With Means Blocking Release Of Holding Means Patents (Class 285/81)
  • Publication number: 20110008099
    Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting two members that allows manual lockdown to prevent accidental disengagement. The connector assembly can be used to connect a tension ring to a housing on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of upper hydraulically actuated dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. The connector assembly also has position indicators that ride along with the dogs to indicate whether the dogs are in the engaged or disengaged position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventors: Eric D. Larson, John V. Leba, Robert A. Blue
  • Patent number: 7806445
    Abstract: A spigot-and-socket joint for connecting two pipes, comprising a socket end assigned to one pipe and into which a spigot end of the other pipe, which has a support strip, can be inserted and which has a radially inward-protruding edge with at least one ring segment-shaped recess, and a locking device for locking the spigot end in the socket end. The support strip rests against the locking device and the locking device rests against the edge. The locking device comprises at least two ring segment-shaped locking elements. At least four recesses are provided and are arranged with uniform spacing circumferentially, and the two locking elements each have two ring segment-shaped locking parts which are joined together via a respective web. The spacing between the two locking parts of a locking element corresponds to the spacing between two recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Tiroler Roehren- und Metallwerke AG
    Inventors: Hermann Mutschlechner, Reinhold Maurer
  • Publication number: 20100225104
    Abstract: Coupling device is provided having a male tubular end fitting; a connection means to be mounted around the male end fitting by being coupled to a female end fitting and comprising a coupling end to be housed in a groove of the female end fitting; and a locking member for locking this connection means that is to be mounted around the male end fitting in order reversibly to bring said coupling end into a locked position in said groove. The connection means comprises a radially internal bearing zone to be mounted against the male end fitting and ending in said coupling end, which comprises tabs that are elastically deformable in the radial direction extending the bearing zone, each tab being able to be jammed in the locking position by flexing against the groove and against one of the guide and locking-aid ramps of the male end fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Stéphane Ully, Damien Gillet
  • Publication number: 20100194098
    Abstract: A pipe for connecting to a similar adjacent pipe. The pipe has a female end with a plurality of rigid fingers extending into the space within the female end. The plurality of rigid fingers extends from at least one interior circumferential groove on the interior surface of the female end. On the male end of the pipe there is at least one exterior circumferential groove that is sized and positioned to receive the plurality of rigid fingers from a corresponding interior circumferential groove on the female end of an adjacent pipe. The number of interior circumferential grooves on the female end with the plurality of rigid fingers extending from them typically corresponds to the number of exterior circumferential grooves on the male end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas L. Hennemann, Garth H. Saul
  • Patent number: 7766393
    Abstract: A female element for a coupling that includes a body having a duct for receiving a male element along a coupling axis (X-X?) and a locking member including a locking portion, a connecting portion, and a control portion, wherein the locking member extends along the axis (X-X?) and is movable between a locked and an unlocked position, and wherein an annular element moves the locking member from the locked to the unlocked position and a resilient member urges the locking member to the locked position, and the female element includes a lateral guide for the connecting portion and the control portion, and a surface of the locking portion that is to come into contact with the male element generally having a shape of a portion of a surface of revolution and a width, in a circumferential direction, that is greater than a width of the control portion and the connecting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Christophe Durieux
  • Patent number: 7758082
    Abstract: Devices having various features to prevent the disconnection of connectors used in medical treatments are disclosed. The devices can prevent disconnection of luer connectors that are incompletely mated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: William Weigel, Kenneth Everett Buckler, Jeffrey H Burbank, James M Brugger, David Farias De Souza
  • Publication number: 20100171302
    Abstract: A push-in plumbing connector includes a ring seal, a backing member, a threaded seal compression member, and a locking ring insert which moves between a locked and unlocked position for the insertion and locking of a pipe within the connector. The connector cooperates with a threaded socket of a plumbing fitting having a tapered side wall for engaging the seal which surrounds a pipe inserted into the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: NIBCO Inc.
