EP0183715A1

EP0183715A1 - Improvement to instantaneous pipe connections

Info

Publication number: EP0183715A1
Application number: EP85901958A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Alain Robert Martin
Original assignee: CODRI SA
Current assignee: CODRI SA
Priority date: 1984-05-08
Filing date: 1985-05-07
Publication date: 1986-06-11
Also published as: WO1985005164A1; JPS61502068A; ES8605325A1; GB8411713D0; ES542843A0

Abstract

Perfectionnements aux raccords instantanés pour tubes lisses et nus comprenant un corps creux avec un alésage égal au passage du fluide et un logement interne de formes appropriées où se trouvent placés un moyen d'étanchéité et un moyen de tenue du tube, le logement étant limité par un moyen d'obturation et d'appui. Le logement qui présente au moins deux alésages successifs (1a -1b) renferme un organe d'étanchéité (2) et un organe de tenue (4) qui, monté coulissant axialement dans ledit logement, comporte un moyen d'asservissement (6) par frottement au tube (7), lequel tube entraîne, au montage du tube la pièce de tenue (4) au fond où elle a librement ses dents (4a) ouvertes et qui ainsi ne peuvent rayer le tube; dans l'autre sens le tube entraîne la pièce de tenue sur le cône (3a) ou par effet conique elle s'agrippe au tube (7). Le démontage du tube (7) s'effectue en poussant la pièce de tenue par (5) au fond du raccord, les dents (4a) étant alors librement ouvertes, le tube est retiré sans être rayé.Improvements to instant fittings for smooth and bare tubes comprising a hollow body with a bore equal to the passage of the fluid and an internal housing of suitable shapes where are placed a sealing means and a means of holding the tube, the housing being limited by a means of obturation and support. The housing which has at least two successive bores (1a -1b) contains a sealing member (2) and a holding member (4) which, slidably mounted axially in said housing, comprises a servo means (6) by friction with the tube (7), which tube drives, when the tube is mounted, the holding part (4) at the bottom where it freely has its teeth (4a) open and which thus cannot scratch the tube; in the other direction the tube drives the holding part on the cone (3a) or by conical effect it grips the tube (7). The tube (7) is dismantled by pushing the holding piece through (5) at the bottom of the fitting, the teeth (4a) then being freely open, the tube is removed without being scratched.

Description

Improvement to push-in fittings for tubes

The present invention relates to an improvement to instant fittings for plastic or metallic pipes, in which the tubes are not subjected to any preparation and are simply fitted into the fitting. The maintenance of the tube and the eta cheity are carried out automatically without the user having to intervene on the fitting. These fittings are called instantaneous since they require no assembly or disassembly time and only require threading the tube to the bottom of the fitting.

Many types of instant fittings are known which are now the most recent connection technique. This technique is used in particular intensively on compressed air connections with plastic tubes.

Most push-in fittings allow mounting by simply pushing the tube into the fitting and also disassembly of the tube.

Push-in fittings in general have an annular seal located either near the inlet of the tube or at the bottom of the fitting; and a holding piece which automatically grips the tube and which is placed either before the joint near the entrance of the tube, or after the joint, therefore at the bottom of the fitting.

The tube holding piece is always self-tightening on the tube, and therefore generally has a slightly lower bore dimension than the tube and consequently relatively high friction on said tube. It is this "friction" which allows the total holding of the tube by self-latching of the holding part by cutting edges which only hook in one direction (direction of exit of the tube); or else by conical effect tightening on the cutting edges the holding piece on the tube.

The friction of the holding part on the tube has a major drawback, it is to "scratch" the tube with fine or large scratches which are the cause of more or less significant leaks depending on the holding part and its type. These leaks are harmful, even in the form of micro-leaks, to the image and quality of the instant fittings for bare and smooth tubes. The invention proposes to remedy this drawback scratches on the tubes when mounted in the fitting.

When dismantling the tube, in general it is pushed outside on the tubular axial end of the holding part, or on a tubular intermediate part called "dismantling pusher". The pushing movement has the result, on the self-catching parts, of spreading the attachment lips of the tube which can thus be removed; or on the fittings with hooking by conical effect, to separate the holding piece from the locking cone and thus to also be able to remove the tube. If in some instant fittings, you get to "dismantle the tube" to avoid scratching the tube, in others, you scratch not only during assembly, but also disassembly.

The invention proposes to remedy the defect in the instant fittings which line the tubes, and to remove the scratches both during assembly and disassembly. Patents of instant fittings are known which have tried to solve the scratch defect, none where the tube is removable does not solve it completely and perfectly.

