CA2059150C - Quick connect branch connector - Google Patents
Quick connect branch connectorInfo
- Publication number
- CA2059150C CA2059150C CA 2059150 CA2059150A CA2059150C CA 2059150 C CA2059150 C CA 2059150C CA 2059150 CA2059150 CA 2059150 CA 2059150 A CA2059150 A CA 2059150A CA 2059150 C CA2059150 C CA 2059150C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- spring clip
- saddle
- pipe
- clip member
- branch connector
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Landscapes
- Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
- Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
Abstract
A quick connect branch connector includes a saddle to which one end of a spring clip is hingedly connected, a traction device being provided at the opposite end of the spring clip for cooperation with the saddle, whereby the spring clip can be placed under tensile hoop stress in encircling relation with a pipe.
Description
- 205915~
TITLE: QUICR CONNECT BRANCH CONNECTOR
This invention relates to a ~uick connect branch connector for use in plumbing systems. While not limited thereto, the invention relates to a quick connect branch connector of particular utility in assembling a fire extinguishing sprinkler system. ~hilc of particular utility in that application, the quick connect branch connector of the invention finds ul;ility in any other application in which it i~ desired to connect ~ plumbing branch to a main pipe line.
Back~round of the Art Branch connections as commonly known are provided by a plumbing tee and by threading pipes into the branches of the tee.
Also known in the art are branch connectors that can be secured to a main plumbing line bJ~ straps or cthcr fittings, and which communicate with the main plumbing line through a hole drilled through the exterior surfacc of the main pipe line, the branch connector being sealed to the outer surface of the main line.
Such branch connectors have been successfully cmployed in the fabrication of fire extinguishing sprinkler systems.
However, the known branch connectors arc encumbered with the disadvantage that two hands must be employed for assembling the branch connector onto the main pipe, this involving the holding of the branch connector in one hand while the securing strap is attached to the branch connector. While this poses no particular problem in locations that are readily accessible, it does pose considerable problems in the assembly of such branch connectors in difficult locations, such as high above a workshop floor, which is a typical location of such sprinkler heads.
Branch connectors that are a snap-fit onto thc main pipeline have been prcviously proposed. Typical of such snap-on branch connectors are ones manufactured by Spraying Systems Co. of Wheaton, Illinois, U.S.A. and by Uni-Spray of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
The snap-fit branch connectors manufactured by those firms are employed for the securement of spray nozzles to a low pressure pipeline. While the snap-fit branch connectors referred to are eminently suited to their intended purpose, which is one in which relati~ely low pressures exist in the pipeline, they are not suited to their employment in fire cxtinguishing systems.
In a fire extinguishing system, the sprinkler heads are exposed to a continuous high static prcssure within the pipeline, which exists at all times and possibly for many years, and until such time that thc sprin~lcr heads are actuated by a fire condition.
20~91~ 0 The prior known quick connect branch connectors each employ spring clips that can bc snapped over the main pipeline, and, which maintain the ~uick conncct branch connector attached to the main pipeline exclusively by thc stored spring force in the spring clips.
As will be apparent, the pressurc at ~hich the connection will fail is determined by the spring force that can be exerted on the connectors by the spriny clips.
Thus, the use of such known quick connect branch connectors is limited to relatively low pressure applications for supporting spray nozzles that are exposcd to dynamic pressure loading. In a fire extinguishing system the sprinkler heads are continuously exposcd to a high static pressure loading of a much greater magnitude than that encountered in a spraying systcm.
Further considerations present themselves in the assembly of fire extinguishing sprinklcr systems. A major one of those considerations is that the sprinkler heads must be attached to the main pipeline in a manner that prohibits accidental or intentional removal of the sprinkler head at the time the main pipcline is under pressure. This consideration, of course, applics in all other plumbing applications in which the pipeline is under pressure, particularly in the evcnt that noxious or hazardous fluids are bcing convcycd by thc pipeline.
~ 2059150 Object of the Invention The object of this invention is to provide a quick connect branch connector for usc in any plumbing application, and in particular for use in the construction of fire extinguishing systems, in which thc branch connector is capable of withstanding high static pre~.sur~s without failing, and is incapable of accidcntal and unintentional release from the pipelinc wi.th which it is associated. Anothcr object of this invention is to prescrve the advantages of known quick connect branch connectors in their ability for them to be snap-fitted onto the main pipeline in a mancuver that casily can bc effcctcd by a singlé hand, even in difficult locations. The branch connector can thcn be permanently affixcd to the associatcd pipeline, any attempts at removal o~ thc connector then requiring the premeditated use of an appropriate tool.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invcntion, a quick connect branch connector is provided by a saddle for attachment to an associated pipeline, the saddle incorporating a nipple for penetration into the associated pipeline throu~h a holc formed therein, the nipple being surroundcd by a scaling gasket.
The saddle is provided with a spring clip that is 20~9I50 hingedly conn~cted to the saddle and which is configured for it to snap over and closely cmbracc the associated pipeline in order to maintain the saddlc initially attached to the associated pipeline.
The end of the spring clip remotc from the hingcd interconnection with the saddle is then permanently secured to that side of the saddle oppositc to the hinged connection in a manner that rcquires a tool in order to effect the securemcnt. As a consequence, the use of a similar or idcntical tool is required in ordcr to effect the release of the branch connector from the associated pipeline, thus prohibiting accidental and unintentional release of the branch connector.
