GB2558628A

GB2558628A - Tap connector

Info

Publication number: GB2558628A
Application number: GB1700477.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Emerson John
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-01-11
Filing date: 2017-01-11
Publication date: 2018-07-18
Also published as: GB201700477D0

Abstract

The tap connector 30 comprising a frame comprising a washer-shaped body (1, figure 1B) configured to be engaged against a surface of an appliance or a liquid storage tank 22. The washer-shaped body configured to receive a tap tail or filling valve tail 21: and a clamping mechanism (4, figure 1B) supported by the frame. The clamping mechanism configured to be operated directly by a user without the need for a tool or other tightening device to form an attachment between the tap or the filling valve and the appliance or liquid storage tank. Also disclosed is method of fitting a tap or filling valve to an appliance or liquid storage tank with the aforementioned tap connector.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Tap connector

Abstract Title: Tap connector for securing a tap or a filling valve to an appliance or a liquid storage tank (57) The tap connector 30 comprising a frame comprising a washer-shaped body (1, figure 1B) configured to be engaged against a surface of an appliance or a liquid storage tank 22. The washer-shaped body configured to receive a tap tail or filling valve tail 21: and a clamping mechanism (4, figure 1B) supported by the frame. The clamping mechanism configured to be operated directly by a user without the need for a tool or other tightening device to form an attachment between the tap or the filling valve and the appliance or liquid storage tank. Also disclosed is method of fitting a tap or filling valve to an appliance or liquid storage tank with the aforementioned tap connector.

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TAP CONNECTOR

The present invention relates to a tap connector for securing a taps and filling valves or the like to an appliance or a liquid storage tank which tap connector, once connected to a supply pipe, requires no tools to secure the taps and filling valves to the appliance or tank. The invention also relates to a method of securing a tap or a filling valve or the like to an appliance or a liquid storage tank and a supply pipe with no tools once the tap connector is connected to the supply pipe, using the tap connector as substantially described herein.

Currently a tap for use on a basin or the like is secured in place by a check nut that is screwed onto an elongate section of the tap known as the “tap tail” and tightened with a suitable tool onto the underside of the appliance to pull the base of the tap body securely onto the upper surface of an appliance. A water supply pipe is then connected to the tap tail by a connector with a swivel nut or another threaded-type connector. The connector is screwed onto the bottom of the tap tail which engages a seal onto the bottom surface of the tap tail so as to form a water tight seal between the tap tail and the water supply pipe.

When changing a tap on a fitted appliance it is often cumbersome and difficult to engage the check nut and/or the connector swivel nut with an appropriate tool, such as a spanner or a wrench. Similarly, it can be difficult to undo a tap which has been over tightened or where the check nut or connector swivel nut has become corroded or encrusted with limescale.

Furthermore, it can be difficult to tighten nuts in the fitting process resulting in taps and connectors not being tightened sufficiently and the taps becoming loose and causing leaks.

Fitting taps or the like using check nuts and connector swivel nuts is both time consuming and difficult in tight spaces where space is at a premium, such as behind baths and under sinks and hand basins. Fitting in such circumstances can also lead to minor, but often painful, injuries for the fitter.

The present invention aims to obviate or mitigate one or more of the disadvantages associated with current means for securing a tap to an appliance and/or a supply pipe.

Summary of Invention

According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a tap connector for securing a tap or a filling valve to an appliance or a liquid storage tank, the tap connector comprising a frame comprising a washer-shaped body configured to be engaged against a surface of an appliance or a liquid storage tank, the washer-shaped body comprising a central throughbore configured to receive a tap tail or filling valve tail; and a clamping mechanism supported by the frame and being configured to move between an unlocked position and a locked position wherein in the locked position the clamping mechanism engages with a tap tail or filling valve tail so as to attach same to the appliance, and in the unlocked position the clamping mechanism is disengaged from the tap tail or filling valve tail so as to allow the removal of the tap tail or filling valve tail from the connector and in turn the tap or filling valve from the appliance, the clamping mechanism being configured to be operated directly by a user to form an attachment between the tap or the filling valve and the appliance or liquid storage tank..

When referred to herein, the term “directly by a user” shall mean without the need for a tool or other tightening device.

It is much by preference that the clamping mechanism, when operated directly by the user, forms a secure attachment between the tap or filling valve and the appliance or liquid storage tank without the need for further tightening using a tool or other tightening device. In other words, the user can secure the tap or filling valve to the appliance or liquid storage tank by hand only.

In use of the tap connector, when the clamping mechanism is operated directly by the user into its locked position, the frame, more specifically the washer-shaped body of the frame, is securely engaged with the surface of the appliance or liquid storage tank opposite the surface with which the tap or filling valve body is engaged. In this way, a portion of the appliance or liquid storage tank is clamped between the tap or filling valve body and the washer-shaped body of the connector. Thus, the tap or filling valve is securely attached to the appliance or liquid storage tank.

The tap connector of the invention is configured to allow the user, alone (i.e. without a tool) and directly, to apply sufficient torque to the clamping mechanism to move the mechanism from the unlocked position into the locked position thereby securing the tap or filling valve to the appliance or liquid storage tank. It is much by preference that no tools are required in the fitting of the tap connector.

In certain embodiments, the clamping mechanism is configured to move between an unlocked position and a locked position wherein in the locked position the clamping mechanism engages with a tap tail or a filling valve tail so as to securely attach same to the water supply pipe and the tap or filling valve to the appliance, and in the unlocked position the clamping mechanism is disengaged from the tap tail or the filling valve tail so as to allow the removal of the tap or filling valve from the appliance.

In operation, movement of the clamping mechanism into the locked position causes the clamping mechanism to act upon the tap tail or the filling valve tail to draw same through the throughbore in the washer-shaped body of the frame. In this way, the tap or filling valve is securely fixed onto the appliance or liquid storage tank.

In preferred embodiments, the clamping mechanism comprises at least two clamping heads.

Preferably, each clamping head is supported by the frame and is located and configured to engage with an outer surface of a tap tail or filling valve tail so as to form a releasable engagement therewith.

In certain embodiments, the clamping mechanism comprises at least two pivotable clamping heads. More specifically, the pivotable clamping heads are each supported by the frame so as to be opposite one another. In such arrangements, it is preferred that the clamping mechanism is moved between unlocked and locked positions by pivoting the clamping heads. The tap tail or filling valve will be engaged by both clamping heads in the locked position thereof. The clamping heads are preferably on opposing sides of the tap tail or filling valve.

In embodiments of the invention, there may be additional clamping heads. Preferably the additional clamping heads are configured as opposing pairs of clamping heads.

In embodiments of the invention, each clamping head is generally cylindrical. More specifically, the longitudinal axis of the cylinder preferably extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the tap connector. Preferably, the curved surface of the cylindrical clamping head forms the clamping surface.

In embodiments of the invention, each clamping head has a pear shaped transverse cross section. More specifically, the transverse cross-section of the clamping head is cam-like in shape. Alternatively, each clamping heads may be circular in cross-section. In such alternative arrangements, the clamping head may comprise an off-centre pivot axis in order to provide a cam-like clamping head.

