US20170321832A1 - Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe - Google Patents

Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20170321832A1
US20170321832A1 US15/146,569 US201615146569A US2017321832A1 US 20170321832 A1 US20170321832 A1 US 20170321832A1 US 201615146569 A US201615146569 A US 201615146569A US 2017321832 A1 US2017321832 A1 US 2017321832A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
rotation
longitudinal bore
hose
rotation member
fluid
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US15/146,569
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Timothy J. O'Connor
Steven Lorraine
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SWAN PRODUCTS LLC
Original Assignee
SWAN PRODUCTS LLC
SWAN PRODUCTS LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by SWAN PRODUCTS LLC, SWAN PRODUCTS LLC filed Critical SWAN PRODUCTS LLC
Priority to US15/146,569 priority Critical patent/US20170321832A1/en
Assigned to SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC reassignment SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: O'CONNOR, TIMOTHY J., LORRAINE, STEVEN
Priority to PCT/US2017/030779 priority patent/WO2017192681A1/fr
Priority to US16/076,773 priority patent/US10619775B2/en
Priority to MX2018011043A priority patent/MX2018011043A/es
Priority to EP17723837.5A priority patent/EP3384195B1/fr
Priority to CA3013396A priority patent/CA3013396C/fr
Priority to CN201780011316.2A priority patent/CN108700237B/zh
Publication of US20170321832A1 publication Critical patent/US20170321832A1/en
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC
Assigned to SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC reassignment SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L27/00—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement
    • F16L27/12—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement allowing substantial longitudinal adjustment or movement
    • F16L27/125—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement allowing substantial longitudinal adjustment or movement having longitudinal and rotary movement
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L15/00—Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints
    • F16L15/006—Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints with straight threads
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L27/00—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement
    • F16L27/08—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement allowing adjustment or movement only about the axis of one pipe
    • F16L27/0849—Adjustable joints, Joints allowing movement allowing adjustment or movement only about the axis of one pipe the fluid being turned through an angle when passing from one joint element to another

