JP2007010153A - Quick connector - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a quick connector coupling assembly having a retainer configuration capable of reliably being assembled into its associated connector body while being mounted on an associated tube or a male member. <P>SOLUTION: The fluid coupling assembly is provided with the connector body defining a bore extending axially forward from an entrance opening, the tubular male member with an upset, a seal member, and a retainer. The retainer is received within the bore and includes locking members to retain the tube so as to be releasable. The retainer includes a forward extension to support the seal against fluid pressure. The retainer and seal are configured to be applied to the male member before the insertion of the male member into the bore of the connector body. Two of the locking members include ramps extending radially outwardly to contact the body portion defining the entrance opening sequentially prior to contact by the locking arms of the other locking members. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention
[Field of the Invention]
The present application relates to a fitting assembly, and more particularly to a quick connector assembly that removably connects a male member formed at the end of a tube into a hollow female connector body.

[Background of the invention]
This application is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 774,290 filed on Feb. 5, 2004, which is a continuation of US patent application Ser. The disclosure of the above application is hereby incorporated by reference.

  In automobiles and other fields, one type of fitting assembly that is often used to fluidly connect between two components or conduits is a quick connector, which is generally received within a female connector body. A male member held in place. The use of a quick connector is advantageous because it can form a sealed fluid line with minimal time and expense.

  A cage is used to secure the male member within the connector body. One type of retainer includes a plurality of locking members that extend between a radially enlarged diameter formed on the male member and an annular surface defined in the connector body. One end of the locking arm is in contact with the enlarged diameter portion of the male member and the other end is in contact with the annular surface of the connector body, thereby preventing the male member from coming out of the connector body. This type of retainer is popular in the art and has been found to be effective in many fluid line applications. Examples include US Pat. Nos. 5,161,832, 5,324,082, 5,626,371, and 5,628,531.

  A cage of the type described above typically includes a body in the form of an annular ring with which a locking member is integrally formed. Assembling this type of cage usually involves inserting the cage into a hole defined in the connector body. During the insertion step, the locking member and / or the locking arm must bend radially inward with respect to the retainer body so that the locking member fits into the opening defining the inlet to the hole in the connector body. .

  By developing this form of quick connector joint for high pressure applications, the cage construction is more robust, which makes it more difficult to place the connector body in the hole. This problem is further complicated when the retainer is attached to its associated male member or tube before it is inserted into the hole in the connector body, i.e. in the technique currently intended for some quick connector applications. become. Such a procedure is expected to allow the use of a quick connector in applications where the internal configuration of the connector body is in a fluid system component such as a power steering pump, brake cylinder, or air conditioning system component.

  In developing a quick connector suitable for such applications, due to the limited annular space between the tubular member and the inlet to the bore of the body, the locking member adjacent to the radial movement of the locking member It has been found that contact with each other can sometimes interfere with folding. Excessive force in such a condition will damage the locking member and compromise the integrity of the cage and thus the fluid connection. Accordingly, it has been recognized that there is a need to provide a quick connector coupling assembly having a cage configuration that can be securely assembled to an associated connector body while attached to the associated tube or male member. Such a retainer causes the locking member and / or locking arm to bend sufficiently radially inward during the step of inserting the retainer and male member into the connector body, thereby compromising the structural integrity of the locking member. Allows to pass through the inlet opening without.

[Operational configuration of the invention]
FIG. 1 shows an exemplary fluid coupling assembly of the present invention, indicated generally at 10. The fluid coupling includes a male member 12, a female connector main body 14, a retainer 16 that fixes the male member 12 in the connector main body 14, and a seal member 18.

  The male member 12 is a hollow rigid tube 20 having a free end 21. This forms part of the fluid line system. With respect to the male member 12, the term front means the side towards the free end 21, and the term rear means the side away from the free end 21.

  The male member 12 includes a radially enlarged annular diameter-enlarged portion 22 having a rear surface 23 formed at a distance from the free end 21 of the tube 20. The male member 12 also includes a cylindrical portion 24 defined by the outer surface of the tube 20 between the enlarged diameter portion 22 and the free end 21. A cylindrical portion 25, similarly defined by the outer surface of the tube 20, continues beyond the enlarged diameter portion 22. The cylindrical portion 25 may be coated with nylon or other polymer protective coating. The coating is removed from the cylindrical portion 24 from the free end 21 to the rear surface 23 of the enlarged diameter portion 22.

  As shown, the female connector body 14 can be a component of a power steering system. Other possibilities include brake system, transmission oil cooler systems, heating / ventilation / air conditioning systems, or any other fluid system component where a removable fluid-tight connection is desired.

  As best seen in FIG. 2, the female connector body 14 has an axial bore 26 extending axially inward from an inlet opening generally indicated at 28 at the intersection of the bore 26 and the planar wall 34 of the body. Is defined. The hole 26 is symmetric with respect to the center line 27. The hole 26 is divided into a cage / seal member receiving portion 30 and a tube guide portion 32. A coaxial passage 33 continues from the tube guide portion 32 to the inside of the main body component 14.

  With respect to the connector body 14, the term forward means the side towards the passage 33 from the inlet opening 28, and the term rear means the side towards the entrance opening 28 from the passage 33. The term inside or inward means the side towards the center line 26 in the radial direction, and the term outside or outside means the side away from the center line 27 in the radial direction.

  The inlet opening 28 is defined by an axial cylindrical surface 36 through which the retainer 16 and the male member 12 disposed in the hole 26 pass. The chamfered portion 40 intersects the planar wall of the main body 14 and the cylindrical surface 36 extending in the axial direction. This facilitates insertion of the cage 16 into the connector body 14. In front of the axially extending cylindrical surface 36, there is a radial annular abutment surface 38 in the retainer / seal member receiver 30 of the hole 26. The surface 38 functions as a contact lock (locking) surface that holds the retainer in the hole 26, and the hole 26 further holds the male member 12 in a detachable manner.

  There is an enlarged cylindrical surface 42, followed by a chamfered portion 43, and a cylindrical surface 44 having substantially the same diameter as the axial cylindrical surface 36 toward the front in the axial direction of the cylindrical surface 36. Cylindrical surface 44 terminates in a radially inward annular step 45 followed by a chamfered surface 46 with a cylindrical sealing surface 48 and terminates in an annular radial surface 50. The annular radial surface 38, the enlarged cylindrical surface 42, the chamfer 43, the cylindrical surface 44, the radially inner annular step 45, the chamfered surface 46, the cylindrical sealing surface 48, and the annular radial surface 50 are axial A cage / seal member receiving portion 30 of the direction hole 26 is defined.