Most preferably the, or each, clamping head comprises a serrated surface.

Alternatively, or in addition, the, or each, clamping head comprises a rubberised surface.

The, or each, clamping head may be longitudinally concaved to complement the surface shape of a tap tail.

In certain embodiments, the, or each, clamping head comprises a lever extending outwardly therefrom. In this way, the user is able to apply sufficient torque to the clamping mechanism to move same between its unlocked and its locked position and vice versa by hand, that is without any tool.

In embodiments of the invention, when the clamping mechanism is in an unlocked position, the, or each, lever extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tap connector. Similarly, where the clamping mechanism is in a locked position, the levers extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the tap connector.

In embodiments of the invention the levers are detachable from the clamping head.

The clamping head may further comprise levers which are of a fixed length.

Alternatively, the clamping head may further comprise levers which are extendable in length.

In alternative embodiments, the clamping mechanism comprises a screw thread on the surface of the throughbore in the washer-shaped body of the frame. More specifically, the washer-shaped body comprises a threaded bore. In such arrangements, the clamping mechanism is moved between unlocked and locked positions by rotating the washer-shaped body. The threaded bore of the washer-shaped body is configured to engage with a threaded outer surface of a tap tail or filling valve tail so as to form a releasable attachment therebetween. In this way, the user is able to apply sufficient torque to the clamping mechanism to move same between its unlocked and its locked position and vice versa by hand, that is without any tool.

In much preferred embodiments, the connector further comprises a supply connector. The supply connector preferably comprises a tubular body having a throughbore therein. The supply connector is configured to fluidly connect to a water supply line or pipe. The supply connector is further configured to fluidly connect to a tap tail or filling valve. More specifically, the supply connector is configured to fluidly connect a tap tail or filling valve with a water supply line or pipe.

It is much by preference that the throughbore of the tubular body of the supply connector is aligned with the throughbore in the washer-shaped body of the frame.

In certain arrangements, the throughbore of the tubular body of the supply connector is axially aligned with the throughbore in the washer-shaped body of the frame.

In alternative arrangements, the supply connector may comprise two separate tubular bodies the throughbore of each tubular body being aligned with the throughbore in the washershaped body of the frame.

In certain embodiments, the supply connector is coupled to the frame.

In embodiments, the supply connector is rotatably coupled to the frame.

In alternative embodiments, the supply connector is fixedly coupled to the frame.

In embodiments of the invention, the supply connector comprises an inlet connector and an outlet connector. More specifically, the inlet and outlet connectors may be co-axial with one another. Yet more specifically, the inlet connector and the outlet connector may each and together define the throughbore in the supply connector.

In use of the tap connector, the inlet connector is configured to connect to a water supply line or pipe. The outlet connector is configured to connect to a tap tail or filling valve tail. In this way, liquid is free to flow from the supply line or pipe through the supply connector and into the tap tail or filling valve tail.

In embodiments of the invention the inlet connector is a plain spigot to accept push-fit connections or compression fittings on a supply pipe.

In embodiments of the invention the inlet connector is a male or female thread to accommodate readily available plumbing connections, such as male iron to copper or female iron to copper connectors, on a supply pipe.

In further embodiments of the invention the inlet connector comprises an integral isolation valve.

In embodiments of the invention the outlet connector is a spigot having an external diameter less than the internal diameter of the tap tail thereby allowing for internal insertion of the outlet connector into the tap tail.

In another embodiment of the invention the outlet connector is a socket having an internal diameter larger than the external diameter of the tap tail for use with plain, unthreaded tap tails.

It can be envisaged that a number of combinations exist for various embodiments describing the type of inlet connector and the type of outlet connector used in combination.

In certain embodiments, the supply connector is coupled to the frame and spaced apart from the washer-shaped body of the frame. More specifically, the washer-shaped body and the supply connector are spaced apart from and connected to one another by a central frame portion.

In such embodiments, the tap connector preferably comprises a frame connected to both the clamping mechanism and to the supply inlet connector. More specifically, the tap connector is operable to connect to a supply line or pipe and to a tap tail or filling valve inlet as a single unit. In this way, a fitter can connect the supply line or pipe to the tap tail or filling valve and the tap to the appliance by hand without using a tool.

In certain embodiments, the central frame portion may be a tubular cuff. More specifically, the central frame portion is a hollow tubular body.

Alternatively, the central frame portion may comprise one or more stanchions or legs.

In certain embodiments the tap connector frame may comprise supporting stanchions that are a fixed length.

Alternatively, the tap connector frame may comprise supporting stanchions that are extendable in length.

In preferred embodiments, the central frame portion extends between the washer-shaped body and the supply connector and is configured to support the washer-shaped body and the supply connector.

In certain embodiments, the central frame portion extends between and connects the washer-shaped body and the supply connector.

In certain embodiments, the central frame portion is fixedly connected to the washer-shaped body and/or the supply connector.

In certain arrangements, the central frame portion is fixedly connected to the washer-shaped body and is rotatably connected to the supply connector.

In embodiments of the invention, the central frame portion comprises two or more pairs of supporting stanchions extending perpendicularly from a face of the washer-shaped body portion.

It is much by preference that each supporting stanchion comprises a slot extending transversely through the supporting stanchion, the slot configured to receive a spindle extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the supporting stanchion. More specifically, the spindle extends between, and is supported by, a pair of supporting stanchions.

In such embodiments, it is preferred that the tap connector comprises two or more clamping heads, each clamping head pivotally connected between a pair of supporting stanchions by a spindle extending through a spindle hole located in the clamping head into the slot in each of the pair of supporting stanchions.

In embodiments of the invention, one or both distal ends of the spindle are peened over thereby forming a permanent fixing to the supporting stanchions.

In certain embodiments, the clamping mechanism may further comprise a biasing means. The biasing means is preferably active in the locked position of the clamping mechanism.

The biasing means may be one or more of a leaf spring, a coil spring or the like.

In certain embodiments, in the locked position of the clamping mechanism, the biasing means is configured to urge the spindle inwardly of the frame. More specifically, the biasing means is configured to act on the spindle to urge same towards the opposing spindle.

Most preferably the clamping head is configured to be retained in engagement with a tap tail or filing valve tail in the locked position of the clamping head by a spring mechanism wherein the spring mechanism may comprise a leaf spring or a compression coil spring.

In embodiments of the invention, the spindle may be acted upon by a spring.

Alternatively, the spindle may be acted on by a pin which is biased towards the spindle by a leaf spring or the like.

Preferably, each spring is removably coupled to the spindle thereby allowing the clamping head or spindle to be replaced or removed should either become worn or damaged.

In embodiments of the invention, the frame is configured to support the supply connector which comprises a tubular outlet connector and a tubular inlet connector coaxially aligned with one another and together forming a throughbore, which throughbore is aligned with the throughbore in the washer-shaped frame body.