    Inventor: Keith W. Yoder
  • Patent number: 7722086
    Abstract: A falling-off preventing holder is provided to reliably connect a fuel pipe and a connector. First and second flanges project outwardly from an outer peripheral surface of the fuel pipe. The connector includes a larger diameter portion and a smaller diameter portion connected to the larger diameter portion via a step portion. A box-shaped falling-off preventing holder with an open surface is fitted to straddle the fuel pipe and the connector. First cutout of first end wall is fitted on the smaller diameter portion of the connector and abuts the step portion. Second end wall is fitted on the fuel pipe to abut the second flange. A pressure rib provided at the first end wall of the falling-off preventing holder is compressed by the step portion of the connector to be plastically deformed. A load in the connecting direction acting on the fuel pipe and the connector enables reliable connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuya Ishiki, Yukihiro Matsumoto
  • Publication number: 20100123308
    Abstract: A retaining arrangement suitable for use with a drill string assembly having a sub adaptor and a drill spindle in use connected together, the retaining arrangement including: one or more retaining bodies, the or each retaining body comprising a connection region for removably connecting the or each retaining body to one of the sub adaptor and the drill spindle; and a first retaining or catch region adapted to catch the other of the sub adaptor and drill spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: Cardinal Trading Company Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Jacob Garth Lowry
  • Patent number: 7695020
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus having coupling body with a mechanical latch assembly. The mechanical latch assembly includes a modified latch plate. The latch plate defines a main portion having a top end and a bottom end and includes an annular aperture disposed between the top and bottom ends. A lever portion is disposed proximate the top end. The lever portion enables the latch plate to move within a coupling body, so as to operate the mechanical latch assembly in a released position and a latched position. A raised edge is disposed about a portion of the annular aperture. The raised edge is disposed proximate the bottom end and extends radially inward of the inner edge defined by the annular aperture. A pin opening is disposed proximate the bottom end opposite of the lever portion. The pin opening is positioned radially outward from the annular aperture, and defines a separate enclosed edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventor: Mark F. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7686087
    Abstract: A connector for connecting sections of drilling riser pipe wherein a first riser contains a pin assembly with an external first grooved profile and a second riser contains a housing assembly. An internal split pivoting latch segment assembly carried by the housing assembly contains a second grooved profile adapted to mate to the first grooved profile and a split actuation ring movably carried by the housing assembly forces the second grooved profile of the latch segment assembly into engagement with the first grooved profile of the pin assembly. A plurality of retraction links engage an upper edge of the latch segment assembly to disengage the second grooved profile of the latch segment assembly from the first grooved profile of the pin assembly if the risers are to be disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Scott I. Stewart, Steve M. Wong, Daniel L. Havelka
  • Patent number: 7631904
    Abstract: A pipeline plug-in connection (10) has a receiving part (14), a plug-in part (16) which can be plugged into the receiving part (14), a sealing element (18) for sealing between the receiving part and the plug-in part, and an elastic securing element (20). The plug-in part has a pipe section (50) with an abutment (24) with an expanding diameter section (26) which expands in terms of its external diameter counter to the joining direction, over which expanding diameter section the securing element can be stretched, and an abutment face (28), behind which the securing element can latch. The expanding diameter section ends, with its largest external diameter substantially near or at the abutment face, wherein a flange (54) is formed on the pipe section, the flange forming a sealing face (56) at the end, against which sealing face the sealing element bears in a sealing manner when the plug-in connection is assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: FTE automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Heiko Heim, Egid Macht, Karl Redai, Helmut Stubenrauch
  • Patent number: 7562906
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus having coupling body with a mechanical latch assembly. The mechanical latch assembly includes a modified latch plate. The latch plate defines a main portion having a top end and a bottom end and includes an annular aperture disposed between the top and bottom ends. A lever portion is disposed proximate the top end. The lever portion enables the latch plate to move within a coupling body, so as to operate the mechanical latch assembly in a released position and a latched position. A raised edge is disposed about a portion of the annular aperture. The raised edge is disposed proximate the bottom end and extends radially inward of the inner edge defined by the annular aperture. A pin opening is disposed proximate the bottom end opposite of the lever portion. The pin opening is positioned radially outward from the annular aperture, and defines a separate enclosed edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventor: Mark F. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7527303
    Abstract: An approximately cylindrical housing is coupled to one pipe, and the other pipe having an annular protruding portion on an outer periphery at an end portion is inserted into the housing to be coupled. Inside the housing, are installed a stopper that is held at an initial position in close proximity to an opening portion of the housing and moves to a push-in position away from the opening portion of the housing when the other pipe is fully introduced inside, and a retainer having a locking piece that is inserted through an opening portion, formed in a top wall of the housing, in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the housing and engages with the annular protruding portion of the other pipe while the end portion of the other pipe is fully inserted. The retainer cannot be inserted unless the stopper moves to the push-in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Piolax, Inc.