Definitions

  • the present invention is in the field of pipe and hose coupling elements, and more specifically in the field of pipe and hose coupling elements adapted to convey pressurized fluids.
  • Coupling elements are often used to connect pipes or hoses to a fluid source, pressurized or otherwise, and may help ensure a tight and leak-free seal between the two components.
  • a number of coupling elements are known in the art, ranging from the ubiquitous male-female threaded pair to far more specialized constructions for unique or high-performance applications.
  • a vast majority of these coupling elements share a common feature, in that they provide no rotational degrees of freedom—utilizing a rigid or otherwise fixed connection between the pipe or hose and the fluid source as a byproduct of their relatively simple design.
  • Some coupling elements may permit rotational freedom, for example using a ball and socket joint to permit a pipe or hose to pivot relative to a fluid source. However, this rotational freedom is achieved at the cost of a reduced flow rate, which is an undesirable characteristic.
  • Other coupling elements may make use of more complex designs to permit rotational freedom, relying on multiple internal channels to re-route the fluid flow depending on the different rotational configurations available. These coupling elements that utilize discontinuous fluid flow channels are mechanically complex and prone to breaking, jamming, clogging, or otherwise reducing flow performance, all of which are undesirable characteristics.
  • a hose coupler is provided in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • the hose coupler comprises: a female fitting having a first end connector and a second end connector, wherein the first end connector is a female threaded end connector for attachment to a hose or a spigot; a male fitting having a third end connector and a fourth end connector, wherein the third end connector is a male threaded end connector for attachment to a hose or a spigot; and a rotation assembly coupled between the female fitting and the male fitting.
  • the rotation assembly comprises a first rotation member rotatable about a first axis of rotation and having a first longitudinal bore for conveying a fluid; a second rotation member rotatable about a second axis of rotation that is different from the first axis of rotation and having a second longitudinal bore for conveying a fluid; and a single continuous internal channel for conveying a fluid between the female fitting and the male fitting, wherein the internal channel comprises at least the first longitudinal bore and the second longitudinal bore.
  • the first axis of rotation is perpendicular to the second axis of rotation.
  • the first rotation member is rotatable 180 degrees about the first axis of rotation.
  • the first rotation member comprises an upper half coupled to the female fitting and a lower half coupled to the male fitting.
  • the second rotation member is rotatable 360 degrees about the second axis of rotation.
  • the second rotation member comprises a rotatable coupling between the lower half of the first rotation member and a one of the second end connector and the fourth end connector.
  • the internal diameter of the single continuous internal channel is between 0.4 inches and 0.6 inches.
  • the internal diameter of the first longitudinal bore is equal to the internal diameter of the second longitudinal bore.
  • first rotation member and second rotation member both contain at least one O-ring, wherein a diameter of the O-ring is larger than an internal diameter of one or more of the first longitudinal bore or the second longitudinal bore and is oriented perpendicular to the respective first or second axis of rotation.
  • the first axis of rotation is parallel to the first longitudinal bore for conveying a fluid.
  • the second axis of rotation is parallel to the second longitudinal bore for conveying a fluid.
  • the single continuous internal channel comprises a fluid connection between the female fitting, the second rotation member, the first rotation member, and the male fitting.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled pipe or hose coupling element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view taken along a longitudinal axis of the assembled coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional top view taken along a longitudinal axis of the coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along a radial axis of the coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5A is a side view of a first rotational configuration of the coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5B is a side view of a second rotational configuration of the coupling element of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5C is a side view of a third rotational configuration of the coupling element of FIG. 1 . coupled to a fluid source.
  • FIG. 5D is a side view of the coupling element of FIG. 1 disconnected from the fluid source and shown rotated 90 degrees.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary pipe or hose coupling element 100 of the present disclosure.
  • the multi-component coupling element 100 may be constructed from one or more different materials—each of its constituent components may be constructed from a number of suitable materials, including but not limited to, plastics such as polyethylene, nylon, PVC, polypropylene and metals such as brass and stainless steel, or any other such suitable materials as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • plastics such as polyethylene, nylon, PVC, polypropylene and metals such as brass and stainless steel, or any other such suitable materials as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the choice of a specific material may be driven by parameters such as cost, durability, weather resistance, pressure requirements, or any other such parameters.
  • Coupling element 100 consists of a female fitting 102 provided at a first end, a male fitting 108 provided at a second end, and a rotation assembly 105 coupled between female fitting 102 and male fitting 108 .
  • Rotation assembly 105 as illustrated, comprises a first rotation member 120 and a second rotation member 130 , and provides two degrees of rotational freedom, as will be subsequently explained in greater detail.
  • coupling element 100 is illustrated with female fitting 102 and male fitting 108 , in some embodiments coupling element 100 may be adapted to provide two female fittings, or two male fittings, as is required by the end thread geometry of a fluid source or a hose to which coupling element 100 will be connected. Additional coupling elements, such as a male-to-female adapter or a female-to-male adapter, may be used in conjunction with coupling element 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • coupling element 100 may be coupled between a hose and a fluid source, wherein the fluid source is generally pressurized, although coupling element 100 is equally suitable for use with a non-pressurized fluid source.