In embodiments of the invention, the clamping mechanism is configured to move between an unlocked position and a locked position wherein in the locked position the clamping mechanism engages with a tap tail or a filling valve tail so as to securely attach same to the outlet connector and to securely attach the tap or filling valve to the appliance, and in the unlocked position the clamping mechanism is disengaged from the tap tail or the filling valve tail so as to allow the removal of the tap tail or a filling valve tail from the outlet connector and the tap or filling valve from the appliance.

The outlet connector may be a spigot with a smooth outer surface. In such embodiments, the external diameter of the outlet connector is smaller than the bore of a tap tail or filling valve tail such that the outlet connector fits inside the bore of the tap tail or filling valve tail so as to form a sealing engagement therewith.

Preferably the outer surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove. More specifically, the groove is configured to receive a seal. In this way, the outlet connector spigot inserted into the tap tail or filling valve tail forms a sealing engagement with the seal.

Alternatively, the outlet connector may be a socket. In such embodiments, the diameter of the bore of the outlet connector is larger than the external diameter of a tap tail or filling valve such that the tap tail fits inside the bore of the outlet connector so as to form a sealing engagement therewith.

Preferably the inner surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove. More specifically, the groove is configured to receive a seal. In this way, a tap tail or filling valve tail inserted into the outlet connector socket with form a sealing engagement with the seal. Such an arrangement is particularly preferred for use with taps having plain, unthreaded tap tails.

In such arrangements, the central frame portion is preferably connected to the outlet connector.

In various embodiments of the invention, the central frame portion comprises a rotatable collar integrally formed with a washer-shaped body portion of the frame at an end of the rotatable collar, the washer-shaped body comprising a clamping mechanism being a threaded bore for engagement with threaded tap tail.

In certain embodiments, the rotatable collar is freely rotatable around a flanged groove on a supply inlet connector at the opposite end of the frame to the washer-shaped body.

In such embodiments, the central portion of the frame is a rotatable collar formed of a pair of supporting stanchions depending from the washer shaped body portion. In certain embodiments, the rotatable collar may comprise additional supporting stanchions depending from the washer shaped body.

In alternative embodiments, the rotatable collar may comprise a tubular cuff. More specifically, the washer shaped body of the frame is formed in an end of a hollow tubular cuff.

In embodiments wherein the central portion of the frame is a rotatable collar formed of a pair of supporting stanchions depending from the washer shaped body portion, at an end opposite the washer shaped body, the frame comprises a ring depending radially inwardly from the central portion of the frame. The ring is configured to engage with at least one flange depending from the outer wall of a supply inlet connector and extending circumferentially thereabout such that the frame and supply inlet connector are freely rotatable with respect to one another but are not separable when the frame is moved longitudinally with respect to the bore of the supply inlet connector.

In use, as the threaded bore of the washer shaped body is screw fitted onto a threaded tap tail or filling valve spigot, the ring engages with the supply inlet connector flange so as to draw the supply inlet connector in the direction of the appliance to which the tap is being fitted. In this way, the tap or filling valve is securely attached to the appliance and to the supply inlet connector.

Such an arrangement is particularly useful when the tap tail or filling valve has a threaded attachment.

In certain embodiments, the supply inlet connector may comprise two circumferentially extending flanges depending from the outer wall. The two supply inlet connector flanges are preferably spaced apart and configured to receive a ring therebetween.

The outlet connector may be a spigot with a smooth outer surface. In such embodiments, the external diameter of the outlet connector is smaller than the bore of a tap tail or filling valve such that the outlet connector fits inside the bore of the tap tail or filling valve so as to form a sealing engagement therewith.

Preferably the outer surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove. More specifically, the groove is configured to receive a seal. In this way, a tap tail or filling valve tail inserted over the outlet connector spigot will form a sealing engagement with the seal.

Alternatively, in such arrangements, the outlet connector may be a socket. In such embodiments, the diameter of the bore of the outlet connector is larger than the external diameter of a tap tail or filling valve such that the tap tail fits inside the bore of the outlet connector so as to form a sealing engagement therewith. The uppermost supply inlet connector flange may be one and the same as the base wall of the outlet connector.

Preferably the inner surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove. More specifically, the groove is configured to receive a seal. In this way, a tap tail or filling valve tail inserted into the outlet connector socket will form a sealing engagement with the seal.

In an alternative embodiment, the clamping mechanism comprises a threaded bore in the washer shaped body and the central frame portion comprises two pairs of legs. The legs may be stanchions depending from the washer shaped body of the frame. It is much preferred that the two pairs of legs are diametrically opposite one another on the washershaped body.

In such embodiments, the legs of the frame preferably depend from the washer shaped body towards a ring extending radially inwardly of the frame. The legs are preferably connected to the ring. The ring is configured to engage with a supply inlet connector flange extending about the supply inlet connector. More specifically, the frame is preferably engaged with the circumferential supply inlet connector flange. The ring may be engaged between two supply inlet flanges. In this way, as the threaded bore of the washer shaped body is screw fitted onto a threaded tap tail or filling valve tail, the tap is securely fitted to the appliance and the inlet connector.

Such an arrangement is particularly useful for mixer or so-called monobloc taps when the tap tail or filling valve has an outer sleeve thereabout. In such arrangements, the outer sleeve fits through the bore of the washer shaped body and is seated onto the flange of the supply inlet connector. The fluid inlet hoses within the outer sleeve may then be fitted to respective outlet connectors.

In such arrangements, the supply inlet connector flange(s) may be a portion of a plate through which the inlet connector(s) pass.

In embodiments of the invention, the washer-shaped body may comprise a recess in an upper surface thereof. More specifically, the washer-shaped body may comprise a recess for housing a compression washer or the like.

The tap connector may further comprise a compression washer located in the recess of the washer-shaped portion of the frame.

Most preferably, the compression washer is a rubber seal.

In use of the tap connector, the compression washer will be moved into engagement with the appliance or liquid storage tank when the clamping mechanism is moved between its unlocked and its locked position.

Preferably, the tap connector may be used to fit a monobloc mixer tap. The monobloc mixer tap is secured in place by the connector and is plumbed in according to methods known to those skilled in the art.

Preferably, the tap connector may be used to fit a conventional tap. The conventional tap is secured in place by the connector and is plumbed in according to methods known to those skilled in the art.

Preferably, the tap connector may be used to connect a filling valve to a liquid storage tank. The filling valve is secured in place by the device and is plumbed in as according to methods known to those skilled in the art.

Most preferably, the distance between the upper surface of the washer-shaped body and the connection point where the central frame portion connects to the tubular supply connector is longer than the length of the tap tail of the tap.

It is necessary that the tap tail engages with the supply connector to provide fluid connectivity between the two before the washer shaped body engages with the surface of the appliance.

The tap connector according to the invention may be used to fit a tap to an appliance and connect said tap to the water supply pipe.

Alternatively, the tap connector according to the invention is used to connect a filling valve to a liquid storage tank and connect said filling valve to the water supply pipe.

In all embodiments of the present invention, the materials used in the tap connector are preferably suitable for use with potable water.

Preferably, one or more of the frame, supply connector and the clamping mechanism comprise non-ferrous metals, for example stainless steel or brass.

