GB2594061A

GB2594061A - Hydraulic connector

Info

Publication number: GB2594061A
Application number: GB2005426.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Simons Anthony
Original assignee: Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Ltd
Current assignee: Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Ltd
Priority date: 2020-04-14
Filing date: 2020-04-14
Publication date: 2021-10-20
Anticipated expiration: 2040-04-14
Also published as: GB202005426D0; GB2594061B

Abstract

An apparatus for selectively providing fluid communication between a first primary fluid communication passageway and a further primary fluid communication passageway, comprising: a first connector member 205, securable to a fluid transfer member, comprising a connector body that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway 235 that opens, via a port, into a first recessed region 218 in the connector body; a shaft element 222 slidable in the first recessed region; and a piston member 230 that is slidable in an end portion of the connector body and is biased by a first biasing element 280, wherein the shaft element 222 comprises at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway 226 that extends between a first port proximal to the piston member and a further port distal to the piston member, said further port being located to selectively align with at least one port of a further connector member 210 that mates with the first connector member, for fluid communication with a further primary fluid communication passageway 255 via a connector fluid communication passageway of the further connector member, when the shaft element is slid into a respective first or further axial position.

Description

Hydraulic Connector The present invention relates to an invention for connecting fluid transfer members. In particular, but not exclusively, certain embodiments of the present invention provide apparatus and methods for connecting fluid transfer members.

Conventional hydraulic connectors are used in subsea or surface environments for sealing and connecting fluid transfer members. A fluid transfer member may comprise a hose or manifold, which may be capable of carrying, hydraulic fluid or production fluids, such as oil, gas or water.

Conventional hydraulic connectors used in either surface or subsea environments typically use poppet valves to provide a seal within the connector to prevent fluid from leaking into or out of a fluid transfer member. Valves within hydraulic connectors need to be capable of withstanding high pressures, varying temperatures and lateral strain during use. This results in hydraulic connectors that are oversized to ensure rigidity, with valves that require precise tolerances to seal effectively. Both of these properties increase manufacturing costs. The precise tolerances required for poppet valves in particular also means that hydraulic connectors may be susceptible to failure during use. As a result, conventional hydraulic connectors are not able to provide an effective seal automatically when the connector is disconnected. Therefore, in order to provide precise tolerances and create an effective seal, bespoke hydraulic connectors are manufactured, thereby increasing production costs further.

In subsea environments, a problem with conventional hydraulic connectors is that they are not capable of removing sea water and other material from the connector prior to connection. This may result in contaminating the fluid to be transported in the fluid transfer member. Therefore, conventional hydraulic connectors may not be suitable for connecting fluid transfer members for transporting certain fluids.

In surface environments, valve failure resulting in a leak may result in contamination of fluids or excess pressure due to an ingress of air in a fluid transfer member. For example, contamination of hydraulic fluid in a control line due to an ingress of air could result in failure to operate further components.

Another limitation of conventional hydraulic connectors is that they do not provide multiple fluid pathways. This may limit fluid flow and pressure across a hydraulic connector.

It is an aim of the present invention to at least partly mitigate the above-mentioned problems.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide bidirectional fluid communication across a hydraulic connector.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a flushing or purging mechanism within a hydraulic connector.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to produce a hydraulic connector via at least one additive manufacturing step.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a hydraulic connector with a plurality of fluid communication passageways.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method of connecting fluid transfer members.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method of automatically sealing a portion of a hydraulic connector when the connector is disconnected. It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method of flushing or purging fluid from a hydraulic connector.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a hydraulic connector that is automatically closed via a sealing member when the hydraulic connector is disconnected.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a standardised hydraulic connector.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus for selectively providing fluid communication between a first primary fluid communication passageway and a further primary fluid communication passageway, comprising: a first connector member, securable to a fluid transfer member that includes at least one primary fluid communication passageway, comprising a connector body that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into a first recessed region in the connector body; a shaft element slidable in the first recessed region; and a piston member that is slidable in an end portion of the connector body and is biased by a first biasing element towards an open mouth of the recessed region that is disposed distal to the end portion; wherein the shaft element comprises at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway that extends between a first port proximal to the piston member and a further port distal to the piston member, said further port being located to selectively align with at least one port of a further connector member that mates with the first connector member, for fluid communication with a further primary fluid communication passageway via a connector fluid communication passageway of the further connector member, when the shaft element is slid into a respective first or further axial position.

Aptly, the apparatus further comprises a further connector member comprising a connector body that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into a further recessed region in the further connector body; and a piston member that is slidable in an end portion of the further connector body and is biased by a further biasing element towards an open mouth of the further recessed region in the further connector member connector body.

Aptly, the connector body of the first connector member comprises two or more connector fluid communication passageways.

Aptly, the connector body of the further connector member comprises two or more connector fluid communication passageways.

Aptly, the or each piston member is biased to automatically prevent fluid communication through the at least one fluid communication passageway in the or each connector body.

Aptly, the shaft element comprises at least one sealing member to provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element and an inner surface of the further recessed region of the further connector body.

Aptly, the shaft element comprises at least one sealing member to provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element and an inner surface of the first recessed region of the first connector body.

