WO2010015077A1

WO2010015077A1 - Coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source

Info

Publication number: WO2010015077A1
Application number: PCT/CA2009/001090
Authority: WO
Inventors: Fernand Armand Kirouac; Claude LONGPRÉ
Original assignee: K&L Air Products Inc.
Priority date: 2008-08-08
Filing date: 2009-08-04
Publication date: 2010-02-11
Also published as: US20100031943A1

Abstract

There is provided a coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source, the coupler assembly comprising a chamber, an inlet port, the inlet port comprising a releasable member to be connected to a hose originating from a compressed fluid source, the releasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber, an outlet port in fluid communication with the chamber and a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

Description

Our ref 276827 4

COUPLER ASSEMBLY FOR DISPENSING FLUID FROM A COMPRESSED

FLUID SOURCE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority of US Patent Application No 12/188,807, filed on 5 August 8, 2008 and entitled COUPLER ASSEMBLY FOR DISPENSING FLUID FROM A COMPRESSED FLUID SOURCE, the specification of which is hereby incorporated by reference

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a coupler assembly More specifically, the0 present invention pertains to a coupler assembly for providing fluid from a compressed fluid source

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Paintball has been popular for over two decades Teams of opposing players shoot paint-filled, gelatin paintballs at each other using a gas-powered paintball5 marker, or paintball gun, which is trigger-activated

Paintball markers are typically powered using compressed gas bottles, typically containing CO₂ or air, wherein the pressure usually ranges from 1800 psi to 4500 psi Those gas bottles are sometimes placed in a backpack worn by the player and connected to the paintball marker using a remote gas line 0 During play, a player may want to switch his gas bottle for a gas bottle containing a different gas or the same gas stored at a different pressure This allows the player to give different effects and trajectories to paintballs fired from his paintball marker As the gas bottle has a limited capacity, the player may also want to refill his gas bottle to raise the pressure provided to the marker The player may5 further want to perform maintenance operations on his paintball marker, such as cleaning paintball debris out of the barrel of the paintball marker

All of the operations previously mentioned involve the disconnection of the gas bottle from the paintball marker This operation can be hazardous and must be conducted with extreme care Due to the high pressure present in the gas bottle, Our ref : 276827. 4

a gas bottle disconnected quickly from a paintball marker may be propelled through the air in a missile-like fashion by the pressure from the compressed fluid flowing freely from the gas bottle, potentially damaging structures and causing bodily harm to players or bystanders.

5 It will also be appreciated that when a paintball marker is connected to gas bottle, the compressed fluid flowing into the paintball marker will cause a build-up of pressure inside the paintball marker. A paintball may thus still be accidentally fired from the paintball marker even after the gas bottle has been disconnected.

Therefore, prior to the disconnection, the pressure of compressed gas built up 10 inside the paintball marker must be relieved. Currently, paintball players are first closing the compressed gas input from the gas bottle, and then activating the trigger of the paintball marker without any paintball loaded. Each trigger activation lets out a small amount of pressure, until the pressure inside the paintball marker is equal to atmospheric pressure.

15 The player can then safely unhook the gas bottle from the paintball marker. It will be appreciated that this task is cumbersome and time consuming, and may not be undertaken during paintball games where the play time is limited or key.

During this whole process, the player is also prevented from using his paintball marker, which renders that situation highly undesirable during play.

20 Previous attempts have been made at solving this problem, namely the inclusion of a coupler between the paintball marker and gas bottle. Examples of such couplers can be found in US Patent No. 6,260,821 , US Patent No. 6,722,391 , US Patent No. 6,941 ,938 and US Patent Publication No. 2006/0032647. These references do not address all of the above-identified problems, either because

25 they do not allow the player to relieve pressure from the paintball marker at all or because they do not allow quick relief of pressure from the paintball marker.

There is therefore a need for a device that will overcome at least one of the above identified drawbacks. Our ref : 276827. 4

Features of the invention will be apparent from review of the disclosure, drawings and description of the invention below.

BRIEF SUMMARY

There is provided a coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed

5 fluid source, the coupler assembly comprising a chamber, an inlet port, the inlet port comprising a releasable member to be connected to a hose originating from a compressed fluid source, the releasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber, an outlet0 port in fluid communication with the chamber and a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

It will be appreciated that when the releasable member is released from the coupler assembly, the releasable member remains connected to the hose5 originating from the compressed fluid source while the valve prevents compressed fluid from leaking from the hose, which is of great advantage as explained further below.

This configuration enables a user to quickly disconnect the coupler assembly from the compressed fluid source, for instance during a game of paintball. 0 Furthermore, the fluid control mechanism advantageously enables a user to turn off the flow of compressed fluid provided by the hose originating from the compressed fluid source prior to releasing the releasable member from coupler assembly. In an embodiment wherein the coupler assembly is connected to a paintball marker, this is of great advantage for disconnecting the coupler5 assembly from the compressed fluid source while preventing accidental firing of the paintball marker.

In an embodiment in which the outlet port of the coupler assembly is coupled to a paintball marker, the fluid control mechanism is also of great advantage for adjusting the flow of compressed fluid provided to the paintball marker from the0 compressed fluid source. Our ref 276827 4

As it will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, a higher flow output of compressed fluid translates into a higher pressure output at the outlet port and will provide a longer trajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker, enabling a player to hit targets at a greater distance

5 Inversely, a lower flow output of compressed fluid translates into a lower pressure output at the outlet port and will provide a shorter trajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker, enabling a player to direct paintballs in an arced trajectory to hit targets over obstacles

In one embodiment, the fluid control mechanism comprises a fluid control piston 0 selectively movable between a closed position wherein dispensing of fluid from the inlet port to the outlet port is prevented and an open position wherein fluid is dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the fluid control mechanism, when in the closed position, acts as a plug As mentioned hereabove, this is of great 15 advantage for selectively preventing fluid from being dispensed from the compressed fluid source to a paintball marker connected to the inlet port and enabling dispensing of compressed fluid from the compressed fluid source to the paintball marker

In another embodiment, the fluid control mechanism is operated manually using a 0 fluid control knob

In yet another embodiment, the fluid control mechanism is operated using actuation means operatively connected thereto, the automated actuation means being selected from a group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator and a hydraulic actuator 5 It will be appreciated that this configuration is of great advantage for automatically adjusting to the amount of compressed fluid needed to predetermined settings For instance, in one embodiment, the amount of compressed fluid dispensed to a paintball marker connected to the inlet port may be set to one of a plurality of predetermined settings, such as a low flow setting, a medium flow setting and a 0 high flow setting, by a selector switch controlling the actuation means. In an Our ref 276827 4 alternative embodiment, such actuation means may be controlled by a sensor which would automatically adjust the flow setting depending on one or more factors such as wind speed, temperature or the like.

In yet another embodiment, the coupler assembly further comprises a pressure 5 relief mechanism to selectively evacuate, from the chamber, an amount of pressure created by an amount of compressed fluid therein, the pressure relief mechanism being operatively coupled to the chamber.

In a further embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism comprises a pressure relief piston selectively movable between a closed position wherein evacuation of 10 an amount of pressure from the chamber is prevented and an open position wherein an amount of pressure is evacuated from the chamber.

It will be appreciated that this configuration is of great advantage, especially if the coupler assembly is connected to a paintball maker, in which case the user may relieve an amount of pressure created by an amount of compressed fluid present 15 in the coupler assembly prior to disconnecting the hose therefrom to prevent accidental discharge of a paintball.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism is operated manually using a pressure relief knob.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism is operated using 20 actuation means operatively connected thereto, the actuation means being selected from a group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator and a hydraulic actuator.

It will be appreciated that this is of great advantage for quickly relieving pressure from inside the chamber of the coupler assembly. For instance, in one 25 configuration, the actuation means may be coupled to a switch activatable by the user, which is of great advantage when the coupler assembly is used in a dynamic environment such as a game of paintball.

In another embodiment, the valve comprises a spring-loaded check valve. Our ref 276827 4

In a further embodiment, the receiving member comprises an inlet connecting duct provided with an inlet connecting duct end nipple concentrically and outwardly extending therefrom for activating the spring-loaded check valve.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that in this configuration, the valve is 5 automatically closed when the hose originating from the compressed fluid source is disconnected from the coupler assembly, thus further improving the prevention of leaks of compressed fluid from the hose.

In yet a further embodiment, the inlet connecting duct nipple is axially centered on the inlet connecting duct.