Alternatively, one or more of the frame, supply connector and the clamping mechanism comprise a rigid plastic.

Most preferably, the seals and the compression washer comprise rubber.

It can be envisaged that a combination of such materials may be used for various aspects of the invention.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of fitting a tap or a filling valve to an appliance or a liquid storage tank and a water supply pipe with no additional tools, using a tap connector according to the first aspect of the invention.

There is provided a method of fitting a tap to an appliance and connecting said tap to a water supply pipe with no additional tools, using a tap connector according to the first aspect of the invention.

There is further provided a method of fitting a filling valve to a liquid storage tank with no additional tools, using a tap connector according to the first aspect of the invention.

There is provided a method of fitting a filling valve to a liquid storage tank and connecting said filling valve to a water supply pipe with no additional tools, using a tap connector according to the first aspect of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1a to 1d show orthographic and isometric views of a tap connector in an unlocked position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2a shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 1 c along line C-C;

Figure 2b shows an exploded view of the circled section marked “D” in Figure 2a;

Figure 3 is a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 1c along line A-A;

Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d show the tap connector of Figure 1 in a locked position;

Figure 5a shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 4c along line H-H showing a leaf spring mechanism;

Figure 5b shows an exploded view of the circled section marked “J” in Figure 5a;

Figure 6a is an orthographic, isometric and sectional view of a portion of a frame of a tap connector according to the invention, the frame portion having washer-shaped body comprising a flat compression washer;

Figure 6b is an orthographic, isometric and sectional view of a portion of a frame of a tap connector according to the invention, the frame portion having washer-shaped body comprising a toroidal compression washer;

Figure 6c is an orthographic, isometric and sectional view of a portion of a frame of a tap connector according to the invention, the frame portion having washer-shaped body comprising a tubular compression washer;

Figure 6d is an orthographic, isometric and sectional of a portion of a frame of a tap connector according to the invention, the frame portion having washer-shaped body comprising a tapered compression washer;

Figures 7a shows an isometric view and Figures 7b, 7c and 7d show orthographic views of a clamping head and a lever mechanism of a tap connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8a is a detailed view of a leaf spring mechanism in an unlocked position of a tap connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8b is a detailed view of a leaf spring mechanism in a locked position of a tap connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9a is a detailed view of a coil spring mechanism in an unlocked position of a tap connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9b is a detailed view of a coil spring mechanism in an locked position of a tap connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 10a and 10b show orthographic views of a tap connector in a locked position in an embodiment wherein there is provided a tap comprising a spigot outlet which is connected to an appliance;

Figure 10c shows sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 10b along line C-C in a locked position in an embodiment wherein there is provided a tap comprising a spigot outlet which is connected to an appliance;

Figure 11a shows isometric view of a tap connector in an unlocked position in another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 11b, 11c and 11d show the tap connector of Figure 11a in orthographic and isometric views;

Figure 11e shows an isometric view of the tap connector of Figure 11a in a locked position;

Figures 11 f, 11g and 11h show the tap connector of Figure 11e in orthographic views;

Figure 12a shows an isometric view of a tap connector in an unlocked position according to a yet further alternative embodiment;

Figures 12b, 12d and 12e show orthographic views of the tap connector of Figure 12a;

Figure 12c shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 12d along line D-D;

Figure 12f shows an orthographic view of a tap connector of Figure 12a in a locked position wherein a tap is connected to an appliance;

Figure 12g shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 12f along line B-B;

Figure 12h shows an orthographic view of a tap connector of Figure 12a in a locked position wherein a tap is connected to an appliance;

Figure 13a shows isometric view of a tap connector in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 13b, 13c and 13d show the tap connector of Figure 13a in orthographic views;

Figure 13e shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 13d along the line A-A;

Figure 14a shows isometric view of a tap connector in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the present invention in the locked position;

Figures 14b, 14c and 14d show the tap connector of Figure 14a in orthographic views;

Figure 14e shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 14d along the line A-A;

Figure 15a shows isometric view of an inlet connector and an outlet connector of the present invention;

Figures 15b and 15c show the inlet connector and the outlet connector of Figure 15a in orthographic views;

Figure 15d shows a sectional view of the inlet connector and the outlet connector of Figure 15c along the line C-C;

Figure 16a shows isometric view of an alternative inlet connector and an alternative outlet connector of the present invention;

Figures 16b, 16c and 16d show the inlet connector and the outlet connector of Figure 16a in orthographic views;

Figure 16e shows a sectional view of the inlet connector and the outlet connector of Figure 16d along the line B-B;

Figure 17a shows isometric view of a frame of the present invention;

Figures 17b, 17c and 17d show the frame of Figure 16a in orthographic views;

Figure 17e shows a sectional view of the frame of Figure 17d along the line A-A;

Figure 18a and 18b show a tap secured to an appliance with the frame of Figure 17 and the inlet and outlet connectors of Figure 15;

Figure 18c shows a sectional view of the tap, appliance and connectors of Figure 18b along line B-B;

Figures 19a, 19b, 19c and 19d show a tap connector according to a further alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19e shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 19d along line A-A;

Figure 20a shows an isometric view and Figures 20b, 20c and 20e show orthographic views of a tap connector according to a further alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20d shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 20c along line A-A; and

Figure 20f shows a sectional view of the tap connector of Figure 20e along line B-B;

In the drawings, like elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout. Alternative embodiments are denoted by reference numerals increased by a factor of 100.

Referring to Figures 1a to 1d, the tap connector 30 comprises a stainless steel washer shaped body 1 and a central frame portion having two diametrically opposed U-shaped frame members comprising legs 2 depending from a face of the washer shaped body 1. The upstand portions of the U-shaped frame members forming legs 2 connect to and depend from the washer-shaped body 1.

Each leg 2 comprises a slot 3 extending through the legs to form a hole therein.

Figures 1 to 5 and 10 show a tap connector 30 for connecting a tap 20 to an appliance 22 and a water supply pipe (not shown). In the depicted arrangement, the tap connector 30 comprises a washer-shaped tubular body 1, an aperture 24 having a diameter shown as Dimension B extending through the tubular body 1. Dimension B will be larger than the diameter of a tap tail (see Figures 10a to 10c numeral 21) or filling valve tail (not shown) which passes through the aperture 24 in use of the tap connector 30.

Figures 6a to 6d depict a compression washer 6 which may be housed in a recess in an upper surface of the washer-shaped tubular body 1 in any of the depicted embodiments of the invention. It can be envisaged that a number of possible compression washers 6 may be used with the tap connector of the present invention. Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d show the cross sectional profiles of flat, toroidal, tubular and tapered compression washers respectively. Other compression washers known to those skilled in the art may also be utilised.

As best shown in Figure 1A, legs 2 form two pairs of supporting stanchions 2 extending perpendicularly from the lower surface of the washer shaped tubular body 1. The aperture 24 in the tubular body 1 allows the tap tail 21 of the tap 20 (Figure 10) to be received in the frame of the tap connector 30.