Aptly, the first connector body comprises a slot configured to receive a bolt or screw for securing the shaft element within the recessed region of the first connector body.

Aptly, the fluid transfer member includes a pipe or a hose.

Aptly, the first biasing element comprises a spring or a hydraulic actuator.

Aptly, the further biasing element comprises a spring or a hydraulic actuator.

Aptly, the first and further biasing elements provide biasing forces of equal magnitude.

Aptly, the first and further biasing elements provide biasing forces of different magnitudes.

Aptly, the piston member comprises at least one piston fluid communication passageway that is configured to align with a port of a connector fluid communication passageway in the further connector body, when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, the piston member comprises at least one piston fluid communication passageway that is configured to align with a port of a connector fluid communication passageway in the first connector body, when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, the apparatus further comprises a primary fluid communication passageway connected directly to a connector member.

Aptly, the apparatus further comprises a valve unit disposed between a primary fluid communication passageway and a connector member.

Aptly, the connector body of the first connector member comprises at least one fluid purging passageway extending between an inner surface of the first recessed region of the connector body and an outer surface of the connector body.

Aptly, the connector body of the further connector member comprises at least one fluid purging passageway extending between an inner surface of the further recessed region of the connector body and an outer surface of the connector body.

Aptly, the at least one fluid purging passageway comprises at least one valve.

Aptly, the at least one valve is a non-return valve or directional control valve or flow control valve.

Aptly, fluid communication with the further primary fluid communication passageway is bidirectional.

Aptly, the apparatus further comprises at least one securing element for securing the first connector member to the further connector member.

Aptly, the at least one securing element is provided internally within or external to the first and further connector members.

Aptly, the apparatus further comprises a sleeve element configured to fit within a connector body.

According to a second aspect to the present invention, there is provided a method of selectively providing fluid communication between a first primary fluid communication passageway and a further primary fluid communication passageway, comprising: inserting a shaft element, that includes a first port at an end portion disposed within a recessed region of a first connector body of a first connector member connected to a first primary fluid communication passageway, into a recessed region of a further connector body, of a further connector member connected to a further primary fluid communication passageway, that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into the recessed region of the further connector body; and urging, via the shaft element, a first piston member that is slidable in the further connector member, to selectively align a further port in the shaft element with said a port in the recessed region of the further connector body when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position in said the recessed region; thereby providing fluid communication between connector fluid communication passageways of the first and further connector members via at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway between the first port and the further port in the shaft element, when the further port in the shaft element is aligned with said a port in the recessed region of the further connector body.

Aptly, fluid communication between the first and further connector members is bidirectional.

Aptly, the method further comprises urging, via the first piston member and the shaft element, a further piston member to selectively align the first port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the first connector body when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, a connector fluid communication passageway opens via the port in the recessed region of the first connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises aligning a first port, of a further internal shaft fluid communication passageway, with a further port in the recessed region of the further connector body, when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, the method further comprises simultaneously aligning a first port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the first connector body; and aligning a further port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the further connector body.

Aptly, the first and further connector members are securable to a respective fluid transfer member.

Aptly, the method further comprises aligning, via a port, a piston fluid communication passageway in the first piston member with a port of a connector fluid communication passageway in the further connector body, when the piston member is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, the method further comprises aligning, via a port, a piston fluid communication passageway in the further piston member with a port of a connector fluid communication passageway in the first connector body, when the piston member is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.

Aptly, the method further comprises aligning the further port in the shaft element with a port of a fluid purging line in the recessed region of the first connector body when the shaft element is not inserted into the further connector body, wherein the purging line comprises a connector fluid communication passageway between the port in the recessed region and a port in an outer surface of the first connector body.

Aptly, inserting the shaft element purges fluid from the recessed region of the further connector body through a connector fluid communication passageway via a port in the recessed region and a port in an outer surface of the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises securing the first connector member to the further connector via at least one securing mechanism.

Aptly, the shaft element is secured within the first recessed region of the first connector body via a retaining bolt disposed in a through slot in the first connector body.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a connector member, securable to a fluid transfer member, comprising: providing a connector body comprising at least one connector fluid communication passageway and a recessed region; providing a piston member configured to be slidable in an end portion of the connector body; and locating a biasing element in the end portion of the connector body, thereby biasing the piston member toward an open mouth of the recessed region, automatically preventing fluid communication between a fluid transfer member and the recessed region.

Aptly, the at least one fluid communication passageway opens, via a port, into the recessed region of the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises providing a purging line in the connector body, between a further port in the recessed region and a port in an outer surface of the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises providing a shaft element, that is configured to be slidable within the recessed region of the connector body and includes a first port in a first end portion of the shaft element, a further port in a further end portion of the shaft element and at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway between the first and further ports of the shaft element.

Aptly, the method further comprises locating at least one sealing member between an outer surface of the shaft element and an inner surface of the recessed region of the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises locating at least one sealing member between the piston member and the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises providing a through hole in the connector body; and securing the shaft element in the recessed region of the connector body by providing a retaining bolt in the through hole of the connector body.