French Patent No. 2,479,406 eliminates all contact with the mounting part, but does not allow "instant disassembly of the tube". The French fitting n ° 2.448.095 may appear to be close to or prior to the invention, but it is not the case because the presence of two annular seals acting on the clamp do not fulfill the essential condition of the invention "slaving" the movement from the holding piece or the disassembly button to the movement of the tube. In fitting 2,448,095, the friction of the joint with the largest diameter is so much greater than that of small diameter on the tube, that the tube cannot drive the holding part effectively to keep the holding part open: scratches during assembly are inevitable. In the French fitting no. 2.398.251, the dismantling pusher has an annular "sealing" bead 30 on the tube. This bead of hard or fairly hard material has only a sealing role, its friction role is only incidental, it is largely counteracted by the large diameter seal 13 which counteracts and cancels this friction, which is very imprecise due to the tolerances used for the tubes. If the friction resulting from the bead minus that of the seal 13 is low, the claws 12 of holding will scratch the tube. Scratches occur in an area where sealing does not occur. This patent therefore allows the correct seal, but without that realizes the system of the invention.

The system according to the invention is simple, it consists in "slaving" the holding part or the dismantling pusher (acting on the holding part) to the tube, by a gentle friction for the tube, not scratching, but of fairly level high so that the holding part or the release pusher undergo, during assembly of the tube, and over the entire stroke of the tube, an axial force allowing the release of the locking cone of the holding part and its opening, ensuring that the tube has no contact with the hooking edges of the holding part, and thus in no case can the tube be scratched during assembly of the tube, the sealing is thus perfect.

The invention also guarantees symmetrical control in the other direction. Under the effect of a traction on the tube, or under the effect of pressure, the tube drives in the direction of exit the holding part towards its blocking cone on the tube, or the release pusher by releasing the holding piece with self-catching cutting teeth anchored on the tube. Thus the friction already described gives a control of the holding of the tube which is thus guaranteed to be perfectly hooked.

The invention allows the disassembly of the tube without scratches: a simple axial thrust on the tubular end, emerging from the fitting, from the part held or from the disassembly pusher, makes it possible to keep the holding part "open" and its teeth hooking apart from the tube, and thus remove the tube without the slightest scratch.

In the invention, the ideal is that the part driven by friction by the tube is free from any other axial friction. But in the case where a necessary annular seal imposes additional friction in the axial movement, it suffices to be in accordance with the invention that the servo friction on the tube is very much greater (for example twice as strong) than the 'other' friction acting on the part controlled by the movement of the tube. The axial control system applies to most of the instant fittings and it will be better understood by seeing the different embodiments and their advantages by referring to the accompanying drawings: - Figure 1 is an axial sectional view of a improved instant fitting according to the invention in the final mounting position of the tube of the holding clamp type, slaved to the tube by an O-ring, with natural opening clamp.

- Figure 2 is a half axial view of an ins tantaneous connection with holding clamp slaved to the tube by a rubber washer, in the end of tube mounting position, clamp with natural opening.

- Figure 3 is a half axial view of an instant clamp connector slaved by a plastic washer, with forced opening of the clamp in the end of tube mounting position.

- Figure 4 is identical to Figure 3 but where the clamp is forced opening controlled by an O-ring.

- Figure 5 is an instant fitting with plastic clamp reinforced by metal lips and controlled by an O-ring.

- Figure 6 is an instantaneous fitting with a self-catching cut sheet metal holding part, with a plastic plunger controlled by plastic lips rubbing on the tube.

- Figure 7 is an instant fitting in 1/2 axial section where the holding part is conical in cut sheet metal, opened by a pusher slaved to the tube by friction on a bead.

- Figure 8 shows the detail of the tube and the clamp slaved to the tube by an O-ring in accordance with fig. 1.

- Figure 9 shows the detail of the plastic clamp reinforced by metal lips, slaved to the tube by O-ring in accordance with Figure 5.

- Figure 10 shows the detail of the metal clamp with forced opening, slaved by a plastic washer to the tube, in accordance with Figure 3. - Figure 11 shows the detail of a clamp slaved to the tube by a rubber washer or elastic lips (Figure 2).

- Figure 12 shows the detail of an unlocking button slaved to the tube by a rubber seal, in accordance with fig.21. FIG. 13 shows the detail of a pusher slaved to the tube by the friction of a piece of rolled spring sheet metal, placed in a groove, in accordance with FIG. 18.

- Figure 14 shows the detail of a deblo cage pusher slaved to the tube by the friction of a rubber washer, in accordance with Figure 20.

- Figure 15 shows the detail of a release pusher slaved to the tube by the friction of a plastic bead located on a thinned and split part, in accordance with Figure 7. - Figure 16 shows the detail of a release controlled by the tube by the friction of a clip or an O-ring placed in a groove according to figure 19.