The securcment of both ends o~ the spriny clip to thc saddle acts to draw the spring clips into clamping engagement with the associated pipe, thus providing a permanent interconnection betwecn thc pipe and the branch connector th~t relies on the tensional strc~s produccd in the spring clip, and which does not in any way rely on thc compressive spring strength thereof.
In this manner, a positive and pcrmanent interconnection can bc made between the branch connector and the associated pipc, with thc advantagcs of initially securins the branch connector to the associatcd pipc in an entirely stable manner, thus frceing both o~ the hands of the installer for cffecting the subsequcnt final connection 2~59150 of the branch connector to thc associated pipc.
Conveniently, the main supply pipe is pre-drilled prior to it's installation in the sprinklcr systcm, subsequcnt to which the quick conncct conncctors can be permanently affixed to thc main.supply pipe.
Preferably, but not cssentially, sprinkIer heads are formed integrally with thc branch connectors, or, are preassembled onto the branch connectors prior to their installation on the main supply pipe, thus eliminating the skill ~nd dcxterity required in installing thc sprinkler heads in difficult locations, such as in ele~ated or cramped conditions.
Description of thc Draw;~s The invention will now be describ~d with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustr~tc preferred embodiments of thc invention, and in which:
Figure 1 is a front clevation of one embodimcnt of the quicls connect branch conncctor of the invcntion;
Figurc ~ is a sidc clc~vation thereof, thc quick connect branch conncctor bcing sho~n assembled with ~ convcn~io~ l sprinklcr hcad;
~ 2059I~0 Figure 3 is a side elevation of the quiek conneet braneh eonneetor shown in an opened position, preparatory to its being snapped over a eonventional pipe;
Figure 4 is an underside plan view of another embodiment of quiek eonneet braneh eonneetor of the invention;
Figure 5 is a side elevation of the braneh eonneetor of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is an exploded perspeetive view of ~nother cmbodimcnt of quicl~ connect braneh eonneetor of the invention;
Figure 7 is a sidc view of the eonncetor of Figure 6 whcn in an assembled eondition;
Figure 8 is a plan view of another embodiment of quie]~ ccnncet branch conneetor of the invention;
Figure 9 is a side view of thc eonnector of Figure 8;
Figure 10 is a perspeetive view of the conneetor of Figurcs 8 and g when in an open eondition prior to assembly onto a ~ 20~9150 pipe; and, Figure 11 is a perspectivc view of the spring clip takcn from a different position.
Description of the Prefcrred Embodimcnt Referring firstly to Figure 1, the quick connect branch connector of the present invcntion includcs a s~ddle 10 having a central through borc 12 that extends from the lower faee 13 of the connector to thc uppcr facc thcrcof where it emerges at 14 between a pair of arcuate lugs 16 that are adapted to bc received within a lateral bore formed in a pipe (not shown).
The upper ~urfacc 18 of the saddle is configured for it to embrace thc outer surfacc of thc pipe, the upper surface bcing rccessed for it to reeeive a ~7caling gasket 20 for engagement with the pipe periphcry to provide a fluid tight scal betwcen the saddle uppcr surface and the exterior of the pipe. As is shown in Figures 2 and 3, the upper portion of the saddlc extends latcrally to both sides thereof in ordcr to providc a hinge post ~2 on one side thereof and a bolting pad 24 on thc oppositc side.
A spring elip 26 is pivotally mountcd on thc hinge posts 22 by means of loops 28, the spring clip being generally of U-shape whcn vicwcd in plan, thc respcctive arms of the spring clip mcrging into an cyelet portion 30.
The spring clip 26 is formcd of one continuous length of stiff but resilient wire that pro~idcs for sripping engagement o~er a pipe.
As will be observed more particularly in Figure 3, the spring clip 26 is of greater arcuate extent than one half of the periphery of the pipe, whose axis is indicated at 32, in order that the spring clip must be forccd over thc pipe and clipp~d thereon, the spring clip at that time providing a hanger for the saddlc 10. The s3ddle can then be released by the workman in preparation for the step of assembly, the saddle at that time remaining suspended from the pipe by means of the spring clip ~6.
The workman is then free to use both hands in order to rotate the spring clip around the pipe axis to bring the lugs 16 of the saddle into proper alignmen~ with the holc borcd in the pipe, subsequent to which the saddlc can be rotated upwardly about the hinge post 22, to bring the lugs 16 into cngagemcnt within thc holc formcd in thc pipe.
~nce the lugs are engaged within the hole in thc pipe, then, further movement of the saddle 10 is prccluded, in that it is held against rotation around the pipe by the engagement of the lugs 16 within the hole.
The spring clip 25 and saddle 10 are then mo~cd to position the eyelet 30 and thc bolt hole 34 in alignment.
A bolt 36 is then inserted through the cyclet 30 and is 20591~0 threaded into the bolt hole 34, at whieh time the bolt ean be finger tightened until the head of the bolt tightcns down on the ~yelet 30. The bolt can then be tightened down fully by the u~e of a wrench in order to bring the sealing gasl~et 20 into intimatc sealing contnct ~it:h thll pipc exterior, and, to tension the spring clip 26 about the pipe periphery, thus placing the spring clip 26 under a tensile hoop stress, that is translated into a comprcssive seating engasement of the saddle 10 on the pipe periphery and final eompression of the sealing gasket 20.
In this condition of asscmbl , removal of the braneh connector from the pipe cannot occur accidentally or unintentionally. Removal of the branch connectol from the pipe only can be aceomplished by the us-~ of a wreneh employed to loosen and rcmove the bclt 36.