10 In another embodiment, the receiving member comprises an inlet port compression nut concentrically mounted on the inlet connecting duct.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that such a compression nut, which is well known in the art, is secured to the inlet connecting duct such that it may be freely rotated therearound, but not removed therefrom. It will further be appreciated that

15 this inlet port compression nut provides a threaded connection with a corresponding externally threaded adapter mounted to the hose originating from the compressed fluid source. According to this embodiment, to connect the hose to the coupler assembly, a user axially aligns the externally threaded adapter with the inlet connecting duct and screws the inlet port compression nut onto the

20 externally threaded adapter, thereby removably securing the hose originating from the compressed fluid source to the coupler assembly. To disconnect the hose from the coupler assembly, the user simply unscrews the inlet port compression nut from the externally threaded adapter, thereby unsecuring the hose from the coupler assembly. This configuration therefore enables the user to

25 quickly and easily connect or disconnect the hose from the coupler assembly.

In a further embodiment, the inlet port compression nut has a knurled outer surface.

It will be appreciated that this configuration advantageously provides user with an improved grip to selectively screw the inlet port compression nut onto the Our ref 276827 4 corresponding externally threaded adapter of the hose and unscrew the inlet port compression nut from the corresponding externally threaded adapter of the hose.

In another embodiment, the spring-loaded check valve comprises a ball check valve.

5 In yet another embodiment, the spring-loaded check valve comprises a poppet valve.

It will be appreciated that such a poppet valve is widely known in the art and comprises a poppet resiliently coupled to a spring, the poppet being movable between an open position in which compressed fluid may flow through the 10 releasable member and a closed position in which the flow of compressed fluid through the releasable member is prevented. This configuration enables an O- ring to be mounted on the poppet of the poppet valve, thereby enhancing sealing of the spring-loaded valve during operation thereof.

In one embodiment, the coupler assembly further comprises a pressure gauge 15 port for receiving a pressure gauge therein, the pressure gauge port being in fluid communication with the chamber.

In a further embodiment, the coupler assembly further comprises the pressure gauge mounted in the pressure gauge port.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure gauge indicates to a user 20 the amount of pressure caused by an amount of compressed fluid present in the coupler assembly, which is of great advantage to ensure that the pressure remains below a given amount, for instance to avoid damaging the coupler assembly. The pressure gauge may further visually indicate to the user the amount of pressure provided to a paintball marker connected to the coupler 25 assembly, which is of great advantage during a game of paintball. Furthermore, after having activated the pressure relief mechanism, the pressure gauge advantageously enables the user to verify that the pressure has indeed been relieved from the coupler assembly and that he may safely disconnect his paintball marker therefrom. Our ref 276827 4

In one embodiment, the coupler assembly further comprises a pressure limiting mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for preventing an amount of pressure, created by an amount of compressed fluid inside the chamber, from exceeding a predetermined amount of pressure.

5 In a further embodiment, the pressure limiting mechanism comprises a bursting disc.

Such a pressure limiting mechanism is of great advantage in order to avoid exceeding a safe amount of pressure sustainable by the coupler assembly, thereby preventing damaging the coupler assembly and possibly causing injuries 10 to the user or others.

In one embodiment, the outlet port delivers compressed fluid to a fluid-powered device.

In a further embodiment, the fluid-powered device comprises a paintball marker.

It will be appreciated that the coupler assembly herein described may be fitted to

15 any device in which compressed fluid is used. For instance, in one embodiment, the fluid-powered device may comprise a fluid-powered tool such as a pneumatic nail gun. If used with such a fluid-powered tool, the coupler assembly would advantageously provide enhanced safety by contributing to prevent firing of a nail loaded in the pneumatic nail gun when the pneumatic nail gun is connected to or

20 disconnected from the compressed fluid source.

In an alternative embodiment, the fluid-powered device may comprise a spray gun, such as a spray gun used for spray painting, for instance. If used with such a spray gun, the coupler assembly would advantageously enable a user to disconnect the spray gun from a compressed fluid source while contributing to 25 prevent leaks of compressed fluid.

In one embodiment, the hose further comprises a check valve mechanism located at a compressed fluid source engaging end thereof, the compressed fluid source engaging end sealingly and removably engaging the compressed fluid source, the check valve mechanism comprising an open position wherein the Our ref 276827 4 compressed fluid source and the hose are in fluid communication and a closed position wherein fluid communication between the compressed fluid source and the hose is prevented.

It will be appreciated that this configuration enables a user to disconnect the hose 5 originating from the compressed fluid source from the compressed fluid source without leakage of compressed fluid therefrom, which is of great advantage.

In one embodiment, the coupler assembly is manufactured from a rigid material selected from a group consisting of aluminium and an alloy thereof, stainless steel, titanium and an alloy thereof, magnesium and an alloy thereof, brass, cast 10 iron, copper and an alloy thereof, PVC, ABS, polytetrafluoroethylene, PVDF and polypropylene.

According to another aspect, there is further provided a method for disconnecting a hose originating from a compressed fluid source from a fluid-powered device.

The method comprises providing a coupler assembly comprising a chamber, an

15 inlet port comprising a releasable member having the hose connected thereto, the releasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber, an outlet port in fluid communication with the chamber, the outlet port being connected to the fluid-

20 powered device, and a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port; setting the fluid control mechanism to a closed position wherein dispensing of fluid between the inlet port and the outlet port is prevented; releasing the releasable member from the receiving member; moving the valve to

25 a closed position wherein dispensing of compressed fluid from the hose is prevented.

This method advantageously enables a user to disconnect a fluid-powered device, for instance a paintball marker, from the hose originating from the compressed fluid source with reduced leakage of compressed fluid. Our ref 276827 4

In one embodiment, the valve comprises a spring-loaded check valve, the spring- loaded check valve being resiliently maintained by the receiving member in an open position wherein compressed fluid is dispensed from the hose to the chamber when the releasable member is received therein. In this embodiment, 5 the releasing of the releasable member from the receiving member causes the moving of the valve from the open position to the closed position.

It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the valve is automatically closed when the releasable member is released from the receiving member. This configuration further reduces leakage of compressed fluid, which is of great 10 advantage.

In another embodiment, the coupler assembly further comprises a pressure relief mechanism. In this embodiment, the method further comprises, after setting the fluid control mechanism to the closed position, the step of setting the pressure relief mechanism to an open position wherein an amount of pressure is 15 evacuated from the chamber.

This advantageously enables a user to relieve pressure from the chamber prior to disconnecting the fluid-powered device from the hose originating from the compressed fluid source, as it will become apparent below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

20 In order that the invention may be readily understood, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a drawing which shows a perspective view of a coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, with a fluid-powered device and a 25 compressed fluid source connected thereto;

Figure 2A is a drawing which shows a perspective view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 2B is a drawing which shows a top elevation view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ; Our ref 276827 4

Figure 2C is a drawing which shows a left side elevation view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 2D is a drawing which shows a back elevation view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ;

5 Figure 3A is a drawing which shows a perspective view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , wherein the fluid control mechanism, the pressure relief mechanism, the receiving member and the releasable member have been removed;

Figure 3B is a drawing which a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown 10 in Figure 3A, taken along line 3B-3B of Figure 3A;

Figure 4A is a drawing which shows a front exploded view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 4B is a drawing which shows a back exploded view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 ;

15 Figure 5 is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C;

Figure 6A is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the fluid control mechanism in a closed position;

20 Figure 6B is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the fluid control mechanism in an open position;

Figure 7A is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the pressure relief 25 mechanism in a closed position;

Figure 7B is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the pressure relief mechanism in an open position; Our ref 276827 4

Figure 7C is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 7C-7C of Figure 2D, with the pressure relief mechanism in an open position;

Figure 8A is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly 5 shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with a compressed fluid providing hose connected thereto;

Figure 8B is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 , taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with a compressed fluid providing hose disconnected therefrom;

10 Figure 9A is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the pressure limiting mechanism in an initial position;

Figure 9B is a drawing which shows a cross-section view of the coupler assembly 15 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2C, with the pressure limiting mechanism in an activated position;

Figure 10 is a drawing which shows a perspective view of a releasable member for the coupler assembly, in accordance with an alternative embodiment;

20 Figure 11 is a drawing which shows an exploded view of the releasable member shown in Figure 10;

Figure 12A is a drawing which shows a cross-section view, taken along line 12- 12 of Figure 10, of the releasable member shown in Figure 10, with a compressed fluid providing hose disconnected therefrom;

25 Figure 12B is a drawing which shows a cross-section view, taken along line 12- 12 of Figure 10, of the releasable member shown in Figure 10, with a compressed fluid providing hose connected thereto. Our ref 276827 4

Figure 13 is a flowchart which shows a method for disconnecting a hose originating from a compressed fluid from a fluid-powered device, in accordance with one embodiment.

