Snap-fit Patents (Class 285/921)
  • Patent number: 7581564
    Abstract: A protector (10) has two half members (20, 40) forming a tubular shape upon being assembled. One half member (20) includes a pair of temporary fixing ribs (26A, 26B) projecting more than a contact edge (23) with the other half member (40) and standing up at the opposite sides of each of corrugated tubes (80A, 80B), each pair of temporary fixing ribs (26A, 26B) are shaped to be insertable into grooves (81A, 81B) of the corresponding corrugated tube (80A, 80B), and stand-up ends (27A, 27B) of the pair of temporary fixing ribs (26A, 26B) are bent to approach each other along the groove (81A, 81B) of the corrugated tube (80A, 80B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyoshi Tanaka, Masato Ibaraki, Tsutomu Sakata, Toshitsugu Morii
  • Patent number: 7562910
    Abstract: A plug-type connection arrangement for a hose and a pipe, the connection arrangement comprising a sleeve having an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein the hose is insertable from an end of the sleeve and is clampable in the sleeve, wherein the sleeve has at another end thereof a first annular groove with an open resilient connecting ring which extends over more than 180° and is lockable to the sleeve and the pipe, and a sealing ring for sealing the sleeve relative to the pipe in a connected state of the pipe and the hose, the connecting ring being comprised of a plate spring ring with inwardly directed flanges at both circumferential edges thereof, wherein the flanges of one circumferential edge are engageble in the first annular groove and the flanges of the other circumferential edge are engageable behind a holding rib on the pipe, wherein the sealing ring is mounted in a second annular groove formed by the inner wall of the sleeve and the axially inner wall of the first annular groove, and wherein an end
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Janos Kertesz, Gerhard Wachter
  • Patent number: 7481461
    Abstract: A device which is expandable to engage the interior of a tube, for example the casing of an oil well, comprises first and second tubular members in partial telescopic engagement with each other, the first tubular member having an end region which is received on the second tubular member and which is expandable radially outwardly to engage the interior of the tube. The second tubular member has tapered regions which, when forced into the end region, will cause radial expansion of the end region. The taper angle of the second tapered zone is less than the taper angle of both the first tapered zone and the third tapered zone. The fourth tapered zone preferably has a taper angle which is greater than that of the second tapered zone and less than that of the third tapered zone. In one embodiment, the tapered zones have respective taper angles of 15°, 1°, 5° and 1.25°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce McGarian, Gary Pape, Tony LaPlante
  • Patent number: 7469937
    Abstract: It allows quick and effective coupling of a first duct end (female member) and a second duct end (male member). The male member includes an outer circumferential groove and the female member has two outer protrusions defining respective inner recesses adapted for receiving sealing and locking gaskets. When assembled, the female member extends to the male member without covering the circumferential groove thereof. A fastening clip is provided fitted into the groove of the male member and also into the groove defined between the protrusions of the female member, holding them axially in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Manufactura Moderna De Metales, S.A.