    Inventor: Masashi Furuya
  • Publication number: 20090091124
    Abstract: The female element (3) for a coupling (1) comprises: a body (30) comprising a duct (C30) for receiving a male element (2) along a coupling axis (X-X?) of the coupling (1); a locking member (33A) presenting a locking portion (330), a connecting portion (331), and a control portion (332), the locking member (33A) extending generally along said axis (X-X?) and being movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; an annular element (37) suitable for driving the locking member (33A) from the locked position to the unlocked position; and a resilient member (382) for returning the locking member (33A) to the locked position. The female element (3) includes lateral guide means for the connecting portion (331) and/or the control portion (332).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: STAUBLI FAVERGES
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Christophe Durieux
  • Patent number: 7500697
    Abstract: A locking device and method to eliminate rotation or dislodging of a snap ring relative to a snap ring groove is provided. A locking clip is provided that may be used as a retention clip, with or without the use of a snap ring. The locking device for a housing assembly to retain a part comprises a locking clip, insertable between the retained part and the housing, wherein the locking clip comprises a clip body; a first locking tab connected to the clip body; and a locating tab connected to the clip body. In rotating assemblies, the elimination of snap ring movement improves the balance and wear of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl M. Romack
  • Publication number: 20090058077
    Abstract: A multiple coupling means for the production of a releasable connection between fluid lines for a fluid pressure medium and associated with a fluid pressure source, said lines being on the source side and fluid lines associated with at least one fluid load and placed on the load side, said coupling means comprises a first coupling part (12) having several first fluid ports (13) and a second coupling part (14) possessing several second fluid ports (15) for the fluid lines on the load side, the two coupling parts (12 and 14) being able to be shifted in a coupling operation into a working position (22) by being moved together in the direction of an installation axis (21), in which working position (22) mutually opposite joint faces (17 and 19) of the two coupling parts (12 and 14) engage each other and in which the two coupling parts (12 and 14) are secured by means of holding means to avoid accidental uncoupling, an actuating means (23) able to be operated manually is provided, by means of which the coupling pa
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Winfried Schulz, Hans-Jurgen Claus, Klaus Zoller, Viola Amiridis, Hans-Walter Brenner, Martin Weiss, Andreas Rau, Monika Scherer
  • Patent number: 7497476
    Abstract: A vehicle connector assembly includes a positive lock feature that allows a hose to be quickly and easily attached to a vehicle component such as an intake manifold or air induction component. The component includes a projection that extends outwardly from a main body to a distal end. A locking cap is installed over the projection and cooperates with an alignment feature on the projection such that the cap does not separate from the projection prior to installation of the hose. An end of the hose is slidably installed within the locking cap and over the projection. The locking cap is then rotated from an unlocked position to a locked position to prevent linear movement of the hose relative to the projection. The locking cap is made from a resilient material and provides a serviceable connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Mahle Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Powell, Stephen E. Brackett
  • Publication number: 20080293348
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for connecting first and second air ducts using a connecting element for transferring an air stream between the air ducts, wherein the connecting element can assume various snap-in positions relative to the first air duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: FAURECIA INNENRAUM SYSTEME GMBH
    Inventor: Marco Schweitzer
  • Patent number: 7455324
    Abstract: A pipe joint provided with a joint main body having an insertion cylinder portion inserted to an end portion of a pipe to be connected, a clamp ring having a slit to fasten the end portion of the pipe inserted to the insertion cylinder portion by elastic fastening force, a diameter-expansion piece, releasable as to jump outward, held within the slit to expand the clamp ring against elastic force of the clamp ring, and a restriction sleeve covering the clamp ring as to restrict the outward jump of the diameter-expansion piece. And, a pipe-insertion detector, detecting the insertion of the pipe to a predetermined depth to release the restriction, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Higashio Mech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Inoue
  • Publication number: 20080277924