  A cylindrical surface 52 that defines the male member guide portion 32 of the axial hole 26 is axially inward of the annular surface 50. This closely overlaps the outer cylindrical portion 24 of the male member 12 and is sized to guide the male member 12 coaxially within the hole 26.

  The cage component 16 is shown in FIGS. The cage 16 is a substantially annular element that is adapted to be concentrically disposed within the cage / seal member receiver 30 of the hole 26. This includes a body in the form of an annular ring 54 having a radial front surface 56 and a radial rear surface 58. With respect to the retainer 16, the terms front and rear have the same meaning as those terms with respect to the connector body 14. That is, in a state where the cage 16 is installed in the hole 26 of the main body 14, the front surface 56 faces the passage 33 and the rear surface 58 faces the inlet opening 28. Similarly, the terms inner and outer have the same meaning as those used with respect to the connector body 14, hole 26, and centerline 27.

  The ring 54 of the cage 16 has an outer cylindrical surface 55 sized to fit within the cylindrical surface 44 of the hole 26. A chamfered portion 57 is provided so as to face the chamfered portion 46 of the hole 26 when the cage is disposed in the hole 26.

  An annular extension 62 extends axially forward from the ring 54. The outer cylindrical surface 63 of the extension 62 is sized to fit in a piloting relation with the cylindrical seal surface 48. The extension 62 has an annular surface 64 that is radially forward. When the retainer 16 is assembled into the bore 26 of the connector body 14, the annular extension 62 fits into the portion defined by the cylindrical sealing surface 48 and cooperates to provide a fluid tight seal with the seal 18.

  A hole 60 is defined in the ring 54 and extension 62. This is sized to surround the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 defining the male member 12.

  The illustrated retainer 16 includes two first locking members 66 and two second locking members 68. The locking member 66 and the locking member 68 extend axially rearward from the annular ring 54. Although the locking member 66 and the locking member 68 will be described in detail later, they have the same configuration except that the locking member 68 includes a flexible surface defined on the inclined portion 116. When the same members 66 and the same members 68 face each other in the diametrical direction, a pattern in which the locking members 66 and the locking members 68 alternate is defined. The purpose of alternating the locking member 66 and the locking member 68 having the inclined portion 116 will be described later.

  The locking members 66 and 68 are cantilevered from the ring 54 and extend axially from the rear face 58. An elongated slot 72 extending in the axial direction is defined between each adjacent locking member 66 and 68. The slot 72 provides a space for these elements as the locking members 66 and 68 flex radially inward during assembly into the bore 26 of the body 14. The first inclined outer surface 84 and the second inclined outer surface 86 define a discontinuous substantially conical outer region of the locking arm 80 that extends from the front abutment surface 82 to the rear abutment surface 88.

  Each locking member 66 and 68 includes two relatively thin axially elongated columns 74 extending from the radial rear surface 58 of the annular ring 54. When the retainer 16 is assembled to the male member 12, these columns flex to allow the locking members 66 and 68 to move radially inward.

  The column 74 of each locking member 66 and 68 is connected by a rear connecting beam 76 that defines an axial rear end 70 of each locking member. The connecting beam 76 has an outer surface formed with substantially the same diameter as the axial cylindrical surface 36 of the hole 26. The connecting beam is formed with a larger diameter than the hole 60 of the cage, thereby providing a spaced relationship with the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20 so that the connecting beam 76 is radially inward toward the surface 25 during assembly. It also has a curved inner surface 78 that allows it to move.

  The two columns 74, the ring 54, and the rear connecting beam 76 of each locking member 66 and 68 define a window 79. Each locking member 66 and 68 further includes in the window 79 a duckbill-shaped locking arm 80 extending axially forward from the connecting beam 76 between the two columns 74. The duckbill-shaped locking arm 80 is separated from the column 74 by a slot 72. Therefore, each locking arm 80 is connected to the locking member 66 or 68 at the connecting beam 76. This relationship allows the locking arm 80 to be moved or deflected relative to the connection with the rear connection beam 76 during insertion of the retainer 14 from the inlet opening 28 when attached to the male member 12. The relatively long and thin column 74 also provides the necessary flexibility to allow insertion through the inlet opening 28.

  Each locking arm 80 has a front contact surface 82 at the front end thereof, a first inclined outer surface 84, a second inclined outer surface 86, and a rear contact surface 88 connected thereto. The rear abutment surface 88 is located radially outward from the joint between each locking arm 80 and the rear connection beam 76.

  When the retainer 16 and the male member 12 are installed in the main body 14, the locking arm 80 faces or abuts the front abutting surface 82 of each locking arm 80 against the rear surface 23 of the enlarged diameter portion 22. The rear abutment surface 88 is configured to face or abut the annular radial surface 38 in the bore 26 of the body 14. Therefore, the locking arm 80 locks the male member 12 in the connector body 14 so as to be detachable. An inner cylindrical surface 94 of each locking arm 80 extends rearward from the front abutment surface 82. This is formed with substantially the same diameter as the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20, and is located on the outer cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20 behind the enlarged diameter portion 22.

  Due to the relative size of the radial extent of the enlarged portion 22 of the male member 20 and the annular radial surface 38 of the body 14, each locking arm 80 can be moved from the rear end of the inner cylindrical surface 94 of each locking arm 80. It defines a discontinuous cone that extends to the inner surface 78 of the associated connecting beam 76. This shape defines a cam or ramp 92.

  The inclined or cam surface 92 engages with the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12 during assembly of the retainer 16 to the male member 12 and moves the locking arm 80 radially outward to provide a front abutment. The enlarged diameter portion 22 can be passed to a position in front of the surface 82 and behind the radial rear surface 58 of the ring 54.

  The first inclined outer surface 84 and the second inclined outer surface of each locking arm 80 serve as flexure surfaces, and the inlet chamfered portion 40 is formed at the inlet opening 28 when the retainer 16 is inserted into the hole 26 of the connector body 14. And engages the axial cylindrical surface 36. Such engagement provides the member 66 or 68 with the radially inward movement or bending necessary to pass through the inlet opening 28. Even if the retainer 16 is attached to the male member 12 by the locking arm 80 being connected to the rear connecting beam 76 and the column 74 having an elongated configuration in the axial direction, the retainer is supported by the cylindrical surface 36. The flexibility necessary to be able to pass through the defined inlet opening 28 is obtained.