- Figure 17 shows the detail in 1/2 section of a cut sheet metal clamp spring slaved to the tube by flexible sectors rubbing on the tube permanently, in accordance with the 1/2 section of Figure 37.

- Figure 18 is a 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting in the final mounting position of the tube type holding piece of self-catching cut sheet metal, with push-button controlled by a spring cut out of thin sheet metal, placed in a throat, and rubbing on the tube.

- Figure 19 is identical to Figure 18, but the, pusher is controlled by the friction of a spring clip placed in a groove of the pusher. - Figure 20. is close to Figure 7, but where the pusher is controlled by a simple rubber washer fixed in the pusher.

- Figure 21 is a 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting, shown part holding in hooking, of type with eccentra tion by off-center conical effect and spring; in which the release button is controlled by a rubber friction washer fixed to the button.

- Figure 22 is a 1/2 axial section of a connector similar to Figure 7, nais where the pusher is slaved to the tube by the friction of molded elastic lips tightening the tube.

- Figure 23 is a 1/2 axial section of a fitting similar to Figure 5, but where the plastic pliers with ren teeth forced by a sheet metal part is slaved to the tube by the friction of molded elastic lips tightening the tube.

- Figure 24 is a 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting shown with the tube at the end of assembly, with self-catching split elastic holding ring, where the release pusher is slaved to the tube, by the predominant friction on the tube, with a lip seal integral with said pusher and having a greater number of lips on the tube than on the diameter of the housing of the system.

- Figure 25 is a 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting with lip seal at the bottom of the fitting, with self-adhesive holding piece crimped on the body, controlled by a push-cover to the tube by the friction of flexible lips enclosing the said tube. The fitting is shown with the tube hooked by the holding piece.

- Figure 26 is the 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting with a self-catching holding piece, split, and with a conical effect, located at the bottom of the fitting, controlled by the disassembly button which has friction on the tube largely predominant of a multiple lip seal, compared to that of the O-ring. The fitting is shown at the end of assembly of the tube. - Figure 27 is the half section of an instant connector with a split conical effect clamp secured to the lip seal and the plunger, the said clip being slaved to the tube by the predominant friction of the lip seal on the tube, by compared to friction on the system housing. There are 4 lips on the tube against 2 lips on the housing. The fitting is shown in the end of tube mounting position.

- Figure 28 is similar to Figure 26, but where the pusher slaves the self-catching holding piece with conical effect, to the tube by the predominant friction on the tube of two O-rings, instead of only one on the housing of the system. The fitting is shown at the end of assembly of the tube.

- Figure 29 is an instant fitting in 1/2 axial section where the holding part, self-catching, split, elastic, conical effect is opened by the pusher-cap, slaved to the tube by the friction of elastic lips enclosing the tube. The fitting is shown in the hooked tube position,

- Figure 30 shows the detail of a plastic release pusher, in axial section, slaved to the tube by the rub lips tightly enclosing the tube, in accordance with fig. 22,

FIG. 31 is an axial detail section of a plastic holding clamp, the teeth of which are reinforced by a sheet metal part, the said clamp being slaved to the tube by the friction of elastic lips enclosing the said tube, as shown in Figure 23.

FIG. 32 is an axial section of a detail showing a multiple lip seal, secured to a release pusher, and on the tube, the exterior of said seal having only two lips (lower friction), as shown in Figure 24.

- Figure 33 is an axial section of detail, showing a pusher-cap, slaved to the tube by the friction of peripheral lips, elastic, split, enclosing the tube, in accordance with Figure 25. - Figure 34 is an axial section of detail showing a release pusher, slaved to the tube by the largely predominant friction of a multiple lip seal, compared to the much lower friction of the O-ring, in accordance with Figure 26.

- Figure 35 is an axial section of detail, mounting a release pusher slaved to the tube by the largely predominant friction of two O-rings in the grooves, rubbing on the tube, and a single O-ring on the outer diameter (of significantly lower friction) as shown in Figure 28.

- Figure 36 is an axial section of a detail showing a lip seal secured to the disassembly button and slaved to the tube by the largely predominant friction of its 4 lips on the tube, while the outside diameter has only 2 lips (lower friction), as shown in Figure 27.