Aptly, the method further comprises providing at least one sleeve element within a connector body.

Aptly, providing comprises machining from a block of material, or additive manufacturing.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for providing bidirectional fluid communication to hydraulic equipment, comprising: a hydraulic pressure supply; a hydraulic actuator; and apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a connector that can support multiple fluid communication passageways, such as a two-port or a four-port connector. Provision of multiple fluid communication passageways in a connector helps increase fluid flow through the connector. This configuration also helps to optimise connector size and speed of connection.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide identical connector bodies for both male and female connectors. This helps reduce manufacturing costs because only one design of connector body needs to be manufactured.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a connector that automatically seals when the connector is disconnected, thereby preventing fluid from flowing in to or out of the connector when the connector is disconnected.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a connector with fluid passageways for purging fluid from the connector in response to being connected with a further connector.

Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be described hereinafter, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure la illustrates an example use of hydraulic connectors in a subsea environment; Figure lb illustrates an example use of hydraulic connectors in a surface environment; Figure lc illustrates a system utilising a hydraulic connector in a surface environment; Figure id illustrates a system utilising an eight-port hydraulic connector; Figure 2a illustrates a hydraulic connector of the present invention in which the connector is shown disconnected from another connector; Figure 2b illustrates a magnified portion of a hydraulic connector; Figure 3 illustrates the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a, in which one part of the connector is connected to the other part of the connector; Figure 4a illustrates a hydraulic connector with external securing elements; Figure 4b illustrates the hydraulic connector of figure 4a, in which one part of the connector is secured to the other part of the connector; Figure 4c illustrates a securing mechanism for securing a hydraulic connector together; -10 -Figure 5a illustrates components of a two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 5b illustrates a shaft of a two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 5c illustrates a connector body of a two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 5d illustrates a piston of a two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 6a illustrates an alternative two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 6b illustrates a shaft of the alternative two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 6c illustrates a piston of the alternative two-port hydraulic connector; Figure 7a illustrates components of a four-port hydraulic connector; Figure 7b illustrates a shaft a four-port hydraulic connector; Figure 7c illustrates a connector body of a four-port hydraulic connector; Figure 7d illustrates a piston of a four-port hydraulic connector; Figure 8 illustrates a purging mechanism within a connector body; and Figure 9 illustrates an example of a multi-connector, such as a manifold or stab plate, comprising an array of hydraulic connectors.

In the drawings like reference numerals refer to like parts.

Figure la shows an example use of hydraulic connectors of the present invention in a subsea environment 100. Hydraulic connectors can be used to connect a vessel or rig 102 to a subsea unit 104, such as a Christmas Tree, via a fluid transfer member 106 such as a pipe, hose or manifold.

Aptly, hydraulic connectors 108 used in subsea environments can be capable of purging or flushing fluid from the connector to minimise ingress of sea water into the subsea unit or fluid transfer member upon connection.

Figure lb shows an example application of hydraulic connectors of the present invention in a surface environment 110. For example, a fluid transportation vehicle 112, such as a tanker, may be connected to a container 114 via a fluid transfer member 116, such as a hose or pipe, and at least one hydraulic connector 118.

Figure lc shows a system 120 utilising a hydraulic connector 125 in a surface environment.

The hydraulic connector 120 allows a hydraulically operated mechanism 130 to be provided with bidirectional fluid communication with a supply and return 135 via a single connector. The hydraulic connector 125 may be a two-port hydraulic connector. A supply and return 135 may be of the form of a hydraulic pressure supply, such as a hydraulic power pack or hydraulic reservoir or hydraulic pump. The hydraulically operated mechanism 130 may be a hydraulic actuator or hydraulic piston. The system 120 may be interconnected with pipes and/or hoses. Optionally, the system 120 may include one or more valves.

Figure id illustrates a system 140 utilising an eight-port hydraulic connector 145. Optionally, the system 140 is used in a surface environment. The eight-port connector 145 allows four hydraulically operated mechanisms 150 to be provided with bidirectional fluid communication with a supply and return 155. A supply and return 155 may be of the form of a hydraulic pressure supply, such as a hydraulic power pack or hydraulic reservoir or hydraulic pump. The eight-port hydraulic connector 145 may be a single hydraulic connector. The hydraulic connector may be of the form of a stab plate of multi-quick connector. Alternatively, the eight-port hydraulic connector 145 may be made up of four two-port hydraulic connectors or two four-port hydraulic connectors or a combination thereof. The system 140 may be interconnected with pipes or hoses 160.

In certain surface and subsea applications, a hydraulic connector of the present invention can provide reliable sealing when the connector is disengaged to prevent fluid leaking from the connector. Loss of fluid due to a leak would result in a loss of resources and some fluids to be transported may also be harmful to the environment.

A hydraulic connector may also need to seal in order to prevent air or water from leaking into a fluid transfer member that may cause fluids transported through the fluid transfer member -12 -to degrade in quality or become dangerous to handle. Aptly, a valve may be provided between a fluid transfer member and a connector to provide additional sealing.