    Abstract: The present invention is a female connector for releasable coupling with a male connector. The male connector defines a fluid conduit and includes a male end adapted to be received within the female connector. The male end includes a coupling feature. The female connector comprises an opening, a collet finger, and an actuation element. The opening is adapted to guide the male connector along a first line of action as the male connector passes into the opening to be received within the female connector. The collet finger includes an engagement feature adapted to engage the coupling feature of the male end and displace along a second line of action generally normal to the first line of action. The actuation element 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 end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: VALUE PLASTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jensen, James D. Pisula, JR., Ralph E. Burns, Raymond Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
  • Publication number: 20080252069
    Abstract: Female element (103) for a connector (101), having an axial (X-X?) channel (130) intended to accommodate an end piece (102), the female element having an annular element (139) and at least one locking ball (150A-150C) for locking the end piece (102) that can move axially (X-X?) relative to the annular element (139) and radially between an unlocked position (FIG. 3) and a locked position in which it is capable of axially blocking (X-X?) the end piece (102). This female element (103) further includes: at least one device forming an obstacle to the axial displacement (X-X?) of the annular element (139) relative to the ball (150A-150C) in the unlocked position, said device being radially retractable; at least one resilient element (152) for returning the device (152) to the unlocked position; and at least one detection member (151A-151D) for detecting the end piece (102), that is capable, in the unlocked position, of being moved away radially by the end piece (102) so as to retract said device (152).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: STAUBLI FAVERGES
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Olivier Pastore
  • Patent number: 7434842
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus having coupling body with a mechanical latch assembly. The mechanical latch assembly includes a modified latch plate. The latch plate defines a main portion having a top end and a bottom end and includes an annular aperture disposed between the top and bottom ends. A lever portion is disposed proximate the top end. The lever portion enables the latch plate to move within a coupling body, so as to operate the mechanical latch assembly in a released position and a latched position. A raised edge is disposed about a portion of the annular aperture. The raised edge is disposed proximate the bottom end and extends radially inward of the inner edge defined by the annular aperture. A pin opening is disposed proximate the bottom end opposite of the lever portion. The pin opening is positioned radially outward from the annular aperture, and defines a separate enclosed edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventor: Mark F. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7431344
    Abstract: A connection system for sealingly interconnecting components of a high pressure fluid flow system, for example, an automobile engine air intake. The system can include a conduit defining a groove that is locked in a corresponding groove defined by a component, for example, an engine intake. An interlock ring is placed in the conduit groove. A clamp is placed over the interlock ring, however, the clamp and ring can be an integral component. When tightened, the clamp forces the ring into the conduit groove, which presses the conduit into sealing and/or locking engagement with the component groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Cascade Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew C. Clark, Michael J. Anderson, Raymond W. Boze, III
  • Publication number: 20080217908
    Abstract: What is proposed is a combination of two bodies having tube-shaped or sleeve-shaped connecting sections which can be plugged into one another, as part of an air-conditioning line system in an aircraft. In said combination, a first (10a) of the bodies carries, in its connecting section (12a), at least one radial locking projection (18a), while the other, second body (28a) has, in its connecting section (30a), at least one locking clearance (22a) which is completely surrounded by a rim. The at least one locking projection and the at least one locking clearance are constructed, and coordinated with one another, in such a way that, in a relative locking rotational position of the two bodies, each locking projection engages in an associated locking clearance, while securing the two bodies against axial withdrawal from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: AIRBUS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: Werner Passlack
  • Patent number: 7418971