Further details of the invention and its advantages will be apparent from the 5 detailed description included below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of the embodiments, references to the accompanying drawings are by way of illustration of an example by which the invention may be practiced. It will be understood that other embodiments may be made without 10 departing from the scope of the invention disclosed.

A coupler assembly 100 will now be described according to one embodiment of the present invention, with references to Figure 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the coupler assembly 100 operatively couples a fluid-powered device 102 to a compressed fluid source 104 wherefrom a 15 compressed fluid is provided.

In one embodiment, the compressed fluid source 104 comprises a bottle containing compressed CO₂ gas. Alternatively, the compressed fluid source 104 may comprise a bottle containing compressed air or any other fluid which complies with the specifications of the fluid-powered device 102 operatively 20 connected to the coupler assembly 100.

In yet another embodiment, the compressed fluid source 104 may comprise a direct fluid line conveying compressed fluid from a compressor. This embodiment would allow compressed fluid with constant pressure to be delivered to the coupler assembly 100 for an unlimited amount of time while the compressor is 25 activated.

Still in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , the fluid-powered device 102 comprises a paintball marker. In another embodiment, the fluid-powered device 102 may be a fluid-powered tool such as a pneumatic tool, a hydraulic tool or the like. The skilled addressee will appreciate that if used with such a fluid-powered Our ref 276827 4 tool, the coupler assembly 100 would advantageously provide enhance safety, for instance by contributing to prevent firing of a nail loaded in a pneumatic nail gun when the pneumatic nail gun is connected to or disconnected from the compressed fluid source 104.

5 Still referring to Figure 1 , the coupler assembly 100 comprises an inlet port 108 to be connected to a hose, also referred to hereinafter as a compressed fluid providing hose 106, originating from the compressed fluid source 104. The compressed fluid providing hose 106 is used to convey a compressed fluid from the compressed fluid source 104 to the coupler assembly 100 and comprises an 10 externally threaded inlet port engaging end 170 for securely engaging the inlet port 108, as it will become apparent below.

The compressed fluid providing hose 106 further comprises a second, opposite compressed fluid source engaging end 172 adapted to be sealingly connected to the compressed fluid source 104.

15 Still referring to Figure 1 , the inlet port 108 comprises a releasable member 150 whereto the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is securely connected.

Still referring to Figure 1 , the coupler assembly 100 further comprises an outlet port 114 for delivering compressed fluid to the fluid-powered device 102. The outlet port 114 is adapted for engaging a fluid-powered device entry port 160 20 provided with the fluid-powered device 102.

In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port 114 is adapted for engaging a conveying hose conveying compressed fluid from the outlet port 114 to the fluid- powered device 102. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that this embodiment would advantageously enable a user to utilize the features of the 25 coupler assembly 100 while being at a distance from the fluid-powered device.

In an embodiment wherein the fluid-powered device 102 is a paintball marker, the use of a conveying hose conveying compressed fluid from the outlet port 114 to the paintball marker coupled with the use of a remote trigger to activate the shooting of paintballs from the paintball marker would enable a player to mount Our ref 276827 4 the paintball marker at a location and to control it from another remote location, which is of great advantage.

Still referring to Figure 1 , the coupler assembly 100 further comprises a fluid control mechanism 120 for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet 5 port 108 to the outlet port 114.

In a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the fluid control mechanism 120 is operated manually using a fluid control knob 122 having a knurled outer surface to provide an improved grip to a hand of a user operating the fluid control mechanism 120. In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control knob 122 does 10 not comprise a knurled outer surface.

In yet another embodiment, the fluid control mechanism 120 does not comprise a fluid control knob 122. The fluid control mechanism 120 may be operatively connected to automated actuation means known to the skilled addressee such as an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator or the like.

15 Still referring to Figure 1 , the coupler assembly 100 further comprises a pressure relief mechanism 124 to selectively evacuate, from said coupler assembly 100, an amount of pressure created by an amount of compressed fluid therein.

In a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the pressure relief mechanism 124 is operated manually using a pressure relief knob 126 having a knurled outer 20 surface to provide an improved grip to a hand of a user operating the pressure relief mechanism 124. In an alternative embodiment, the pressure relief knob 126 does not comprise a knurled outer surface.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 124 does not comprise a pressure relief knob 126. The pressure relief mechanism 124 may be 25 operatively connected to automated actuation means known to the skilled addressee such as an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator or the like.

Still referring to Figure 1 , the coupler assembly 100 further comprises a pressure gauge port 128 to receive a pressure gauge 130 therein. The pressure gauge Our ref 276827 4

130 enables a visual reading of a measurement of an amount of pressure inside the coupler assembly 100. In an alternative embodiment, the coupler assembly 100 does not comprise a pressure gauge port 128 or a pressure gauge 130.

The features of the coupler assembly 100 will now be detailed in accordance with 5 one embodiment of the present invention, with references to Figures 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, 3A and 3B.

Now referring to Figure 2A, the coupler assembly 100 comprises a hollow coupling body 200 having a planar front face 202, a planar back face 204 parallel to the planar front face 202 and a pair of spaced-apart, outwardly curved left and 10 right faces 206 and 208 extending between the planar front face 202 and the planar back face 204.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the pressure relief mechanism 124 is located on the outwardly curved left face 206 of the hollow coupling body 200, about halfway between the planar front face 202 and the planar back face 204 15 thereof.

Still in the embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the fluid control mechanism 120 is located on the outwardly curved right face 208 of the hollow coupling body 200, about halfway between the planar front face 202 and the planar back face 204 thereof.

20 Now referring to Figure 2D, the hollow coupling body 200 has a planar bottom face 210, a top circular face 212 parallel to the planar bottom face 210 and a top curved face 214 extending from the top circular face 212 to the planar front face 202, the planar back face 204, the outwardly curved left face 206 and the outwardly curved right face 208.

25 In the embodiment shown in Figure 2B, the inlet port 108 is located on the top curved face 214 between the top circular face 212 and the outwardly curved right face 208. Still in the embodiment shown in Figure 2B, the pressure gauge port 128 is located on the top curved surface 214 between the top circular face 212 and the outwardly curved left face 206. Our ref 276827 4

Now referring to Figure 2D, the inlet port 108 comprises a receiving member for receiving the releasable member 150. In this embodiment, the receiving member comprises an inlet connecting duct 230 sealingly attached to the hollow coupling body 200. The receiving member further comprises an inlet port compression nut 5 232 concentrically and slidably mounted on the inlet connecting duct 230 such that the removal of the inlet port compression nut 232 off of the inlet connecting duct 230 is prevented, as it will become apparent below.

It will be appreciated that the inlet connecting duct 230 is provided as a distinct, detachable part of the coupler assembly 100 to facilitate the manufacturing of the 10 coupler assembly 100. In another embodiment, the inlet connecting duct 230 and the hollow coupling body 200 may form a single, integral structure.

It will further be appreciated that the inlet connecting duct 230 is also provided to enable better access to the inlet port 108 to a hand of a user selectively engaging and disengaging of the compressed fluid providing hose 106. In yet another 15 embodiment, the inlet port 108 may be provided without an inlet connecting duct 230 and the compressed fluid providing hose 106 may directly engage the coupler assembly 100.

Still referring to Figure 2D, the outlet port 114 comprises a generally cylindrical protrusion extending outwardly and normally to the center of the planar bottom 20 face 210. The outlet port 114 further comprises an outlet port bottom rim 216 parallel to the planar bottom face 210 of the hollow coupling body 200.

The outlet port 114 is further provided with an outlet port externally threaded portion 240 located on the outer surface of this generally cylindrical protrusion for sealingly engaging the fluid-powered device entry port 160 provided with the 25 fluid-powered device 102.

The outlet port 114 is further provided with an outlet port circumferential groove 242 located between the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 and the outlet port bottom rim 216 for receiving an O-ring seal (not shown) therein. The O-ring seal contributes to preventing compressed fluid from leaking along the outlet port 30 externally threaded portion 240 during the delivery of compressed fluid from the outlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102, as one skilled in the art will Our ref 276827 4 appreciate. In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port 114 may not comprise an outlet port circumferential groove 242 and/or an O-ring seal.

In an alternative embodiment, a second circumferential groove adapted to receive a second O-ring seal therein is located between the outlet port externally 5 threaded portion 240 and the planar bottom face 210 of the hollow coupling body 200, thus providing an improved prevention of leaks of compressed fluid along the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 during the delivery of compressed fluid from the outlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102.