  The two locking members 68 further include a ramp 116 extending radially outward from the radially outer surface of each column 74. The inclined portion 116 defines an inclined flexible surface 117 extending from the front end 118 to the rear end 120. The inclination extends radially outward from the front end 118 to the rear end 120. The front end 118 is located in front of the front contact surface 82 of the duckbill-shaped locking arm 80 in the axial direction. Therefore, the deflecting surface 117 is disposed in front of the first inclined outer surface 84 of the locking arm 80 in the axial direction. As shown, the angle of the flexure surface 117 of the ramp 116 with respect to a horizontal line such as the centerline 27 of the illustrated embodiment is not as steep as the angle of the first ramped outer surface 84 of the locking arm 80. As an example, the angle of the bending surface 117 of the inclined portion 116 may be 15 to 18 ° with respect to the horizontal line. The angle of the first inclined outer surface 84 may be 35 to 40 °, and the angle of the second inclined outer surface 86 may be 18 to 20 °.

  When the retainer 16 is inserted into the inlet opening 28, the surface 117 of the inclined portion 116 contacts the chamfered portion 40 before any portion of the first inclined outer surface 84 or the second inclined outer surface 86 of the locking arm 80. To do. This contact moves the locking member 68 radially inward before the locking member 66 moves radially inward. As the insertion proceeds, the first inclined outer surface of the locking arm 80 of the locking member 66 contacts the chamfered portion 40, and the locking member 66 starts to move inward. As insertion of the retainer 16 through the inlet opening 28 proceeds, the first inclined outer surfaces 84 of both locking members 66 and 68 contact the axial cylindrical surface 36. Next, all the locking members are deflected inward, and then the second inclined outer surface 86 of the locking arm 80 contacts to complete the insertion.

  The cage 16 is preferably molded from a polymer material having the necessary strength and flexibility. One suitable polymer is a polyetheretherketone known as (PEEK). One such material is Victrex PEEK ™ 450G available from Victrex USA (Greenville, SC). A cage molded from this material has the strength necessary to maintain the integrity of the fluid coupling under pressure conditions. This also provides the necessary flexibility to allow the retainer attached to the male member 12 to be installed in the hole 26 of the connector body 14 without damaging the retainer 16 during the assembly process. provide.

  The seal 18 is an annular elastic O-ring that provides a fluid tight joint between the cylindrical sealing surface 48 and the cylindrical portion 24 of the male member 12. The outer diameter of the O-ring 18 is slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface 48, and the inner diameter of the O-ring 18 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical portion 24 of the male member 12. When the fluid system is under operating pressure, the O-ring forms a fluid tight seal with these surfaces and the annular surface 64 radially forward of the retainer 16.

  Advantageously, the quick connector of the present invention allows the retainer 16, seal 18, and male member 12 to be assembled to the connector body as a preassembled unit. This feature is particularly useful in applications where the shape of the connector body is formed within a fluid system component. Typically, tube bundles and associated connector components are supplied from one source and system components are supplied from another source. If the system components are already installed in and part of the assembly and subsequently the pipes of the tube bundle are connected to the components to complete the fluid path, considerable time and cost can be saved. This is a desirable technique in assembling automobiles, for example. In this type of configuration, such a separate connector body configuration as well as an additional fluid coupling between the separate connector body component defining the bore 26 and the fluid system component 16 such as a power steering pump. No need for parts.

  In accordance with the present invention, the male member 12, the retainer 16, and the seal 18 are joined together to form a subassembly that is then inserted into the fluid component bore 26 that defines the connector body 14. This approach may be used, for example, when the tube 20 forming part of the fluid system is provided by a different supplier or component supplier that defines the connector body 14 and the final assembly is further performed elsewhere. Useful in situations where it occurs. Of course, the retainer 16 and associated O-ring seal 18 of the present invention has advantages in applications such as those that are initially installed in a hole in a connector body component. With respect to this latter, the extension 62 of the retainer 16 and the interaction of the extension 62 with the seal O-ring 18 in the hole 26 is between the connector body 14 and the male member 12 regardless of the assembly procedure used. Provides an effective arrangement for forming a fluid tight seal.

  To form the subassembly, the retainer 16 is a male member with the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the tube 20 disposed between the front abutment surface 82 of the locking arm 80 and the rear surface 58 of the ring 54. 12 is arranged. When the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12 and the inner cam surface 92 of the locking arm 80 of the locking members 66 and 68 come into contact with each other, the arm expands radially outward. Such bending motion is provided by the bending of the elongated column 74 and the elasticity of the retainer material.

  When the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12 is disposed in the space between the front contact surface 82 of the arm 80 and the rear surface 58 of the ring 54 of the retainer 16, the locking arm 80 returns radially inward. . At this position, the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12 is positioned between the rear surface 58 of the ring 54 and the front abutting surface 82 of the arm 80 in abutting relationship therewith. The cylindrical surface 94 is in a face-to-face relationship with the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20.

  A seal 18 in the form of an O-ring is then placed on the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 directly adjacent to the radial annular surface 64 of the annular extension 62 of the retainer 16 to complete the subassembly.

  The combined elements of the male member 14, the retainer 16, and the O-ring 18 are joined to the connector body 14 to complete a fluid-tight joint. In order to insert the male member 12, the O-ring 18, and the retainer 16 into the connector body 14, it is necessary for all elements to pass through the inlet opening 28 defined by the cylindrical surface 36. These elements must fit within an annular space defined by the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 and the cylindrical surface 36 of the hole 26.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the bending surface 117 of the inclined portion 116 of the locking member 68 first contacts the chamfered portion 40. The inclined bending surface 117 of the inclined portion 116 of the locking member 68 contacts the chamfered portion 40 before the first inclined outer surface 84 of the locking arm 80 of the locking member 66. After the locking member 68 is bent radially inward with respect to the ring 54, the locking member 66 moves radially inward only when the first inclined outer surface 84 of the locking member 66 contacts the chamfer 40. As a result, the locking arm 66 sequentially bends inward following the locking arm 68. As a result, after the rear connecting beam 76 of the locking arm 68 moves radially inward, the rear connecting beam 76 of the locking member 66 moves in the same manner.