  • a fluid source may be provided by a tap or spigot such as those commonly found in most residential and commercial buildings for providing pressurized water (e.g. often at a pressure in the range of 3-30 psi).
  • a fluid source may be provided by a hose or pipe.
  • Female fitting 102 can consist of a first end connector 104 and a second end connector 106 (obscured, see FIG.
  • female fitting 102 may further comprise a protective cover 103 .
  • a central longitudinal bore 216 (in FIG. 2 aligned with a central longitudinal axis 150 ) for conveying fluids runs the entire length of female fitting 102 and provides continuous fluid communication through rotation assembly 105 , and between female fitting 102 and male fitting 108 .
  • the central longitudinal bore 216 may be defined between first end connector 104 and second end connector 106 .
  • First end connector 104 may be provided with female threads 310 (in FIG.
  • Protective cover 103 may be sized such that it encloses at least a portion of first end connector 104 and second end connector 106 , simultaneously preventing dust or foreign particles from entering rotation assembly 105 and providing an increased hand-held grip surface area for a user of coupling element 100 .
  • Protective cover 103 may be rigidly attached such that no relative movement is possible between any of the constituent components of female fitting 102 .
  • Male fitting 108 consists of a third end connector 110 and a fourth end connector 112 , disposed at opposing openings or ends of male fitting 108 .
  • a central longitudinal bore 126 for conveying fluids is aligned along a central longitudinal axis 150 b , and runs the entire length of male fitting 108 .
  • Longitudinal bore 126 can provide continuous fluid communication through rotation assembly 105 , and between female fitting 102 and male fitting 108 .
  • a single continuous internal channel runs through the entire length of coupling element 100 from end connector 104 to end connector 110 .
  • the single continuous internal channel of coupling element 100 consists of multiple circular longitudinal bores, although it is understood that other geometries may be employed without departing form the scope of the present disclosure.
  • third end connector 110 is provided with male threads and fourth end connector 112 is used to attach male fitting 108 to rotation assembly 105 .
  • male fitting 108 may have the same internal bore diameter as female fitting 102 , and in some embodiments, male fitting 108 may have a larger or smaller internal bore diameter compared to female fitting 102 .
  • a rotation assembly 105 comprising first rotation member 120 and second rotation member 130 is coupled between female fitting 102 and male fitting 108 , and, as illustrated, provides two degrees of rotational freedom.
  • First rotation member 120 comprises a lower half 122 rotatable coupled to an upper half 124 , and provides a first degree of rotational freedom about a first axis of rotation 140 , where axis 140 is perpendicular (transverse) to each of axis 150 and axis 150 b .
  • Lower half 122 and upper half 124 may be substantially similarly sized, with respect to one or more of length, width, and height.
  • first axis of rotation 140 is situated at a central point of, and oriented substantially perpendicular to, one or more of a flat, circular face of upper half 124 and a flat, circular face of lower half 122 .
  • first rotation member 120 can permit the continuous relative rotation between lower half 122 (and all components to which it is rigidly coupled along first axis of rotation 140 ) and upper half 124 (and all components to which it is rigidly coupled along first axis of rotation 140 ), wherein the phrase ‘all coupled components’ is understood to include both the constituent components of coupling element 100 and any external components connected to the coupling element such as hoses, fluid sources, and adapters.
  • first rotation member 120 can permit the continuous relative rotation between a first group of coupled components, comprising lower half 122 , female fitting 102 , and a hose or a fluid source, and a second group of coupled components, comprising upper half 124 , male fitting 108 , and a hose or a fluid source.
  • first rotation member 120 The motive force compelling a rotation of first rotation member 120 is generally provided by an external source, such as a user of coupling element 100 .
  • first rotation member 120 permits a limited amount of relative rotation between lower half 122 and upper half 124 and their respectively coupled components—for example, the range of rotation may be restricted to 180 degrees.
  • second rotation member 130 comprises a rotatable coupling 132 between lower half 122 and female fitting 102 , with rotatable coupling 132 herein simply indicating the interface between lower half 122 and female fitting 102 .
  • rotatable coupling 132 may be provided as its own distinct component, separate from one or more of lower half 122 and female fitting 102 .
  • rotatable coupling 132 can be comprised of a portion of one or more of lower half 122 and female fitting, such that rotatable coupling 132 does not provide any distinct components to coupling element 100 .
  • second rotation member 130 provides a second degree of rotational freedom about a second axis of rotation 150 .
  • second axis of rotation 150 passes through a central point of the central longitudinal bore 216 (in FIG. 2 ) of female fitting 102 .
  • the second axis of rotation 150 is substantially parallel to central longitudinal bore 216 .
  • second axis of rotation 150 is coaxial with the central longitudinal bore 126 and central axis 150 b of male fitting 108 , although it is understood that this condition is dependent upon the rotational configuration of the previously described first rotation member 120 .
  • First axis of rotation 140 and second axis of rotation 150 may be different and oriented in distinct directions.
  • first axis of rotation 140 and second axis of rotation 150 are oriented perpendicular to one another, as illustrated, such that coupling element 100 is able to achieve two degrees of rotational freedom.
  • second rotation member 130 permits continuous relative rotation between lower half 122 (and all components to which it is rigidly coupled along second axis of rotation 150 ) and female half 102 (and all components to which it is rigidly coupled along second axis of rotation 150 ), wherein all coupled components is understood to include both the constituent components of coupling element 100 and any external components connected to the coupling element such as hoses, fluid sources, and adapters.
  • second rotation member 130 can permit the continuous relative rotation between a first group of coupled components, comprising lower half 122 , upper half 124 , male fitting 108 , and a hose or a fluid source, and a second group of coupled components, comprising female fitting 102 and a hose or a fluid source.
  • second rotation member 130 can permit an unlimited amount of relative rotation between lower half 122 and female fitting 102 and their respectively coupled components.