    Inventors: Lucio Alfredo Iturgoyen Sabando, Sergio Esteve Gari, Isaac Tejero Salinero
  • Patent number: 7464971
    Abstract: Pipe fittings, used in joining abutting ends of two pipe sections, comprise a pair of semi-cylindrical members that are adapted to fit around and engage the periphery of opposed ends of the two abutting ends of the pipe sections. Longitudinal edges of the two semi-cylindrical members are formed so as to mate with one another to form a mechanical means of locking the semi-cylindrical members together in tight engagement with the ends of the pipes. Each of the semicylindrical members has a seal mechanism formed of a resilient, elastomeric material which forms a mechanical, water-tight seal between the mutually respective pair of semi-cylindrical members as well as the opposite ends of the pipes to which the pair of semi-cylindrical members have been attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Lavon Bennett
  • Patent number: 7455330
    Abstract: A quick coupling (1) comprising a sleeve-shaped coupling body (3) with a receiving opening (4) to receive one end (5) of a pipe (2), a retaining element (7) to hold the end (5) of the pipe in the coupling body (3), a sealing element (8) to seal the pipe (2) against the coupling body (3) and a securing element (9) to secure the connection between the pipe (2) and the coupling body (3), in conjunction with first and second locking ribs (23,24) adjacent to the receiving opening (4) on an external surface (21) of the coupling body (3), which ribs extend outwards in a radial direction and interact with the securing element (9) for the purpose of securing a connection between the pipe (2) and the coupling body (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Kulm Holding AG
    Inventor: Hans Baumgartner
  • Patent number: 7427194
    Abstract: An ice cream scooping implement includes an elongated handle that has an axial bore extending from a handle distal end and terminates approximately midway therealong. The handle has an end cap removably mated to a proximal end thereof. A scooping section is telescopically and removably insertable into the axial bore and includes a mechanism for locking the scooping section within the handle. A heating element is concentrically seated about a proximal portion of the scooping section, is in direct contact with the scooping section, is isolated from the handle, and is formed from thermal-conductive and electrical-conductive material, including tungsten. The heating element includes a pair of conductive terminals that extend proximally along a longitudinal length thereof. A mechanism is included for supplying power to the heating element. The terminals are directly engaged with the power supplying mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Inventor: Renae A. Lopez
  • Patent number: 7389798
    Abstract: A plug for a port is provided. Preferably, the plug and a cartridge configured to couple fluid tubes to a housing use substantially identical components such as a seal and a retainer or guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: SMC Corporation of America
    Inventors: Michael D. Nowling, Rick D. Pelfrey
  • Patent number: 7390029
    Abstract: A quick connector has a housing, a retainer for locking a tube at a correct position for complete connection in the housing and a restraining ring for restraining the retainer from being pressed into the housing to its locking position unless the tube is inserted in the housing and placed at the correct position for complete connection to avoid connecting the tube to the quick connector in a falsely locked state. The restraining ring is provided with locking bars that engage with the legs of the retainer to restrain the retainer from being pressed into the housing. The locking bars permit releasing the restraining ring to its releasing position to enable the retainer to be pressed into the housing to the locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Sanoh Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoshi Matsubara
  • Patent number: 7370889
    Abstract: A connector for a tube comprises a hollow spigot and an outer securing member for capturing a tube therebetween. The hollow spigot includes an internal bore matched to that of the tube, a tapered end with a frusto-conical length and its small diameter at its distal end and a parallel length inwards of the tapered end, with a diameter less than the maximum tapered diameter and an annular rib inwards of the parallel length to provide an end stop for the tube when fitted onto the spigot. The outer securing member includes an internal tapered bore matched to the frusto-conical length and of respectively increased diameter to accommodate the tube therebetween and at least one latch formation spaced from the member's large tapered end for engaging behind the annular rib.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Bio Pure Technology Limited
    Inventors: Roy Peter Maunder, David Whitmore Hilton
  • 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: 7338092
    Abstract: A plastic rift connector fitting comprises an annular housing, water line fitting, and sleeve components for pressurized water systems. The housing has a plurality of locking mechanisms to quickly lock and release the water line fitting. A flange and O-ring on the water line fitting stabilize the water line fitting connection to the housing for pressures up to 250 psi. The sleeve encloses the housing/fitting connection to prevent accidental release of water line fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: David Lee Cicconi, III
  • Patent number: 7338093