Thus, all of the advantages of the known quick eonneetors are accomplished, and, in addition, ~11 of the disadvantages of the known eonneetors are eliminated, it being impossible to dislodge the braneh eonneetor from the pipe without having first intentionally removed the bolt.
The quiek eonnect braneh conneetor of the present invention, when in a fully asssssembled condition does not rely on the compressive spring strength of thc spring clip 26 to hold it in position and provide the required seating pressure for the sealins gasket. The spring clip ~5, when plaeed under a tensile hoop stress by the bolt 36, c~ases ~059150 to function in the capaciti~ of a spring clip, and instead, functions in the capacit of a rigid tic ~trap.
In Figure 2 of thc drawings- thc quick conncct branch connector of the invention is shown in combination with a conventional sprinkler head 38.
Conveniently, the sprinkler head 3~ can be fully assembled onto the saddle 10 prior to the branch conncctor being applied and sccured to thc pipe. This eliminates assembly of the sprinkler head 38 onto the saddlc 10 after it has bcen applied to the pipe, thc location of the saddlc 10 at that time possibly bcing a most incon~enient one in which to eFfcct an asscmbly operation.
While the quick conncct branch connector of the invention ha~ bcen shown in association with a ~prinkler head, it will be fully understood that any othcr fitting could be used in association with thc branch connector, for examplc, a spray nozzle, a prcssure rclcase valvc, a pressure indicating gauge, a faucct, or, a branch line of piping.
Conveniently the saddle 10 is formed as a one-piece casting of ductile iron. For othcr applications it can be formed from brass or copper, or, as a ~olding of rcinforced plastics material, depcnding upon the application to which it is to be subjectcd.
~_ Z059150 While the hinged posts 22 have been shown as being cast integrally with the saddle 10, thcy could be provided by a rod inserted into a bore in the~ saddle.
P~eferring now to Figures 4 and 5, thc saddle is indicated at 40 and the spring clip at 42. The saddlc and the spring clip are similar to those employed i21 thc embodimcnt of Figures 1, 2, 3, the manncr of securemcnt of thc spring clip 42 being somewhat different. Instead of providing a thrc~dcd bore, such as the threaded bore 34 in Figures 2 and 3, the saddle is provided with a bifurcated lug 44 having a slot dimensioncd to recei~e thc shank of a bolt 46. The shank of the bolt 46 passcs through a nut 48 having laterally extcnding po~ts 50 that extcnd over a looped portion 52 of the spring clip.
In this manncr, the nut 48 and thc bolt 46 can bc preassembled to the spring clip 4~, which holds the nut and bolt captive, while allowing the nut and the bolt to swing about the axis of the posts 50. This permits the spring clip 42 to be snapped over the pipc periphcry, thc nut and the bolt thcn swung outwardly about thc axis of the posts 50, and, the saddle 40 then swung upwardly and the bolt 46 passed into the bifurcatcd lug 44. This m.7neu~cr also can be performed using a single hand. The nut 46 is then tightencd down using a wrcnch in ordcr to draw thc spring clip 4~ into clamping cngagcment with the pipe, further tightening down of the bolt resulting in thl spring clip 42 being placcd under a tensile hoop strcss, and in this 20~gl50 manner providing a permanent securement of the branch connector to the pipe that only bc released by the use of a wrench in a premeditated manner.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a modification of the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5. In this embodiment, the saddle 60 is provided with posts 62 that extend laterally of the saddle.as in the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5.
The spring clip, indicated generally at 64, includes arcuate portions 65 that are interconnected by a laterally extending portion 66 that extends between looped portions 67 providing transitions between the portion~ 66 and the portions 65. The spring clip 64 is assemblcd onto the saddle 60 by passing the arcuate portions 65 downwardly on opposite sides of the saddle and then rotating thc spring clip 64 to bring the longitudinally extending portion 66 into overlying relation with the upper surface of the saddle, at which point the spring clip membcr 64 becomes captive on the saddle but swingable about the axis of the posts 62.
The free ends 68 of the spring clip 64 extend outwardly and generally parallel to the longitudinally extending portion 66. The ends 68 are then moved towards each other and passed through the bore of a nut 70 having axially extending channels 72 formed therein at diametrically oppositc positions. The cnds 68 are then allowed to spring outwardly for them to bccome captive ~_ 2059150 under the lowcr surface of the nut 70, subsequent to which a bolt 74 i5 threaded into the bore of the nut, in this manner preventing removal of the ends of the sprins clip.
The bolt 74 is then swung into a bifurcated lug 76 in the saddle 60 and the bolt tightened down to placc thc spring clip under tension and in clamping engagement with the exterior of the pipe.
Figures, 8-11 illu~trate anothcr embodiment of the invention in which the required tensilc hoop stress in the spring clip is produced by means other than a bolt.
In this embodiment the saddle 8Q is similarli~ formed with posts 82 providing hinged conncctions for thc cnds 84 of a spring clip 86.
At its opposite lateral side, the saddle 80 i 5 formed with camming lugs 88 that definc ~ ch~nnel 90 for the reception of a transver~.ely extending portion 92 of the spring clip 86.
At each of its axial ends, thc intermediate portion 92 is formed as a V-shaped spring member ha~ins arms 94 and 96 that are capab'~ of producing a consider~ble tensile stress in the spring clip 86 upon assembly of thc connector.