  During the insertion process, the inner cylindrical surface 94 of the locking arm 80 is placed on the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20. The contact of the surface 117 of the ramp 116 and the outer surfaces 84 and 86 of the locking arm 80 causes the retainer element to flex or bend to move the rear connecting beam 76 inward toward the tube 20. Locking members 66 and 68 allow passage through the inlet opening defined by the cylindrical surface 36 and the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20 of the male member 12. Multiple bends occur in the cage 16. The locking arm 80 is deflected relative to the rear connection beam 76 so that the rear connection beam 76 moves in the direction of the tube 20. In achieving this movement, the locking arm 80 pivots about the place where the inner cylindrical surface 94 and the cylindrical portion 25 of the tube 20 are in contact. Bending also occurs in column 74.

  When the male member 12, the retainer 16, and the O-ring 18 are fully inserted into the connector body 14, the outer surface of the rear connecting beam 76 moves and is closely spaced from the inner cylindrical surface 36 that defines the inlet opening 28. The locking members 66 and 68 spring up radially outward until the relationship is met.

  As seen in the fully inserted position in FIG. 8, the retainer 16 is constrained radially and axially within the connector body 14. The cylindrical extension 62 of the retainer 16 is disposed in the cylindrical seal surface 48 so as to guide the retainer 16 radially within the connector body 14.

  The cylindrical surface 55 of the annular ring 54 fits within the cylindrical surface 44 of the hole 26 with the radially inner annular step 45 in abutting relationship with the radial front surface 56 of the ring 54. This contact limits the rear abutment surfaces 88 of the locking members 66 and 68 that abut the radial surface 38 of the body 14 from moving further forward and restricts the retainer 16 from moving rearward.

  When the retainer 16 is restrained in the hole 26 of the connector body 14, the O-ring 18 and the male member 12 are similarly restrained in the hole 26 of the connector body 14. The cylindrical portion 24 of the male member 12 is disposed within the inner cylindrical surface 60 of the ring 54 and the extension 62. Further, the male member 12 is guided with respect to the hole 26 by the close guiding relationship between the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 and the cylindrical surface 52 of the hole 26 defining the male member guide portion 32.

  The radial rear surface 58 of the ring 54 abuts against the front surface of the enlarged diameter portion 22, thereby preventing the male member 12 from moving further inward. When the rear surface 23 of the enlarged diameter portion 22 contacts the front contact surface 82 of the locking arm 80, the male member 12 is prevented from moving further rearward. Therefore, the male member 12 is restrained in the radial direction and the axial direction in the retainer 16, and similarly restrained in the hole 26 of the connector main body 14.

  In the installed position, the O-ring 18 is provided with an annular surface 64 in the radial direction of the annular extension 62, an annular radial surface 50 of the axial hole 26, a cylindrical portion 24 of the male member 12, and an axial hole 26. It is arranged in a space defined by the cylindrical sealing surface 48. In this way, the O-ring seal is arranged to abut the radial annular surface 64 of the annular extension 62 of the ring 54. The outer diameter of the O-ring 18 is sized slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface 48 and the inner diameter is slightly smaller than the cylindrical surface 24 of the tube 20. Accordingly, the O-ring 18 is compressed radially between the male member 12 and the cylindrical sealing surface 48. Under operating conditions in which the fluid system is pressurized, the O-ring is abutted against a radially forward annular surface 64 of the annular extension 62 to bias the retainer backward. The axial load imparted to the O-ring 18 by fluid pressure is transmitted to the connector body 14 by the rear abutment surface 88 of the locking arm 80 acting on the annular radial surface 38 in the hole 26. These forces bias the O-ring into sealing contact with the cylindrical sealing surface 48, the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20, and the annular front surface 64 of the retainer 16 to form a fluid tight seal. .

  The exemplary embodiment described above uses a ramp 116 that extends radially outward from the column 74 of the locking member 68 to define a flexure surface 117 so that the locking member 68 is radial before the locking member 66. It is within the scope of the present invention to use other retainer configurations that ensure inward bending but allow the locking member to move sequentially. For example, it is conceivable that the inclined portion 116 is provided only on one side of the locking member 68. Another possible modification is to provide a ramp 116 on only one of the columns 74 of each locking member 68. Another example of an alternative configuration of the retainer 16 is to place the first inclined outer surface 84 of the locking member 68 ahead of the first inclined outer surface 84 of the locking arm 80 of the locking member 66. In this approach, the first inclined surface 84 of the locking member 68 disposed forward serves as the first deflecting surface and the rear connecting beam 76 of the locking member 68 moves radially inward. Thus, the sequential movement in which the rear connection beam 76 of the locking member 66 moves radially inward is similarly performed.

  Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. This is to provide a protective cap 132 placed over these components to protect the retainer 16 and O-ring 18 during transport to another location for use in the assembly process. FIG. 9 shows a connector cap subassembly, generally designated 130, that includes a protective cap 132 that surrounds the retainer 16 and O-ring 18. The tube end 12, the retainer 16, and the seal member 18 are as described above with respect to FIGS.

  The protective cap 132 is shown in FIGS. This is molded from a polymeric material such as nylon, high density polyethylene, or other suitable material. The protective cap 132 is generally annular and includes a hollow sleeve 134 having a closed front end 135 and an annular ring 136 having a front cone 138 and a rear cylinder 140 spaced rearwardly of the sleeve 134. Two columns 152 that are positioned diametrically opposite each other connect the rear end of the sleeve 134 to the narrow end of the conical portion 138 of the ring 136.

  The sleeve 134 and the annular ring 136 are coaxial with respect to the axial centerline 137. The hollow sleeve 134 defines an inner bore 142 having a diameter that is slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 of the male member 12. This is sized to receive the end 21 of the tube and a portion of the cylindrical portion 24 of the tube 20 when the subassembly 130 is attached to the male member 12.

  The ring 136 of the protective cap 132 defines a through hole 148 extending from the inlet opening 150. When the retainer 16 and O-ring 18 are disposed within the protective cap 132, the ring 136 substantially overlaps the locking members 66 and 68. The inner cylindrical surface 144 of the ring 136 moves the locking members 66 and 68 radially outward during attachment of the protective cap 132, O-ring 18 and retainer 16 to the male member 12, as will be described. It is large enough to pass the enlarged diameter portion 22. The inner conical surface 146 of the formed cone 138 is a conical outer region of the locking arm 80 of the locking member 66 defined by the first inclined outer surface 84 and the second inclined outer surface 86 of each locking arm 80. It is sized to overlap closely. As will be described in detail below, when so arranged, the inner conical surface 146 prevents the locking members 66 and 68 from moving radially outward relative to the ring 54 of the retainer body.

