Patents Examined by F. Vanaman
  • Patent number: 6543817
    Abstract: A process for forming a radially upset tube flange particularly suitable for securing a connector on an end of a tube, and a connector assembly formed thereby. A connector is provided, having an end face and an away face. A desired length of tube is provided, having an end portion and a tube end. The connector is passed over the end portion of the tube, with the end face of the connector nearest the tube end and the away face of the connector farthest from the tube end. The tube is gripped with a fixture, and positioned with the away face of the connector against the fixture. A preferred length of the tube end portion extends axially beyond the end face of the connector. Force is applied axially to the tube end, causing a major radially outward upset of the tube against the end face of the connector and a minor radially outward upset of the tube against the away face of the connector. A tapered punch is forced into the tube end axially, causing the tube end to flare outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Whitley Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Laral E. Turner, Paul Scheuer