Assembly of the connector onto a pipe is ~'fected by swinging the spring clip upwardly to position the intermediate portion 92 in front of the camming lugs 88, 20~915~
subsequent to which a scrcwdri~er or flat mctal bar is inserted bcneath the intermedi~t.- portion 92 and into a slot 98 pro~idcd bctween the camming 'ugs 88. Thc screwdriver is thcn employed to lcvcr the intermediate portion 92 upwardly and over thc camming lugs 88, at which time the intermediate portion 92 snap~ into thc channcl 9Q
under the infl~ence of the spring forcc excrted by the spring arms 94 and 96. In accomplishing this operation, the spring arms 94 and 96 w~ll be moved to a somewhat straightened position in which thcy provide a considerable spring force which acts both to maintain thc intermediate portion 92 clamped within the channel 90, and also, to place the arcuate portions 86 of the spring clip under very considerable tensile hoop stress acting to clamp thc spring clip and the saddle directly onto the outcr surfacc of the associated pipe, shown at 100 in Figure 8.
In all instances the spring clip membcrs ~6, 42, 54 and 86 are formed from a high-strength rod or thick wire of a spring stcel material of considerable tensile strength, thus enabling the spring clip mcmbcrs to perform the dual function of a spring clip that initially clips the branch connector onto the pipe prior to sccuremcnt of the branch connector to the pipe, and which thcn, upon securcment of the spring clip to the opposite end of the saddle acts as a clamping member capable of accommodating considcrable tensile hoop stress in order to effcct a permanent securement of the branch connector to the pipe.
2059~50 In all instances a tool must be employed in order to detach the branch connector from the pipe, thus climinating the possibility of accident~l and unintentional detachment of the branch connector from the pipe.
TITLE: QUICR CONNECT BRANCH CONNECTOR
This invention relates to a ~uick connect branch connector for use in plumbing systems. While not limited thereto, the invention relates to a quick connect branch connector of particular utility in assembling a fire extinguishing sprinkler system. ~hilc of particular utility in that application, the quick connect branch connector of the invention finds ul;ility in any other application in which it i~ desired to connect ~ plumbing branch to a main pipe line.
Back~round of the Art Branch connections as commonly known are provided by a plumbing tee and by threading pipes into the branches of the tee.
Also known in the art are branch connectors that can be secured to a main plumbing line bJ~ straps or cthcr fittings, and which communicate with the main plumbing line through a hole drilled through the exterior surfacc of the main pipe line, the branch connector being sealed to the outer surface of the main line.
Such branch connectors have been successfully cmployed in the fabrication of fire extinguishing sprinkler systems.
However, the known branch connectors arc encumbered with the disadvantage that two hands must be employed for assembling the branch connector onto the main pipe, this involving the holding of the branch connector in one hand while the securing strap is attached to the branch connector. While this poses no particular problem in locations that are readily accessible, it does pose considerable problems in the assembly of such branch connectors in difficult locations, such as high above a workshop floor, which is a typical location of such sprinkler heads.
Branch connectors that are a snap-fit onto thc main pipeline have been prcviously proposed. Typical of such snap-on branch connectors are ones manufactured by Spraying Systems Co. of Wheaton, Illinois, U.S.A. and by Uni-Spray of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
The snap-fit branch connectors manufactured by those firms are employed for the securement of spray nozzles to a low pressure pipeline. While the snap-fit branch connectors referred to are eminently suited to their intended purpose, which is one in which relati~ely low pressures exist in the pipeline, they are not suited to their employment in fire cxtinguishing systems.
In a fire extinguishing system, the sprinkler heads are exposed to a continuous high static prcssure within the pipeline, which exists at all times and possibly for many years, and until such time that thc sprin~lcr heads are actuated by a fire condition.
20~91~ 0 The prior known quick connect branch connectors each employ spring clips that can bc snapped over the main pipeline, and, which maintain the ~uick conncct branch connector attached to the main pipeline exclusively by thc stored spring force in the spring clips.
As will be apparent, the pressurc at ~hich the connection will fail is determined by the spring force that can be exerted on the connectors by the spriny clips.
Thus, the use of such known quick connect branch connectors is limited to relatively low pressure applications for supporting spray nozzles that are exposcd to dynamic pressure loading. In a fire extinguishing system the sprinkler heads are continuously exposcd to a high static pressure loading of a much greater magnitude than that encountered in a spraying systcm.
Further considerations present themselves in the assembly of fire extinguishing sprinklcr systems. A major one of those considerations is that the sprinkler heads must be attached to the main pipeline in a manner that prohibits accidental or intentional removal of the sprinkler head at the time the main pipcline is under pressure. This consideration, of course, applics in all other plumbing applications in which the pipeline is under pressure, particularly in the evcnt that noxious or hazardous fluids are bcing convcycd by thc pipeline.
~ 2059150 Object of the Invention The object of this invention is to provide a quick connect branch connector for usc in any plumbing application, and in particular for use in the construction of fire extinguishing systems, in which thc branch connector is capable of withstanding high static pre~.sur~s without failing, and is incapable of accidcntal and unintentional release from the pipelinc wi.th which it is associated. Anothcr object of this invention is to prescrve the advantages of known quick connect branch connectors in their ability for them to be snap-fitted onto the main pipeline in a mancuver that casily can bc effcctcd by a singlé hand, even in difficult locations. The branch connector can thcn be permanently affixcd to the associatcd pipeline, any attempts at removal o~ thc connector then requiring the premeditated use of an appropriate tool.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invcntion, a quick connect branch connector is provided by a saddle for attachment to an associated pipeline, the saddle incorporating a nipple for penetration into the associated pipeline throu~h a holc formed therein, the nipple being surroundcd by a scaling gasket.