  Extending radially outward from the axially rearward end of the sleeve 134 are two securing clips 154 positioned diametrically opposite each other between the columns 152. Each securing clip 154 includes an actuator 158 connected to the rear end of the sleeve 134 by a constricted neck 156 that allows the securing clip 154 to bend relative to the rest of the protective cap 132. Each securing clip 154 has a front surface 162 and a rear surface 164.

  A hook 160 extends axially rearward from the rear surface 164 of the actuator 158. The hook 160 tapers from a wide base at the connection with the surface 164 to a radial end surface 165 at the free end. The hook 160 is intended to detachably connect the retainer 16 to the protective cap 132.

  Each hook 160 includes a tapered abutment surface 166 that extends from a radial end surface 165 to an inward axial surface 167. The tapered surface 166 includes a smooth roundness at the surface 167 that assists in inserting the O-ring 18 into the space defined by the hook 160 and the inner surface of the column 152. The tapered surface 166 of each hook 160 is engageable with the chamfer 57 of the ring 54 of the retainer 16 when the retainer 16 is attached to the protective cap. Such engagement allows the hook 160 to bend or pivot about the constricted neck 156, so that the ring 54 of the retainer 16 can be placed between the hooks.

  The axial surface 167 of each hook is spaced from the inner axial surface 167 of the other hook 160a by a distance smaller than the outer diameter of the outer cylindrical surface 55 of the annular ring 54 of the retainer 16. In front of surface 167, each hook 160 includes a radial front mounting surface 168 that extends to an axially extending surface 169. The axially extending surfaces 169 of each hook 160 are separated from each other by a distance greater than the diameter of the outer cylindrical surface 55 of the annular ring 54 of the retainer 16. The hook grips the body ring 54 of the retainer 16 in a diametrically opposed window with the mounting surface 168 overlapping the radial rear surface 58 and the axially extending surface 169 overlapping the outer cylindrical surface 55. To the size you want.

  Each axially extending surface 169 is connected to the front tapered surface, and the front tapered surface is configured to converge toward the front axially extending surface 170. The surfaces 170 of the hooks 160 are separated from each other by a distance slightly larger than the diameter of the front cylindrical extension 62 of the retainer 16. Preferably, the surfaces 170 are spaced from each other by a distance slightly less than the outer diameter of the O-ring 18 to frictionally hold the O-ring 18. The front axially extending surface 170 is in contact with a radial stop surface 171 that defines a region behind the constricted neck 156.

  When the O-ring 18 and the retainer 16 are positioned within the protective cap 132, the hook 160 extends into one window 79 of the pair of locking members 66 or 68. The O-ring 18 fits between the front axial surfaces 170 adjacent to the radial stop surface 171. The annular extension 62 and the ring 54 of the retainer 16 fit between the O-ring 18 and the radial front surface 168 of the hook 160 in radial facing relationship with the rear surface 58 of the ring 54. The axially extending surface 169 is disposed in a spaced apart relationship with the outer cylindrical surface 55 of the ring 54. Therefore, the O-ring 18 and the retainer 16 are detachably captured in the protective cap 132.

  The axial distance between the radial front surface 168 of the hook 160 and the radial stop surface 171 of the constricted neck 156 depends on the axial thickness of the O-ring 18 and the forward annular extension 62 and annular ring 54 of the retainer 16. It is slightly larger than the combined size of the axial lengths. However, the O-ring 18 is slightly compressed radially between the front axially extending surfaces 170 of the hook 160. The restoring force provided by the elastic O-ring 18 helps to removably hold the O-ring in place between the hooks 160 until installed on the male member 12.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the column 152 is formed by connecting the O-ring 18, the annular extension 62 of the retainer 16, and the annular ring 54 with the hook 160. The inner conical surface 146 of the annular ring 136 is spaced from the inclined outer surfaces 84 and 86 of the locking arm 80 enough to allow the inclined outer surfaces 84 and 86 of the locking arm 80 to move radially outward when in contact. Have a long axial length. However, in the absence of the O-ring 18, the protective cap 132 is placed on the retainer 16 to be sufficient to place the inner conical surface 146 in a close spaced relationship overlying the second inclined outer surface 86 of the locking arm 80. On the other hand, it can move in the axial direction. In such a position, the radially outward movement of the locking arm 80 is hindered, so that the enlarged diameter portion 22 is prevented from being inserted beyond the locking arm 80.

  Such movement can and does occur when attempting to attach the protective cap 132 and retainer 16 to the male member 12 in the absence of the O-ring 18. (See FIG. 17). This action prevents the intended assembly step from completing and indicates that there is no O-ring 18. In this way, erroneous assembly without the O-ring 18 is prevented.

  The protective cap 132 further includes two radial stops 173 that are approximately 180 ° apart. Each of the radial stops is aligned with one of the securing clips 154. The stops extend radially outward from the outer surface of the sleeve 134 at a distance in the axial forward direction of the front surface 162 of the associated actuator 158. The distance between each actuator 158 and the associated stop 173 is such that the securing clip 154 is pivoted to a position such that the hook 160 is moved radially outward of the outer cylindrical surface 55 of the ring portion 54 of the retainer 16. The distance that can be made to move. By such movement, when the O-ring 18 and the retainer 16 are assembled to the male member 12, the protective cap 132 can be removed. The stop 173 prevents excessive bending of the protective clip 154 that can break the constricted neck 156 of the protective cap 132.

  The removal of the protective cap 132 may be performed immediately after the attachment step to the male member 12, or may be performed later. However, this step is performed before the male member 12 is assembled to the connector body 14.

  To form the connector cap subassembly 130, the O-ring 18 is inserted from the open end 150 of the hole 148 in the ring 136. The O-ring 18 is arranged in abutting relationship with the radial stop surface 171 of the constricted neck 156 in the space defined by the column 152 and the hook 160 between the front axial surfaces 170 of the hook 160. The retainer 16 is inserted into the hole 148 of the ring 136 until the chamfered portion 57 of the retainer 16 contacts the tapered contact surface 166 of each hook 160. The protective cap 132 and the retainer 16 are moved in a circle so that the free end of the hook 160 enters the diametrically opposed window 79 of the locking member 66 or the locking member 68. Align in the circumferential direction.