As seen in Figures 1b and 1c, the depicted embodiment further comprises a tubular supply connector (7,8) connected to the supporting stanchions 2. The supply connector comprises an inlet connector 7 and an outlet connector 8. As shown in Figure 3, the inlet connector 7 and the outlet connector 8 are in fluid communication with one another by way of a common through bore 9 formed by the co-axial throughbores of inlet connector 7 and outlet connector

8. In the depicted embodiment, the inlet connector 7 and the outlet connector 8 are a single tubular body having a throughbore 9. The throughbore 9 of the tubular supply connector (7, 8) is axially and centrally aligned with the aperture 24 in the washer shaped tubular body 1.

With reference to Figure 1, the throughbore 9 of outlet connector 8 comprises a diameter shown as Dimension C which is less than the internal diameter of the tap tail 21. In this way, the outlet connector 8 inserts into the tap tail 21. The outlet connector 8 in this embodiment has a spigot.

Referring to Figure 1b, the outlet connector 8 comprises a circumferential groove 10, extending fully around the external surface of the outlet connector 8. A toroidal seal 11 is retained in the groove 10. The toroidal seal 11 provides a water tight seal by engaging with the internal surface of the tap tail 21 when the tap tail 21 is in place.

As shown in Figures 1 to 5 and 10, the tap connector 30 has two clamping heads 4.

As can be seen in Figure 7a to 7c, the clamping head 4 comprises a toothed surface 4a which is also concave radially inwardly 4b. In the locked position of the clamping mechanism, the surfaces 4a, 4b of the clamping head 4 engage with a corresponding threaded portion of the tap tail 21.

Each clamping head 4 is connected between a supporting stanchion 2 of each pair of supporting stanchions, as shown in Figures 1-5. As best seen in Figures 2a and 2b, in the depicted arrangement, each clamping head 4 is located within the frame such that the area of engagement between the clamping heads 4 and the tap tail 21 substantially corresponds to the location of the toroidal seal 11 on the outlet connector 8.

Referring to Figure 4b, tap connector 30 has a spindle 5 which secures the clamping head 4 between the pairs of supporting stanchions 2. A removably attachable clip (not shown) at each distal end of the spindle 5 is provided to allow the user to remove and replace either the spindle 5 or the clamping head 4. Such clips may comprise circlips, E-clips, split pins or other fasteners known to those skilled in the art. In this way, the clips (not shown) secure the spindle 5 and prevent it from becoming dislodged, whilst allowing the clamping head 4 to pivotabout the axis of the spindle 5. Alternatively, the distal ends of the spindle 5 may be peened over thereby forming a permanent fixing.

Referring to Figure 4c, the tap connector 30 further comprises a hole 15 on an outer surface of each supporting stanchion 2 drilled perpendicularly to the slot 3. In this way, the hole 15 and the slot 3 intersect. The spindle 5 engages the slot 3 on the supporting stanchion 2, the spindle hole 4c (see Figure 7b) of the clamping head 4 and the second slot 3 on the corresponding supporting stanchion 2 of the pair. The spindle 5 further engages a pin 14 located in the hole 15 (see Figures 1b and 2a and b). Referring to Figure 2b, a leaf spring 13 is located over the pin 14 and secured in place with two screws 16 attached through a spring slot 17 (see Figure 1c) at each distal end of the leaf spring 13. The spring slots 17 allow the leaf spring 13 to flex when the pin 14 exerts force against it.

Figures 2a and 2b depict how the leaf spring 13 behaves when the clamping mechanism 4 of the tap connector 30 is in the unlocked position. The spindle 5 abuts the innermost internal surface of the hole 15 and the pin 14. The pin 14 has a length such that it abuts the spindle 5 and is level with the outer surface of the supporting stanchion 2 in the unlocked position. The leaf spring 13 remains unflexed as shown.

As best seen in Figures 10a to 10c, the tap connector 30 is first connected to the water supply pipe (not shown) via the inlet connector 7. The inlet connector 7 can be a spigot or a male or female thread to accommodate plumbing fittings known to those skilled in the art. The tap 20 is then placed through a sealing ring (not shown) and then a hole (not shown) in the appliance 22 so that the tap tail 21 can engage with the tap connector 30 on the underside of the appliance 22. The tap tail 21 is placed through the compression washer 6 and the aperture 24 in the tubular washer shaped body 1. The tap tail 21 is mated with the outlet connector 8, which is depicted as a spigot in the embodiment shown, and the external toroidal seal 11 provides a water tight seal. During operation, the levers 12 are rotated outwardly away from the frame (1, 2) until they adopt a position that is perpendicular to the supporting stanchions 2. In this way, the clamping heads 4 rotate around the spindle axis towards the tap tail 21 of the tap 20. The clamping head 4 has a toothed surface 4a which is also tapered radially inwards 4b (see Figure 7) so that the clamping head 4 engages with the threaded portion of the tap tail 21. As the operation is performed, as shown in Figures 5a and 5b, the spindle 5 tends to move laterally away from the outlet connector 8 and forces the pin 14 to move laterally outwards of the frame 2. The pin 14 exerts force on the leaf spring 13 which becomes flexed. The flexing of the leaf spring 13 secures the clamping head 4 into the locked position. The tap connector 30 is also forced upwards towards the underside of the appliance 22 during operation, pulling the tap 20 downwards towards the appliance 22, thus the tap connector 30 secures the tap 20 in position.

To remove the tap connector 30, the levers 12 are rotated inwardly towards the frame 1, 2 until they adopt a position that is parallel to the supporting stanchions 2. This reverts the tap connector 30 back to the unlocked position and allows for removal of the tap 20. The tap connector 30 can then be removed from the appliance and, if required, also from the water supply pipe (not shown) provided the water has previously been isolated.

Figures 8a, 8b and 9a, 9b depict suitable biasing mechanisms in the form of spring mechanisms which retain the clamping head 4 in the locked position. Other spring mechanisms known to those skilled in the art are also envisaged. Figure 8a shows the unlocked arrangement of clamping mechanism comprising a pin 14 in hole 15 and a leaf spring 13. The leaf spring 13 comprises a strip of spring steel and is secured to a stanchion 2 by screws 16 at each distal spring slot 17. The spring slots 17 allow for flexing of the leaf spring 13. In the unlocked arrangement, the pin 14 is long enough to abut the spindle 5 and be level with the outer surface of the supporting stanchion 2. Figure 8b depicts the locked arrangement of the clamping mechanism (4, 12) wherein the movement of the lever 12 and the cam-like shape of the clamping head 4 forces the spindle 5 to move laterally and causes the pin 14 to flex the leaf spring 13. The resilient bias of the leaf spring 13 retains the clamping head 4 against the outer connector or tap tail (not shown).