Figure 2a illustrates a hydraulic connector 200 providing multiple fluid pathways. Figure 2a shows a first connector member 205 and a further connector member 210. The first connector member 205 is configured to connect with the further connector member 210 by inserting a shaft element associated with the first connector member 205 into a recess in the further connector member 210, as the connector members are brought closer together along a major axis of the hydraulic connector (not shown).

The first and further connector members 205, 210 each include a respective first and further connector body 215, 220. The first and further connector bodies 215, 220 may be made of metal, plastic or composite material, or a combination thereof. The connector members 205, 210 are configured to fit to one or more respective fluid transfer member (not shown). For example, the connector member 205, 210 may be configured to have a compression fit with a fluid transfer member, such as a hose, to form a fluid fight seal between the first transfer member and the connector member 205, 210. Alternatively, the connector member 205, 210 may be securable to a fluid transfer member using a clamp. Alternatively, at least a portion of the connector member 205, 210 may be threaded in order to thread on to a fluid transfer member comprising a threaded portion. Alternatively, a connector member 205, 210 may be configured to fit to a valve (not shown).

A connector member 205, 210 may be of a form that is substantially cylindrical or prismatic. A connector member 205 may be configured to be securable to a further connector member 210. A connector body 215, 220 of the connector member 205, 210 includes a recessed region 218 in an outer surface of the connector body. The recessed region 218 may be formed substantially along an axis of the connector body, wherein the axis of the connector body is configured to align substantially with an axis of a fluid transfer member (not shown). The recessed region 218 may be substantially cylindrical or prismatic. In order to reduce complexity of the hydraulic connector and manufacturing costs, each connector body 215, 220 may be identical.

A shaft element 222 is shown partially disposed in a recessed region 218 of the first connector body 215 and is configured to be locatable in a recessed region 218 of the further connector body 220. The shaft element 222 may be associated with the first connector member 205 and is configured to be inserted into a recessed region of the further connector member 210 as -13 -the first and further connector members 205, 210 are brought closer together. The shaft element may be made of metal, plastic or composite material, or a combination thereof.

The shaft element 222 includes an elongate body that may be substantially cylindrical or prismatic and configured to match the profile or shape of the recessed region 218. The shaft element 222 may further include one or more sealing members 22410 provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element 222 and an inner surface of the recessed region 218 of the first connector body 215. The sealing members 224 may also provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element 222 and an inner surface of the recessed region 218 of the further connector body 220. A sealing member 224 may be of the form of an 0-ring or gasket. Alternatively, at least one sealing member may be provided in an inner surface of the recessed region 218 to provide a fluid tight seal between the inner surface of the recessed region 218 and the shaft element 222.

The shaft element 222 further includes at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway 226. An internal shaft fluid communication passageway may comprise a bore through the shaft member 222 between a first port and a further port provided in respective outer surfaces of the shaft member 222. The bore provides a pathway for transmission of fluid through the shaft element 222. The bore may have a profile that is substantially cylindrical or prismatic. An inner surface of the bore may be smooth or textured. Each of the first and further ports may have a profile that is substantially cylindrical or prismatic. Each port may be disposed along the shaft element 222 such that at least one port in the shaft element aligns with at least one port in a recessed region 218 of a connector body 215, 220. Optionally, each port may be disposed in an outer surface of the shaft element 222 between two or more sealing members 224.

In the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a, the first connector body 215 further comprises a through slot 228 for providing a retaining element, such as a bolt, screw or pin, to prevent the shaft element 222 from sliding out of the recessed region of the first connector body 215.

A slot may also be provided in the further connector body 220 for providing a securing element, such as a bolt, screw or pin, to secure the further connector member 210 to the first connector member 220. Additional and alternative apparatus for securing the connector may be provided. For example, a belt or strap may be provided around the connector members 205, 210 to secure the connector members together. Alternatively, the connector members could be secured using an external clip or latching mechanism. Alternatively, the connector -14 -members could be secured using a threaded collar. Alternatively, the connector members could be integrated into FLX360 or other multi-quick connection systems.

The first connector member 205 may further include a piston member 230. The piston member 230 illustrated in Figure 2a is pronged to provide at least one piston leg locatable within a connector fluid communication passageway 235 in the first connector body 215. The piston member 230 is configured to selectively allow transmission of fluid through the first connector member 205.

The piston member 230 may have a substantially cylindrical or prismatic profile or shape. The connector fluid communication passageway 235 includes at least one fluid pathway between at least one port disposed on an inner surface of the connector body 215 and a primary fluid communication passageway in the fluid transfer member (not shown). In the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a, the connector fluid communication passageway 235 is established by aligning a piston fluid communication passageway 240 between two portions of the connector fluid communication passageway 235, 245, thereby linking the portions of the connector fluid communication passageway to complete a fluid pathway through the connector body 215.

A connector fluid communication passageway 235 further includes a bore through the connector body 215. Optionally, the bore of the connector fluid communication passageway 235 has a substantially cylindrical or prismatic profile or shape. Optionally, the diameter of the bore may vary along the pathway of the connector fluid communication passageway 235. Optionally, the diameter of the bore may be fixed along the pathway of the connector fluid communication passageway 235.