In a preferred embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 and the outlet port 114

10 define an integral structure. It will be appreciated that this configuration minimizes the probability of leakage of compressed fluid from the hollow coupling body 200 and the outlet port 114 during the lifetime of the coupler assembly 100. In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port 114 may be manufactured as a separate member provided with a threaded portion for sealingly engaging the hollow

15 coupling body 200 provided with a corresponding internally threaded portion.

In one embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 is manufactured from a single block of rigid material selected from a group comprising aluminium and an alloy thereof, stainless steel, titanium and an alloy thereof, magnesium and an alloy thereof, brass, cast iron, copper and an alloy thereof, PVC, ABS, 20 polytetrafluoroethylene, PVDF, polypropylene or any other material the skilled addressee may deem appropriate for the present use of the invention.

Still in a preferred embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 and the outlet port 114 may be manufactured using machining operations known to the skilled addressee such as milling, turning and tapping. In an alternative embodiment, the 25 hollow coupling body 200 may be manufactured from two symmetrical, corresponding halves welded together using welding techniques known to the addressee such as tungsten inert gas welding, metal inert gas welding, plasma arc welding or the like.

In yet another embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 is manufactured using 30 casting techniques known to the skilled addressee such as sand casting, die casting, investment casting or the like. Our ref 276827 4

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the location of the inlet port 108, the outlet port 114, the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 and the pressure gauge port 128 on the hollow coupling body 200 may be different according to aesthetic and/or ergonomic considerations. It will be 5 appreciated that in the illustrated embodiment, the inlet port 108, the outlet port 114, the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124, and the pressure gauge port 128 are distributed along the top curved face 214, the planar bottom face 210, the outwardly curved left face 206 and the outwardly curved right face 208 to provide enough clearance to a hand of a user to operate 10 as well as to facilitate manufacturing using machining operations known to the skilled addressee such as milling, turning and tapping.

In an alternative embodiment, the inlet port 108, the outlet port 114, the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 and the pressure gauge port 128 may each be positioned at another location on the hollow 15 coupling body 200, as long as the ports are interconnected by a chamber having the features described herebelow.

Now referring to Figure 3B, the hollow coupling body 200 further comprises a chamber 302. The chamber 302 comprises a gauge port communicating channel 304 extending inwardly from the pressure gauge port 128 located on the top

20 curved face 214 of the hollow coupling body 200. The gauge port communicating channel 304 is connected by a chamber connecting elbow 342 to an outlet port communicating channel 360 extending normally and inwardly from the outlet port bottom rim 216 of the outlet port 114 located on the planar bottom face 210 of the hollow coupling body 200 such that the gauge port communicating channel 304,

25 the chamber connecting elbow 342 and the outlet port communicating channel 360 are in fluid communication.

Still referring to Figure 3B, the gauge port communicating channel 304 further comprises a gauge port internally threaded portion 306 for receiving the threaded portion of a pressure gauge 130. This allows for the removal of the pressure 30 gauge 130 from the pressure gauge port 128 for recalibration purposes or to replace the pressure gauge 130 with one of different precision. Our ref 276827 4

In an alternative embodiment, the gauge port communicating channel 304 may not comprise a gauge port internally threaded portion 306, the pressure gauge 130 being instead sealingly glued to the pressure gauge port 128 using epoxy glue, acrylic glue or any other sealing compound that can provide sealing of the 5 gauge port 128.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure gauge 130 may be welded to the gauge port 128 using welding techniques known to the skilled addressee such as tungsten inert gas welding, metal inert gas welding, plasma arc welding or the like. It will be appreciated that this configuration provides enhanced robustness to 10 the coupler assembly 100, which is of great advantage, especially when the coupler assembly 100 is used in a dynamic environment such as a game of paintball.

Still referring to Figure 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a fluid control channel 312 for housing the fluid control mechanism 120. The fluid control 15 channel 312 extends inwardly and horizontally between the outwardly curved right face 208 and the gauge port communicating channel 304.

The fluid control channel 312 comprises a fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 and a fluid control conical end cavity 318 provided as an extension of the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, the fluid control conical end cavity 20 318 and the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 being in fluid communication with each other.

More specifically, the fluid control conical end cavity 318 comprises a fluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319 tapering inwardly from the inner end 321 of the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 to a fluid control conical 25 end cavity communication hole 320 extending from the conical control end cavity 318 to the gauge port communicating channel 304, the gauge port communicating channel 304 and the fluid control channel 312 thus being in fluid communication with one another.

The fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 is provided with a fluid control 30 mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316 for securing the fluid Our ref 276827 4 control mechanism 120 to the hollow coupling body 200, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to Figure 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises an inlet channel 322 extending downwardly and inwardly between the inlet port 108 located on the 5 top curved face 214 and the fluid control channel 312 such that the inlet channel 322 and the fluid control channel 312 are in fluid communication.

The inlet channel 322 comprises an inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324 and an inlet inner conduit 328 provided as an extension of the inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324, the inlet inner conduit 328 and the inlet connecting duct 10 receiving bore 324 being in fluid communication with one another.

The inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324 is provided with an inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326 for securing the inlet connecting duct 230 to the hollow coupling body 200, as it will become apparent below.

15 Still referring to Figure 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a pressure relief channel 330 extending inwardly and between the outwardly curved left face 206 and the chamber connecting elbow 342.

The pressure relief channel 330 comprises a pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 and a pressure relief conical end cavity 336 provided as an extension of 20 the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332, the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 and the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 being in fluid communication with one another.

More specifically, the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 comprises a pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337 tapering inwardly from an inner 25 end 339 of the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 to a pressure relief conical end cavity communication hole 338 extending from the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 to the chamber connecting elbow 342, the chamber connecting elbow 342 and the pressure relief channel 330 thus being in fluid communication with one another. Our ref 276827 4

Still referring to Figure 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a pressure relief discharge duct 340 extending inwardly and normally from the planar back face 204 to the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332, the pressure relief discharge duct 340 being in fluid communication with the pressure relief channel 5 330.

It will be appreciated that in the illustrated embodiment, the configuration of the chamber 302 advantageously facilitates manufacturing of the hollow coupling body 200. In an alternative embodiment, the chamber 302 may have a different configuration, as long as the chamber 302 is in fluid communication with a 10 receiving member of an inlet port and with an outlet port and as long as the chamber 302 is operatively coupled to a fluid control mechanism.

Additional features of the coupler assembly 100 will now be described in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, with references to Figures 4A and 4B.

15 Now referring to Figure 4A, the inlet port compression nut 232 comprises an internally threaded, open-ended hollow shell 480 closed at its lower end by an inlet port compression nut narrow portion 482 provided with an inlet port compression nut central hole 484 for concentrically receiving the inlet connecting duct 230 therein. The inlet port compression nut 232 is further provided for

20 releasably engaging the releasable member 150, as it will become apparent below.

In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 4A, the inlet port compression nut 232 is provided with a knurled outer surface to provide an improved grip to a hand of a user selectively and releasably engaging and disengaging the 25 releasable member 150. In an alternative embodiment, the inlet port compression nut 232 is not provided with a knurled outer surface.

Still referring to Figure 4A, the inlet connecting duct 230 comprises a generally cylindrical body provided, at a first end, with an inlet connecting duct threaded portion 400 for engaging the inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally 30 threaded portion 326, not shown in Figure 4A. Our ref 276827 4

The inlet connecting duct 230 is further provided, at a second, opposite end, with an inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 having a larger diameter than the inlet port compression nut narrow portion 482 such that the inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 may abut the inlet port compression nut narrow portion 482 5 when the inlet connecting duct 230 is concentrically and slidably mounted into the internally threaded compression end nut 112, preventing further upward movement of the internally threaded compression end nut 112 with reference to the inlet connecting duct 230.

As best shown in Figure 4B, the inlet connecting duct 230 further comprises an 10 inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 extending upwardly and axially from the center of the inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 and is provided for engaging the releasable member 150, as it will become apparent below.

Turning back to Figure 4A, the inlet connecting duct 230 is further provided with an inlet connecting duct internal conduit 402 providing fluid communication 15 between the releasable member 150 and the chamber 302, not shown in Figure 4A.

Still referring to Figure 4B the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 is provided with an inlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406 extending perpendicularly on top of the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404. The inlet connecting duct end nipple 20 slot 406 is in fluid communication with the inlet connecting duct internal conduit 402.