In Figure 9a and 9b, the pin 14 is replaced by a coil spring 18 and the leaf spring 13 is replaced by a backing plate 19. Securing screws 16 attach the backing plate 19 to the supporting stanchion 2. Figure 9a shows the unlocked arrangement of the clamping mechanism comprising a compression coil spring 18. The compression coil spring 18 is located in the hole 15 and is secured into place by a blanking plate 19 and screws 16. The compression coil spring 18 is long enough to abut the spindle 5 and be level with the outer surface of the supporting stanchion 2 when in the unlocked position. Figure 9b depicts the arrangement after the turning of the lever 12 and clamping head 4 wherein the compression coil spring 18 has become compressed due to the lateral movement of the spindle 5 when the clamping head 4 is rotated. In this way, the resilient bias of the spring 18 against the spindle 5 retains the clamping head 4 in place against the outer connector or tap tail (not shown).

Embodiments of the tap connector of the invention are envisaged wherein there is no spring mechanism. In such a case, the clamping head 4 is coated with a rubber material which compresses and engages with a tap tail 21 of a tap 20 when the levers 12 are rotated into the locked position, as shown in Figure 12g. In this way, the clamping head 4 is retained in the locked position by friction. In this case a hole (not shown) would replace the slot 3 in the supporting stanchions 2, so that the spindle 5 fits in a snug manner. A removably attachable clip (not shown) may be used at each end of the spindle 5 as securing means. Alternatively, the ends of the spindle 5 may be peened over thereby forming a permanent fixing.

Figures 11a to 11h show an alternative tap connector 130 according to the invention. Tap connector 130 comprises a short tubular washer shaped body 101, an aperture 124 having a diameter “Dimension B” extending through the tubular washer shaped body 101. A compression washer (not shown) may be located in a recess (not shown) on an upper surface of the tubular washer shaped body 101. Two pairs of supporting legs 102 extending downwardly from the lower surface of the tubular washer shaped body 1. The aperture 124 in the tubular washer shaped body 1 receives a tap tail 21 (not shown) of a tap 20 (not shown) therethrough.

The embodiment of Figures 11a to 11 h further comprises two clamping heads 4 as shown in Figure 7. Each clamping head 4 comprises a toothed surface 4a which is also tapered radially inwards 4b. A spindle hole 4c and a lever 12 are also provided. The surface 4a, 4b is provided to engage with a threaded portion of the tap tail 21 (not shown). Each clamping head 4 is situated between two supporting legs 102 of each pair of supporting legs 102, as shown in Figures 11a to 11 h.

With further reference to Figures 11a to 11d, there is also provided a slot 3 extending laterally through each supporting leg 102. The slot 3 is centrally aligned with the spindle hole 4c on the clamping head 4. A spindle 5 engages the slot 3 on one supporting leg 102, the spindle hole 4c of the clamping head 4 and the second slot 3 on the corresponding supporting leg 102 of the pair. In this way, the clamping head 4 is pivotally connected to the spindle 5. The spindle 5 is secured by a removably attachable clip (not shown) at each end of the spindle 5. Such clips comprise circlips, E-clips, split pins or other fasteners known to those skilled in the art. In this way, the clips (not shown) secure the spindle 5 and prevent it from becoming dislodged, whilst allowing for the free rotation of the clamping head 4. Alternatively, the ends of the spindle 5 may be peened over thereby forming a permanent fixing.

Each supporting leg 102 further comprises a hole 15 on an outer surface of each supporting leg 102 drilled perpendicularly to the slot 3. In this way, the hole 15 and the slot 3 intersect. The spindle 5 further engages a pin 14 located in the hole 15. A leaf spring 13 is located over the pin 14 and secured into place with two screws 16 attached through a spring slot 17 at each distal end of the leaf spring 13.

Figures 11a to 11d shows the clamping mechanism in the unlocked position. The clamping mechanism includes the pin 14, the spindle 5 and the leaf spring 13. The pin 14 abuts the spindle 5 and the innermost surface of the leaf spring 13. Leaf spring 13 remains unflexed when the clamping mechanism is in the unlocked position. The tap connector 130 is placed on the underside of an appliance 22 (not shown) so that the compression washer 6 (not shown) abuts the underside surface, the tap tail 21 (not shown) of the tap 20 (not shown) is then inserted through a sealing ring (not shown), an aperture in the appliance 22 (not shown) and then through the aperture 124 in the tubular washer shaped body 101. At this point, the lever 12 of the clamping mechanism is rotated towards the underside of the appliance 22 (not shown). The clamping head 4 and spindle of the clamping mechanism rotate and the clamping head 4 engages with the tap tail 21 (not shown).

Figures 11e to 11h show the clamping mechanism of tap connector 130 in the locked position. The pin 14 abuts the spindle 5 and the innermost surface of the leaf spring 13. As the lever 12 and clamping head 4 are rotated and engage the tap tail 21 (not shown), the spindle 5 moves laterally towards the leaf spring 13. This motion forces the pin 14 to move laterally and causes the leaf spring 13 to flex. The resilient bias of the leaf spring 13 locks the clamping mechanism. This prevents the mechanism from becoming readily unlocked and loosened. The movement of the clamping mechanism into the locked position urges the tap connector 130 upwards towards the underside of the appliance 22, thus the tap connector 130 secures the tap 20 in position on the appliance 22.

Figures 12a to 12h depict a tap connector 230 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The tap connector 230 is operable to connect a tap 20 to an appliance 22 and a water supply pipe (not shown). In the depicted arrangement, the tap connector 230 comprises a tubular washer shaped body 1, an aperture 24 n the tubular washer shaped body 1, a compression washer (not shown) is located on an upper surface of the tubular body 1 and two pairs of supporting stanchions 202 extend downwardly from the upper surface of the tubular body 1. The aperture 24 in the tubular body 1 receives the tap tail 21 of the tap 20 as shown in Figures 12f to 12h.

The clamping mechanism includes two clamping heads 4 such as those shown in Figure 7. Each clamping head 4 comprises a toothed surface 4a which is also tapered radially inwards 4b. The surface 4a, 4b engages with the tap tail 21 and each clamping head 4 is pivotably coupled between two supporting stanchions 2 of a pair of supporting stanchions.

As best seen in Figure 12c, the tap connector 230 comprises a supply connector connected to the supporting stanchions 2 which supply connector comprises an inlet connector 207 and an outlet connector 208. The inlet connector 207 and the outlet connector 208 are coaxial with one another and are axially and centrally aligned to the aperture 24 in the tubular body 1. The inlet connector 207 and the outlet connector 208 are in fluid communication with one another by way of a common through bore 209. The through bore 209 comprises a diameter, referred to as Dimension D, which is greater than the external diameter of the tap tail 21. In this way, the tap tail 21 inserts into the outlet connector 208. The outlet connector 208 in this embodiment is a socket configured to receive a tap tail therein.

As seen in Figure 12c, the outlet connector 208 comprises a circumferential groove 210, extending fully around the internal surface of the outlet connector 208, which groove 210 retains a toroidal seal 211. The toroidal seal 211 provides a water tight seal by engaging with the external surface of the tap tail 21 when the tap connector 230 is in use.