One or more sealing members 247 may be provided between an outer surface of the at least one piston leg and an inner surface of the connector fluid communication passageway 235. The piston member 230 includes a central piston leg that extends into the recessed region of the first connector body 215 via a through hole in an end portion of the first connector body 215. The piston member 230 may be slidable in the end portion of the first connector body 215. The piston member may be made of metal, plastic, or composite materials, or a combination thereof. Sealing members provided between the outer surface of the piston leg and the inner surface of the connector fluid communication passageway 235 may be of the form of an 0-ring or gasket.

-15 -The further connector member 210 further includes a piston member 250. The piston member 250 illustrated in Figure 2a is pronged to provide at least one piston leg locatable within a connector fluid communication passageway 255 in the further connector body 220. The piston member 250 is configured to selectively allow transmission of fluid through the further connector member 210.

The piston member 250 may have a substantially cylindrical or prismatic profile or shape. The connector fluid communication passageway 255 includes at least one fluid pathway between at least one port disposed on an inner surface of the connector body 215 and a primary fluid communication passageway in the fluid transfer member (not shown). In the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a, the connector fluid communication passageway 255 is established by aligning a piston fluid communication passageway 240 between two portions of the connector fluid communication passageway 255, 260, thereby linking portions of the connector fluid communication passageway 255 to complete a fluid pathway through the connector body 215.

A connector fluid communication passageway 255 includes a bore through the connector body 215. Optionally, the bore of the connector fluid communication passageway 255 has a substantially cylindrical or prismatic profile or shape. Optionally, the diameter of the bore may vary along the pathway of the connector fluid communication passageway 255. Optionally, the diameter of the bore may be fixed along the pathway of the connector fluid communication passageway 255.

One or more sealing members 262 may be provided between an outer surface of the at least one piston leg and an inner surface of the connector fluid communication passageway 255.

The example embodiment of the piston member 250 further comprises a central piston leg that extends into the recessed region of the further connector body 220 via a through hole in an end portion of the further connector body 220. The piston member 250 may be slidable in the end portion of the further connector body 220. The piston member may be made of metal, plastic, or composite materials, or a combination thereof. Sealing members between the outer surface of the piston leg and the inner surface of the connector fluid communication passageway 255 may be of the form of an 0-ring or gasket.

In the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a, at least one piston leg of a piston member 230, 250 comprises a piston fluid communication passageway 240. The piston fluid communication passageway comprises a bore between two or more ports in a respective surface of the piston -16 -member 230, 250. An internal surface of the bore may be smooth or textured. Each port and the bore of the piston fluid communication passageway 240 may have a substantially cylindrical or prismatic profile or shape. Optionally, each port may have a profile or shape that matches the profile or shape of a port in the connector fluid communication passageway 235, 255. Each port of the piston fluid communication passageway 240 may be provided between two or more sealing members disposed on outer surface of the piston member 230, 250.

When the connector is disconnected, as shown in Figure 2a, the piston is in a closed position, such that a piston leg prevents fluid communication between a first portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 235, 255 and a further portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 245, 260. In the closed position, the first portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 235, 255 is in fluid communication with a fluid purging passageway 265, 270 via the piston fluid communication passageway 250. The fluid purging passageway 265, 270 enables fluid in the recessed region of the connector body to be removed when connector members are connected, for example when the shaft element 222 is located into the recessed region of the further connector body. In the example embodiment shown, fluid is removed from the connector body 215, 220 via the fluid purging passageway 265, 270 that opens via a port in an outer surface of the connector member 215, 220. Keeping the piston member 230, 250 in the closed position shown in Figure 2a is a biasing element 280, 285 that is disposed in an end region of the connector member 205, 210 distal an open mouth of the recessed region in the connector body 215, 220 to bias the piston member toward the open mouth of the recessed region of the connector body 215, 220. The biasing element helps the piston member 230, 250 to automatically adopt the closed position when the connector is in a disconnected state, thereby automatically sealing the connector member 205, 210. The biasing element 280, 285 may include a compressible element such as a spring or a hydraulic piston.

Alternatively, a connector member may comprise a plurality of piston members. Optionally, a central piston leg of a piston member 230, 250 may include a through hole or channel to provide a fluid purging passageway from the recessed region in the connector body.

Connecting the first and further connector members shown in Figure 2a follows a method of inserting a free end of the shaft element 222, into the recessed region of the further connector body 220 of the further connector member 210 as the connector members are brought closer together. Upon inserting the shaft element 222 into the recessed region, fluid remaining in the recessed region is removed from the recessed region via the connector fluid communication -17 -passageway 255, piston fluid communication passageway 240 and the fluid purging passageway 270. Further insertion of the shaft element 222 drives the shaft element 222 against the piston member 250. Urging, via the shaft element 222, the piston member 250 allows selective alignment of at least one piston fluid communication passageway 240 with a portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 260 as the piston member 250 is moved from a first axial position to a further axial position, wherein said first and further axial positions represent closed and open positions respectively. Alignment of the at least one piston fluid communication passageway 240 with the connector fluid communication passageway provides a fluid pathway between a first portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 255 and a further portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 260.