  As the retainer 16 continues to be inserted axially relative to the protective cap 132, the chamfer 57 of the body ring 54 of the retainer 16 presses against the tapered surface 166 of each hook 160, causing the associated actuator 158 to engage the constricted neck. Bend at 156. The hook 160 extends at its free end to allow the ring 54 to pass through the axial surface 167. As shown in FIG. 14, when the radial rear surface 58 of the ring 54 passes the axial surface 167, the elasticity of the polymeric material of the protective cap 132 causes the actuator 158 and hook 160 to return to the normal unbent position. Can do. The radial front mounting surface 168 of the hook 160 captures the radial rear surface 58 of the ring 54 to complete the connector cap subassembly 130.

  In the assembled position, the free end of each hook 160 is positioned in the associated window 79 of the locking member 66 or 68 of the retainer 16. The radial mounting surface 168 abuts the radial rear surface 58 of the ring 54 to prevent the retainer 16 from moving axially rearward with respect to the protective cap 132. The O-ring 18 is positioned axially forward of the annular surface 64 radially forward of the cylindrical extension 62. The O-ring 18 is held in the protective cap 132 between the front annular surface 64 and the radial stop surface 171 and between the diametrically opposed front axially extending surfaces 170.

  The connector cap subassembly 130 including the protective cap 132 with the O-ring 18 and the retainer 16 inserted can be delivered to another location for assembly to the male member 12. The connector cap assembly 130 may also form a tube assembled to the male member 12 to later complete the fluid tight connection to the body component 14. In either case, it will be appreciated that the protective cap 132 is removed from the subassembly 130 prior to attaching the male member 12 to the connector body 14. Such removal is accomplished by bending the actuator 158 toward the radial stop 173 and unfolding the hook 160 enough to disengage the cap 132 from the retainer ring 54.

  Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the connector cap subassembly 130 is configured such that the tube 20 until the inner cam surface 92 of the locking arm 80 of the locking member 66 and 68 of the retainer 16 contacts the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12. The cap is attached to the male member 12 by moving the cap relatively axially on the free end 21 (see FIG. 15). The diameter of the enlarged diameter portion 22 is larger than the diameter defined by the inner cylindrical surface 94 of the locking arm 80. The axial force applied to the tube 20 by the relative axial movement of the cap 130 spreads the locking arm 80 of the retainer 16 radially outward. When the arm 80 exceeds the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12, the arm 80 returns radially inward to the assembly position as shown in FIG. In this assembled position, the enlarged diameter portion 22 of the male member 12 is positioned in abutting relationship with the rear surface 58 of the ring 54 and the front abutting surface 82 of the locking arm 80, so that the cage 16 is Sliding in the axial direction along the male member 12 is prevented. An O-ring 18 is also disposed on the cylindrical surface 24 of the tube 20 in front of the annular extension 62 of the ring 54. The size of the inner diameter of the O-ring 18 is such that the surface 24 is gripped and held in place.

  In accordance with the present invention, the protective cap 132 is configured to ensure that the O-ring 18 is in front of the retainer 16 within the subassembly 130. Connector subassembly 130 must include an O-ring 18 for assembly to male member 12. When the O-ring 18 is not positioned axially forward of the retainer 16, the connector cap subassembly 130 moves axially relative to the male member 12 so that the inner conical surface 146 of the ring 136 is the second of the locking arm 80. The cap 132 is moved axially relative to the retainer 16 until it is intimately overlying the inclined outer surface 86. In addition, the tapered abutment surface 166 of each hook 160 moves so as to be in abutment relationship proximate to the first inclined outer surface 84 of the associated locking arm 80. As described above, this relationship between the locking member 66 or 68 and the protective cap 132 prevents the assembly of the protective cap 132 and the retainer 16 to the tube 20 from being completed. The state resulting from the absence of the O-ring 18 in the subassembly 130 is shown in FIG.

  In order to insert the male member 12 into the hole 26 of the connector body 14, the protective cap 132 must first be removed. In order to remove the protective cap 132, both actuators 158 are pulled toward the stop 173. The securing clip 154 pivots forward to move the hook 160 radially outward. Once the radial surface 168 is positioned radially outward of the outer cylindrical surface 55 of the ring 54 of the retainer 16, it can be removed by moving the protective cap axially forward relative to the male member 12. When the protective cap 132 is removed, the male member 12 to which the O-ring 18 and the retainer 16 are attached can be inserted into the hole 26 of the connector body 14 in the same manner as described above.

  Various features of the invention have been described with reference to the above embodiments. It will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

1 is an exploded view of a fluid coupling assembly embodying the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of the female connector main body taken along line 2-2 in FIG. 1. It is a perspective view of the holder | retainer of the coupling assembly shown in FIG. It is a side view of the holder | retainer shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the retainer along line 5-5 of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cage along line 6-6 of FIG. FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the connector joint of FIG. 1 in a partially assembled state. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in FIG. 1 in a fully assembled state. 1 is an exploded view of a protective cap, associated seal, retainer, and male member illustrating the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 10 is a side view of the protective cap shown in FIG. 9. It is a front view of the protective cap shown in FIG. It is a top view of the protective cap shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the protective cap taken along line 13-13 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the connector cap of FIG. 9 forming a pre-assembled subassembly with a seal and retainer. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the connector cap subassembly shown in FIG. 14 partially installed on a male member of the connector fitting assembly. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the connector cap subassembly shown in FIG. 14 fully installed in a male member of the connector fitting assembly. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connector cap subassembly of FIG. 9 showing an unusual condition.