Now referring to Figure 5, the releasable member 150 comprises a generally cylindrical releasable member hollow shell 500 provided, at a first end, with a releasable member externally threaded portion 506 for releasably engaging the 25 inlet connecting duct 230, as it will become apparent below.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the releasable member 150 further comprises a releasable member internally threaded portion 502 for securely engaging a port adaptor 504. In this embodiment, the releasable member internally threaded portion 502 is adapted for receiving an NPT %" threaded 30 member therein. Our ref 276827 4

Still in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the port adaptor 504 is used to engage the NPT %" adapted releasable member internally threaded portion 502 and receive an NPT 1/8" threaded portion of the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in Figure 5, therein.

5 In an alternative embodiment, the releasable member 150 does not comprise a port adaptor 504, the releasable member internally threaded portion 502 being adapted to receive an NPT 1/8" threaded portion of the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in Figure 5, therein.

In yet another embodiment, the releasable member 150 does not comprise a port 10 adaptor 504, the releasable member internally threaded portion 502 being adapted to receive another type of threaded portion of the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in Figure 5, therein.

The releasable member 150 further comprises a releasable member central conduit 508 provided with a releasable member valve 510 for selectively enabling 15 or preventing fluid communication between the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown on Figure 5, and the chamber 302.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the releasable member valve 510 comprises a spring-loaded check valve selectively activated by the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404.

20 Still in this embodiment, the spring-loaded check valve comprises a ball check valve, which is widely known in the art. Referring to Figure 8A, the ball check valve comprises an axial spring 800 mounted in the releasable member central conduit 508. More specifically, the axial spring 800 comprises a first end 802 securely connected to a first narrow portion 804 of the releasable member central

25 conduit 508 and an opposed second end 806 having a ball 808 securely coupled thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment, the releasable member central conduit 508 further comprises a second narrow portion 810, or seat, configured to sealingly receive the ball 808 thereon. Our ref 276827 4

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the ball 808 is thus biasedly mounted in the releasable member central conduit 508. When the releasable member 150 is disconnected from the inlet connecting duct 230, the ball check valve is in a closed position in which the axial spring 800 urges the ball 808 against the seat 5 810, therefore preventing fluid communication between the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the chamber 302, as best shown in Figure 8B.

When the releasable member 150 is connected to the inlet connecting duct 230, the ball check valve is an open position in which the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 is inserted in the releasable member central conduit 508 and 10 displaces the ball 808 away from the seat 810, thereby compressing the axial spring 800 and enabling fluid communication between the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the chamber 302, as shown in Figure 5.

In an alternative embodiment, shown in Figures 10 to 12B, the spring-loaded check valve comprises a poppet valve, which is also widely known in the art. The 15 poppet valve is similar to the ball check valve except that the ball is replaced with an elongated poppet 1100 having a generally planar end surface 1200 adapted to matingly engage a corresponding planar seat surface 1202 of the releasable member 150. It will be appreciated that this configuration provides enhanced sealing to the spring-loaded check valve.

20 In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 10 to 12B, the poppet valve comprises an axial spring 1102 securely mounted in the releasable member central conduit 508. The poppet valve further comprises a spring retainer 1104 threadily mounted in the releasable member central conduit 508. The spring retainer 1104 defines the first narrow portion of the releasable member central conduit 508 to

25 which a first end 1106 of the axial spring 1102 is securely connected.

In the illustrated embodiment, a central axial opening 1204 is further defined in the spring retainer 1104 for enabling fluid communication through the spring retainer 1104, as it will become apparent below. Moreover, a spring retainer slot 1206 is defined in the spring retainer 1104, proximal to the releasable member 30 internally threaded portion 502. The spring retainer slot 1206 is adapted to be engaged by a corresponding tool such as a screwdriver to thereby facilitate Our ref 276827 4 engagement of the spring retainer 1104 in the releasable member central conduit 508.

Still in the illustrated embodiment, the elongated poppet 1100 is securely connected to a second opposed end 1108 of the axial spring 1102 and is axially 5 movable in the releasable member central conduit 508. The elongated poppet 1100 further comprises a central axial bore 1208 adapted to enable fluid communication through the elongated poppet 1100, as it will become apparent below.

In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated poppet 1100 further comprises a

10 plurality of lateral openings 1210 in fluid communication with the central axial bore 1208 of the elongated poppet 1100. When the releasable member 150 is connected to the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in Figures 10 to 12B, compressed fluid is dispensed through the spring retainer 1104 and enters the elongated poppet 1100 through the central axial bore 1208 thereof.

15 The compressed fluid then exits laterally from the elongated poppet 1100 through the plurality of lateral openings 1210.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 10 to 12B, the elongated poppet 1100 further comprises a circumferential groove 1110 adapted to receive a poppet O- ring 1112 made from a flexible material such as neoprene or the like. As best

20 shown in Figure 12A, the poppet O-ring 1112 is adapted to be squeezed between the circumferential groove 1110 and the interior of a narrow seat portion 1212 of the releasable member central conduit 508 when the planar end surface 1200 of the elongated poppet 1100 matingly engages the corresponding planar seat surface 1202, thereby providing enhanced sealing to the releasable member

25 valve 510.

When the releasable member 150 is connected to the inlet connecting duct 230, the poppet valve is in an open position in which the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 is inserted in the releasable member central conduit 508 and displaces the elongated poppet 1100 away from the seat 810, thereby 30 compressing the axial spring 1102 and enabling fluid communication between the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the chamber 302, as shown in Figure Our ref 276827 4

12B. It will be appreciated that when the poppet valve is in the open position, the poppet O-ring 1112 is no longer squeezed and enables compressed fluid to travel out from the plurality of lateral openings 1210, between the interior of the releasable member central conduit 508 and the poppet O-ring 1112 and into the 5 inlet connecting duct 230, as it will become apparent below.

Still in the illustrated embodiment, the releasable member central conduit 508 comprises an end portion 1116 located proximal to the seat 810, away from the poppet valve. The end portion 1116 comprises an internally threaded recess 1114 and an internal circumferential groove 1220 located between the seat 810 10 and the internally threaded recess 1114, the internal circumferential groove 1220 being adapted to receive an end O-ring 1118 therein.

The releasable member 150 further comprises an O-ring retainer 1120 threadily engageable in the internally threaded recess 1114. The skilled addressee will appreciate that this O-ring retainer 1120 advantageously facilitates the installation 15 of the end O-ring 1118 in the releasable member 150. The skilled addressee will further appreciate that the end O-ring 1118 advantageously contributes to preventing leaks of compressed fluid when the inlet connecting duct 230 is engaged in the releasable member central conduit 508, as it will become apparent below.

20 In yet another embodiment, the releasable member valve 510 may be any another valve that may be activated by the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404.

Now referring back to Figure 5, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the releasable member valve 510 enables the disconnection of the releasable member 150 sealingly attached to the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not

25 shown in Figure 5, without leakage of compressed fluid from the compressed fluid providing hose 106. Once the releasable member 150 is disengaged from the inlet connecting duct 230, the releasable member valve 510 is no longer activated by the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404, and therefore moves from an open position to a closed position, preventing leakage of compressed fluid

30 from the compressed fluid providing hose 106 through the releasable member central conduit 508. Our ref 276827 4

Referring back to Figure 4A, the fluid control mechanism 120 comprises a fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 for securing the fluid control mechanism 120 to the hollow coupling body 200, as it will become apparent below.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 comprises a fluid control 5 mechanism fastening nut head 414 for sealingly fastening the fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 to the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, not shown in Figure 4A, as it will become apparent below.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4A, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut head 414 has a hexagonal shape to facilitate fastening using a tool known to the 10 skilled addressee such as a torque wrench, a monkey wrench or the like.

In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut head 414 may have a circular shape provided with a knurled outer surface to facilitate fastening using a hand of a user.

It will be appreciated that the fluid control mechanism fastening nut head 414 15 may have a triangular shape, a square shape, an octagonal shape or any other geometrical shape the skilled addressee may find appropriate for fastening.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 further comprises a fluid control mechanism fastening nut central bore 416 for concentrically mounting a fluid control piston 424 therein. More specifically, the fluid control mechanism 20 fastening nut central bore 416 comprises a fluid control mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 418 for rotatively engaging the fluid control piston 424 therein and axially displacing the fluid control piston 424 with reference to the fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to Figure 4, the fluid control piston 424 comprises a fluid control 25 piston externally threaded body 428 for operatively engaging the fluid control mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 418.

The fluid control piston 424 further comprises a fluid control piston head 426 having a frusto-conical shape for selectively allowing or preventing passage of a compressed fluid from the fluid control channel 312, not shown in Figure 4A, to Our ref 276827 4 the gauge port communicating channel 304, not shown in Figure 4A, through the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320, not shown in Figure 4A, as it will become apparent below.