FIG. 37 is a 1/2 axial section of an instant fitting according to the invention in which the clamp held in thin, cut sheet metal is slaved to the tube by the friction of flexible sectors enclosing the tube, thus allowing the assembly of the tube, the opening by conical effect of the teeth of the clamp, throughout the tube assembly stroke, and in the other direction of the tube, the arming by conical effect of the holding of the clamp on the tube by its teeth hanging. The connector is shown at the end of the tube assembly. - Figure 1 shows an instant fitting, according to the invention, of the split elastic clamp type locking the tube by conical effect. In this type of fitting now well known by French patents 2,012,796 and English no. 1,270,648, the free clamp in the fitting has a diameter of its teeth 4a smaller than the diameter of the tube and a high friction which lines the tube fine stripes. In the invention, on the contrary, the drive, which we will call servoing, of the clamp to the axial movement of the tube, necessary for the conical arming of the said clamp, is no longer carried out, by the teeth 4a of the clamp 4, which can therefore be at rest with a diameter larger than that of the tube 7, but by a predetermined friction, gentle to the tube, non-scratching, of high level, driving the clamp 4 towards the bottom of the fitting throughout stroke of said clamp 4 and driving the clamp 4 towards the outlet of the fitting, and against the cone 3a of blocking during all the movement of the tube towards the outside. One of the main characteristics of the invention is that it is the clamp 4 itself which carries the friction means on the tube 7. We see here that it is an O-ring 6 which creates the necessary friction, soft, non-scratching of high level at will, and acting in the 2 directions of movement of the tube.

The connector here consists of a body 1 ,, of a fixed lip seal 2, of a screwed socket 3 in the body 1, carrying the locking cone 3a, of a clamp 4 on which is fixed an O-ring 6 by a button 5. The fitting is shown at the end of mounting the tube in the fitting. As soon as the tube 7 begins to penetrate the O-ring 6 the friction on the tube is such that it instantly drives the clamp 4 axially against the lip seal 2, and holds it firmly during the whole fitting of said tube 7 to the bottom of the fitting. The clamp 4, in this position, is released from the locking cone 3a and open, its teeth 4a do not touch the tube 7 which thus cannot be scratched, which guarantees a perfect seal on the lip seal 2, the tube remaining very smooth.

In the opposite direction of the tube, either by a pull on the tube 7, or by the pressure pushing, at the slightest displacement of the tube 7, by the significant friction of the O-ring 6 causes the clamp 4 on the locking cone 3a, which achieves by clamping effect the tightening of the tube, all the stronger the greater the ejection force of the tube. To dismantle the tube 7 instantly, just push the button 5 manually energetically, and bring the clamp 4 into abutment on the lip seal 2 and hold it there, the clamp 4 then has its cutting lips 4a open and without contact with the tube 7, it then suffices to pull the tube 7 from the connector, which comes out easily without undergoing any scratches on the part of the clamp 4.

Thus, the invention thanks to the controlled, soft, non-scratching "friction" servoing of the clamp 4 on the tube 7 fully achieves the 3 basic functions, instant mounting of the tube without scratches, self-locking of the clamp on the tube, instant disassembly of the tube without scratches. The tube can be used indefinitely, never being damaged at the location of the seals.

The invention allows the use of pliers "without contact" of the attachment teeth thereon (at rest diameter of the teeth 4a larger than the diameter of the tube 7), which was not possible without the friction d enslavement of the invention.

Of course, all the variants of the bodies 1, of the sockets 3 which can be instead of screwed, force-fitted, crimped, all the variants of seals 2 (O-rings of all shapes), of lip shapes 4a (1 or more) are usable and remain within the scope of the invention.

- Figure 8 shows the detail of the servo of Figure 1. We see the clamp 4, its O-ring 6 of servo friction, held by the button 5, integral. The clamp is of the tooth type 4a "without contact" with the tube 7. It is understood that any axial movement of the tube in one direction or the other "causes" the clamp. It is also understood that if the clamp is axially immobilized, any axial movement of the tube gives an axial reaction in the direction of movement equal to the friction of the seal 6: this is the friction of the servo, it is adjustable and adjustable.

- Figures 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 23 - 27 - 37 show improved instant fittings according to the invention of the split-clamp type with locking by conical effect.

FIG. 2 shows a system similar to FIG. 1, but in which the servo friction fixed on the clamp 4 (multidents) is produced by a rubber washer 8 of diameter smaller than the tube 7. Figure 11 shows the detail of the servo friction of the clamp 4 to the tube, the teeth 4a not touching the tube (Figure 11 is a detail of Figure 2).

Figure 3 shows a clamp system 4 similar to that of Figure 1, but where the servo friction of the clamp 4 on the tube is achieved by a washer 9 in semi-rigid plastic, whose bore is slightly less to the diameter of the tube, and having a part 10 having a cone 10a whose conical effect "opens" the teeth 4a of the clamp 4 under the effect of the axial thrust of friction servo-control of the tube of the washer 9 (in mounting position).