The first axial position of the piston fluid communication passageway is shown in Figure 2a, providing fluid communication between the connector fluid communication passageway 255 and the fluid purging passageway 270. The further axial position of the piston fluid communication passageway enables fluid communication between a first portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 255 and a second portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 260 in connection with a primary fluid communication passageway of a fluid transfer member (not shown). Urging the piston member 250 also enables the shaft element 222 to be inserted further into the recessed region of the further connector body 220 to align the at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway 226 with the connector fluid communication passageway 255 of the further connector body 220. Translation of the piston fluid communication passageway 240 and alignment of the internal shaft fluid communication passageway 226 with the connector fluid communication passageway 255 may occur simultaneously.

Figure 2b shows a magnified view of the further connector member 210. The connector member 210 may further include a sleeve 290 that is shrunk fit or pressed into the connector body 220. The sleeve 290 is disposed in a portion of a connector fluid communication passageway 255. The sleeve is shown surrounding a portion of the shaft 150. The sleeve can be manufactured to high tolerances to provide a tight fit with a leg of the piston member 250. This helps to provide high tolerances within the connector without manufacturing the whole connector body 220 with high tolerances. This may help to reduce manufacturing time and costs. Optionally, the sleeve is made of metal, plastic or composite material. Optionally, a plurality of sleeves 290 may be provided within a portion of a connector fluid communication passageway 255.

-18 -Figure 3 illustrates the embodiment of the hydraulic connector shown in Figure 2a wherein the connector members are fully connected 300. The biasing element 285 in the further connector member 210 provides a force, via the piston member in the further connector member 210, against the shaft element 222. As the shaft element 222 abuts the piston member 250 in the further connector member 210, the opposing force of the biasing element 285 enables urging of the piston member 230 in the first connector member 205 against biasing element 280. In the hydraulic connector shown in Figures 2a and 3, urging of the piston member 230 in the first connector member 205 allows selective alignment of a piston fluid communication passageway 240 from a first axial position to a further axial position, enabling fluid communication between a first portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 235 and a second portion of the connector fluid communication passageway 245, in the first connector body 215, in connection with the primary fluid communication passageway in the fluid transfer member (not shown), thereby providing fluid communication across the hydraulic connector.

Once fully connected, an outer face of the first connector body 310, which comprises the recessed region, of the first connector member abuts an outer surface of the further connector body of the further connector member to provide a seal. Optionally, the outer surfaces of the first and further connector bodies may not form an abutting relationship. Optionally, at least one sealing member may be locatable between the outer surfaces 310 of the first and further connector bodies. A retaining element 320 is shown in the embodiment in Figure 3 for securing the shaft element within the first connector body of the first connector member via the through hole 228 in the connector body. As described above, the connector may be held together by a securing member. The securing member may comprise a strap, collar, clamp or securing pin (not shown) to prevent the biasing elements from pushing the connector apart. The securing member may be provided externally on at least one outer surface of the connector or internally within the connector.

Figure 4a illustrates a hydraulic connector 400 with an external securing mechanism for holding the first and further connector members 205, 210 together. Each connector member 205, 210 is shown with one or more parts of a securing mechanism attached to an outer surface of each connector body 215, 220. The securing mechanism may be a latch or clip mechanism. The first connector member 205 is shown with two male securing parts 410 mounted on opposing external surfaces of the first connector body 215. The further connector member 210 is also shown with two female securing parts 420 mounted on opposing external -19 -surface of the further connector body 220. Optionally, more or fewer than two securing mechanisms may be provided. Optionally, each part of the securing mechanism may be provided internally within each connector body 215, 220.

Figure 4b illustrates the hydraulic connector 400 with connector members 205, 210 secured together. The securing mechanism 410, 420 helps counter act the force of the biasing elements 280, 285 in each connector member 205, 210 and hold the connector members together.

Figure 4c illustrates a magnified view of the securing mechanism 410, 420 in a closed state 430 in the top half of Figure 4c, and in an open state 440 in the lower half of Figure 4c. In the open state 440, a male part of the securing mechanism 410 is shown as a clip with a loop portion 450 that hooks on to the female part of the securing mechanism 420 as the connector members are connected together. This is illustrated in the closed state 430 Optionally, alternative latching or clipping mechanisms may be utilised.

Figure 5a shows a two-port connector member 500, illustrating individual components of the connector member 500 along with a shaft element 505, viewed in cross-section. The connector member 500 includes a connector body 510 and a piston member 515. The piston member 515 is shown disposed within an end region of the connector body 510. The shaft element 505 is shown with both side view 520 and front view 525 in Figure 5b. In the side view 520 of the shaft element 505, a port 530 of an internal shaft fluid communication passageway 535 is shown. Optionally, a sealing member 537 may be locatable about the port of the internal shaft fluid communication passageway. The front view 525 of the shaft element 505 of the example embodiment shows at least two internal shaft fluid communication passageways 535 for providing fluid communication through the two-port connector member 500. Optionally the shaft element 505 may comprise more or fewer than two internal shaft fluid communication passageways.