    Abstract: The plug type connection of this invention consists of two coupling parts which can be fitted together, to be precise a socket part and a plug part, it being possible for the plug part, with a plug shank, to be inserted in a sealing manner into a locating opening of the socket part and to be releasably locked in the plugged-in state via a locking arrangement, the locking arrangement consisting, on the one hand, of two outer, radial, flange-like retaining webs, axially adjacent in the plug-in direction in the plugged-in state, of the two coupling parts and, on the other hand, of a retaining element which, with at least one retaining section which is C-shaped in axial section, axially and radially encloses the retaining webs of the two coupling parts in a positive-locking manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Rozalia Bilstein, Josef Brandt, Volker Kaminski
  • 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: 7284774
    Abstract: A plug-in coupling for connecting a fluid line with a pipe having a circumferential holding rib includes a pipe piece with a first end portion connectable to the fluid line and a second end portion which can be plugged together with the pipe, wherein the second end portion is connectable to a first coupling ring part of a coupling ring and is connected through elastic holding arms to a non-circular elastically expandable second coupling ring part. The second coupling ring part has locking sections which are distributed over a predetermined circumferential angle range of a circumference of the pipe piece. When the pipe and pipe piece are plugged together, the locking sections slide over the holding rib and expand the second coupling ring part and engage behind the holding rib, wherein the components located between the locking sections of the second coupling ring part are arched outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Bauer, Oliver Strauss, Reiner Koch, Sigrid Becker
  • Patent number: 7249788
    Abstract: A connector assembly having a male member, a female member and a retainer for releasably securing the male member and the female member. The retainer has inner retainer arms for simultaneously engaging the male member and an interior portion of the female member, and an outer retainer flange for engaging an outer portion of the female member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Dana Canada Corporation
    Inventors: Anis Muhammad, Jeff Sheppard
  • Patent number: 7249789
    Abstract: A novel design for the connection of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) casing. Each length of casing has a male end and a female end. The female end has a narrowing interior diameter with its wider interior diameter at its outermost end sufficient to receive the male end of similar length of casing for connection. The diameter of the female end narrows to a diameter which is less than the outer diameter of the male end. The male end has a lip at its leading edge and is slotted and compressible when forced through the narrowed diameter of the female end. A groove in the interior surface of the female end is sufficient to receive the lip at the leading edge of the male end. When the lip at the leading edge of the male end reaches the groove, it allows the compressed male end to expand with the groove receiving the lip therein. The connected lengths of casing are locked together in this manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Screens, Inc.
    Inventors: Morris G. Haney, Roy L. Thein
  • Patent number: 7240927
    Abstract: A connection assembly has a male connector, a first engaging ring securely mounted on the male connector, a female connector and a second engaging ring securely received in the female connector. The first engaging ring has first claws formed to abut a periphery defining the second annular groove formed on the female connector and the second engaging ring has second claws formed to abut a periphery defining the first annular groove formed on the male connector. Engagement between the male connector and the female connector is accomplished after the abutment between the first claws and the second annular groove and between the second claws and the first annular groove is finished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: King Chang
  • Patent number: 7240700
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for reducing the noise that enters the vehicle compartment through a hole in a drain plug. In an embodiment, the system includes a drain plug with a washer, a shank with an inlet fluidly coupled to an outlet, a cylindrical wall and a disc configured to occlude the outlet. The assembly may include a seal. When installed, the seal seals the washer to the mounting surface while the disc occludes the outlet so as to reduce the entry of noise through the drain plug while providing a passageway that allows the accumulated water to drain away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Pangallo, Duane M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7207604
    Abstract: A snap-fit connection assembly for use in a pool filtration system. The connection assembly includes a first connection receptacle, a second connection receptacle for insertion into the first connection receptacle, one or mores fingers extending circumferentially from the second connection receptacle, and one or more openings in the first connection receptacle for engaging the finger(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Pentair Pool Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas M. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7207607