Claims (54)

A fluid coupling assembly comprising:
A connector body defining a tube receiving hole extending in the axial direction and including a surface defining an inlet opening;
A cage that is axially insertable from the inlet opening into a hole in the connector body, and a body part disposed in the hole, and at least two extending rearwardly from the body part toward the inlet opening Comprising a locking member, the at least two locking members comprising a retainer capable of flexing radially inward upon insertion of the retainer from the inlet opening;
Each of the locking members defines at least one flexible surface engageable with the surface defining the inlet opening during insertion of the retainer into the hole, of the at least two locking members. The at least one deflecting surface of one locking member is disposed in an axially forward direction of the at least one deflecting surface of another locking member of the at least two locking members toward the main body portion of the cage, And the surface defining the inlet opening is engageable with the surface defining the inlet opening before engaging the at least one flexure surface of the other locking member of the at least two locking members. There is a fluid coupling assembly.   The at least one locking member having the at least one deflection surface disposed axially forward of the at least one deflection surface of another locking member of the at least two locking members. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 1, comprising at least one ramp defining a surface.   The body portion of the retainer includes an annular ring, the locking member includes at least one column extending axially rearward from the annular ring, and the at least one inclined portion of the at least one locking member is The fluid coupling assembly of claim 2, wherein the fluid coupling assembly is disposed in the at least one column.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 3, wherein the at least one locking member including the at least one ramp includes the two columns each having a ramp.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 4, wherein the retainer includes two locking members each having a ramp on each of the columns.   The fluid coupling assembly according to claim 5, wherein the retainer includes two locking members each having an inclined portion in each of the columns, and two other locking members.   The two locking members having the inclined portion in each of the columns are arranged to face each other in the diametrical direction, and the two other locking members are disposed between the locking members having the inclined portions in each of the columns. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 6, arranged diametrically opposite one another.   Each of the locking members includes a locking arm supported by the at least one column, the locking arm extending between a front abutment surface, a rear abutment surface, and a flexure surface of the locking member. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 3, comprising a slanted outer surface defining.   Each of the locking members includes a locking arm supported between the columns, the locking arm extending between a front abutment surface, a rear abutment surface, and a flexure surface of the locking member. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 4, comprising a sloping outer surface.   Each of the locking members includes a locking arm supported between the columns, the locking arm extending between a front abutment surface, a rear abutment surface, and a flexure surface of the locking member. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 5, comprising a sloping outer surface.   Each of the locking members includes a locking arm supported between the columns, the locking arm extending between a front abutment surface, a rear abutment surface, and a flexure surface of the locking member. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 6 including a sloping outer surface.   Each of the locking members includes a locking arm supported between the columns, the locking arm extending between a front abutment surface, a rear abutment surface, and a flexure surface of the locking member. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 7 including a sloping outer surface.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one flexure surface defined by the at least one ramp is disposed axially forward of the flexure surface of the locking arm.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 9, wherein the flexure surface defined by the ramp is disposed axially forward of the flexure surface of the locking arm.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 10, wherein the flexure surface defined by the ramp is disposed axially forward of the flexure surface of the locking arm.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 11, wherein the flexure surface defined by the ramp is disposed axially forward of the flexure surface of the locking arm.   The fluid coupling assembly of claim 12, wherein the flexure surface defined by the ramp is disposed axially forward of the flexure surface of the locking arm.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. 9. A fluid coupling assembly according to claim 8 disposed in relation to the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 9, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. 11. A fluid coupling assembly according to claim 10 disposed in relation to the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 11, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 12, in relation, disposed in the hole of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 13, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 14, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 15, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 16, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface inward of the inlet opening and the fluid coupling assembly includes a tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged diameter portion extending radially outward therefrom; The tubular member brings the front contact surface of the locking arm into contact with the enlarged diameter portion, and contacts the rear contact surface of the locking arm with the annular radial surface of the connector body. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 17, in relation, disposed within the bore of the connector body.   The fluid coupling assembly includes a seal member, and the retainer includes an extension extending forward of a body portion of the retainer, and includes a radially forward annular surface in abutting relationship with the seal member. The fluid coupling assembly according to claim 1.   The fluid coupling assembly includes an O-ring seal disposed around the outer cylindrical portion of the tube and disposed in the hole of the connector body, and the retainer includes an annular extension extending forward of the ring; The fluid coupling assembly of claim 18, wherein the annular extension includes a radially forward annular surface disposed in abutting relationship with the O-ring seal.   An O-ring seal disposed in the hole of the connector body in a sealing relationship with the cylindrical surface of the tube and in a sealing relationship with the connector body, wherein the cage is forward of the body portion of the cage An annular extension having a radially forward annular surface disposed in abutting relationship with the O-ring seal, the radial forward annular surface being subjected to an axial load applied to the O-ring under fluid pressure conditions 24. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 22 wherein A fluid coupling assembly comprising:
A connector body defining a tube receiving hole;
A tubular male member having an outer cylindrical portion disposed in the hole;
An O-ring seal disposed in the hole in a sealing relationship with the hole of the connector body and the outer cylindrical surface of the tubular male member;
A retainer disposed in the hole, and having a main body part and at least one locking member that detachably holds the tubular male member in the hole;
The retainer includes a fluid coupling assembly including a tubular extension including a radially forward annular surface disposed in abutting relationship with the O-ring in front of a body portion of the retainer.   32. The connector body of claim 31, wherein the connector body includes a cylindrical seal surface surrounding the cylindrical portion of the tubular male member, and the O-ring is disposed in a sealing relationship with the cylindrical seal surface of the connector body. Fluid coupling assembly.   The connector body includes an annular radial surface in the hole, the tubular male member includes an enlarged diameter portion extending radially in the cylindrical portion, and the cage includes the enlarged diameter portion and the annular shape. 35. The fluid coupling assembly of claim 32, including a locking arm that defines an abutment surface in abutting relationship with the radial surface. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly, the fluid coupling assembly comprising:
A connector body defining a tube receiving hole, including a surface defining an inlet opening, and defining an annular radial surface within the hole;
A tubular member having an outer cylindrical portion and an annular enlarged portion extending radially outward from the outer cylindrical portion;
A cage comprising a body portion and at least one locking member extending rearwardly from the body portion, wherein the at least one locking member comprises a locking arm having a front abutment surface and a rear abutment surface. When,
A seal member providing a fluid tight seal between the bore of the connector body and the cylindrical surface of the tubular member, the method comprising:
Attaching the retainer to the tubular member with the front contact surface in contact with the enlarged diameter portion;
Attaching the seal member to the tubular member in front of the retainer; and inserting the tubular member, the seal member, and the retainer into the hole of the connector body from the inlet opening; A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly comprising placing a tangent surface in abutting relationship with the annular radial surface within the bore. The retainer includes at least two locking members each defining at least one deflectable surface engageable with the inlet opening defining surface, the locking members respectively being a front abutting surface and a rear abutting surface. Including a locking arm having
The flexible surface of at least one locking member of the at least two locking members is disposed axially forward of the flexible surface of another locking member of the at least two locking members;
The step includes the step of the other locking of the at least two locking members before the inlet opening defining surface engages the at least one flexure surface of the other locking member of the at least two locking members. Of the at least two locking members having the at least one deflecting surface disposed axially forward of the deflecting surface of the member, the deflecting surface of the at least one locking member is engaged with the inlet opening defining surface. 35. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly according to claim 34. The at least two locking members of the retainer include a pair of columns extending from the body of the retainer, and a rear connection beam connecting the columns, and the locking arm of each of the locking members includes the rear connection Connected to the beam,
The step of inserting the tubular member, the seal member, and the retainer into the hole of the connector body further comprises bending the column of the locking member, and connecting the connector with the locking arm and the rear connection beam. 36. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly according to claim 35, comprising bending between. The retainer includes four locking members, two of the locking members having inclined portions extending radially outward from at least one of the columns of the two locking members, the inclined portions being Defining a flexible surface engageable with the inlet opening defining surface;
The step further includes engaging the inlet defining surface with the deflecting surface of each of the ramps before the inlet opening defining surface engages another deflecting surface of the retainer. Item 37. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly according to Item 36. The locking member having an inclined portion extending radially outward from at least one of the columns of the two locking members includes an inclined portion in each of the columns of the two locking members,
The step further comprises:
Before the inlet opening defining surface of the connector body engages another deflecting surface of the retainer, the inlet opening defining surface of the connector body is defined by the deflecting surface defined by the inclined portion. 38. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly according to claim 37, comprising engaging. The two locking members having the inclined portion are arranged diametrically opposite each other, and the two other locking members are arranged between the locking members having the inclined portion,
The step further comprises:
Before the inlet opening defining surface of the connector body engages another deflecting surface of the retainer, the inlet opening defining surface of the connector body is engaged with the deflecting surface of the inclined portion; 39. Forming a fluid coupling assembly according to claim 38, comprising deflecting the columns of the two locking members including the ramp before deflecting the columns of the other two locking members. Method. Providing a protective cap and attaching the seal member and the retainer to the protective cap;
Attaching the seal member, the retainer, and the protective cap to the tubular member; and prior to inserting the seal member, the retainer, and the tubular member from the inlet opening into the connector body, the protective cap 35. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly as recited in claim 34, comprising removing from the tubular member, the seal member, and the retainer. Ensuring that the sealing member is present in the protective cap upon attachment to the tubular member, the step comprising:
When the seal member is not present, the protective cap and the retainer are moved relatively axially, thereby preventing the protective cap and the retainer from being attached to the tubular member during the attachment step. 41. A method of forming a fluid coupling assembly according to claim 40, comprising: Protective cap subassembly for quick connector fitting,
A protective cap having a hollow sleeve, an annular ring spaced from the sleeve, at least one column connecting the sleeve to the ring, and at least one securing clip extending from the sleeve;
A seal member disposed radially inward of the at least one column and the at least one securing clip;
A retainer including an annular ring portion detachably connected to the protective cap by the at least one securing clip, wherein the at least one securing clip bends to detach the retainer from the protective cap. A protective cap subassembly of a quick connector coupling comprising a retainer configured to allow   The protective cap includes two securing clips extending radially from the sleeve, each of the securing clips including a hook extending axially toward the ring, the hooks being attached to the ring portion of the retainer. 43. The constricted neck configured to be removably connected, wherein the securing clip further defines a constricted neck adapted to bend to disengage the hook from the retainer ring. Protective cap subassembly for quick connector fittings.   The retainer includes a forward annular extension extending toward the seal member, the securing clip defines a radial stop surface, and the seal member includes the radial stop surface and the annular of the retainer 44. The quick connector coupling protective cap subassembly of claim 43, disposed between the extension.   Each of the hooks includes a radial abutment surface removably engaged with the ring portion of the retainer, between the radial stop surface of the securing clip and the radial abutment surface of the hook. The axial distance is slightly greater than the axial thickness of the seal member, the forward annular extension of the retainer, and the ring portion of the retainer, and the seal member, the forward of the retainer. 45. The quick connector coupling as claimed in claim 44, wherein the annular extension and the ring portion of the retainer are disposed between the radial stop surface of the securing clip and the radial abutment surface of the hook. Protective cap subassembly.   Each of the hooks defines a front axially extending surface spaced from each other by a distance slightly smaller than the outer periphery of the seal member, and the seal member is disposed between the axially extending surfaces of the hook. 46. A protective cap subassembly of a quick connector coupling according to claim 45. The retainer includes at least two locking members extending axially from the ring portion, each of the locking members including a locking arm, and the locking member and the locking arm include an enlarged portion of an associated tubular member and The outer diameter portion and the locking arm are allowed to move relatively in the axial direction by bending outward in the radial direction at the time of engagement.
The ring of the protective cap can be disposed in a spaced apart relationship overlapping the locking arm of the locking member to prevent the bending of the enlarged diameter portion of the associated tubular member and the relative axis. Defines an inner conical surface that prevents directional movement,
46. The quick of claim 45, wherein the inner conical surface of the ring of the protective cap can be disposed in a closely spaced relationship overlapping the locking member when the seal member is not present in the protective cap subassembly. Connector fitting protective cap subassembly.   At least one of the hooks of the securing clip of the protective cap abuts one of the locking members so that the enlarged diameter portion and the locking arm of the locking arm when the sealing member is not present in the protective cap subassembly. 48. A quick connector coupling as claimed in claim 47 including a tapered abutment surface that prevents said locking member from bending radially outward enough to allow said relative axial movement. Protective cap subassembly.   The protective cap further includes a radial stop member extending radially outward from the sleeve adjacent to each of the fixed clips, the fixed clip configured to limit the bending motion of the fixed clip. 44. The quick connector coupling protective cap subassembly of claim 43, wherein the protective cap subassembly is engageable with the member.   43. The quick connector coupling protective cap subassembly of claim 42, wherein the seal member is an elastic O-ring.   47. The protective cap subassembly of a quick connector coupling as claimed in claim 46, wherein said seal member is an elastic O-ring.   The protective cap subassembly of a quick connector coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retainer is molded from polyetheretherketone polymer.   43. The quick connector coupling protective cap subassembly of claim 42, wherein the protective cap is molded from nylon polymer. 43. The quick connector coupling protective cap subassembly of claim 42, wherein the protective cap is molded from high density polyethylene.

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