More specifically, the fluid control piston head 426 comprises a fluid control 5 piston head external lateral surface 427 tapering from a fluid control piston inner peripheral groove 432 such that the fluid control piston head external lateral surface 427 may sealingly mate with the fluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319, not shown in Figure 4A.

Referring back to Figure 3B, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the fluid

10 control piston head 426, not shown in Figure 3B, may be nested into the fluid control conical end cavity 318 and may act as a plug thereof. It will further be appreciated by the skilled addressee that such positioning of the fluid control piston head 426, not shown in Figure 3B, in the fluid control conical end cavity

318 is intended to prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control

15 channel 312 to the gauge port communicating channel 304 through the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320.

Now turning back to Figure 4A, the fluid control piston inner peripheral groove 432 is used for receiving an O-ring seal 490 therein. The O-ring seal 490 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control 20 mechanism receiving bore 314, not shown in Figure 4A, to the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320, not shown in Figure 4A, through the mating interface of fluid control piston head external lateral surface 427 and the fluid control conical end cavity internal lateral surface 319, not shown in Figure 4A.

25 The fluid control piston 424 is further provided with a fluid control piston outer peripheral groove 430 located on the fluid control piston between the fluid control piston inner peripheral groove 432 and the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428 for receiving an O-ring seal 492 therein. The O-ring seal 492 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control

30 channel 312, not shown in Figure 4A. Our ref 276827 4

The fluid control piston 424 is further provided with a fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 located between the fluid control piston outer peripheral groove 430 and the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428, the fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 facing towards the fluid control piston externally 5 threaded body 428. The fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 is provided for abutting a fluid control mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim 422 located on the interior surface of the fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412, as it will become apparent below.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the fluid control piston external abutting 10 rim 434 and the fluid control mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim 422 are parallel to one another and perpendicular to the central axis of the fluid control piston 424.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 further comprises a fluid mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 for operatively 15 engaging the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, not shown in Figure 4A.

Still referring to Figure 4A, the fluid control knob 122 comprises a fluid control knob internally threaded central bore 470 for engaging the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428.

20 The skilled addressee will appreciate that this configuration enables each part of the fluid control mechanism 120 to be manufactured separately and the fluid control mechanism 120 to be assembled afterward, thereby facilitating the fabrication thereof.

Similarly to the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 25 comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 for securing the pressure relief mechanism 124 to the hollow coupling body 200, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to Figure 4A, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut central bore 440 for

30 concentrically mounting a pressure relief piston 448 therein. More specifically, the Our ref 276827 4 pressure relief mechanism fastening nut central bore 440 comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 442 for movably engaging the pressure relief piston 448 therein and axially displacing the pressure relief piston 448 with reference to the pressure relief mechanism 5 fastening nut 436, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to Figure 4A, the pressure relief piston 448 comprises a pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452 for rotatively engaging the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 442.

The pressure relief piston 448 further comprises a pressure relief piston head 450 10 having a frusto-conical shape for selectively allowing or preventing passage of a compressed fluid from the chamber connecting elbow 342, not shown in Figure 4A, to the pressure relief channel 330, not shown in Figure 4A, through the pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338, not shown in Figure 4A, as it will become apparent below.

15 More specifically, the pressure relief piston head 450 comprises a pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 tapering from a pressure relief piston inner peripheral groove 456 such that the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 may sealingly mate with the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337, not shown in Figure 4A.

20 Referring back to Figure 3B, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure relief piston head 450, not shown in Figure 3B, may be nested into the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 and may act as a plug thereof. It will further be appreciated by the skilled addressee that such positioning of the pressure relief piston head 450, not shown in Figure 3B, in the pressure relief conical end

25 cavity 336 is intended to prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure relief channel 330 to the chamber connecting elbow 342 through the pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338.

Now referring back to Figure 4A, the pressure relief piston inner peripheral groove 456 is used for receiving an O-ring seal 494 therein. The O-ring seal 494

30 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 to the pressure relief conical end cavity Our ref 276827 4 communicating hole 338, not shown in Figure 4A, through the mating interface of the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 and the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337, not shown in Figure 4A.

The pressure relief piston 448 is further provided with a pressure relief piston 5 outer peripheral groove 454 located on the pressure relief piston 448 between the pressure relief piston inner peripheral groove 456 and the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452 for receiving an O-ring seal 496 therein. The O-ring seal 496 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure relief channel 330, not shown in Figure 4A.

10 Still referring to Figure 4A , the pressure relief piston 448 is further provided with a pressure relief piston external abutting rim 458 located between the pressure relief piston outer peripheral groove 454 and the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452, the pressure relief piston external abutting rim 458 facing towards the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452. The pressure

15 relief piston external abutting rim 458 is provided for abutting a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim, not shown, located on the interior surface of the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436, as it will become apparent below.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure relief piston external 20 abutting rim 458 and the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim, not shown, are parallel to one another and perpendicular to the central axis of the pressure relief piston 448.

The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 further comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 444 for operatively 25 engaging the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 334, not shown in Figure 4A.

Still referring to Figure 4A, the pressure relief knob 126 comprises a pressure relief knob internally threaded central bore 472 for engaging the pressure relief mechanism externally threaded body 452. Our ref 276827 4

Similarly to the fluid control mechanism 120, the skilled addressee will appreciate that this configuration enables each part of the pressure relief mechanism 124 to be manufactured separately and the pressure relief mechanism 124 to be assembled afterward, thereby advantageously facilitating the fabrication thereof.

5 Having described the features of the coupler assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, its assembly will now be described, with references to Figure 5.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is first axially positioned over the fluid control piston 424, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut head 414 10 facing away from the fluid control piston head 426.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is then lowered onto the fluid control piston 424 and the fluid control piston 424 is concentrically inserted into the fluid control mechanism fastening nut central bore 416, the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428 operatively engaging the fluid control mechanism 15 fastening nut internally threaded portion 418.

The fluid control knob 122 is axially positioned over the fluid control piston 424 and the fluid control knob internally threaded central bore 470 is permanently secured onto the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the fluid control knob 122 is prevented 20 from further rotating about the fluid control piston 424 once it has been installed. In one embodiment, the fluid control knob internally threaded central bore 470 has a smaller diameter than the fluid control piston 424 and the fluid control knob 122 is secured over the fluid control piston 424 using a process of interference fitting known to the skilled addressee.

25 In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control knob 122 is secured over the fluid control piston 424 using an adhesive compound known to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based adhesive or any other adhesive compound the skilled addressee may consider useful and appropriate. Our ref 276827 4

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is then positioned over the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 and lowered onto the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 permanently and sealingly engaging the fluid 5 control mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316.

In a preferred embodiment, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 is further coated with a sealing compound known to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based sealant or the like prior to engagement into the fluid control mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316. It 10 will be appreciated that this coating further contributes to preventing leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314. In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement into the fluid control mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316.

15 It will be appreciated that the fluid control piston 424 may now selectively be moved axially with reference to the fluid control channel 312 from a fully-closed position whereat the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 427 mates with the fluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319 to an open position whereat the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 427 does

20 not mate with the fluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319. The fluid control piston 424 is moved axially by rotating the fluid control knob 122.

The fluid control piston 424 may be moved axially and outwardly until the fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 abuts the fluid control mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim 422, thereby preventing the removal of the fluid 25 control piston 424 from the fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412.

Still referring to Figure 5, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 is then axially positioned over the pressure relief piston 448, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut head 438 facing away from the pressure relief piston head 450.

30 The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 is then lowered onto the pressure relief piston 448 and the pressure relief piston 448 is concentrically Our ref 276827 4 inserted into the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut central bore 440, the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452 operatively engaging the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 442.

The pressure relief knob 126 is axially positioned over the pressure relief piston 5 448 and the pressure relief knob internally threaded central bore 472 is permanently secured onto the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure relief knob 126 is prevented from further rotating about the pressure relief piston 448 once it has 10 been installed. In one embodiment, the pressure relief knob internally threaded central bore 472 has a smaller diameter than the pressure relief piston 448 and the pressure relief knob 126 is secured over the pressure relief piston 448 using a process of interference fitting known to the skilled addressee.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure relief knob 126 is secured over the 15 pressure relief piston 448 using an adhesive compound known to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based adhesive or any other adhesive compound the skilled addressee may consider useful and appropriate.

The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 is then positioned over the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 and lowered onto the pressure 20 relief mechanism receiving bore 332, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 444 permanently and sealingly engaging the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 334.