  • first rotation member 120 and second rotation member 130 may be adjusted simultaneously, without any adverse effect such as flow restriction. That is, coupling element 100 is configured to provide two simultaneous degrees of rotational freedom, rather than requiring a stepwise adjustment of only a single degree of rotational freedom at any given moment. As such, coupling element 100 is able to more robustly provide dynamic adjustment and repositioning when coupled between a hose and a fluid source, thereby serving to more effectively and quickly reduce or eliminate any kinking or twisting stresses induced in the hose. Furthermore, because both first rotation member 120 and second rotation member 130 can provide a continuous, rather than discrete and pre-defined, degree of rotation, coupling element 100 is able to offer a vastly larger number of positioning configurations between a hose and a fluid source.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view 200 of the unassembled components of the coupling element 100 , wherein it is understood that the preceding description and functionality may apply equally to exploded view 200 .
  • FIG. 2 depicts a certain separation of distinct components of exemplary hose coupling element 100
  • other embodiments are possible that combine or divide one or more of the illustrated components.
  • male fitting 108 and upper half 124 of the first rotation member are depicted as two separate and distinct components that are rigidly attached, for example, at fourth end connector 112 via a press fit or application of an adhesive—but in some embodiments, male fitting 108 and upper half 124 of the first rotation member may be provided as a single, continuous piece of material without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • male fitting 108 and female fitting 102 as separate and distinct components confers the advantage of modularity, allowing a hose coupling element of the present disclosure to easily and quickly be provided with, for example, two female fittings or two male fittings rather than one of each, as discussed previously.
  • a first O-ring 202 is provided between lower half 122 and upper half 124 of first rotation member 120 , such that O-ring 202 enables the smooth and continuous relative rotation between lower half 122 and upper half 124 as previously described.
  • O-ring 202 can be provided at an interface between lower half 122 and upper half 124 , or O-ring 202 may be substantially contained within one of lower half 122 and upper half 124 .
  • O-ring 202 is contained within lower half 122 , compressed between a sealing member 218 a of upper half 124 and a receiving groove 218 b of lower half 122 , wherein sealing member 218 a and receiving ledge 218 b can be configured to substantially isolate O-ring 202 from any fluids that may be transmitted through coupling element 100 —particularly advantageous in the presence of corrosive or otherwise damaging fluids, although it is understood that a variety of different configurations may be employed to secure and retain O-ring 202 such that it may enable the smooth and continuous rotation of first rotation member 120 .
  • This radial compression design isolates O-ring 202 from any compressive forces that may arise during the rotation of first rotation member 120 —in other words, ensuring that O-ring 202 does not experience any tightening action or effect as a result of the rotation. As such, the longevity of O-ring 202 and coupling element 100 can be greatly increased, and a user of coupling element 100 may experience less drag or resistance while rotating first rotation member 120 .
  • O-ring 202 may provide an additional sealing functionality, preventing the egress of any fluid at the interface between lower half 122 and upper half 124 , thereby maintaining the integrity of the single internal continuous channel of coupling element 100 while still permitting the illustrated two-piece construction of first rotation member 120 .
  • a number of various mechanisms may be provided in order to provide the smooth and continuous rotation of first rotation member 120 , including but not limited to, one or more ball bearings, multiple O-rings, or lubricants.
  • a central longitudinal bore 206 runs vertically through lower half 122 and upper half 124 of the first rotation member 120 , and in some embodiments may comprise a cylindrical geometry oriented such that first axis of rotation 140 passes through a central point of longitudinal bore 206 , although non-cylindrical geometries may also be employed. In some embodiments, first axis of rotation 140 may be parallel to a central axis of longitudinal bore 206 . As illustrated, the central axis of longitudinal bore 206 remains the same in both lower half 122 and upper half 124 , although in some embodiments, the central axis of longitudinal bore 206 may not remain the same, instead varying one or more of position and rotation with respect to vertical height along rotation member 120 .
  • Longitudinal bore 206 forms a single continuous channel through the interior of first rotation member 120 , and may be in fluid communication with male fitting 108 at one end and fluid communication with second rotation member 130 at the other end.
  • the internal diameter of longitudinal bore 206 may be constant, or it may vary along the vertical height of first rotation member 120 , in which case longitudinal bore 206 may be defined by its minimum internal diameter. As illustrated, an internal diameter of longitudinal bore 206 is less than an internal diameter of lower half 122 , such that an empty section 222 is created between an inner cylindrical wall of lower half 122 and an outer cylindrical wall of longitudinal bore 206 .
  • empty section 222 may be adapted to receive a corresponding section of upper half 124 in order to limit the range through which first rotation member 120 can rotate to, for example, 180 degrees.
  • a protrusion or peg (not illustrated) may extend from upper half 124 and be received in empty section 222 . During rotation through the permissible range, the protrusion or peg will simply rotate through empty section 222 unimpeded. However, if rotation continues until reaching either end of the permissible range, the protrusion or peg may be designed to come into contact with a portion of empty section 222 , thereby mechanically arresting the rotation movement and providing the desired limit to the range of rotation of first rotation member 120 .
  • empty section 222 may be provided in upper half 124 , and a protrusion or peg may be provided in lower half 122 , achieving the same functionality as described above.
  • an internal diameter of longitudinal bore 206 and first rotation member 120 may be the same, in which case various alternate mechanisms may be used to provide the desired limit to the range of rotation of first rotation member 120 .
  • the second rotation member 130 comprises a rotatable coupling 132 between lower half 122 of the first rotation member and female fitting 102 .
  • a detailed view of female fitting 102 is provided, recalling that, in FIG. 1 , female fitting 102 was obscured by protective cover 103 .
  • First end connector 104 is provided with female threads 310 along at least a portion of its interior cylindrical wall, which, although still not visible, allows female fitting 102 to couple to any correspondingly sized male threaded connector of a hose or fluid source.
  • the internal diameter of the second end connector 106 can define a minimum internal diameter of a central longitudinal bore 216 , wherein longitudinal bore 216 may extend from second end connector 106 to first end connector 104 , spanning the entire length of female fitting 102 .
  • longitudinal bore 216 may vary along the length of female fitting 102 , wherein longitudinal bore 216 is defined by its minimum internal diameter. As illustrated, longitudinal bore 216 is cylindrical in its cross section, although other geometries may be employed without diminishing the ability of coupling element 100 to convey fluids. In some embodiments, longitudinal bore 216 and longitudinal bore 206 may have the same internal diameter or, in the case of a varying internal diameter, have the same channel contour or profile. Longitudinal bore 216 can terminate at first end connector 104 , such that longitudinal bore 216 is fluidly coupled to a fluid source or a hose.
  • a coupling sleeve 220 is provided as a portion of rotatable coupling 132 , wherein coupling sleeve 220 serves to protect and isolate the rotation mechanism of second rotation member 130 from any environmental factors or foreign particles.
  • the rotation mechanism of second rotation member 130 is provided by a second O-ring 212 , which is seated in a receiving groove 214 b provided at second end connector 106 of female fitting 102 , wherein both receiving groove 214 b and second end connector 106 have a smaller outer diameter than first end connector 104 .
  • first O-ring 202 and second O-ring 212 may be identical, regardless of whether or not first longitudinal bore 206 and second longitudinal bore 216 have the same diameter.
  • O-ring 202 and O-ring 212 may differ in one or more of their characteristics, including but not limited to diameter, width, thickness, and material type, depending on the desired performance characteristics or anticipated usage pattern.
  • O-ring 212 may be expected to experience a greater degree of wear and rotation cycles in comparison to O-ring 202 , and may be have its physical characteristics adjusted accordingly.
  • Coupling sleeve 220 may be rigidly attached at one end to lower half 122 of the first rotation member, and rotatably coupled to second end connector 106 of female fitting 102 at the other end.
  • coupling sleeve 220 may be provided integrally with lower half 122 , for example via a single piece construction.
  • a sealing member 214 a may be provided along the interior cylindrical wall of coupling sleeve 220 , such that O-ring 212 may be compressed between sealing member 214 a and receiving groove 214 b in order to enable a smooth and continuous relative rotation between lower half 122 and female fitting 102 .
  • sealing member 214 a may be provided at a central point along the horizontal length of coupling sleeve 220 , disposed substantially halfway between the first and second open ends of coupling sleeve 220 .
  • O-ring 212 may be substantially isolated from any fluids that may be transmitted through coupling element 100 , and may likewise utilize a radial compression design to ensure that O-ring 212 does not experience any tightening action as a result of rotation.
  • O-ring 212 may provide an additional sealing functionality, preventing the egress of any fluid at the interface between lower half 122 , coupling sleeve 220 , and female fitting 102 , thereby maintaining the integrity of the single internal continuous channel of coupling element 100 while still permitting the illustrated multi-piece construction of second rotation member 130 .
  • a number of various mechanisms may be provided in order to provide the smooth and continuous rotation of second rotation member 130 , including but not limited to, one or more ball bearings, multiple O-rings, or lubricants.
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view 300 of exemplary coupling element 100 , providing a more detailed depiction of the fluid flow path along the single continuous internal channel of coupling element 100 .
  • the following description is made with reference to a scenario in which female fitting 102 is coupled to a fluid source but applies equally to a scenario in which male fitting 108 is coupled to a fluid source.
  • a fluid source may be connected to coupling element 100 via the female threads of first end connector 104 , thereby permitting a fluid to enter and flow through longitudinal bore 216 .
  • longitudinal bore 216 has a diameter that varies along the length of female fitting 102 , decreasing to a minimum diameter at second end connector 106 . In some embodiments, this minimum diameter is half an inch such that coupling element 100 does not restrict the flow rate of fluid from the fluid source, although other internal diameters may be employed that similarly do not lead to a restriction in flow rate.
  • a pressurized fluid source may be provided by a water tap or spigot, such as those commonly found on the side of most homes and businesses.
  • Such water taps generally provide water at a maximum flow rate of approximately 10 gallons per minute (GPM), and with a minimum internal diameter of half an inch, coupling element 100 is able to maintain this flow rate and provide 10 gallons per minute to a connected hose.
  • coupling element 100 may be intended for use with a fluid source with a different flow rate, and the minimum internal diameter may be adjusted correspondingly in order to avoid any flow rate restriction.
  • fluid then enters a fluid channel 302 that runs through the interior of lower half 122 of the first rotation member, with the flow path of the fluid being generally redirected downwards by approximately 90 degrees relative to the path through which it entered coupling element 100 .
  • the fluid then flows downwards until encountering the interior wall of lower half 122 , at which point the flow path is redirected by another 90 degrees such that the fluid is once again traveling in the same direction in which it entered coupling element 100 .
  • longitudinal bore 206 is depicted as having a flat opening that is parallel to the interior wall of lower half 122 of the first rotation member, this opening may be beveled or angled to better receive the fluid flow—that is, the right hand side of the opening of longitudinal bore 206 may be higher than the left hand side, thereby increasing the effective cross-sectional area through which the fluid may enter.
  • the fluid is ultimately redirected by a further 90 degrees, such that is urged upwards and through longitudinal bore 206 by virtue of some combination of gravity and a driving pressure provided by the fluid source.
  • the fluid then exits longitudinal bore 206 , and flows into an inner chamber 304 of upper half 124 of the first rotation member.
  • inner chamber 304 defines a larger volume than that contained by longitudinal bore 206 , although in some embodiments the two volumes may be adjusted such that they are equal, or such that inner chamber 304 defines a smaller volume than that contained by longitudinal bore 206 .
  • the fluid then flows downward, into a channel running through male fitting 108 , before finally exiting coupling element 100 , noting that the fluid flow may be in the same direction as that in which it entered coupling element 100 .
  • the fluid travels through a single continuous internal channel—that is, at no point does the fluid flow split or otherwise diverge in multiple directions. More specifically, as illustrated, the single continuous internal channel comprises, in sequence, longitudinal bore 216 , channel 302 , longitudinal bore 206 , inner chamber 304 , and longitudinal bore 206 .
  • a single internal channel makes coupling element 100 more robust in use, as the increased mechanical complexity associated with multiple fluids flows or channels may increase the likelihood of breakage, clogging, or generally inhibited performance.
  • one or both of the internal diameter and the cross sectional area of the single continuous internal channel may not be constant.
  • a minimum internal diameter of the single continuous internal channel is between 0.4 and 0.6 inches in order to prevent a reduction in flow rate relative to the flow rate of a coupled fluid source.
  • first rotation member 120 and second rotation member 130 can be adjusted and repositioned while fluid is flowing through coupling element 100 .
  • the single continuous internal channel serves to isolate the rotation mechanisms, implemented herein by O-rings 202 and 212 , from the fluid flow, such that the fluid flow generates little to no additional resistive force resisting the rotation of either of the two rotation members.
  • first rotation member 120 can be rotated through a full 180-degree range without having any effect on the internal diameter or configuration of both the longitudinal bore 206 and the entire single continuous internal fluid channel itself, enabled at least in part by the fact that the first axis of rotation 140 is contained within longitudinal bore 206 . As such, fluid can continue to flow through coupling element 100 independently of any rotation or positioning adjustments that are made.
  • second rotation member 130 may be rotated through a full 360-degree range, while fluid flows through coupling member 100 , without having any effect on the internal diameter or configuration of both the longitudinal bore 216 and the entire single continuous internal fluid channel itself.
  • lower half 122 and its coupled components may be free to rotate 360 degrees relative to the spigot.
  • the hose when a hose is connected to the other end of coupling element 100 via male fitting 108 , the hose remains free to rotate relative to the spigot—thereby eliminating any twisting forces that would have otherwise been induced. Eliminating these twisting forces can increase the longevity of the hose, as it experiences a substantially lessened degree of mechanical stress and strain, and further still, eliminating these twisting forces can largely eliminate the kinking that is so commonly experienced by hose users.
  • second rotation member 130 may comprise a rotatable coupling between fourth end connector 114 of male fitting 108 , and one of lower half 122 and upper half 124 of first rotation member 120 and still achieve the same functionality outlined above.
  • a 360-degree rotation member such as second rotation member 130 may be provided at both ends of coupling element 100 , such that a central portion of coupling element 100 may be substantially isolated from any rotations along the second axis of rotation 150 .
  • FIG. 4A depicts a top down cross-sectional view 400 a of exemplary coupling element 100 .
  • FIG. 4B depicts a cross-sectional view 400 b taken along a longitudinal view of the single continuous internal channel of exemplary coupling element 100 .
  • appearance of the second rotation member 130 has remained generally unchanged in comparison to the cross-sectional view 300 , which, in some embodiments, is a consequence of its radial symmetry and ability to rotate freely through 360 degrees.
  • first end connector 104 second end connector 105 , protective cover 103 , O-ring 212 , and coupling sleeve 220 exhibit radial symmetry about one or more of the second axis of rotation 150 and a central axis of longitudinal bore 216 , such that the geometric configuration of the single continuous fluid flow channel remains constant during any rotation of female fitting 102 with respect to lower half 122 and upper half 124 of the first rotation member, thereby preventing any impediment or other adjustment to the flow rate or flow characteristics through coupling element 100 .
  • inner chamber 304 may rest above empty section 222 , and may further define an interior wall portion of the single continuous internal channel, providing a covering such that fluid is unable to flow into empty section 222 . Fluid can thereby flow directly from longitudinal bore 206 into inner chamber 304 and through male fitting 108 , avoiding empty section 222 altogether.
  • lubrication may be provided to further ensure smooth relative rotation between lower half 122 and upper half 124 , in which case it may be undesirable for fluid to enter empty section 222 .
  • inner chamber 304 may be designed such that it covers only a portion of empty section 222 , or there may be no dividing wall provided between inner chamber 204 and empty section 222 .
  • empty section 222 can be sized to implement a desired rotational range restriction for the first rotation member 120 , where, for example, a portion of upper half 124 protrudes into empty section 222 and provides a mechanical arresting force upon making contact with either of the two terminal ends of empty section 222 .
  • FIG. 4A depicts a configuration that may be sized to implement a rotational range restriction of 180-degrees, it is appreciated that other rotational range restrictions may be implemented, by means such as modifying the length of empty section 222 , modifying an internal taper of empty section 22 , or modifying a size of the protruding portion of upper half 124 .
  • FIG. 4B illustrates how, in some embodiments, longitudinal bore 206 serves to fluidly couple inner chamber 304 and fluid channel 302 to one another.
  • longitudinal bore 206 defines a smaller volume than either inner chamber 304 or fluid channel 302 , although this volume relationship may be varied by, for example, increasing one or more of the height and the diameter of longitudinal bore 206 .
  • longitudinal bore 206 is entirely contained within and defined by upper half 124 of the first rotation member, although it is appreciated that a variety of different configurations may be used to define longitudinal bore 206 while maintaining the integrity of the single continuous internal fluid channel of the present disclosure.
  • longitudinal bore 206 may be entirely contained within and defined by lower half 122 of the first rotation member.
  • longitudinal bore 206 may be defined by a combination of both lower half 122 and upper half 124 , wherein lower half 122 and upper half 124 each define a portion of longitudinal bore 206 and a seal is provided at the interface between lower half 122 and upper half 124 in order to prevent any fluid leaks.
  • FIGS. 5A-D illustrate various exemplar configurations of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B depict an exemplary rotational range of the first rotation member 120 , wherein configuration 500 a depicts a first rotational extreme and configuration 500 b depicts a second rotational extreme, offset by 180-degrees from the first rotational extreme of configuration 500 a .
  • the rotation between these two positions may be effected by a user manually grasping first rotation member 120 or male fitting 108 , and exerting a force sufficient to cause rotation.
  • the force required to cause rotation is not affected by the presence of fluid flowing through coupling element 100 .
  • the force for causing rotation between configuration 500 a and configuration 500 b may also be transmitted by a hose coupled at its first end to coupling element 100 and held by a user at some second point along the length of the hose, wherein the second point may lie anywhere between the first end of the hose and the second end of the hose.
  • a user can pull on the hose, transmitting a force sufficient to cause rotation in the direction of the user's pull.
  • a user may choose to walk or otherwise move with the hose in hand, causing a gradual rotation that generally acts to continuously realign the hose and coupling element 100 with the user's current position. While reference has been made throughout this description to smooth and continuous rotation, it is also possible for the rotation to be controlled or limited in a stepwise fashion, through the use of detents or other mechanisms that may provide a finite number of fixed or pre-defined rotational positions.
  • FIGS. 5C and 5D depict an exemplary coupling between coupling element 100 and a fluid source 510 , herein provided by a spigot of the type that may be found on the side of most residential and commercial properties for providing pressurized water.
  • FIG. 5C illustrates a configuration 500 c in which coupling element 100 has been attached to spigot 510 , for example through the use of male and female threads, exemplary male threads 512 being illustrated on spigot 510 in FIG. 5D .
  • the larger diameter of protective cover 103 relative to other components of coupling element 100 may prove advantageous to a user attempting to attach or detach coupling element 100 to spigot 510 , for example by providing a lever-arm and improved grip surface to confer a greater mechanical advantage to the user.
  • second rotation member 130 can then enable a user to effect a relative rotation between spigot 510 and a hose (not depicted) coupled to male end 108 .
  • this rotation can be effected by a user manually grasping first rotation member 120 or male fitting 108 , and exerting a sufficient force.
  • this force required to cause rotation is not affected by the presence of fluid flowing through coupling element 100 .
  • the force required to cause rotation is adjusted such that it falls below a threshold required to detach coupling element 100 from spigot 510 , thereby preventing an accidental detachment of spigot 510 and coupling element 100 .
  • the force for causing rotation between spigot 510 and a hose coupled to male end 108 can also be transmitted by the hose itself, wherein the hose may be held by a user at some point along the length of the hose. For example, the user may pull on the hose, or choose to walk or otherwise move with the hose in hand, creating a twisting force along the length of the hose. As would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, absent the use of the coupling element of the present disclosure, it is these twisting forces that otherwise often cause kinking and excessive tangling of hoses.
  • Rotation mechanism 130 serves to eliminate or dissipate these twisting forces, allowing the hose to continuously re-orient itself relative to spigot 510 , thereby maintaining a relaxed and reduced-tension state that is far less prone to kinking, tangling, and other such common issues experienced by hose users.
  • a user may separately provide a force necessary to cause a rotation of either first rotation member 120 or second rotation member 130 .
  • a user can simultaneously cause a rotation of both of the rotation members 120 and 130 , wherein both rotations are driven by the same underlying force.
  • a single force may cause the hose to rotate to various positions between configuration 500 a and 500 b and cause the hose to rotate to various positions along a full 360-degree range defined relative to the fluid source, noting that the starting and ending configurations of such a rotation range are identical, and therefore not explicitly demarcated in FIGS. 5A and 5B .
  • these two rotational degrees of rotational freedom that may be provided by exemplary coupling element 100 can permit the hose to assume a vast number of configurations relative to the fluid source.
  • coupling element 100 may enable the hose to sweep through and assume any one of a set of configurations defined by a hemisphere centered at the fluid source.
  • the present disclosure can ensure that in any given scenario, a user of coupling element 100 achieves an optimal positioning of a hose relative to a fluid source, coupling element 100 serving to reduce kinking and rotational stresses induced along the length of the hose, and further acting to reduce any bending stresses that would otherwise be induced at the coupling interface between the hose and the fluid source.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Joints Allowing Movement (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
US15/146,569 2016-05-04 2016-05-04 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe Abandoned US20170321832A1 (en)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/146,569 US20170321832A1 (en) 2016-05-04 2016-05-04 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe
CN201780011316.2A CN108700237B (zh) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 用于软管或管道的多轴可旋转耦接元件
EP17723837.5A EP3384195B1 (fr) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Élément raccord rotatif à axes multiples destiné à un tuyau flexible ou tuyau rigide
US16/076,773 US10619775B2 (en) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe
MX2018011043A MX2018011043A (es) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Elemento de acoplamiento rotatorio de ejes multiples para manguera o tubo.
PCT/US2017/030779 WO2017192681A1 (fr) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Élément raccord rotatif à axes multiples destiné à un tuyau flexible ou tuyau rigide
CA3013396A CA3013396C (fr) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Element raccord rotatif a axes multiples destine a un tuyau flexible ou tuyau rigide

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/146,569 US20170321832A1 (en) 2016-05-04 2016-05-04 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US16/076,773 Continuation US10619775B2 (en) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20170321832A1 true US20170321832A1 (en) 2017-11-09

Family

ID=58709581

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/146,569 Abandoned US20170321832A1 (en) 2016-05-04 2016-05-04 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe
US16/076,773 Active US10619775B2 (en) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US16/076,773 Active US10619775B2 (en) 2016-05-04 2017-05-03 Multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (2) US20170321832A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP3384195B1 (fr)
CN (1) CN108700237B (fr)
CA (1) CA3013396C (fr)
MX (1) MX2018011043A (fr)
WO (1) WO2017192681A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN111958910A (zh) * 2019-05-20 2020-11-20 史陶比尔法万举 阴流体连接元件、连接子组件和包括该阴元件的连接件

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3090796B1 (fr) * 2018-12-20 2021-03-19 Mdc RACCORD ÉTANCHE à GÉOMÉTRIE VARIABLE AMÉLIORÉ
EP3956595B1 (fr) * 2019-04-18 2023-01-25 Husqvarna AB Manchon d'accouplement pour raccord de tuyau à action rapide
EP3764077B1 (fr) * 2019-07-08 2022-02-16 ABB Schweiz AG Adaptateur d'analyseur de processus

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1196252A (en) * 1966-07-05 1970-06-24 Jean Gachot Improvements in or relating to Ball Valves
FI54537C (fi) * 1968-08-29 1978-12-11 Broen Armatur As Stopp- eller regleringskran
CH506014A (fr) * 1970-02-06 1971-04-15 Xomox Corp Robinet de réglage d'écoulement de fluides hautement destructeurs
US6257505B1 (en) * 2000-12-13 2001-07-10 King-Yuan Wang Sprinkling head structure of sprinkling gun
JP3983713B2 (ja) * 2002-06-28 2007-09-26 日東工器株式会社 管継手
CN1230645C (zh) * 2002-06-28 2005-12-07 日东工器株式会社 管接头
DE102004061040A1 (de) * 2004-12-18 2006-06-29 Gardena Manufacturing Gmbh Verbindungsanordnung für eine Fluidleitung, insbesondere Hahnstück
DE202005015983U1 (de) * 2005-10-13 2006-03-02 Liao, Yuan-Ching, Min-Hsiung Fluidverbinder
DE202010016929U1 (de) 2010-12-23 2011-02-24 Parker Hannifin Gmbh Dreh- und Schwenkverbindung für Hochdrucksysteme
DE202011105883U1 (de) * 2011-09-19 2011-12-15 Home Yard Global Co., Ltd. Rohrverbinder
JP5832349B2 (ja) * 2012-03-28 2015-12-16 日東工器株式会社 管継手
WO2014160093A1 (fr) * 2013-03-13 2014-10-02 Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc. Raccord de tuyau incorporant deux ou plus de deux pivots

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN111958910A (zh) * 2019-05-20 2020-11-20 史陶比尔法万举 阴流体连接元件、连接子组件和包括该阴元件的连接件

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN108700237B (zh) 2020-04-07
CN108700237A (zh) 2018-10-23
EP3384195B1 (fr) 2019-07-17
US20190049046A1 (en) 2019-02-14
WO2017192681A1 (fr) 2017-11-09
CA3013396A1 (fr) 2017-11-09
CA3013396C (fr) 2019-12-31
EP3384195A1 (fr) 2018-10-10
MX2018011043A (es) 2019-01-10
US10619775B2 (en) 2020-04-14

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA3013396C (fr) Element raccord rotatif a axes multiples destine a un tuyau flexible ou tuyau rigide
US8371618B2 (en) Hidden pivot attachment for showers and method of making same
US11415252B2 (en) Swivel coupling
US20150001842A1 (en) Multi-Axis Hose Connector Assembly
US6550817B1 (en) Bearinged swivel connector for fuel dispensing nozzle
US20140318664A1 (en) Non-Kinking Fluid Delivery Hose
US10259619B2 (en) Quick connect coupling device for a hose and a quick connect cap for bottle or other vessel
US9310004B2 (en) Water outlet fitting with a ball-and-socket joint
US20070046023A1 (en) Connecting structure of water transfer pipeline
US5671954A (en) Swivel connector for nozzle and garden hose
US20200326021A1 (en) Hose connector
US10323780B1 (en) Orbital coupling arrangement
US20160281891A1 (en) Swiveling Plumbing Fixture
US9989175B2 (en) Fluid component adapter and method
AU2008202706B2 (en) Shower Pivot
US20160091098A1 (en) Integrable Barrel Valve and Irrigation Piping Component Comprising Same
CN212690879U (zh) 角阀及出水装置
CN216075358U (zh) 一种出水装置
WO2002061323A1 (fr) Joint de tuyaux
CN216896275U (zh) 一种卡环及龙头万向接头
US20090108098A1 (en) Universal sprinkler assembly
WO2014026230A1 (fr) Raccord de conduite de fluide
AU2008100232A4 (en) Improvements to quick-connect hose fittings
JP3181113U (ja) 耐圧ホース
CN114011602A (zh) 一种长水枪

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC, NEW JERSEY

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:O'CONNOR, TIMOTHY J.;LORRAINE, STEVEN;SIGNING DATES FROM 20160509 TO 20160510;REEL/FRAME:038679/0407

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION

AS Assignment

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., ILLINOIS

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:059591/0519

Effective date: 20220324

Owner name: SWAN PRODUCTS, LLC, GEORGIA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION;REEL/FRAME:059591/0445

Effective date: 20220324