Referring to Figure 12d, the clamping mechanism further includes a spindle 5 which secures the clamping head 4 between the pair of supporting stanchions 202. A removably attachable clip (not shown) at each end of the spindle 5 allows the user to remove and replace either the spindle 5 or clamping head 4. Such clips may comprise circlips, E-clips, split pins or other fasteners known to those skilled in the art. In this way, the clips (not shown) secure the spindle 5 and prevent it from becoming dislodged, whilst allowing for the free rotation of the clamping head 4. Alternatively, the ends of the spindle 5 may be peened over thereby forming a permanent fixing.

The clamping mechanism includes a hole 15 on an outer surface of each supporting stanchion 202 drilled perpendicularly to the slot 3. In this way, the hole 15 and the slot 3 intersect. The spindle 5 engages the slot 3 on the supporting stanchion 202, the spindle hole 4c of the clamping head 4 and the second slot 3 of the corresponding supporting stanchion 202 of the pair. The spindle 5 further engages a pin 14 in the hole 15. A leaf spring 13 is located over the pin 14 and secured into place with two screws 16 attached through a spring slot 17 at each distal end of the leaf spring 13 (see Figures 12d and 12e in particular).

With reference to Figures 12a to 12h, the tap connector 230 is first connected to the water supply pipe (not shown) via the inlet connector 207. The inlet connector 207 can be a spigot or a male or female thread to accommodate plumbing fittings known to those skilled in the art. The tap 20 is then placed through a sealing ring (not shown) and then a hole (not shown) in the appliance 22 so that the tap tail 21 can engage with the tap connector 230 on the underside of the appliance 22. The tap tail 21 is placed through the aperture 24 in the tubular body 1. The tap tail 21 is mated with the outlet connector 208, which is a socket in the depicted embodiment, and a watertight seal is created by the internal toroidal seal 211. During operation, the levers 12 are rotated outwardly away from the central frame portion 202 until they adopt a position that is perpendicular to the supporting stanchions 202. Figures 12f to 12h depicts tap connector 230 in the locked position. As the levers 12 are rotated, the clamping heads 4 rotate towards the tap tail 21 of the tap 20. The clamping head 4 is preferably made of a rubber in this instance so as to engage with an unthreaded portion of the tap tail 21 of the tap 20 (alternatively, the rubberised clamping head may engage with an unthreaded portion of a tap tail). As the operation is performed, the spindle 5 moves laterally away from the supply connector (207, 208) and forces the pin 14 to move laterally outwards. The pin 14 exerts force on the leaf spring 13 which becomes flexed. The resilient bias of the leaf spring 13 secures the clamping head 4 into the locked position. The tap connector 230 is urged upwards towards the underside of the appliance 22 during operation, thus the tap connector 230 secures the tap in position.

The tap connectors 30 and 230 comprise a supply connector which may comprise a spigot or a male/female threaded inlet connector 7, 207 and a spigot or a socket outlet connector 8, 208 or any combination thereof. Inlet connector 7, 207 may further comprise an integral isolation valve in accordance with any given combination. The embodiments described are not intended to be limiting and other inlet or outlet connectors may exist as recognised by the skilled person in the art.

The clamping mechanism of tap connectors 30, 130 and 230 does not require a spring mechanism. As an alternative, the clamping head 4 is coated in a suitable rubber which provides the securing means to the tap tail 21 as previously disclosed.

Figures 13 to 20 depict tap connectors 330, 430 and 530 comprising an alternative clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism in each of the depicted tap connectors comprises a threaded bore 31 on the washer shaped body, being ring 23, of the frame.

Referring to Figures 13a to 13e, the tap connector 330 comprises a washer shaped tubular body 23 having a threaded bore 31 and being attached to a central frame portion comprising a pair of diametrically opposed legs 2 extending from the washer shaped tubular body 23 to a second washer shaped body 26. The washer shaped body 26 is rotatably coupled to an inlet connector 27 and an outlet connector 30 by way of flanges 28. Outlet connector 30 is coaxial with inlet connector 27 and has a common throughbore therewith.

Diametrically opposed legs 2 form the central portion of the frame which is a rotatable collar.

The ring 26 depends radially inwardly from the central portion of the frame 2. The ring 26 is configured to engage with flanges 28 depending from the outer wall of a supply inlet connector 27. The frame 23, 2, 26 and the supply inlet connector 27 are freely rotatable with respect to one another but are not separable when the frame 23, 2, 26 is moved longitudinally with respect to the bore of the supply inlet connector 27.

Figures 14a to 14e differ from the tap connector 330 of Figures 13a to 13e in that the inlet connector 27 comprises only one flange 28 extending circumferentially and radially outwardly from the tubular body 27 at approximately the midpoint between the inlet connector 27 and the outlet connector 30.

Where two supply inlet connector flanges 28 are present, as in Figures 13a to 13e, the distance between the two flanges 28 should be large enough to accept the washer shaped body 26 of the frame between the two flanges 28.

In the embodiments of Figures 13 and 14, the outlet connector 30 may be a spigot with a diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the tap tail 21. Proximate the outlet connector 30 and on the external surface of the outlet connector (spigot) 30 is a circumferential groove 29 cut radially around the full circumference of the outlet connector (spigot) 30. A toroidal seal 29a is fitted into the groove 29.

Referring to Figures 15a to 15d, the inlet connection 27 may be fitted with or without an integral isolating valve (not shown). The inlet connector 27 is a plain spigot to accept readily available compression fittings or push fit connectors. Two flanges 28 depend from the outer wall of a supply inlet connector at the mid point between the inlet connector 27 and the outlet connector 30.

Alternatively, the inlet connector could comprise a male thread or female thread to accept readily available plumbing connectors. It will be understood that other plumbing connectors may also be used.

In an alternative supply inlet connector shown in Figures 16a to 16d, one flange 28 depends from the outer wall of a supply inlet connector at the mid point between the inlet connector 27 and the outlet connector 30.

Figures 17a to 17e depict the frame and clamping mechanism of the tap connector 330 of Figures 13 and 14. The clamping mechanism is provided by the threaded bore 31 on the washer shaped body 23. Supporting legs 2 form the central frame portion and connect the washer shaped body 23 and the ring 26 in spaced apart relation to one another.

Figures 18a to 18c depict a tap 20 connected to an appliance 22 using tap connector 330. The inlet connector 27 is first connected to a supply pipe (not shown). The threaded bore 31 on upper ring 23 is screwed onto the tap tail 21 until it reaches the underside of the appliance 22. As the upper ring 23 is screwed onto the tap tail 21 the lower ring 26 is pushed against the flange 28a and pulls the outlet connector 30 and the toroidal sealing ring (not shown) in the upper ring 23 into engagement with the tap tail 21 and the appliance 22 respectively so as to provide a watertight seal between the outlet connector 30 and the tap tail 21. When the upper ring 23 abuts the underside of the appliance 22 the handles 24 can be rotated laterally so as to give more leverage to turn the device and hold the tap 20 securely in position. To remove tap 20 from the appliance 22 the water supply would be isolated and the tap connector 330 would be unscrewed from the tap tail 21 but staying connected to the supply pipe. The lower ring 26 would engage flange 28b to pull the supply inlet connector away from the tap tail 21.