    Abstract: A vending machine and a hose controller system for vending machines wherein the dispenser hose is axially and torsionally controlled to facilitate slight twisting, thereby minimizing applicator tool resistance, and making it easier for users to operate the remote vending tool on the hose distal end. The elongated reinforced applicator hose terminates at the controller, which bridges the hose between the outdoors and the cabinet interior. The controller has an angulated bracket mounted within the vending machine cabinet. A collar assembly secured on the bracket top above a hose feed-through orifice has a terminator, a bushing, and a cooperating yoke that are coaxially secured. The terminator anchors the hose end and is seated within the yoke. A rigid lug projects radially from the yoke. A rigid restrictor surmounts the collar assembly and limits rotation by contact with the lug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Fragra*matics Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: James Larry Ingram
  • Patent number: 7413457
    Abstract: An electrical connector connects to a mating connector by a rotatable union nut that is axially displaceable on a contact carrier with a sealing element therebetween. Damage to the sealing element is prevented by a stop that limits the maximum path by which the union nut can be screwed onto the mating connector, such that when the union nut is screwed on, the elastic sealing element is intentionally compressed, but is not damaged or destroyed. A vibration guard can also be provided in the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: i f m electronic GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Mehnert, Bernd Froese, Andreas Hartrampf, Thomas Ohlinger
  • Patent number: 7354077
    Abstract: A coupler with an elongated inner member with an axial channel therethrough that is adapted to be removably disposed within a passage extending through an outer member. The inner member has a surface at one end that is adapted to engage and seal on a surface of the outer member and a recess on the outer surface that accommodates a plurality of cams pivotally mounted on axes exterior to the outer member. The outer member has a slot extending therethrough confronting each cam, and each cam has a lever arm extending therefrom, each lever arm having a closed position in which the lever arm is disposed adjacent to the outer member and an open position outwardly of the outer member. A strap is mounted on a lever arms that has hooks on one side and loops on the other side, the hooks and loops adhering together when pressed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventor: Jude Jumonville
  • Publication number: 20080077063
    Abstract: A connector apparatus includes first and second mating connectors that can be joined to make a fluid connection. The connectors are constructed to discriminate improper connectors so that no fluid tight connection can be formed with improper connectors. The connector apparatus can be used with a system for compression therapy to prevent deep vein thrombosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Applicant: TYCO HEALTHCARE GROUP LP
    Inventors: Ann Meyer, Malcolm Bock
  • Patent number: 7341281
    Abstract: A connector (1) for joining two pipe sections (2) and (3) making up a riser includes a male tubular element (4) and a female tubular element (5) which fit into each other and have an axial shoulder (8) or (9). Locking ring (10), mounted mobile in rotation on the male element (4) or the female element (5), includes studs which cooperate with the studs of female element (5) or the male element (4) so as to form a bayonet connection. The male (4) and female (5) tubular elements include teeth and cavities, the teeth of one of the elements fitting into the cavities of the other element so as to lock in rotation one of the elements in relation to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Jean Guesnon, Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent, Florence Richard
  • Patent number: 7338086
    Abstract: A connector with enhanced safety includes: a female component defining a stepped housing, a male component with a flange, whereof the outer diameters correspond to those of the stepped housing of the female component, a lock collar transversely mobile in a base of the female component, located at the intake thereof. There is an additional locking cage whereof one wall forms a front cap at the end of the female component, mounted sliding on the base of the lock collar between a connecting position allowing the flange to pass through the front cap of the cage, and a locking position preventing the flange from passing through the front cap, the cage including, parallel to the cap and at the rear thereof, a wire pin whereof the elastic branches define each of the two positions through matching shapes with the female component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventors: Philippe Poder, Philippe Blivet
  • Patent number: 7316428
    Abstract: Connection verifying device for a pipe and a connector has a body portion, a stop and verification arm and an abutment finger. The body portion includes an abutment plate and a fit-on portion. The stop and verification arm extends from an outer periphery of the abutment plate in one axial direction, while the abutment finger protrudes from one axial end of the fit-on portion in one axial direction. The abutment finger is arranged so as to abut and urge an annular projection of a pipe into an engagement slit of a retainer when the pipe and the connector are in half-fitting relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Takayanagi, Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 7243953