The saddle is provided with a spring clip that is 20~9I50 hingedly conn~cted to the saddle and which is configured for it to snap over and closely cmbracc the associated pipeline in order to maintain the saddlc initially attached to the associated pipeline.
The end of the spring clip remotc from the hingcd interconnection with the saddle is then permanently secured to that side of the saddle oppositc to the hinged connection in a manner that rcquires a tool in order to effect the securemcnt. As a consequence, the use of a similar or idcntical tool is required in ordcr to effect the release of the branch connector from the associated pipeline, thus prohibiting accidental and unintentional release of the branch connector.
The securcment of both ends o~ the spriny clip to thc saddle acts to draw the spring clips into clamping engagement with the associated pipe, thus providing a permanent interconnection betwecn thc pipe and the branch connector th~t relies on the tensional strc~s produccd in the spring clip, and which does not in any way rely on thc compressive spring strength thereof.
In this manner, a positive and pcrmanent interconnection can bc made between the branch connector and the associated pipc, with thc advantagcs of initially securins the branch connector to the associatcd pipc in an entirely stable manner, thus frceing both o~ the hands of the installer for cffecting the subsequcnt final connection 2~59150 of the branch connector to thc associated pipc.
Conveniently, the main supply pipe is pre-drilled prior to it's installation in the sprinklcr systcm, subsequcnt to which the quick conncct conncctors can be permanently affixed to thc main.supply pipe.
Preferably, but not cssentially, sprinkIer heads are formed integrally with thc branch connectors, or, are preassembled onto the branch connectors prior to their installation on the main supply pipe, thus eliminating the skill ~nd dcxterity required in installing thc sprinkler heads in difficult locations, such as in ele~ated or cramped conditions.
Description of thc Draw;~s The invention will now be describ~d with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustr~tc preferred embodiments of thc invention, and in which:
Figure 1 is a front clevation of one embodimcnt of the quicls connect branch conncctor of the invcntion;
Figurc ~ is a sidc clc~vation thereof, thc quick connect branch conncctor bcing sho~n assembled with ~ convcn~io~ l sprinklcr hcad;
~ 2059I~0 Figure 3 is a side elevation of the quiek conneet braneh eonneetor shown in an opened position, preparatory to its being snapped over a eonventional pipe;
Figure 4 is an underside plan view of another embodiment of quiek eonneet braneh eonneetor of the invention;
Figure 5 is a side elevation of the braneh eonneetor of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is an exploded perspeetive view of ~nother cmbodimcnt of quicl~ connect braneh eonneetor of the invention;
Figure 7 is a sidc view of the eonncetor of Figure 6 whcn in an assembled eondition;
Figure 8 is a plan view of another embodiment of quie]~ ccnncet branch conneetor of the invention;
Figure 9 is a side view of thc eonnector of Figure 8;
Figure 10 is a perspeetive view of the conneetor of Figurcs 8 and g when in an open eondition prior to assembly onto a ~ 20~9150 pipe; and, Figure 11 is a perspectivc view of the spring clip takcn from a different position.
Description of the Prefcrred Embodimcnt Referring firstly to Figure 1, the quick connect branch connector of the present invcntion includcs a s~ddle 10 having a central through borc 12 that extends from the lower faee 13 of the connector to thc uppcr facc thcrcof where it emerges at 14 between a pair of arcuate lugs 16 that are adapted to bc received within a lateral bore formed in a pipe (not shown).
The upper ~urfacc 18 of the saddle is configured for it to embrace thc outer surfacc of thc pipe, the upper surface bcing rccessed for it to reeeive a ~7caling gasket 20 for engagement with the pipe periphcry to provide a fluid tight scal betwcen the saddle uppcr surface and the exterior of the pipe. As is shown in Figures 2 and 3, the upper portion of the saddlc extends latcrally to both sides thereof in ordcr to providc a hinge post ~2 on one side thereof and a bolting pad 24 on thc oppositc side.
A spring elip 26 is pivotally mountcd on thc hinge posts 22 by means of loops 28, the spring clip being generally of U-shape whcn vicwcd in plan, thc respcctive arms of the spring clip mcrging into an cyelet portion 30.
The spring clip 26 is formcd of one continuous length of stiff but resilient wire that pro~idcs for sripping engagement o~er a pipe.
As will be observed more particularly in Figure 3, the spring clip 26 is of greater arcuate extent than one half of the periphery of the pipe, whose axis is indicated at 32, in order that the spring clip must be forccd over thc pipe and clipp~d thereon, the spring clip at that time providing a hanger for the saddlc 10. The s3ddle can then be released by the workman in preparation for the step of assembly, the saddle at that time remaining suspended from the pipe by means of the spring clip ~6.
The workman is then free to use both hands in order to rotate the spring clip around the pipe axis to bring the lugs 16 of the saddle into proper alignmen~ with the holc borcd in the pipe, subsequent to which the saddlc can be rotated upwardly about the hinge post 22, to bring the lugs 16 into cngagemcnt within thc holc formcd in thc pipe.
~nce the lugs are engaged within the hole in thc pipe, then, further movement of the saddle 10 is prccluded, in that it is held against rotation around the pipe by the engagement of the lugs 16 within the hole.