Alternatively, in tap connector 430 shown in Figures 19a to 19e, the outlet connector 439 is a socket. The outlet connector (socket) 439 has an internal diameter slightly larger than the tap tail 21. When the socket outlet connector 439 is present the lower section of the socket acts as a flange and negates the need for the second flange 28 nearest the outlet connector 439. The socket outlet connector 439 is suitable for taps 20 with tap tails 21 that have a section that is unthreaded and plain. A groove 29 would be cut radially on the internal surface of the outlet connector (socket) 439 and extending the full circumference of the outlet connector (socket) 439. A toroidal seal 29a is fitted into the groove 29.

A ring 26 is placed under the lower section of the socket 439 and between the lower section of the socket 439 and a flange 28. The internal diameter of the ring 26 is slightly larger than the external diameter of the inlet connector 27. The external diameter of the ring 26 is slightly larger than the external diameter of the tap tail 21. Two or more diametrically opposed legs 2 protrude axially from the ring 26 and connect it to an upper ring 23. The upper ring 23 has an axial through hole with an internal thread to suit the external thread of the tap tail 21.

Figures 20a to 20f depict a yet further alternative tap connector 530. Tap connector 530 comprises an upper ring 23 itself comprising a clamping mechanism being a threaded bore in the washer shaped body 23. Two pairs of legs 2 form the central frame portion, the legs 2 depending from ring 23 of the frame.

The legs 2 of the frame depend from the upper ring 23 and are attached at their opposite end to lower ring 26 extending radially inwardly of the legs 2. The lower ring 26 is configured to engage with a supply inlet connector flange 28 in the form of a plate extending about the pair of supply inlet connectors each comprising inlet connector 507 and outlet connector 508.. More specifically, the frame is preferably engaged with the circumferential supply inlet connector flange.

Such an arrangement is particularly useful for mixer or so-called monobloc taps when the tap tail or filling valve (not shown) has an outer sleeve (not shown) thereabout. In such arrangements, the outer sleeve fits through the bore of the washer shaped body 23 and is seated onto the flange 28 of the supply inlet connectors. The fluid inlet hoses within the outer sleeve may then be fitted to respective outlet connectors.

In the embodiments depicted in Figures 13 to 20, handles 24 are pivotally connected to the legs 2 by spindles 25 which rotate laterally from the central axis of the tap connectors shown. The throughbores in each of upper ring 23, the lower ring 26 and the tubular body 27 are all axially and centrally aligned.

It will be appreciated for persons skilled in the art that the above embodiments have been described by way of example only and not in any limiting sense and that various alterations and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tap connector for securing a tap or a filling valve to an appliance or a liquid storage tank, the tap connector comprising a frame comprising a washer-shaped body configured to be engaged against a surface of an appliance or a liquid storage tank, the washer-shaped body comprising a central throughbore configured to receive a tap tail or filling valve tail; and a clamping mechanism supported by the frame and being configured to move between an unlocked position and a locked position wherein in the locked position the clamping mechanism engages with a tap tail or filling valve tail so as to attach same to the appliance, and in the unlocked position the clamping mechanism is disengaged from the tap tail or filling valve tail so as to allow the removal of the tap tail or filling valve tail from the connector and in turn the tap or filling valve from the appliance, the clamping mechanism being configured to be operated directly by a user to form an attachment between the tap or the filling valve and the appliance or liquid storage tank.

2. A tap connector according to claim 1, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises at least two clamping heads.

3. A tap connector according to claim 2, wherein each clamping head is supported by the frame and is located and configured to engage with an outer surface of a tap tail or filling valve tail so as to form a releaseable engagement therewith.

4. A tap connector according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises at least two pivotable clamping heads.

5. A tap connector according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein each clamping head is generally cylindrical.

6. A tap connector according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the, or each, clamping head comprises a serrated surface.

7. A tap connector according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the, or each, clamping head comprises a rubberised surface.

8. A tap connector according to any of claims 2 to 7, the, or each, clamping head comprises a lever extending outwardly therefrom.

9. A tap connector according to claim 8, wherein the levers are detachable from the clamping head.

10. A tap connector according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein levers are of a fixed length.

11. A tap connector according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the levers are extendable in length.

12. A tap connector according to claim 1, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises a screw thread on the surface of the throughbore in the washer-shaped body of the frame.

13. A tap connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector further comprises a supply connector.

14. A tap connector according to claim 13, wherein the supply connector comprises a tubular body having a throughbore therein.

15. A tap connector according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the supply connector is coupled to the frame.

16. A tap connector according to claim 15, wherein the supply connector is rotatably coupled to the frame.

17. A tap connector according to claim 15, wherein the supply connector is fixedly coupled to the frame.

18. A tap connector according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the supply connector comprises an inlet connector and an outlet connector.

19. A tap connector according to claim 18, wherein the outlet connector is a spigot having an external diameter less than the internal diameter of the tap tail thereby allowing for internal insertion of the outlet connector into the tap tail.

20. A tap connector according to claim 18, wherein the outlet connector is a socket having an internal diameter larger than the external diameter of the tap tail.

21. A tap connector according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the supply connector is coupled to the frame and spaced apart from the washer-shaped body of the frame.

22. A tap connector according to claim 21, wherein the washer-shaped body and the supply connector are spaced apart from and connected to one another by a central frame portion.

23. A tap connector according to any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein the tap connector comprises a frame connected to both the clamping mechanism and to the supply inlet connector.

24. A tap connector according to claim 22, wherein the central frame portion is a tubular cuff.

25. A tap connector according to claim 22, wherein the central frame portion comprises one or more stanchions.

26. A tap connector according to any one of claims 22, 24 or 25, wherein the central frame portion extends between the washer-shaped body and the supply connector and is configured to support the washer-shaped body and the supply connector.

27. A tap connector according to claim 26, wherein the central frame portion extends between and connects the washer-shaped body and the supply connector.

28. A tap connector according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the central frame portion comprises two or more pairs of supporting stanchions extending perpendicularly from a face of the washer-shaped body portion.

29. A tap connector according to claim 18, wherein the supply inlet connector comprises two circumferentially extending flanges depending from the outer wall.

30. A tap connector according to claim 22 or claim 29, wherein the outlet connector is a spigot with a smooth outer surface.

31. A tap connector according to claim 22, wherein the outer surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove.

32. A tap connector according to claim 22 or claim 29, wherein the outlet connector is a socket.

33. A tap connector according to claim 32, wherein the inner surface of the outlet connector comprises a circumferential groove.

34. A tap connector according to claim 12, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises a threaded bore in the washer shaped body and a central frame portion comprises two pairs of legs.

35. A method of fitting a tap or a filling valve to an appliance or a liquid storage tank and a water supply pipe with no additional tools, the method comprising the steps of: providing a tap connector according to any one of claims 1 to 34;

connecting the tap connector to a water supply line;

connecting the tap connector to a tap tail or a filling valve of a liquid storage tank; clamping the tap connector into engagement tap tail or a filling valve of a liquid storage tank.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB 1700477.1 Examiner: Mr James Walker