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus includes a pair of cylindrical coupling main bodies which are concentrically and oppositely arranged to each other and which have the same structure as to each other, liners which are accommodated in the coupling main bodies respectively, and a release preventing structure which can selectively resist a rotational force applied to the coupling main bodies coupled with each other, so that a coupling of the coupling main bodies is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Sakura Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Nakamura, Akira Horimoto, Kazuyuki Tamada
  • Patent number: 7185922
    Abstract: Anti-rotation device for a pipe and a connector has a pipe connecting portion and a connector connecting portion constructed integrally on the pipe connecting portion. The anti-rotation device is mounted on the pipe and the connector while the pipe connecting portion clips a straight tubular inserting side portion of the pipe in anti-rotating relation and the connector connecting portion is connected to the connector in anti-rotating relation. Thereby the pipe is connected to the connector in anti-rotating relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Takayanagi, Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 7156424
    Abstract: A coupling assembly includes a female fitting assembly comprising a tube body having a nut that is axially and rotatably movable relative to the tube body, and a generally U-shape spring fixedly connected to the nut. The spring has a pair of laterally spaced arms that straddle the tube body when the nut is inserted over the tube body and spring arm end portions that are engageable with serrations on opposite sides of the tube body. The spring arm end portions are shaped to provide more resistance to turning of the nut in the loosening/back-off direction when the nut is fully torqued on a male fitting assembly than during tightening of the nut on the male fitting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: James D. McCord
  • Patent number: 7044506
    Abstract: A connector assembly (10) for releasably connecting a pair of conduits (12, 14) is disclosed. The assembly (10) comprises a first member (20) and a second member (40). The first member (20) has a nozzle (22) and the first member (20) is adapted to be connected to one of the conduits (12). The first member (20) includes an anchor (60) rotatably mounted on the first member (20). The anchor (60) has at least one resilient tab (62) extending therefrom. The second member (40) has an opening (45) that receives the nozzle (22). The second member (40) has at least one aperture (46). The second member (40) is also adapted to be connected to the other of the conduits (14). The tab (62) engages the aperture (46) to releasably connect the first and second members (20, 40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Xiamen Lota International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhao Wei Dong
  • Patent number: 6979026
    Abstract: The connector clip for verifying complete connection includes a connection verifying portion, more specifically, a pair of restraining portions having an assistance structure to certainly detect incomplete connection between the connector and the pipe. The assistance structure may be constructed so as to remove a sealing property between the connector and the pipe in incomplete connection relation with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhito Kasahara, Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 6971679
    Abstract: Device for connecting one end of a pipe to a bore provided in a fluid transport circuit element, includes a tubular body defining an inner channel for receiving the pipe end, elements for retaining the pipe end in a predetermined axial position in the inner channel and elements for fixing the tubular body in the hole in a predetermined axial position, members for stopping the pipe end mounted on the tubular body designed to be mobile between a projecting position to counter the drive-up of the pipe end to its axial position and a retracted position to clear the passage for the pipe end towards its predetermined axial position, the stop members being designed to co-operate with the element such that they shift from their projecting position to their retracted position when the tubular body is driven in the hole up to its predetermined axial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventor: Olivier Legeay
  • Patent number: 6948698
    Abstract: A valve for a pressurized canister includes a housing having a central aperture extending therethrough, a first set of external threads, and a second set of external threads. A sealing member is positioned in an axially outward end of the central aperture and is axially moveable. A first spring biases the pin axially outwardly. An axially slidable member is received and axially movable in the central aperture. A second spring biases the axially slidable member outwardly. A threaded member in an aperture in the housing engages the axially slidable member. Each of a plurality of radially moveable members is positioned in an aperture in the housing and is radially moveable between a lip on the aperture and the second spring. An exterior surface of an inner end of the axially slidable member engages and forces each radially moveable member into contact with the lip when the threaded member is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Eric Scott, Nancy A. Scott