The spring clip 25 and saddle 10 are then mo~cd to position the eyelet 30 and thc bolt hole 34 in alignment.
A bolt 36 is then inserted through the cyclet 30 and is 20591~0 threaded into the bolt hole 34, at whieh time the bolt ean be finger tightened until the head of the bolt tightcns down on the ~yelet 30. The bolt can then be tightened down fully by the u~e of a wrench in order to bring the sealing gasl~et 20 into intimatc sealing contnct ~it:h thll pipc exterior, and, to tension the spring clip 26 about the pipe periphery, thus placing the spring clip 26 under a tensile hoop stress, that is translated into a comprcssive seating engasement of the saddle 10 on the pipe periphery and final eompression of the sealing gasket 20.
In this condition of asscmbl , removal of the braneh connector from the pipe cannot occur accidentally or unintentionally. Removal of the branch connectol from the pipe only can be aceomplished by the us-~ of a wreneh employed to loosen and rcmove the bclt 36.
Thus, all of the advantages of the known quick eonneetors are accomplished, and, in addition, ~11 of the disadvantages of the known eonneetors are eliminated, it being impossible to dislodge the braneh eonneetor from the pipe without having first intentionally removed the bolt.
The quiek eonnect braneh conneetor of the present invention, when in a fully asssssembled condition does not rely on the compressive spring strength of thc spring clip 26 to hold it in position and provide the required seating pressure for the sealins gasket. The spring clip ~5, when plaeed under a tensile hoop stress by the bolt 36, c~ases ~059150 to function in the capaciti~ of a spring clip, and instead, functions in the capacit of a rigid tic ~trap.
In Figure 2 of thc drawings- thc quick conncct branch connector of the invention is shown in combination with a conventional sprinkler head 38.
Conveniently, the sprinkler head 3~ can be fully assembled onto the saddle 10 prior to the branch conncctor being applied and sccured to thc pipe. This eliminates assembly of the sprinkler head 38 onto the saddlc 10 after it has bcen applied to the pipe, thc location of the saddlc 10 at that time possibly bcing a most incon~enient one in which to eFfcct an asscmbly operation.
While the quick conncct branch connector of the invention ha~ bcen shown in association with a ~prinkler head, it will be fully understood that any othcr fitting could be used in association with thc branch connector, for examplc, a spray nozzle, a prcssure rclcase valvc, a pressure indicating gauge, a faucct, or, a branch line of piping.
Conveniently the saddle 10 is formed as a one-piece casting of ductile iron. For othcr applications it can be formed from brass or copper, or, as a ~olding of rcinforced plastics material, depcnding upon the application to which it is to be subjectcd.
~_ Z059150 While the hinged posts 22 have been shown as being cast integrally with the saddle 10, thcy could be provided by a rod inserted into a bore in the~ saddle.
P~eferring now to Figures 4 and 5, thc saddle is indicated at 40 and the spring clip at 42. The saddlc and the spring clip are similar to those employed i21 thc embodimcnt of Figures 1, 2, 3, the manncr of securemcnt of thc spring clip 42 being somewhat different. Instead of providing a thrc~dcd bore, such as the threaded bore 34 in Figures 2 and 3, the saddle is provided with a bifurcated lug 44 having a slot dimensioncd to recei~e thc shank of a bolt 46. The shank of the bolt 46 passcs through a nut 48 having laterally extcnding po~ts 50 that extcnd over a looped portion 52 of the spring clip.
In this manncr, the nut 48 and thc bolt 46 can bc preassembled to the spring clip 4~, which holds the nut and bolt captive, while allowing the nut and the bolt to swing about the axis of the posts 50. This permits the spring clip 42 to be snapped over the pipc periphcry, thc nut and the bolt thcn swung outwardly about thc axis of the posts 50, and, the saddle 40 then swung upwardly and the bolt 46 passed into the bifurcatcd lug 44. This m.7neu~cr also can be performed using a single hand. The nut 46 is then tightencd down using a wrcnch in ordcr to draw thc spring clip 4~ into clamping cngagcment with the pipe, further tightening down of the bolt resulting in thl spring clip 42 being placcd under a tensile hoop strcss, and in this 20~gl50 manner providing a permanent securement of the branch connector to the pipe that only bc released by the use of a wrench in a premeditated manner.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a modification of the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5. In this embodiment, the saddle 60 is provided with posts 62 that extend laterally of the saddle.as in the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5.
The spring clip, indicated generally at 64, includes arcuate portions 65 that are interconnected by a laterally extending portion 66 that extends between looped portions 67 providing transitions between the portion~ 66 and the portions 65. The spring clip 64 is assemblcd onto the saddle 60 by passing the arcuate portions 65 downwardly on opposite sides of the saddle and then rotating thc spring clip 64 to bring the longitudinally extending portion 66 into overlying relation with the upper surface of the saddle, at which point the spring clip membcr 64 becomes captive on the saddle but swingable about the axis of the posts 62.
The free ends 68 of the spring clip 64 extend outwardly and generally parallel to the longitudinally extending portion 66. The ends 68 are then moved towards each other and passed through the bore of a nut 70 having axially extending channels 72 formed therein at diametrically oppositc positions. The cnds 68 are then allowed to spring outwardly for them to bccome captive ~_ 2059150 under the lowcr surface of the nut 70, subsequent to which a bolt 74 i5 threaded into the bore of the nut, in this manner preventing removal of the ends of the sprins clip.