A connector body 510 of the connector member 500 is shown in cross-section and front view 555 in Figure Sc. The connector body 510 includes a recessed region 540, connector fluid communication passageways 545 and fluid purging passageways 550. The connector fluid communication passageways 545 of the connector body 510 may be configured to align with an internal shaft fluid communication passageway of the shaft element 505 when the shaft element 505 is slid form a first axial position to a further axial position.

-20 -The piston member 515 is also illustrated in Figure 5d, shown in cross-section, from the side and from the front. The piston member 515 shown comprises two piston legs 560 positioned about a central piston leg. Markings on the piston legs may allow for a plurality of sealing members to be seated about an outer surface of the piston legs. Optionally, one or no sealing members may be located about the piston legs. A front view 565 of the piston member illustrates the ends of the three piston legs. The piston member 515 may be configured to be slidable in and end region of the connector body 510, as illustrated for the connector member 500. Optionally, a piston fluid communication passageway 570 may be provided in at least one piston leg. For a two-port connector member 500, the piston member 515 may comprise more or fewer than three piston legs.

Figure 6a shows an alternative two-port connector member 600 viewed in cross-section view 605 and front view 610. Figure 6a also illustrates a shaft 615 disposed partially in a recessed region of a connector body 620 of the connector member 600. The shaft includes one or more internal shaft fluid communication passageways 625. The shaft may also include one or more sealing members 627 to provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft 615 and an inner surface of the recessed region of the connector body 620. The shaft 615 includes an elongate body with a cylindrical profile, as shown from the front 610 and in cross-section 605.

The connector member 600 shown in Figure 6a also includes a piston 630 disposed in an end region of the connector body 620. The piston 630 is also slidable within the connector body 620. The piston includes a piston fluid communication passageway 640 to help the piston 630 selectively provide a fluid pathway through the connector member 600.

Figure 6b illustrates front, side and cross-section views of a portion of the shaft 615. The shaft shown includes one or more internal shaft fluid communication passageways 625 and one or more sealing members 627. The one or more internal shaft fluid communication passageways 625 extend through the shaft 615 and open via a port 645 in an outer surface of the shaft 615.

The shaft 615 is shown having a substantially cylindrical profile.

Figure 6c illustrates front and side views of the piston 630. The piston 630 shown includes piston legs 650 configured to be slidable within a connector fluid communication passageway of a connector body 620. The piston 630 also includes a piston fluid communication passageway 640. The piston legs 650 shown have a substantially cylindrical profile.

Optionally, the piston legs 650 may have a substantially prismatic profile. The piston 630 is -21 -also shown with a central piston leg that is configured to engage with a shaft, such as the shaft 615 shown in Figures 6a and 6b.

Figure 7a shows a four-port connector member 700 and a shaft element 705 viewed in cross-section. Increasing the number of ports in each connector member has an advantage of increasing flow rate across the connector. The connector member 700 includes a connector body 710 and a piston member 715. The piston member 715 is disposed in an end region of the connector body 710. The piston member 715 may also be slidable within the connector body 710. The shaft element 705 is illustrated with both side view 720 and front view 725 in Figure 7b.

In the side view 720 of the shaft element 705, a port 730 of an internal shaft fluid communication passageway 735 is shown. Optionally, at least one sealing member 737 may be locatable about an outer surface of the shaft element 705 to provide a seal around the port of the internal shaft fluid communication passageway. The front view 725 of the shaft element 705 shows at least four connector fluid communication passageways 735 for providing fluid communication through the four-port connector member 700. Optionally, the shaft element 705 may include more or fewer than four internal shaft fluid communication passageways.

A connector body 710 of the connector member 700 is shown in cross-section and front view in Figure 7c. The connector body 710 includes a recessed region 740, connector fluid communication passageways 745 and fluid purging passageways 750. The recessed region 740 may be configured to receive a shaft element 705. Figure 7c also shows the connector body 710 viewed end on 755, illustrating the four-port configuration. The connector fluid communication passageways 745 of the connector body 710 may be configured to align with an internal shaft fluid communication passageway of the shaft element 705 when the shaft element is slid form a first axial position to a further axial position.

The piston member 715 is also illustrated in Figure 7d, shown from the side and from the front.

The piston member 715 is shown having four piston legs 760 about a central piston leg.

Markings on the piston legs 767 may allow for sealing members to be seated about an outer surface of the piston legs. Optionally, one or no sealing members may be located about the piston legs. Front view 765 of the piston member illustrates the ends of the five piston legs. The piston member 715 may be configured to be slidable in and end region of the connector body 710, as illustrated for the connector member 700. Optionally, a piston fluid communication passageway 770 may be provided in at least one piston leg. For a four-port -22 -connector member 700 the piston member 715 may only comprise five piston legs. Optionally, for a four-port connector member 700 the piston member 715 may include more or fewer than five piston legs.