  • Patent number: 6913294
    Abstract: A coupling is designed for sealingly connecting two fluid conduits such as automotive fluid lines in axial end-to-end relationship. The conduits have respective telescopically interengaging male and female end sections and the coupling comprises a base member to be carried on one of the fluid conduits and a retaining structure mounted on the base member and having two C-shaped arms which can be interconnected around the other conduit end section. A releasable lock acts between the arms to lock the retaining structure in engagement. In the locked condition the axially oriented abutment surfaces in the retaining structure engage peripheral shoulders on the conduits to prevent axial separation of the latter. The coupling can be fabricated from integral plastic components and preferably includes a guard arrangement to shield the releasable lock against inadvertent disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Halla Climate Control Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Clare Treverton, Leonard J. Park, Steve Roger Foster, Edward Alexander Mann
  • Patent number: 6863314
    Abstract: A coupling for a tube having a coupling body with a throughway open at one end to receive an end portion of a tube, a sealing ring or rings mounted in the coupling body at a location spaced from said open end thereof to engage and seal with the outer periphery of the tube, and a tube latching device for locking a tube in the coupling body. The latching device comprises a first latch within the coupling body to engage automatically with a feature on the tube when the tube end portion has been inserted sufficiently into the throughway to engage with the seals to retain the tube end portion in the coupling body and a second manually operable latch disposed externally of the coupling body engageable with a feature on the tube when the end portion of the tube has been inserted into the coupling body sufficient for the first latch to engage to provide a secondary retention for the tube in the coupling body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: John Guest International Limited
    Inventor: John Derek Guest
  • Patent number: 6860515
    Abstract: A connector clip integrally comprises a holder portion and a C-shaped clamp on one longitudinal end portion of the holder portion. The holder portion is mounted to a length from a connector to a curved portion of a pipe. The C-shaped clamp clips a tube connected to a tube connecting portion of the connector. The holder portion comprises a holding portion to hold a length from a tubular holder portion of the connector to an annular projection of the pipe therein, a first receiving portion formed on an opposite longitudinal side from the holding portion to receive a straight pipe portion of the pipe, and a second receiving portion formed on an opposite longitudinal side from the first receiving portion to receive a curved portion of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 6857664
    Abstract: A mounting stop at axially displaceable male-female couplings to prevent involuntary release of the coupling, whereby it comprises a recess (2) arranged to be placed in a first position around a shaft (32) and to be displaceable radially sidewise above said shaft (32) to a second position, and that it comprises at least one stop lug (6, 7; 9; 10) arranged, in said first position to be applied into a groove (34) and thereby to prevent an axial displacement of said male-female coupling parts towards each other, as well as a male part (32) present in such a coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: WEO Hydraulic AB
    Inventor: Weimar Ohlsson
  • Patent number: 6857663
    Abstract: A piping joint includes a male member or joint fastened to a female member or socket by locking pawls of a retainer sleeve onto pawl engaging portions. By pressing a flange by the tip ends of the pawls, the male member (joint) can be disengaged from the female member (socket) by reducing the diameter of the retainer sleeve and disengaging the pawls from the pawl engaging portions. A ring member is formed of an elastic material and is inserted between the retainer sleeve and a cylinder portion in a locked condition. A reduction of the diameter of the retainer sleeve is prevented by the presence of the ring member. Therefore, the connecting or detaching of the piping joint can be carried out in a condition where a holding force of the piping joint is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tadaaki Nagata, Hajime Shogase
  • Patent number: 6848722