Figure 10 shows a detail of Figure 3: the clamp 4 on the tube 7 and the servo friction of the plastic washer 9. The button is composed of 2 parts 5 and 5a snapped onto the clamp 7. Figure 4 is identical to FIG. 3, but where the servo friction is produced by an O-ring of small torus as is done in FIG. 1.

Figure 5 is similar in operation to Figure 4 but where the clamp 4 is plastic and has its teeth formed by a piece 4C in cut sheet metal and where the servo friction is achieved by an O-ring 6 held by a piece 4b on the clamp 4.

Figure 9 is a detail of Figure 5 showing the clamp 4 on the tube 7 and the servo friction of the O-ring 6. Figure 23 is identical to Figure 5, but the servo friction of the clamp 4 on the tube 7 is produced by the plastic clamp which has molded lips 4d, elastic clamping the tube.

FIG. 31 is the detail of FIG. 23 showing the clamp 4 on the tube 7 and the elastic lips 4d giving the friction on the tube 7.

Figure 27 is a split clamp system with a conical effect where the part 11 performs the functions of opening and closing the teeth of the clamp 4, where the clamp is secured to the seal 13 and an operating plunger 14 on which the cover button 5 is snapped on. The servo friction of the clamp to the tube 7 is produced by a "largely predominant" friction of the lip seal 13 on the tube (4 lips on the tube 7 instead of 2 on the seal housing). The fitting is shown at the end of assembly of the tube, teeth open. Figure 36 is a detail of Figure 27 showing

(without the clamp) the servo by friction to the tube 7, the lip seal 13 and its predominance of friction on the tube: 4 lips instead of 2 on the outside diameter; the axial movement of the tube 7 drives all of the parts 13 and 14 and consequently the clamp 4 secured to 13 and 14.

FIG. 37 shows an instantaneous connection, the clamp 4 of which is made of cut thin sheet metal and operating close to that of FIGS. 3 - 4 - 5 - 23, but where the clamp 4 is slaved to the tube 7 by the friction of flexible sectors enclosing the 4th the tube 7.

Figure 17 is a detail of Figure 37 where we can clearly see the support of the flexible sectors on the tube, achieving the friction enslaving the clamp 4 to the tube 7 in its axial movements.

Figures 6 - 7 - 18 - 19 - 20 - 22 - 25 show improved instant fittings according to the invention of the type with holding part in self-catching cut sheet metal, with disassembly push-button (acting on the holding part) to the tube by dosed rubbing, soft, non-scratching.

FIG. 6 shows an instant fitting, with body 1 of crimped sheet metal, a guide piece 16, a seal 2, a separation piece 17, a holding piece 18 of split self-gripping cut sheet metal, a disassembly guide push-button and mounting 15, slaved to the tube 7 by the friction of elastic split lips 15a enclosing the tube 7. When mounting the tube (representation of drawing 6) the friction of 15 on the tube gives a thrust forcing the cutting lips of the part 18 of required to open, assembly is carried out without contact of 18 with the tube. During the retraction of the tube by traction or by pressure, the pusher 15 moves back with the tube controlled by the friction of the lips 15 a which release the part 18 which automatically hooks itself to the tube by its cutting edges. The disassembly of the tube is carried out very simply: manually push the pusher 15 into the connector, the lips 15a come to release the part 18 of the tube, the tube is removed while maintaining the push on 15, without scratches. The three functions of the invention are well achieved by the "friction" servo-control of the mounting and dismounting push-button tube: instant mounting of the tube without scratches, self-locking of the holding part, instant disassembly of the tube without scratches.

FIG. 7 shows an instantaneous connection with a piece of self-catching cut sheet metal, of a configuration similar to that of FIG. 6. The hooking part 19 is conical and is fixed by hooking to the body 1 made of thin sheet metal. The mounting and dismounting push-button 15 is controlled by the tube 7 by a split elastic tubular crown 15a enclosing the tube and pressing on it by a light bead 15b. The friction of assembly of the tube, pushes the pusher 15 by its cone 15 c on the part 19 which opens and cannot scratch the tube 7. At the retreat of the tube the friction 15 b releases the pusher 15 which is blocked on the part 19 by its detents 15 d. The part 19 released, self-hooks on the tube. The tube is dismantled as in Figure 6.

FIG. 15 is the detail of FIG. 7 showing the servo friction of the pusher 15 on the tube 7. The tubular part 15 a, elastic and split 15e encloses the tube by the bead 15 b and gives a servo friction of the said pusher 15 on the tube 7.