    Abstract: The invention relates to a coaxial two-component cartridge, with an outer tube and a separate inner tube, both of which tape at one respective end into a respective neck, wherein the inner side of the neck of the outer tube and the outer side of the neck of the inner tube are each provided with locking elements that can be moved into engagement with each other, for a coaxial introduction of the inner tube into the outer tube, such that they fix the inner tube relative to the outer tube coaxially and in a predetermined axial position. The coaxial two-component cartridge distinguishes itself in that the locking elements of the neck of the outer tube are formed by a plurality in the axial direction of successive channels, and the locking elements of the neck of the inner tube are formed by a plurality in the axial direction of successive ribs integral with the neck, and the outer diameter of the neck of the inner tube including the ribs is at least as large as the clearance diameter of the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Nikolaus Brugner, Alfons Gleich
  • Patent number: 7108297
    Abstract: An inner peripheral surface of a tube connecting portion of a tubular connector housing is divided into a first receiving portion on one axial side and a second receiving portion on an opposite axial side by an inwardly directed annular parting projection. A first O-ring of one axial side and a second O-ring of an opposite axial side are disposed with intervening a collar therebetween on an opposite axial side in the first receiving portion. The first O-ring is made of FKM and the second O-ring is made of FVMQ. A third O-ring is disposed on one axial side in the second receiving portion. The third O-ring is also made of FVMQ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Akira Takayanagi, Yoshimitsu Ishida
  • Patent number: 7093858
    Abstract: A clamp for attaching a pipeline tracer wire to a pipeline riser has an elongated riser grip which is resiliently flexible to snap onto the riser. An elongated conduit with a V-shaped groove extends integrally along the outer wall of the riser grip. The conduit receives the tracer wire therein. At least one tap screw is engagable in the groove and radially into the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Alternatively, a tap screw may be threadedly engaged in the upper end of the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Preferably, the clamp is made of non-metallic, fire retardant material such as a high density thermoplastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Jim L. Russell
  • 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: 7040668
    Abstract: A tube joint comprises a body composed of a resin material, a connecting member installed to one end of the body, an insert section inserted into the body, a first deformable section with a reduced diameter as compared with the insert section, and a second deformable section with a further reduced diameter as compared with the first deformable section. A fluid tube, to which a pressure fluid is supplied, is inserted into the other end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takumi Ezura
  • Patent number: 7040667
    Abstract: A clamping assembly has a first component and a second component, which has an essentially cylindrical outer jacket, which is attachable to the first component. The clamping assembly has a support surface supported against the first component, which is able to be clamped against the first component via a clamping sleeve that is slid onto the outer jacket and may be screwed onto the first component, and via a snap ring that comes to rest against a first clamping shoulder formed on the inner wall of the clamping sleeve and against a second clamping shoulder formed on the outer jacket of the second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Markus Nieslony
  • Patent number: 7029036
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector includes first and second rotatably, non-axially movably engaged housings. A retainer is mountable in the second housing for lockingly coupling a fluid operative element to the second housing. The first housing has an annular recess at one end which receives a collar extending axially from the second housing. Projections extend radially from the collar and engage the recess in the first housing to rotatably interconnect the first and second housings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Andre
  • Patent number: 7025387
    Abstract: The connection device (101, 201) according to the invention has a locking head (109, 209) that can be locked to an opening (8) of a container wall (3). A clamping device (123, 223) is also provided on the corresponding coupling piece (5), which serves to tighten the head (109, 209) locked to the container wall (3) without a rotational movement against the container wall (3). The clamping device (123, 223) can be designed as a wedge-clamping device (142, 242). The latter permits generation of large clamping forces with small operating forces. The clamping device (142, 242) is preferably secured by a locking device (253), so that vibration-proof connection resistant to temperature changes is achieved during simple assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Eaton Fluid Power GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Twardawski, Thomas Luft, Bernd Halbrock, Michael Markus Huck
  • Patent number: 7014220
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector sealingly latches first and second components, one of which has a through bore and the other has a raised bead spaced from a tip end. A retainer is mountable through a transverse bore in one end of the first component and latched to the first component by projections carried on a pair of legs. A flange on the retainer is positioned to engage a surface of the first component to position the retainer on the first component. Inner disposed arms on the retainer engage a constant diameter portion of the second component and resist movement of the raised bead into or out of the bore in the housing when the retainer is in a fully latched position. The flange on the retainer is spaced from the legs of the retainer to enable the legs to be of minimal thickness for a reduced axial length for the retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: George Szabo, Anthony Thomas