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 444 is further coated with a sealing compound known

25 to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based sealants or the like prior to engagement into the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 334. The purpose of this coating is to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332. In an alternative embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut externally

30 threaded portion 444 is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement into the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 334. Our ref 276827 4

It will be appreciated that the pressure relief piston 448 may now selectively be moved axially with reference to the pressure relief channel 330 from a fully- closed position whereat the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 mates with the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337 to 5 an opened position whereat the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 does not mate with the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337. The pressure relief piston 448 is moved axially by rotating the pressure relief knob 126.

The pressure relief piston 448 may be moved axially and outwardly until the 10 pressure relief piston external abutting rim 458 abuts the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim, not shown, thereby preventing the removal of the pressure relief piston 448 from the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436.

Still referring to Figure 5, the inlet connecting duct 230 is inserted into the inlet

15 port compression nut central hole 484 until the inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 abuts the internally threaded compression nut narrow portion 482.

The inlet connecting duct threaded portion 400 then is then sealingly and permanently engaged into the corresponding inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326 and secured using a flat-bladed screwdriver

20 engaging the inlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406. The flat-bladed screwdriver is used for providing an appropriate amount of torque to prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324.

In a preferred embodiment, the inlet connecting duct threaded portion 400 is further coated with a sealing compound known to the skilled addressee such as

25 epoxy-based sealants or the like prior to engagement into the inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326. The purpose of this coating is to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324. In an alternative embodiment, the inlet connecting duct threaded portion 400 is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement

30 into the inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326. Our ref 276827 4

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the inlet port compression nut 232 is now slidably mounted on the inlet connecting duct 230 and may be slid upwardly until the inlet port compression nut narrow portion 482 abuts the inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 and downwardly until the inlet port compression nut 5 narrow portion 482 abuts the hollow coupling body 200.

Still referring to Figure 5, the compressed fluid providing hose 106, provided with an externally threaded portion, not shown, engages the releasable member 150. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 permanently and sealingly engages the port adaptor 504. In an alternative 10 embodiment, the releasable member 150 does not comprise a port adaptor 504 and the compressed fluid providing hose 106 engages sealingly and permanently the releasable member internally threaded portion 502.

Still referring to Figure 5, the pressure gauge 130 is concentrically mounted in the pressure gauge port 128. In an embodiment wherein the pressure gauge 130 is

15 provided with an externally threaded portion for engaging the gauge port internally threaded portion 306, the pressure gauge externally threaded portion may be further coated with a temporary sealing compound known to the skilled addressee such as tire sealants or the like prior to engagement into the gauge port internally threaded portion 306. The purpose of this coating is to further

20 prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the gauge port communicating channel 304 while allowing selective removal and reinstallation if the pressure gauge 130 into the pressure gauge port 128.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure gauge externally threaded portion may be further coated with a permanent sealing compound known to the skilled 25 addressee such as epoxy-based sealants or the like prior to engagement into the gauge port internally threaded portion 306. The purpose of this coating is to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid the gauge port communicating channel 304 while preventing removal of the pressure gauge 130 from the pressure gauge port 128. Our ref 276827 4

In yet another embodiment, the pressure gauge externally threaded portion is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement into the gauge port internally threaded portion 306.

Still referring to Figure 5, the outlet port 114 is connected to the fluid-powered 5 device entry port 160, the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 sealingly engaging an internally threaded portion provided with the fluid-powered device entry port 160.

In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 sealingly engages a conveying hose conveying compressed fluid from the outlet 10 port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102, not shown in Figure 5.

Having described the features and assembly of the coupler assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, its operation in various embodiments will now be described, with references to Figures 6 to 9.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the compressed fluid source 104,

15 compressed fluid providing hose 106, chamber 302 and fluid-powered device 102 form a fluid circuit when operatively connected together. The compressed fluid is conveyed from the compressed fluid source 104 to the inlet port 108 of the coupler assembly 100 through the compressed fluid providing hose 106, from the inlet port 108 to the outlet port 114 of the coupler assembly 100 through the

20 chamber 302 and from the outlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102.

In an initial state shown in Figures 6A, 7A and 8A, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is connected to the inlet port 108 of the coupler assembly 100. More specifically, the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 concentrically engages the releasable member central conduit 508, keeping the releasable member valve 25 510 in an open position wherein the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the chamber 302 are in fluid communication. Compressed fluid laterally enters the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 from the releasable member 150 through the inlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406.

Still in an initial state shown in Figures 6A, 7A and 8A, the compressed fluid 30 source 104, not shown in Figures 6A, 7A and 8A, is activated, providing Our ref 276827 4 compressed fluid throughout the previously described fluid circuit and urging the movement of the compressed fluid from the compressed fluid providing hose 106 to the fluid-powered device 102, not shown in Figures 6A, 7A and 8A, through the chamber 302 of the coupler assembly 100.

5 Still in an initial state, the fluid control mechanism 120 and pressure relief mechanism 124 are both in a closed position, the fluid control piston head external lateral surface 427 and the pressure relief piston head external surface 451 resting respectively on the fluid control channel conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319 and the pressure relief channel conical end cavity inner lateral 10 surface 337.

Now referring to Figures 6A and 6B, the operation of the fluid control mechanism 120 will be detailed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

In a fully-closed position, the fluid control piston 424 acts as a plug to the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320 and prevents movement of

15 compressed fluid therethrough, as shown on Figure 6A. Since the fluid control channel 312 and gauge port communicating channel 304 are no longer in fluid communication, the fluid circuit is divided into an upstream fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid source 104, not shown in Figure 6A, the compressed fluid providing hose 106, the inlet port 108, the inlet channel 322 and the fluid control

20 channel 312 and a downstream fluid circuit comprising the gauge port communicating channel 304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102, not shown in Figure 6A.

When the fluid control knob 122 is rotated counter-clockwise, the fluid control

25 mechanism 120 is moved from a fully-closed position to a partially-opened position, as shown on Figure 6B. An opening 600 is created around the fluid control piston head 426, providing fluid communication between the upstream and downstream fluid circuits. However, the flow of compressed fluid available through the downstream fluid circuit is restricted by the fluid control piston head

30 426 still partially plugging the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole

320. Our ref 276827 4

In an alternative embodiment, the movement of the fluid control mechanism 120 from a fully-closed position to a partially-opened position or fully-opened position is achieved by a clockwise rotation of the fluid control knob 122 and the movement of the fluid control mechanism 120 from a partially-opened position or 5 a fully-opened position to a fully-closed position is achieved by a counterclockwise rotation of the fluid control knob 122.

When the fluid control knob 122 is further rotated, the opening 600 is gradually enlarged as the fluid control piston head 426 is moved away from the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320, enabling a higher flow of 10 compressed fluid to be available through the downstream fluid circuit.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that in an embodiment wherein the movement of the fluid control mechanism 120 from a fully-closed position to a partially-opened position is achieved by a clockwise rotation of the fluid control knob 122, the enlargement of the opening 600 is further achieved by a clockwise 15 rotation of the fluid control knob 122.

Reciprocally, when the fluid control knob 122 is rotated in a second, opposite direction, the fluid control mechanism 120 is moved from a partially-opened or a fully-opened position towards a fully-closed position wherein fluid communication between the gauge port communicating channel 304 and the fluid control channel 20 312 is prevented.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102 is a paintball marker, a paintball player may want to adjust the flow of compressed fluid provided to his paintball marker from the compressed fluid source 104. A higher flow output of compressed fluid translates into a higher pressure output at 25 the outlet port and will provide a longer trajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker, enabling a player to hit targets at a much larger distance.

Inversely, a lower flow output of compressed fluid translates into a lower pressure output at the outlet port and will provide a shorter trajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker, enabling a player to direct paintballs in a short arced 30 trajectory to hit targets over obstacles. Our ref 276827 4

Now referring to Figures 7A, 7B and 7C, the operation of the pressure relief mechanism 124 will be detailed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

In a fully-closed position, the pressure relief piston 448 acts as a plug to the 5 pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338 and prevents movement of compressed fluid therethrough, as shown on Figure 7A.

When the pressure relief knob 126 is rotated in a first direction, the pressure relief mechanism 124 is moved from a fully-closed position to an opened position, as shown on Figure 7B. An opening 700 is created around the pressure relief piston 10 head 450, providing fluid communication between the chamber connecting elbow 342 and the pressure relief channel 330 through the pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338.

In an alternative embodiment, the movement of the pressure relief mechanism 124 from a fully-closed position to an opened position is achieved by a clockwise 15 rotation of the pressure relief knob 126 and the movement of the pressure relief mechanism 124 from an opened position to a fully-closed position is achieved by a counter-clockwise rotation of the pressure relief knob 126.