FIG. 18 is identical to FIG. 6 and its functions are the same, except for the assembly and disassembly pusher 15 which has a servo friction on the tube 7 produced by a thin sheet metal spring 20 placed in a groove 15 f of the pusher 15, the said spring enclosing the tube 7 energetically and giving friction which does not damage the tube.

FIG. 13 is the detail of FIG. 18 showing the pusher 15 on the tube 7 and showing the friction between the tube and the pusher by the spring 20.

Figure 19 is identical to Figure 18 and works in the same way, except for the pusher, whose servo friction on the tube is produced by a clip 21 placed in a groove 15 g of the pusher 15, the so-called clip enclosing the tube 7 and giving a servo friction. (an O-ring 21 is also possible).

Figure 16 is the detail of Figure 19 showing the pusher 15 and the clip in the groove, giving the servo friction between pusher and tube 7. Figure 20 has an identical operation to Figure 7 but the pusher 15 has the servo friction on the tube produced by a rubber washer 22 held by the ring 23 in the pusher 15. The rubber ring has a bore diameter smaller than the diameter of the tube and gives a high friction servo.

FIG. 14 shows the detail of FIG. 20 and of the friction-control of the pusher 15 by the rubber washer 22.

FIG. 22 is identical and of an operation similar to FIG. 7, but where the pusher 15 is controlled by the tube 7 by the friction of elastic tongues molded 15 h from the pusher 15, the so-called tongues 15 h enclosing the tube 7 and providing good servo friction.

Figure 30 is the detail of Figure 22 showing the servo-friction of the pusher 15 to the tube 7, by the tongues 15 h.

FIG. 25 shows an instantaneous connection where the holding part 19 is crimped on the body 1 and where the cap push-button, mounted by snap-fastening on the cone is axially movable in a limited way and is controlled by the friction of elastic lips 15 a enclosing the said tube 7. The control allows the opening of the self-catching part 19 during the assembly of the tube. The retraction of the tube by traction or pressure releases the part 19 which hooks and blocks the tube. Disassembly is done by manual pushing and pulling of the tube. The part 19 being open no scratching is possible.

Figure 33 is a detail of Figure 25, showing the pusher 15 and its servo friction on the tube 7 by its elastic lips 15a energetically enclosing the tube.

Figures 24 - 26 - 28 show improved instant fittings according to the invention where the self-catching piece is split and elastic, with a conical effect, located at the bottom of the fitting and controlled by the pusher which has a "predominant" friction on the tube.

Figure 24 corresponds to the type described above. The self-gripping holding part 26 receives two conical effects by the part 24 in the direction of the mounting tube and on the clip 25 in hooking. The pusher 28 is secured to the multiple lip seal 27 which provides sealing on its two diameters, and which makes the pusher subject to the tube by its largely predominant friction on the tube 7: the number of lips in contact with the tube being greater than the lips on the outside diameter, the friction on the tube is predominant. The movement of the tube brings with it the lip seal 27. The assembly of the tube pushes the part 26 on the conical part 24 which opens 26. The assembly, disassembly (by pushing the button 5) is ensured without scratches and disassembly very easy.

Figure 32 is the detail of Figure 25 showing the predominant friction-friction of the lip seal 27 and the pusher 28 on the tube 7. Figure 26 is an alternative embodiment of Figure 24 but where the pusher has a double sealing by two different seals, with multiple lips 30 on the tube 7 and O-ring 31 on its tail. Friction-control on the tube being largely predominant enslaves the pusher to all the axial movements of the tube. The operation is identical to that of Figure 24.

FIG. 34 is the detail of FIG. 26 showing the servo-control of the pusher 28 by the multiple-lip seal 30 with predominant friction on the tube 7. FIG. 28 is identical to FIG. 26 in principle and its operation and servo-control predominantly by friction of the pusher is produced on the pusher by putting two O-rings 32 on the tube 7 and only 1 on the housing of the connector. Figure 35 is a detail view of Figure 28 where we see the friction of the two O-rings 32 controlling the pusher to the tube in its axial movements. Friction is predominant.

Figure 29 shows an instant fitting according to the invention where the self-catching holding part 34 with conical hooking and disassembly-mounting effects is controlled by the friction of the pusher 15, the elastic lips 15 of which enclose the tube 7, the said pusher 15 receives the thrust from the tube 7 during assembly of the tube, the lips 15 b opening the holding part 34, the tube is mounted without scratches. The recoil of 15 with the tube is automatic and the part 34 hooks the tube. Disassembly without scratches is done by pushing 15 manually which opens the part 34, the tube is removed without scratches. FIG. 21 shows an instant fitting in accordance with the invention where the holding part 36 with cutting edges is of the eccentric type, pushed by a spring 35 and with a conical effect. The holding part 36 is controlled by the pusher 38 which has a servo friction on the tube 7 by the rubber washer 22 which clamps the tube 7. The mounting of the tube causes the pusher 38 to frictionally push the holding part 36 on the conical part 10, this recenters said part 36 which no longer touches the tube, the assembly being carried out without scratches. The tube in the other direction brings back the pusher 38 by friction, the part 36 clings to the tube. Disassembly is carried out by manual pushing on the pusher 38, which releases 36 from the tube which is removed without scratches.

