non-conductive element can comprise a cavity with an opening exposing a sensing device with a sensing element disposed on a sensing element housing. The sensing element housing can be sealed to the conductive element, but expose the sensing element to the fluid in the fluid pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Allen Engle, Woojin Kim, George Szabo
  • Patent number: 7992590
    Abstract: A faucet including a spout body formed of metal and having an inlet end, an outlet end and a chamber extending between inlet and outlet ends. A tube formed of a non-metallic material is enclosed within the chamber and has receiving and dispensing ends. Tube defines a passage extending between receiving and dispensing ends. Receiving end is in fluid communication with water source to communicate water through passage. An inlet coupling formed of a non-metallic material and having an inlet opening extending therethrough is molded about receiving end such that receiving end is sealingly received within inlet opening. An outlet coupling formed of a non-metallic material and having an outlet opening extending therethrough is molded about dispensing end such that dispensing end is sealingly received within outlet opening. Inlet and outlet couplings are sealingly coupled to inlet and outlet ends of spout body, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Steven Kyle Meehan, Christopher Michael McGuire, Brian Matthew Jolliffe, Jeffrey Lee Moore, Darrell Scott Crowe, Derek Allen Brown
  • Publication number: 20110174838
    Abstract: A tube fitting and retainer clip assembly is provided for snugly engaging the tube fitting to the port of a pressure bearing device. The tube fitting contains walls for retaining one or more o-rings thereon. The tube fitting has a channel therethrough. The first end of the tube fitting is adapted to engage a fluid bearing tube. The second end of the fitting, with the o-rings, is adapted to slip into the port of the fluid pressure bearing device. A retainer clip is provided adjacent the port, the retainer clip for sliding between a first position and a second position. The first position allows the fitting to pass through the clip and snugly into the port. The retainer adapted clip is adapted to move longitudinally, in walls of the pressure bearing device. The clip is engaged to the fluid bearing device by walls that allow the clip to slide longitudinally between the first position and the second position, adjacent the port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: A.A. "Jud" Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7971911
    Abstract: Plug part of a plug-type connection arrangement for connecting two fluid lines and plug-type connection arrangement including the plug part. The plug part includes at least one two-layer area, the two layers of the two-layer area including a metallic material. At least a portion of the plug part is structured and arranged to be fed into a coupling part of the plug-type connection arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Janos Kertesz, Gerhard Wachter
  • Patent number: 7972403
    Abstract: A filter apparatus includes a filter housing having at least one opening and a plurality of retention tabs positioned proximate to at least one of the openings and secured to the filter housing. Also included is a connection fitting having a tube segment sized and configured to be received into at least one opening of the filter housing, orientation tab or tabs secured to the connection fitting and positioned to be engageable between a portion of the plurality of retention tabs when in the installed position. A retention flange extends radially from the tube segment and is configured to retentively engage with the retention tabs to secure the connection fitting to the filter housing. The connection fitting is rotatable when the tube segment is received into the filter housing but is then rotationally locked relative to the filter housing when in the installed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Mann + Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Gerard Mouatt
  • Patent number: 7967342
    Abstract: A quick connector coupling assembly comprising a body, a tube, and a retainer to secure the tube in the body. The body defines an internal cavity extending from an opening. The tube has an endform extending through the opening and into the internal cavity. The endform has a tip and an engagement surface. The engagement surface of the endform coacts with a locking surface associated with the body or the retainer to resist rotational movement of the tube relative to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen H. Gunderson
  • Publication number: 20110148100
    Abstract: In a connection apparatus (1) for a corrugated tube (4) with a coupling part (2) and an insertion part (3) that can be inserted into the same and comprises on its outside jacket outwardly protruding latching cams (9) on its outside circumference, the coupling part (2) is provided on the outside with latching arms (5) which are radially outwardly deflectable, are attached according to the arrangement of the latching cams (9) on the insertion part (3), and each run over the respectively associated latching cams (9) during the axial insertion of the insertion part (3) into the coupling part (2) under elastic radial outward deflection and thereafter radially deflect inwardly again in a directly axial manner behind the latching cam (9). The coupling part (2) comprises an inner holding device (11) through which the corrugated tube (4) can be guided in the direction towards the insertion part (3) and performs elastically resilient radial movements thereby and secures the corrugated tube against withdrawal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: SCHLEMMER GMBH