  • Patent number: 7014225
    Abstract: A pipe and snap connector assembly including mating male and female pipes joined by a clam-shell type connector. The female pipe receives a portion of the male pipe, and each pipe provides a radial flange configured such that there is a gap between the radial flanges when the male pipe is received in the female pipe. A sealing washer or seal is disposed between the flanges, in the gap. The clam-shell type connector is of open-ended barrel construction, and includes a radial clamp cavity that is sized to contact the radial flanges on the male and female pipes and axially compress them against the seal to provide a fluid-tight connection of the pipes. A latch and catch mechanism on the connector can be opened and closed without the use of special tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Viking Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly J. Goodsel, Ernest Lane, Jr., Cyrus D. Gilson, Michael Hiner
  • Patent number: 7011345
    Abstract: A pipe joint between cylindrical male and female couplers having terminal end portions with cooperating cam surfaces that facilitate assembly of the couplers. Cooperating projections on the couplers cam past one another when the couplers are assembled and restrain the couplers against separation. A gasket is interposed between the couplers, and the couplers are articulatable at least several degrees to permit some curvature to a string of pipe. The couplers have splines received in annular sockets in the ends of pipes, and the sockets are filled with adhesive to retain the splines therein. The gasket is prelubricated and protected by a plastic wrap that also provides protection against ultraviolet rays. Cylindrical ring couplers are formed by extruding a strip having a coupler cross-sectional profile, cutting a length of the strip and fusing the ends at a joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventor: George J. Foos
  • Patent number: 6971684
    Abstract: The invention relates to fast couplings for connecting hoses, particularly for domestic irrigation. A fast coupling is formed by a first body and a second body reciprocally connected by inserting first lugs projecting from the second body in first slots made on the first body. A male connector is locked inside the fast coupling by radially pressing an end of the male connector with a torus-shaped elastic element. Unlocking the second body from the first body causes the automatic ejection of the mail connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Ferrari Group Srl
    Inventor: Ruggero Ferrari
  • Patent number: 6916051
    Abstract: A coupler for a flexible tube is disclosed. The coupler includes a first channeled member having a generally semicircular cross-section and a first longitudinal axis extending therethrough and a second channeled member having a generally semicircular cross-section and a second longitudinal axis extending therethrough. The first longitudinal axis is generally parallel to the second longitudinal axis. A hinge connects a first length of the first channeled member to a first length of the second channeled member. A lateral axis generally bifurcates the first length of the first channeled member and the first length of the second channeled member. A plurality of barbs are disposed in each of the first and second channeled members, wherein each barb extends generally toward an intersection of the longitudinal axis of its respective channeled member and the lateral axis. A lock secures a second length of the first channeled member to a second length of the second channeled member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Medical Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Fisher
  • Patent number: 6908123
    Abstract: A quick coupler formed of two identical sectors that snap lock together in a radially inward direction relative to a central axis of an annular hole passing through the coupler. The coupler is in the form of a nut or housing for surrounding the ends of two conduits that are to be coupled. The annular hole extends between opposite end faces and has structure near each end face. The structure at one end of the annular hole comprises a flange for retaining a first conduit when the sectors are snapped surroundingly snapped together on the end of the first conduit. The structure at the other end of the annular hole has circumferentially spaced lugs for cooperation with bosses on the second conduit in a bayonet quick coupling fashion. The combination of the coupler with first and second conduits having cooperating structure enabling the coupler to join the conduits in sealed fluid communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Fluidmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Tuan Le
  • Patent number: 6902207
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for connecting and disconnected fluid conduits (e.g. medical tubing) are disclosed. Typical embodiments of the Apparatuses and methods disclosed herein operate with two separate components, the first having a moveable septum and the second having a fixed septum. When the components are engaged, the device allows the flow of fluid through a conduit to which they are coupled. When the components are uncoupled, the device prevents the flow of fluid through the conduit. An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a housing, a moveable septum slideably coupled with the housing to be alternately disposed in at least a first and second position and a piercing member having a passage for conducting fluid. The moveable septum closes the passage in the first position and is penetrated by the piercing member to open the passage in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans Lickliter