Figure 12 shows a detail of Figure 21 which is easily understood the enslavement of the pusher 38 to the tube 7 by the rubber washer 22 secured to the pusher 38 by the button 22, the said washer 22 encloses the tube 7 and performs the servo-friction of the pusher 38 to the tube 7.

The invention which shows applications to one-touch fittings is not limited to the types described, but applies to all types of one-touch fittings having a holding part which hooks to the tube and which can be "opened" by the servo-friction thrust to the movement of the tube, either itself by a friction which is integrated therein, or by a pusher having a friction on the tube.

The applications of this invention are enormous, because by avoiding scratching the tubes, this makes it possible to use the instant fittings for "all fluids: liquids or gases at pressures from 0 to 40 bars approximately, that is to say 90% of fluid jobs ". All industries are concerned, but we can cite: compressed air, sanitary water, the chemical industry, truck braking, the food industry, etc.

In all these areas, instant connection and disconnection brings a very great economy of manpower and the safe and tight connection at very low prices.

Claims

1- Improvement to the instant fittings for bare and smooth tubes, comprising a hollow body with a bore with the diameter for passage of the fluid and an internal housing of appropriate shapes where are placed a sealing means and a means of holding the tube, the said housing limited by a closure and support means characterized in that a member is slidably mounted axially in the fitting, with a stroke limited in each direction, that this member comprises a friction means on the tube, giving a high level, smooth friction, not scratching the tube, the said friction controlling the said organ to the axial movements of the tube, in each direction, the said friction giving the said organ an axial thrust in the direction of the tube , said axial thrust acting jointly with opening means for moving the gripping means of the holding piece away from the tube, the tube being consequently introduced into the instant fitting without touching the a edges of the holding part, without undergoing any scratching and without touching the said tube, removed from the fitting also without scratches and without touching the edges of the holding part, the said member subject to friction by the axial movements of the tube being able to be either the holding piece itself, or an intermediate piece carrying the friction means and acting by axial thrust on the holding piece of the tube, the said friction on the tube being of higher level, predominant over the other necessary friction â sealing, in particular those of the sealing means placed on the diameters of the housings. 2- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction, the slave to the tube 7 is an elastic clamp with hooking teeth 4a of diameter greater than the diameter of the tube 7 (Figures 1 -4 - 5 - 8 - 9). having as friction means on the tube an O-ring 6 secured to said clamp by a button 5 or a button 5 and a ring 5a. 3- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving it to the tube 7 in its axial movements is an elastic clamp 4 with hooking teeth 4a of diameter greater at rest, to the diameter of the tube 7 (FIGS. 2 - 11), having as friction means on the tube a rubber bore washer enclosing the tube, the said washer 8 being secured to the clamp 4 by the button 5. 4- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving it to the tube 7 (figures 3 - 10) in its axial movements is an elastic clamp 4 with hooking teeth 4a of diameter greater than the tube 7 at rest, having as friction means on the tube a semi-rigid plastic washer 9, enclosing the tube, the said washer being secured with the clamp by the button 5 and the ring 5a.

5- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving it to the axial movements of the tube 7 is an elastic clamp 4, with a hooking tooth having a diameter greater than the diameter of the tube (FIGS. 23 - 31) having as friction means on the tube at least 2 elastic tabs 4d tightening the tube.

6- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving it to the axial movements of the tube 7 is a pliers made of thin elastic sheet metal 4 (FIGS. 37 - 17) with hooking tooth of larger diameter to the diameter of the tube, having as friction means on the tube the 4th elastic sectors, enclosing the tube. 7- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving it to the axial movements of the tube 7 is a pusher 15 (Figures 6 - 7 - 18- 19 - 20 - 22 - 25) comprising a friction means on the tube 7, the so-called pusher undergoes in the axial movement of the tube an axial thrust due to friction, which "opens" the edges of the self-catching parts, in thin split sheet metal 18 or 19, allowing passage the tube without contact with the said stops and without scratching the tube 7.

8- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pusher 15 (Figures 6 - 25 - 33) on the tube 7 for controlling the axial movements of the tube 7 are split elastic lips 15 enclosing the tube and forcing by conical effect the edges of the self-catching parts 18 or 19 to open, thus allowing the tube to pass without scratching it.

9- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pusher 15 (Figures 7 - 15) on the tube 7, slaving to the axial movements of the tube 7, is an elastic skirt 15 slit enclosing the tube 7 in contact with a light peripheral bead 15 b, the end of which conical 15c under the axial thrust of friction forces the opening of the hooking lip of the part 19 which lets the tube pass without scratching it. The pusher 15 is captive by the notches 15d.

10- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pusher 15

(Figures 19 - 16) on the tube 7, which is slaved to the axial movements of the tube 7, is in a groove 15g of the pusher, either a split O-ring clip in spring steel 21, or an O-ring 21, enclosing the tube 7, and the thin end. 15 c, under the axial thrust of the friction "opens" the attachment lip of the holding part 18, which lets the tube pass without scratches.

11- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pusher 15 on the tube 7 (Figures 18 - 13), for controlling the axial movements of the tube 7 is, in a groove 15 f du- said pusher, a spring of thin elastic sheet metal, split 20 enclosing the tube, and the end of the pusher 15c, under the axial thrust of friction "opens" the hooking lip of the holding part 18, which lets the tube pass without scratches.

12- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pushers 15 and

38 (Figures 20-14 on the one hand and Figures 21 and 12 on the other), to control the axial movements of the tube 7 is, a rubber washer 22 secured to the said pusher enclosing the tube, the pusher 15 driven by the thrust of friction on the tube "opens" the part 19, the pusher 38 also pushes on the part 36 which is refocused releasing the tube, the said parts 19 and 36 allowing the tube 7 to pass freely without scratching it.

13- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 7 characterized in that the friction means of the pusher 15 (figures 22-30) for controlling the axial movements of the tube 7 consists of elastic tongues 15h enclosing the tube, the pusher 15 driven by the thrust of friction on the tube "opens" the holding part 19 / which lets the tube pass freely without scratches.

14- Improvement to fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising a friction slaving to the axial movements of the tube 7, is a pusher located at the entrance of the fitting carrying the sealing means in the form of seals which have the particularity of giving a large predominance to the friction of the seals of the pusher on the tube 7, (Figures 24 - 26 - 27 - 28 - 32 - 34 - 35 - 36) compared to the other friction of the seals, so that the tube always drives the pusher in its axial movements with an axial thrust on the holding part (26-4) which, although self-gripping, is "open" by conical effect, releasing the tube which is assembled (or disassembled) without scratches.

15- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 13 characterized in that the pusher comprising friction joints giving a predominant friction on the tube 7 (Figures 24 - 32 - 27 - 36) is secured with a multiple lip seal 27 or 13 having a greater number of lips in contact with the tube 3 or 4 against only 2 lips on the diameter of the housing, which gives a greater friction on the tube which in its axial movements always drives the pusher and thus it pushes the holding part 26 or 14 which, by conical effect emerges from the tube which is mounted freely without scratches.

16- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 13 characterized in that the pusher comprising friction joints giving predominant friction on the tube 7 (Figures 26 - 34) has a multiple lip seal 30 on the friction tube very predominant by relative to the O-ring 31, the tube therefore drives the pusher axially which pushes the self-gripping holding part 26 which by conical effect "opens" and lets the tube 7 pass freely without scratches.

17- Improvement to the fittings according to claims 1 and 13 characterized in that the pusher 28 comprising friction joints giving predominant friction (Figures 28 - 35) on the tube 7 has two O-rings on the tube and a single seal on the housing , the friction on the tube therefore drives the pusher 28 with the tube, pushing the holding part 26 which by conical effect opens, allowing the tube to mount freely without scratches.

18- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member comprising the predominant friction means on the tube (whether the holding part itself, whether it is the pusher) is driven by the tube towards the outside of the fitting (by traction or by pressure), the said organ is released the holding part of the tube which, if it is self-catching, grips the tube, either drives the holding part in force by friction on conical parts which produce the fermenting of the holding teeth on the tube which is thus gripped. 19- Improvement to fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the member having the predominant friction on the tube can always be manually pushed and held towards the bottom of its travel in the fitting, always releasing and opening the holding part, the tube 7 can be simultaneously removed freely without contact or scratches with the holding part.

20- Improvement to the fittings according to claim 1 characterized in that the tube holding part is either controlled by the axial movements of the tube by its integrated friction, or controlled by the pusher having a predominant friction on the said tube 7, the so-called tube holding part receiving the axial thrust of friction on the tube, transforms this thrust into radial opening or radial contraction movements multiplied by conical effects, which can act either in one direction of the tube, or in both directions of the tube , either on the opening, or on the contraction, or on the two radial movements.