    Abstract: A coupling for connecting a vacuum line to a body such as an autoclave to be evacuated, the coupling having a first part adapted to be sealingly engaged by welding upon the wall of the autoclave about an aperture therein, and having an internal bore which thus communicates with the interior of the autoclave, and a second part also having an internal bore for communication with the bore of the first part. The second part thus serves as a removable cartridge which is slidably engaged within the first part with sealing rings radially and axially sealing the two-parts together to prevent fluid leakage therebetween. The cartridge includes a spring-loaded valve. A circlip enables separation of the cartridge from the first part, and a circlip enables removal of the valve parts from the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: James Jeory, Christine Patricia Jeory and Stephen Gerard Ward T/A Premier Hydraulics & Pneumatics
    Inventor: James Jeory
  • Patent number: 6846021
    Abstract: A tube end having an outwardly projecting ridge is secured in a fitting having a body formed with a seat centered on an axis and open axially rearwardly. The tube end is coaxially engageable in the seat, and a retaining clip on the body extends secantally across the seat and can move between an outer spread position engaging a respective inner surface of the seat and an inner retaining position spaced radially inward from the respective inner surface. The tube end when fully axially inserted in the seat is engaged axially outward of the ridge by the clip. A latch element can move between an outer freeing position generally clear of the clip and an inner locking position engaged outward of the clip between same and the respective inner surface and preventing the clip from moving from the inner retaining position to the outer spread position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Ti Automotive (Fuldabruck) GmbH
    Inventors: Reiner Rohde, Andreas Rose, Torsten Thomke, Andreas Szczepaniak, Kurt Apel
  • Patent number: 6834888
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a connector, comprising a first connector segment having a laterally extending flange, and a second connector segment having a body and a pair of opposed retainers adapted to releaseably maintain the first and second connector segments in mated relationship. Each of the retainers has a lever spaced laterally from the second connector segment body, the lever being joined to the second connector segment body at a base end and having a latch at a free end. The lever is also joined to the second connector segment body by a fulcrum wall positioned intermediate the ends of the lever, an outwardly facing cam surface is provided on the lever between the fulcrum wall and the base end. A slide ring is disposed over the second connector segment retainers, the slide ring being moveable from a first position adjacent the latch of each retainer to a second position of engagement with the cam surface of each retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Flow-Rite Controls, Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel N. Campau
  • Patent number: 6834889
    Abstract: This invention relates to a torque release coupling for use in drill strings comprising an outer string part (1) rotatably mounted outside a radially inner string part (2), and a rotation lock (3) positioned between them. The rotation lock (3) is coupled to a first of said string parts (1, 2) with a coupling device (4, 9) adapted to allow axial shifts relative to the first string part, and comprising axial gripping organs (5) adapted for releasable engagement with cooperating gripping organs in the second string part, the rotation lock (3) comprising a spring (6) or similar adapted to apply an axial force on the rotation lock (3) directed against the cooperating gripping organs (5) from the first string part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Den norske stats oljesselskap A.S.
    Inventors: Egil Sunde, Morten Hyvik, Per Olav Haughom
  • Patent number: 6824170
    Abstract: A self-locking coupling device for coupling to a fitting having a radially outwardly facing groove using a coupling body with a central bore and an axially extending collar having a throughbore including a spring and actuating pin with a locking tab and further having first and second catches corresponding to and engageable with first and second slots in a rotatable locking ring mounted concentrically about the collar so as to position the locking tab within the throughbore in an unlocked position and within the central bore in a locked position so as to restrict the axial movement of the coupling body relative to the fitting when the groove is radially aligned with the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Airdrome Parts Co.
    Inventor: Frank Ching King Lee
  • Patent number: 6791031
    Abstract: A fitting for an electrical conduit uses a cam lock arrangement. The fitting has an annular pocket for receiving the end of a conduit section. An opening through the wall of the fitting intersects the pocket. The cam lock is mounted so that a cam portion projects through the opening. A lever projecting above the body of the fitting rotates the cam lock to cause it to engage and indent an inserted conduit section to lock the conduit section in place. A method is provided by which conduit sections can be joined using only a single tool, such as a pair of slip joint channel pliers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: James C. Manning