  • Patent number: 6893055
    Abstract: The snap connection for sealed and releasable connection of a first tube end with a second tube end, with spring arms, with a first outer stop projection on the first tube end, with a first elastically deformable ring connected with the spring arms, and with two first inner stop cams on the first ring cooperating with the first outer stop projection, is characterized by a second outer stop projection on the second tube end, a second elastically deformable ring connected with the spring arms with distance from the first ring, and by two, second inner stop cams on the second ring cooperating with the second outer stop projection. Both rings with their stop cams, connected to one another via the spring arms, form a double-connection element separable by and on both tube ends, which can be made from a plastic injection molding part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: EMS-Chemie AG
    Inventors: Jeltsch Thomas, Ralph Kettl, Willi Mario
  • Patent number: 6893050
    Abstract: The invention relates to a plug-in vacuum cleaner hose arrangement (10), comprising a socket (15), formed from a collar piece (12), in which a hose push-fit end (13) is detachably held, by axially plugging in to a clip-lock. An operating slide (17), comprising a retaining surface (26) runs axially on the collar piece (12) and may be axially displaced in both opposing axial directions (e, a) about a neutral axial position for the retaining surface (26) thereof, against a spring force (by 18). In said neutral axial position the retaining surface (26) locks the clip body (S) and releases the same when displaced from the neutral position thereof by any movement. The connection is produced by a first directing surface (41) on the front end of the hose push-fit end (13) and opening the connection is performed by a second directing surface (43) formed by the locking recess (T) of the hose push-fit end (14). Said arrangement (10) permits a convenient operation, both on attaching and detaching the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Froh House Tech GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jürgen Schiemann, Hartmut Kiel
  • Patent number: 6866303
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector sealingly latches first and second components, one of which has a through bore and the other has a raised bead spaced from a tip end. A retainer is mountable through a transverse bore in one end of the first component and latched to the first component by projections carried on a pair of legs. A flange on the retainer is positioned to engage a surface of the first component to position the retainer on the first component. Inner disposed arms on the retainer engage a constant diameter portion of the second component and resist movement of the raised bead into or out of the bore in the housing when the retainer is in a fully latched position. The flange on the retainer is spaced from the legs of the retainer to enable the legs to be of minimal thickness for a reduced axial length for the retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: George Szabo, Anthony Thomas
  • 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: 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: 6851725
    Abstract: A tube is insertable into a housing and secured by a collet connector. The tube has a first upset portion for actuating the collet and a second upset portion outwardly from the first upset portion. A retention clip has a first pair of arms which attach to a portion of the housing and a second pair of arms which attach to the tube outwardly of the second upset portion to further secure the tube within the housing. The end of each of the second pair of arms include a ramped surface. If the tube is not fully inserted within the housing before attaching clip, and thus the first upset portion has not fully actuated the collet, the ramps will cam along the second upset portion, thus pushing the tube into the housing and likewise the first upset portion through the collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Cooper Technology Services, LLC
    Inventor: Matthew David Lutzke
  • Patent number: 6851448
    Abstract: A rotary connector with valve, comprising first and second connector members (1, 2) having connector terminal parts (5, 6) and fitting parts (7, 8) with hollows (3, 4) as fluid passages formed therein and a valve member (12), wherein the first and second connector members are rotably connected to each other by fitting the fitting parts thereof to each other and the valve member is stored in a valve storage part (11) formed in the fitting part, valve pressing parts (14, 15) are provided on the first and second connectors (1, 2) on the side of the valve storage part, and at least a part of the valve member is pressingly held between the both valve pressing parts to hold a sealability, and a frictional force acting between the both valve pressing parts and the valve member is set so as to come within such a range that the first and second connector members can be rotated each other, whereby a structure allowing an easy assembly and an absorption of the twist of a line can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoji Fujii
  • Patent number: 6848723
    Abstract: A quick connect coupling for connecting a fluid conduit to a header tank includes first and second engaged and sealed coupling parts. The first coupling part includes a radially inner hollow cylindrical wall with a radially outer surface and diametrically opposite, axially directed fingers spaced radially outward of the cylindrical wall and attached thereto. The second coupling part includes a generally circular radially inner wall sized to be axially received between the cylindrical wall and the fingers and has an interior surface facing the radially outer surface of the cylindrical wall. A radially inwardly opening groove is located in the interior surface and a circular seal is disposed therein to sealingly engage the radially outer surface of the cylindrical wall when the coupling is assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Modine Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Bernhard Lamich
  • Patent number: 6848672
    Abstract: A valve and actuator assembly includes a valve body, an actuator and a bracket that snap fits onto the valve body. The bracket includes a plate on which an actuator can be installed. In one form, the bracket is saddle shaped with depending legs that snap over a part of the valve body. Means such as bolts are provided to apply a gripping force to the legs so that the bracket is clamped onto the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Swagelok Company
    Inventors: Charles W. Cross, Robert W. Jacobs, Gary W. Scheffel, Michael M. Stankovich
  • Patent number: 6837525
    Abstract: A tube connecting structure is formed with first and second cylindrical sections. The first cylindrical section includes: a joining cylinder with engagement holes disposed at a first end; a ring-shaped flange projecting radially inward from a second end; an inner cylinder extending co-axially toward the first end; and an inner cylindrical member separated axially from the inner cylinder. An O-ring is disposed co-axially between the inner cylinder and inner cylindrical member. Large and small diameter sections of the joining member align with a large-diameter section and small-diameter cylindrical section of the first tube, respectively, and are fitted into the space between the joining cylinder and the inner cylinder and inner cylindrical member. A second tube supported within the second cylindrical section is prevented from slipping out. The O-ring provides a fluid-tight seal between the first and second tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsuo Miyajima
  • Publication number: 20040245778
    Abstract: A system for coupling a plurality of pipes end-to-end in a locked configuration to thereby form an enclosed conduit comprising a first pipe having a receiving end and an insertion end, a first annular ring track formed on an inner surface of the receiving end; a second pipe, the second pipe having an insertion end and a receiving end, an opposing annular ring track formed on an outer surface of the insertion end; the receiving end of the first pipe sized to tightly receive the insertion end of the second pipe; an anti-reversing locking ring having a partial conic profile, the ring having a leading edge formed on a larger diameter opening of the ring, the ring having a trailing edge formed on a smaller diameter opening of the ring; and the ring positioned in the first ring track of the first pipe with the leading edge of the ring closer to the receiving end than the insertion end, such that when the insertion end of the second pipe is inserted into the receiving end of the first pipe, the trailing end of the r
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: Robert M. Adams
  • Publication number: 20040232696
    Abstract: The invention provides a pre-assembled coupling for leaktight coupling of a fluid transport tube and an endpiece provided with at least one coupling element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Maxime Andre
  • Patent number: 6811098
    Abstract: A sprinkler device, especially for units for the spray distribution of water and other similar liquids, comprising an at least partly hollow central body defining a longitudinal axis, a connecting sleeve to a supply line removably secured to the central body, a convergent nozzle to accelerate the liquid located between the central body and the sleeve, a diverter unit located downstream from the nozzle to divert the flow in a substantially transverse direction so as to spray the fluid outwards, first snap means to connect the nozzle to the sleeve. The first snap connection means are arranged so as to hold the nozzle in an axially immobilised position with respect to the sleeve when the latter is fitted to and disconnected from the central body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Arno Drechsel
  • Patent number: 6810569
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a workpiece, such as an automotive fuel tank, that includes a connection between a male connector and a female connector, one of which includes a tab that is only removable following the connection. The tab includes a computer-readable code that is read by the computer. During manufacturing, the workpiece is loaded into a workstation, the connection is made, and the tab is removed. The tab is presented to a computer to verify the connection. In the event that a command is received to release the workpiece and the computer has not verified the connection, the computer issues an alert. In a workstation that comprises a computer-controlled release mechanism, a preferred alert comprises a refusal to release the workpiece prior to verification of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Engle, Harold E. Cunningham, Larry D. Land, James F. Potter
  • Patent number: 6779745
    Abstract: A universal pressure washer extension/replacement hose adapted for use with pressure washers which have different diameter liquid discharge outlets. The extension hose has identical connecting fittings at its opposite ends, one of which can be coupled in sealed relation to a pressure washer outlet of either of two known sizes and the other of which is connectable to a spray gun hose through a universal adaptor having connecting chambers of said two known sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: FAIP North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Gus Alexander, Morgan McCarthy, John Pianetto