Figure 8 illustrates an alternative connector body 800 in both side 805 and front 810 cross-section views that includes one or more purging lines 820. The connector body shown in Figure 8 is a four-port connector body. Optionally, the connector body 800 may be a two-port connector body. The purging lines 820 are provided to help fluid escape a connector fluid communication passageway 830 and a recessed region 840 of the connector body 800, when a shaft is inserted into the recessed region 840 of the connector body 800. The purging lines 820 may be interconnected with each other. Alternatively, the purging lines 820 may be isolated from each other. The purging lines 820 allow fluids to discharge and enter the recessed region 840 as the shaft is inserted into or withdrawn from the connector body 800.

Optionally, one or more valves 850 may be provided to allow fluid to escape from the connector body 850 and help prevent fluid ingress back through the purging lines. Optionally, the valves 850 are non-return valves. Alternatively, the valves 850 may be directional control valves or flow control valves or the like. As a further alternative, one or more valves, or optionally no valves, may be provided to allow fluid to enter the recessed region 840 via the purging lines 820. For example, as a shaft (not shown) is removed from the recessed region 840, a vacuum region may be created, thereby potentially preventing removal of the shaft from the connector body 800. Allowing fluid flow into the recessed region 840 through purging lines 820 may help to prevent a vacuum region from forming when the shaft is removed.

Figure 9 shows a multi-connector 900, such as a manifold or stab plate, comprising multiple hydraulic connector members, such as the two-port connector member illustrated in Figure 5. Alternatively, four-port connector members may be utilised in the multi-connector 900. Alternatively, a combination of two-port and four-port connector members may be utilised in a multi-connector 900. Figure 9 shows a top view of the multi connector 900 comprising at least one shaft element 910 and at least one connector body 920 and at least one piston member 930. Optionally, the connector body 920 may include multiple connector body modules, or the connector body may be a single connector body configured to support multiple shaft elements 910 and multiple piston members 930, as shown in the example embodiment of a multi-connector 900.

-23 -Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise' and "contain" and variations of them mean "including but not limited to" and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of the features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to any details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

-24 -CLAIMS: 1. Apparatus for selectively providing fluid communication between a first primary fluid communication passageway and a further primary fluid communication passageway, comprising: a first connector member, securable to a fluid transfer member that includes at least one primary fluid communication passageway, comprising a connector body that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into a first recessed region in the connector body; a shaft element slidable in the first recessed region; and a piston member that is slidable in an end portion of the connector body and is biased by a first biasing element towards an open mouth of the recessed region that is disposed distal to the end portion; wherein the shaft element comprises at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway that extends between a first port proximal to the piston member and a further port distal to the piston member, said further port being located to selectively align with at least one port of a further connector member that mates with the first connector member, for fluid communication with a further primary fluid communication passageway via a connector fluid communication passageway of the further connector member, when the shaft element is slid into a respective first or further axial position.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a further connector member comprising a connector body that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into a further recessed region in the further connector body; and a piston member that is slidable in an end portion of the further connector body and is biased by a further biasing element towards an open mouth of the further recessed region in the further connector member connector body.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connector body of the first connector member comprises two or more connector fluid communication passageways.
-25 - 4. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connector body of the further connector member comprises two or more connector fluid communication passageways.
5. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the or each piston member is biased to automatically prevent fluid communication through the at least one fluid communication passageway in the or each connector body.
6. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising: the shaft element comprises at least one sealing member to provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element and an inner surface of the further recessed region of the further connector body.
7. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising: the shaft element comprises at least one sealing member to provide a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the shaft element and an inner surface of the first recessed region of the first connector body.
8. A method of selectively providing fluid communication between a first primary fluid communication passageway and a further primary fluid communication passageway, comprising: inserting a shaft element, that includes a first port at an end portion disposed within a recessed region of a first connector body of a first connector member connected to a first primary fluid communication passageway, into a recessed region of a further connector body, of a further connector member connected to a further primary fluid communication passageway, that includes at least one connector fluid communication passageway that opens, via a port, into the recessed region of the further connector body; and urging, via the shaft element, a first piston member that is slidable in the further connector member, to selectively align a further port in the shaft element with said a port in the recessed region of the further connector body when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position in said the recessed region; thereby providing fluid communication between connector fluid communication passageways of the first and further connector members via at least one internal shaft fluid communication passageway between the first port and the further port in the shaft -26 -element, when the further port in the shaft element is aligned with said a port in the recessed region of the further connector body.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein fluid communication between the first and further connector members is bidirectional.
10. The method as claimed in either claim 8 or claim 9, further comprising: urging, via the first piston member and the shaft element, a further piston member to selectively align the first port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the first connector body when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.
11. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein a connector fluid communication passageway opens via the port in the recessed region of the first connector body.
12. The method as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising: aligning a first port, of a further internal shaft fluid communication passageway, with a further port in the recessed region of the further connector body, when the shaft element is slid from a first axial position to a further axial position.
13. The method as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 12, further comprising: simultaneously aligning a first port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the first connector body; and aligning a further port in the shaft element with a port in the recessed region of the further connector body.
14. The method as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the first and further connector members are securable to a respective fluid transfer member.
15. A system for providing bidirectional fluid communication to hydraulic equipment, comprising: a hydraulic pressure supply; a hydraulic actuator; and apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14.