    Inventors: Yanning Lei, Michael Gerking
  • Patent number: 7963569
    Abstract: A novel locking pipe joint for use in fluid-carrying pipe systems is described. The locking pipe joint of the present invention provides a system of joints that will withstand the stresses and forces imposed on a pipe system carrying fluids. The joint is constructed on a push-fit principle. Sealing rings are used to make the joint leak-proof. Splines are provided to sustain the longitudinal forces imposed on the joint, and longitudinal ribs are provided on the outer surface of the joined pipes to withstand the torsional loads. The joint is simple in its construction, easy to assemble in field and cost effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Jain Irrigation Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Narayana Swamy Subbaraman, Jaikishan Pohumal Wadhwani, Ajit Bhavarlal Jain
  • Publication number: 20110127766
    Abstract: A quick connector can surely prevent incomplete connection of a tube thereto and is provided with a retainer which can be easily returned to its releasing position without being subject to restrictive conditions including working space when the tube connected to the quick connector needs to be removed from the quick connector. A retainer 16 is provided with arms 31a and 31b extending so as to be in contact with diametrically opposite parts, respectively, of the outer surface of a housing 12. Locking hooks 34a and 34b are formed on free end parts of the arms 31a and 31b, respectively. First stoppers 35a and 35b are formed on the outer surface of the housing 12 so as to engage with the locking hooks 34a and 34b of the retainer 16 such that the retainer 16 can be moved from the releasing position only in a direction in which the retainer 16 is pressed into the housing 12.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: Kazuyuki Tsurumi
  • Patent number: 7950412
    Abstract: A toilet refill restrictor apparatus includes an adapter interposed between a fill valve and a refill hose. The adapter is non-removably coupled to the fill valve and is configured with a larger proximal pathway, and a smaller distal metering pathway for restricting the refill flow rate. The adapter may be coupled to a shortened horizontal outlet formed at a top portion of the fill valve. The horizontal outlet is shortened to a length such that the refill hose cannot be connected directly to the outlet. The adapter may also be coupled to a fill valve without a horizontal outlet where an exit port is defined in the vertical conduit of the fill valve. The adapter includes a securing mechanism to prevent removal from the fill valve without excessive force or breaking the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Fluidmaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Nguyen, Christopher Coppock
  • Patent number: 7950699
    Abstract: A plug-type coupling for connecting two fluid lines includes a coupling component which has an opening with an adjacent receiving duct, and a coupling piece which is inserted into the receiving duct and has a holding rib which extends from its circumference outwardly and forms a locking surface, wherein the holding rib interacts with a locking stirrup which has at least one leg which is resilient toward the opening. A disassembly element is movably mounted in the coupling component, wherein the disassembly element acts on the leg in the direction of opening the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Norma Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Bauer, Reiner Koch
  • Patent number: 7946630
    Abstract: A hydraulic system, especially for motor vehicles includes a master cylinder, a slave cylinder and a pressure medium line connected thereto. The invention provides a hydraulic system which is simple or economical to produce by virtue of the fact that the hydraulic system includes at least one hydraulic plug-type connection with a plug connector and a socket contact and the plug connector includes an abutment and a sealing element which are made of different materials and which are connected together in a material fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Udo Popp, Roland Welter, Matthias Zink, Rudolf Hoenemann, Markus Heitbaum, Urban Panther, Jan Grabenstaetter
  • Patent number: 7942453
    Abstract: Coupling device (60) for mechanically and hydraulically coupling a fuel injector (20) to a fuel rail (18) of a combustion engine (22), the fuel injector (20) having a central longitudinal axis (L) and an injection nozzle (31), having a fuel injector cup (32) being designed to be hydraulically coupled to the fuel rail (14) and to engage a fuel inlet portion (24) of the fuel injector (20), and a spring element (36) being part of the fuel injector (20) and being designed to be in a snap-in engagement with the fuel injector cup (32) to retain the fuel injector (20) in the fuel injector cup (32) in direction of the central longitudinal axis (L) facing towards the injection nozzle (31).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Mauro Grandi
  • Patent number: 7938455
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for axially connecting an external pipe section to a coaxial peg or internal pipe section that engages in the external pipe section, in particular for connecting the drain connecting piece of an injector for injecting fuel into internal combustion engines to a fuel return connector. The external pipe section has two diametrically opposed retaining slots that penetrate the wall of the external pipe section and which correspond to grooves on the periphery of the peg or internal pipe section. Two opposing sprung retaining arms of a clamp-type retaining clip pass through the retaining slots of the external pipe section from the exterior and snap into the grooves of the peg or internal pipe section in a sprung manner. One essential feature of the invention is that the parallel retaining slots of the external pipe section are offset in height in relation to one another, while the whole of the retaining clip, when not fitted onto the pipe sections, lies on one plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Holger Rapp
  • Publication number: 20110089684
    Abstract: An apparatus for minimizing rotation of a conduit has a housing that has a keyway and envelops the conduit. A gripper holds the conduit and opposes rotation of it. The gripper has a key for cooperating with the keyway such that the housing does not rotate about the gripper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph P. Schutte, William Franklin Turnau, III, Brian D. Sanzone, Derry Yourman
  • Publication number: 20110031052
    Abstract: A piping structure for transporting a fuel arranged between an engine and a fuel tank, is constructed by use of a resin tube that is formed in a straight tubular shape. The resin tube is flexed and bent at one or more points along a longitudinal direction of the resin tube to define one or more bent portions and thereby is provided with a predetermined bent shape. The resin tube is fixed in a motor vehicle body so as to retain the bent portions and thereby assembled in the motor vehicle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoki Inoue, Masayuki Sasagawa
  • Publication number: 20110031743
    Abstract: A crawling (2) for a connector (1) for fluid pipes comprises a female base (4) in which a male end-piece (3) is inserted in a certain axial direction (A) to produce a sealed connection, an elastically deformable C-shaped metal wire spring (5) for immobilizing the end-piece in the base, and a locking sleeve (6) which can move axially around the spring and the base so as to occupy a first axial position (P1) in which the spring can deform radially towards the outside of the base, and a second axial position (P2) prohibiting the radial deformation of the spring. The sleeve has at least one radial interior recess (12A, 12B) into which the spring retracts when it is deformed by the end-piece and when the sleeve occupies said first position. Each recess is offset axially with respect to the spring when the sleeve occupies said second position, preventing the radial deformation of the spring and thereby safeguarding the scaled connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: A. RAYMOND ET CIE
    Inventor: Jérome Chaupin
  • Patent number: 7878556
    Abstract: A safety release adapter for making a sealed fluid connection with a male connector that is disconnected when a pulling force is applied between the adapter and the connector. The safety release adapter includes a base and a socket. The base receives and secures a first male connector. The socket includes a cavity with a lip at the distal end of the socket. The socket releasably secures a second male connector with the lip inside the socket opening engaging a neck of the second male connector. The first male connector extends into the socket in a sealed interface with the socket such that when the second male connector is secured in the socket with a sealed interface with the socket, the valve buttons of each connector are mutually depressed so the two connectors are in sealed fluid communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Adroit Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifford E. Gammons
  • Patent number: 7878553
    Abstract: A connection assembly for creating a releasable fluid seal connection between two or more sections of tubing includes a male fitting and a female fitting. Connection assemblies generally include the male fitting having a pair of clasps that releasably interact with corresponding catch structures on the female fitting. Interactions between the female and male fittings can be rotatable with respect to the male and/or female fittings. Buckle structures are also disclosed having connection capabilities for a plurality of sections of tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Value Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Clark Wicks, Bruce Alan Williams
  • Patent number: 7874595
    Abstract: The invention provides for a plug-in connector (1) for medium conduits comprising a plug-in part (4) sealingly introducible by a plug shank (6) into the receiving opening (16) of a connector counterpart (2) which is sealingly closable by latching means (18) for preventing the pull out thereof. For this purpose, a locking element (34) is movably connected to the plug-in part (4) in such a way that it locks the latching means (18) in a safety unscrewing-preventing position and releases in the unscrewing position for carrying out an unscrewing movement for freeing from locking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Lechner, Frank Zenses, Marco Isenburg