The bolt 74 is then swung into a bifurcated lug 76 in the saddle 60 and the bolt tightened down to placc thc spring clip under tension and in clamping engagement with the exterior of the pipe.
Figures, 8-11 illu~trate anothcr embodiment of the invention in which the required tensilc hoop stress in the spring clip is produced by means other than a bolt.
In this embodiment the saddle 8Q is similarli~ formed with posts 82 providing hinged conncctions for thc cnds 84 of a spring clip 86.
At its opposite lateral side, the saddle 80 i 5 formed with camming lugs 88 that definc ~ ch~nnel 90 for the reception of a transver~.ely extending portion 92 of the spring clip 86.
At each of its axial ends, thc intermediate portion 92 is formed as a V-shaped spring member ha~ins arms 94 and 96 that are capab'~ of producing a consider~ble tensile stress in the spring clip 86 upon assembly of thc connector.
Assembly of the connector onto a pipe is ~'fected by swinging the spring clip upwardly to position the intermediate portion 92 in front of the camming lugs 88, 20~915~
subsequent to which a scrcwdri~er or flat mctal bar is inserted bcneath the intermedi~t.- portion 92 and into a slot 98 pro~idcd bctween the camming 'ugs 88. Thc screwdriver is thcn employed to lcvcr the intermediate portion 92 upwardly and over thc camming lugs 88, at which time the intermediate portion 92 snap~ into thc channcl 9Q
under the infl~ence of the spring forcc excrted by the spring arms 94 and 96. In accomplishing this operation, the spring arms 94 and 96 w~ll be moved to a somewhat straightened position in which thcy provide a considerable spring force which acts both to maintain thc intermediate portion 92 clamped within the channel 90, and also, to place the arcuate portions 86 of the spring clip under very considerable tensile hoop stress acting to clamp thc spring clip and the saddle directly onto the outcr surfacc of the associated pipe, shown at 100 in Figure 8.
In all instances the spring clip membcrs ~6, 42, 54 and 86 are formed from a high-strength rod or thick wire of a spring stcel material of considerable tensile strength, thus enabling the spring clip mcmbcrs to perform the dual function of a spring clip that initially clips the branch connector onto the pipe prior to sccuremcnt of the branch connector to the pipe, and which thcn, upon securcment of the spring clip to the opposite end of the saddle acts as a clamping member capable of accommodating considcrable tensile hoop stress in order to effcct a permanent securement of the branch connector to the pipe.
2059~50 In all instances a tool must be employed in order to detach the branch connector from the pipe, thus climinating the possibility of accident~l and unintentional detachment of the branch connector from the pipe.
Claims (9)
1. A quick connect branch connector for attachment to a fixed pipe including:
a saddle member, said saddle member having lateral sides and having an arcuate surface located between said lateral sides for engagement with an outer surface of a pipe defined by a cylindrical outer wall, said saddle having a nipple adapted to extend through a hole formed in said wall of said pipe;
a sealing gasket encircling said nipple and for sealing engagement with said outer surface of said pipe;
hinge means at one of said lateral sides of said saddle;
a securement member at an opposite lateral side of said saddle;
a spring clip member hingedly connected to said hinge means at one end of said spring clip member, said spring clip member being arcuate about an axis extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of said hinge means, and being of a diameter less than the outer diameter of said pipe;
traction means at an opposite arcuate end of said spring clip member co-operable with said securement member and operative to place said clip member under tensile hoop stress loading when said spring clip member and saddle are placed in encircling relation with a pipe of an appropriate external diameter; said arcuate spring clip member having an arcuate length greater than the length of one half of the outer circumference of an associated said pipe, whereby said clip is a snap fit over the outer surface of said pipe and initially provides a support for said saddle prior to the final assembly of said quick connect branch connector onto said pipe.
a saddle member, said saddle member having lateral sides and having an arcuate surface located between said lateral sides for engagement with an outer surface of a pipe defined by a cylindrical outer wall, said saddle having a nipple adapted to extend through a hole formed in said wall of said pipe;
a sealing gasket encircling said nipple and for sealing engagement with said outer surface of said pipe;
hinge means at one of said lateral sides of said saddle;
a securement member at an opposite lateral side of said saddle;
a spring clip member hingedly connected to said hinge means at one end of said spring clip member, said spring clip member being arcuate about an axis extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of said hinge means, and being of a diameter less than the outer diameter of said pipe;
traction means at an opposite arcuate end of said spring clip member co-operable with said securement member and operative to place said clip member under tensile hoop stress loading when said spring clip member and saddle are placed in encircling relation with a pipe of an appropriate external diameter; said arcuate spring clip member having an arcuate length greater than the length of one half of the outer circumference of an associated said pipe, whereby said clip is a snap fit over the outer surface of said pipe and initially provides a support for said saddle prior to the final assembly of said quick connect branch connector onto said pipe.
2. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in which said spring clip member and said arcuate surface of said saddle, in combination, are of less arcuate length than the circumferential length of an associated said pipe, whereby said spring clip member is placed under a tensile hoop stress by said traction means in an assembled condition of said quick connect branch connector.
3. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in which said hinge means is comprised of oppositely extending posts formed integrally with said saddle member at said one lateral side of said saddle.
4. The quick connect branch connector of claim 3, in which said spring clip member is formed from spring wire or rod, and is of substantially U-shape form in plan view, the arms of said U-shape form encircling said posts formed integrally with said saddle member to provide said hinged interconnection, a bight of said U-shape form providing an eyelet for the reception of a securing bolt providing said traction means.
5. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in combination with a sprinkler head of conventional construction to provide a quick-connect sprinkler assembly for incorporation into a fire extinguishing sprinkler system.
6. The combination of claim 5, in which a said sprinkler head is pre-assembled to said saddle prior to the installation of said quick connect branch connector onto a pipeline, whereby to provide an integral sub-assembly of sprinkler head and quick connect branch connector.
7. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in which said traction means includes:
a nut having a threaded bore;
oppositely extending, axially aligned trunnions integral with said nut and extending on a diameter of said bore; and, a bolt threaded into said bore and extending through said securement member; said trunnions overlying portions of said oppositely arcuate end of said spring clip member, and, a head of said bolt reacting against said securement member and being operative upon tightening down of said bolt to tension said spring saddle and said spring clip member are assembled in encircling relation with said pipe.
a nut having a threaded bore;
oppositely extending, axially aligned trunnions integral with said nut and extending on a diameter of said bore; and, a bolt threaded into said bore and extending through said securement member; said trunnions overlying portions of said oppositely arcuate end of said spring clip member, and, a head of said bolt reacting against said securement member and being operative upon tightening down of said bolt to tension said spring saddle and said spring clip member are assembled in encircling relation with said pipe.
8. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in which said spring clip member is formed from spring wire or rod, and is of substantially U-shape form in plan view, a bight of said U-shape form encircling oppositely extending, axially aligned posts formed integrally with said saddle member to provide said hinged interconnection, further including:
a nut having a threaded bore;
diametrically opposite axially extending slots formed in the wall of said threaded bore in which ends of said spring clip member are positioned, said ends terminating in portions extending radially outwards said bore and which underlie a bottom face of said nut; and a bolt threaded onto said bore and extending through said securement member, a head of said bolt reacting against said securement member and being operative upon tightening down of said bolt to tension said spring clip member when said saddle and spring clip member are assembled in encircling relation with a said pipe.
a nut having a threaded bore;
diametrically opposite axially extending slots formed in the wall of said threaded bore in which ends of said spring clip member are positioned, said ends terminating in portions extending radially outwards said bore and which underlie a bottom face of said nut; and a bolt threaded onto said bore and extending through said securement member, a head of said bolt reacting against said securement member and being operative upon tightening down of said bolt to tension said spring clip member when said saddle and spring clip member are assembled in encircling relation with a said pipe.
9. The quick connect branch connector of claim 1, in which said spring clip member is formed from spring wire, and is of substantially U-shaped form in plan view, the arms of said U-shape form encircling oppositely extending, axially aligned posts formed integrally with said saddle member at said one lateral side to provide said hinged interconnection, a bight of said U-shape form including spring formations operative to tension said spring clip member, and camming lugs provided on said securement member over which said bight of said spring clip member is forced during securement of said quick connect branch connector to a said pipe, and which are operative to tension said spring formations and impose a tensile hoop stress on said spring clip member.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US644,022 | 1991-01-18 | ||
| US07/644,022 US5169177A (en) | 1991-01-18 | 1991-01-18 | Quick connect branch connector |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2059150A1 CA2059150A1 (en) | 1992-07-19 |
| CA2059150C true CA2059150C (en) | 1996-10-22 |
Family
ID=24583121
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2059150 Expired - Fee Related CA2059150C (en) | 1991-01-18 | 1992-01-10 | Quick connect branch connector |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2059150C (en) |
-
1992
- 1992-01-10 CA CA 2059150 patent/CA2059150C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2059150A1 (en) | 1992-07-19 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5169177A (en) | Quick connect branch connector | |
| AU2020217313B2 (en) | Direct coupling compatible sprinkler | |
| US6378912B1 (en) | Apparatus and method for connecting shower heads and tub spouts to a stub out | |
| CA1286484C (en) | Band clamp | |
| US7648107B2 (en) | Brace or pipe clamp | |
| US5772258A (en) | Conduit clamp and tether | |
| KR101192732B1 (en) | Connecting branch pipe | |
| JPS5810636B2 (en) | Fittings for attaching branch pipes to the main pipe | |
| CA2059150C (en) | Quick connect branch connector | |
| KR100770397B1 (en) | A connection clamp to prevent separation and pipe connection fitted whit the connection clamp | |
| JP4646790B2 (en) | Connection branch | |
| JPH06159580A (en) | Quick connecting branched connector | |
| JPS61180007A (en) | Hanger | |
| JPH09217866A (en) | Pipe suspending band | |
| JPH0341125Y2 (en) | ||
| CN216077836U (en) | Self-locking stainless steel hoop | |
| RU26628U1 (en) | REPLACEMENT DEVICE FOR REPEATED USE (OPTIONS) | |
| CN201137774Y (en) | Integral V-type clip | |
| EP1018618B1 (en) | Pipe-suspension bracket | |
| KR930004992Y1 (en) | Flexible joint apparatus for sprinkler tube | |
| KR200150381Y1 (en) | Clamp for pipe and hose | |
| CN2592859Y (en) | Self-locking protector of oil pipe coupled oil well cable spool | |
| KR200293104Y1 (en) | Pipe Mechanism | |
| WO2022083397A1 (en) | Clamp for pre-assembling and connecting conduits having connector flanges | |
| JPH0893020A (en) | Mounting device of horizontally laid drainage pipe |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |