Abstract: A flexible joint for the connecting and sealing of tubular sections that includes a flexible pad having inner and outer surfaces. A contoured portion extends around the inner surface of the pad. The flexible joint further includes a first tubular section having a raised portion. The raised portion engages the contoured portion on the inner surface of the pad. A second tubular section includes a housing. The housing has exterior and interior surfaces. The interior surface of the housing engages the outer surface of the pad for retaining the pad in a sealing relationship with the first tubular section.

Abstract: A coupling assembly having a flange, at least one tube and a tube connection. The flange has an outer surface and at least one inner surface. The inner surface defines at least one tube receiving opening. The inner surface also defines a flange groove. A tube connection hole extends through the flange from the outer surface to the inner surface. The hole is in communication with the flange groove: The tube has an exterior surface. A groove is defined by the exterior surface. The tube is inserted in the tube receiving opening of the flange. The tube groove is aligned with the flange groove. A tube connection means, such as wire, is inserted in the tube connection hole. The tube connection means mates the flange groove and the tube groove. This engagement retains the tube in the flange and also allows it to move within the flange.