Now referring to Figure 7C, an amount of compressed fluid then enters the pressure relief channel 330 from the chamber connecting elbow 342 through the 20 pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338 and travels out of the chamber 302 to an ambient environment wherein the coupler assembly 100 is located through the pressure relief discharge duct 340.

In an alternative embodiment, the amount of compressed fluid does not travel from the chamber 302 to an ambient environment wherein the coupler assembly 25 100 is located, but travels instead through the pressure relief discharge duct 340 into a compressed fluid recuperation container such that the compressed fluid be reused or disposed of, the compressed fluid recuperation container being in fluid communication with the pressure relief discharge duct 340.

Now referring back to Figure 7B, as the pressure relief knob 126 is rotated in a 30 second, opposite direction, the pressure relief mechanism 124 is moved from an Our ref 276827 4 opened position towards a fully-closed position wherein fluid communication between the chamber connecting elbow 342 and the pressure relief channel 330 is prevented.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the usefulness of the pressure 5 relief mechanism 124 is fully exploited when the pressure relief mechanism 124 is activated while the fluid control mechanism 120 is in a fully-closed position and an amount of pressure, created by an amount of compressed fluid being present inside the chamber 302, is built-up inside the chamber 302.

A user first moves the fluid control mechanism 120 to a fully-closed position, 10 trapping an amount of compressed fluid in the downstream fluid circuit comprising the gauge port communicating channel 304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102, not shown in Figure 7B.

Now referring to Figure 7C, the user then moves the pressure relief mechanism 15 124 to an opened position, releasing the trapped compressed fluid from the downstream fluid circuit through the pressure relief discharge duct 340.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102 is a paintball marker, a paintball player may want to disconnect the paintball marker from the coupler assembly 100 after use, for storing or maintenance purposes. 20 The paintball player first moves the fluid control mechanism 120 to a fully-closed position, and then moves the pressure relief mechanism 124 to an opened position, releasing thereby an amount of pressure built-up inside the paintball marker. The paintball player may now safely disconnect his paintball marker from the coupler assembly 100.

25 Now referring to Figures 8A and 8B, the selective connection and disconnection of the releasable member 150 from the coupler assembly 100 will be detailed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

As shown on Figure 8A, when connected to the inlet connecting duct 230, the releasable member 150 provides fluid communication between the compressed

30 fluid providing hose 106 and the inlet channel 322 of the chamber 302 through Our ref 276827 4 the releasable member central conduit 508. The inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 concentrically engages the releasable member central conduit 508, keeping the releasable member valve 510 in an open position. The inlet port compression nut 232 securely engages the releasable member externally threaded portion 506 5 to prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the releasable member central conduit 508.

Now referring to Figure 8B, a user first disengages the inlet port compression nut 232 from the releasable member externally threaded portion 506. The user then disengages the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 from the releasable member 10 central conduit 508 by moving the releasable member 150 away from the inlet connecting duct 230.

As the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 is disengaged from the releasable member central conduit 466, the releasable member valve 510 is no longer kept in an open position and moves to a closed position, preventing compressed fluid 15 from traveling from the releasable member 150 through the releasable member central conduit 508. A closed fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid source 104, not shown in Figure 8B, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the releasable member 150 is now created.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the usefulness of the

20 releasable member 150 is fully exploited when the releasable member 150 is disconnected from the inlet connecting duct 230 while the fluid control mechanism 120 is in a fully-closed position. In addition to the closed fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid source 104, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the releasable member 150, a downstream fluid circuit comprising

25 the gauge port communicating channel 304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102 is now created.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102 comprises a paintball marker and further wherein the compressed fluid source

30 104 comprises a compressed gas bottle, a paintball player may want to disconnect the compressed gas bottle from the coupler assembly 100 for Our ref 276827 4 maintenance or storage purposes or to refill the compressed gas bottle. The paintball player first moves the fluid control mechanism 120 to a fully-closed position, and then disconnects the releasable member 150 from the inlet connecting duct 230. The compressed gas bottle can now be stored away, 5 maintained or refilled while an amount of compressed fluid remains trapped in the downstream fluid circuit comprising the gauge port communicating channel 304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102.

From this configuration, the paintball player may further want to store away the 10 paintball marker. The paintball player moves the pressure relief mechanism 124 to an opened position, releasing an amount of compressed fluid trapped in the downstream fluid circuit. The paintball player may now safely disconnect the paintball marker from the coupler assembly 100 and store away the paintball marker, the compressed gas bottle and the coupler assembly 100.

15 In an alternative embodiment, with references to Figure 1 , the compressed fluid source engaging end 172 of the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is provided with a second check valve mechanism 175 sealingly mounted thereat. The second check valve mechanism 175 comprises an open position wherein the compressed fluid source 104 and the compressed fluid providing hose 106 are in

20 fluid communication and a closed position wherein fluid communication between the compressed fluid source 104 and the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is prevented.

The second valve check mechanism 175 engages the compressed fluid source 104 such that the second check valve mechanism 175 is in an open position 25 when the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is connected to the compressed fluid source 104 and is in a closed position when the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is disconnected from the compressed fluid source 104.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the second check valve mechanism

175 enables the disconnection of the compressed fluid providing hose 106 from

30 the compressed fluid source 104 without leakage of compressed fluid from the Our ref 276827 4 compressed fluid source engaging end 172 of the compressed fluid providing hose 106.

This embodiment would allow a user to disconnect the compressed fluid providing hose 106 from the compressed fluid source 104 without leakage of 5 compressed fluid from a fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid providing hose 106, the coupler assembly 100 and the fluid-powered device 102.

In a preferred embodiment, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 comprises a compressed fluid source engaging releasable member 180 similar to the releasable member 150 of the coupler assembly 100, wherein the second check

10 valve mechanism is located. The compressed fluid source engaging releasable member 180 comprises a first, externally threaded portion adapted for sealingly and removably engaging the compressed fluid source 104 and a second, internally threaded portion adapted for sealingly engaging an externally threaded portion, not shown, provided with the compressed fluid source engaging end 172

15 of the compressed fluid providing hose 106.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that in this embodiment, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 may be a hose known by the skilled addressee comprising two similar ends adapted for selectively engaging the releasable member 150 and the compressed fluid source engaging releasable 20 member 180.

In an embodiment wherein the fluid-powered device 102 comprises a paintball marker and further wherein the compressed fluid source 104 comprises a compressed gas bottle, the paintball player may disconnect the compressed fluid providing hose 106 from the compressed gas bottle without leakage of 25 compressed fluid from the compressed fluid source engaging end 172 while the fluid control mechanism 120 is in an open position.

The paintball player may further disconnect the releasable member 150 from the inlet connecting duct 230 without leakage of fluid from the releasable member central conduit 508 while the fluid control mechanism 120 is in a closed position, 30 creating a closed fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid providing hose 106. Our ref 276827 4

This would enable the paintball player to disconnect the compressed gas bottle from the compressed fluid providing hose 106 for maintenance or storage purposes or to refill the compressed gas bottle without any loss of compressed fluid from the compressed fluid providing hose 106.

5 An alternative embodiment of the present invention will now be described, with references to Figure 9A and 9B.

In an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 9A, the outwardly curved left face 206 is further provided with a pressure limiting port 900 located above the pressure relief mechanism 124 and vertically aligned therewith. The pressure 10 limiting port 900 is provided for sealingly receiving a pressure limiting mechanism 902 therein.

The purpose of the pressure limiting mechanism 902 is to prevent an amount of pressure, created by an amount of compressed fluid present in the chamber 302, from exceeding a predetermined amount of pressure. In its initial position, the 15 pressure limiting mechanism 902 is designed to act as a plug of the pressure limiting port 900 when the amount of pressure inside the chamber 302 is below a predetermined amount of pressure.

As shown in Figure 9B, the pressure limiting mechanism 902 is further designed to move to an activated position, allowing the compressed fluid to travel 20 outwardly from the chamber 302 through the pressure limiting port 900 when the amount of pressure inside the chamber 302 is above a predetermined amount of pressure.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the pressure limiting mechanism 902 comprises a bursting disc set to rupture at an amount of pressure inside the 25 chamber 302 equal to 1000 psi. The bursting disc is a non-reversible mechanism and must be replaced once it has been activated.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure limiting mechanism 902 comprises a reversible pressure relief valve which may be reset to its initial position after activation. Our ref 276827 4

Now turning to Figure 13, there is shown a method for disconnecting the compressed fluid providing hose 106 from the fluid-powered device, such as the paintball marker 102 shown in Figure 1 , in accordance with one embodiment.

According to step 1300, a coupler assembly, as described hereabove, is 5 provided. The coupler assembly comprises a chamber, an inlet port, an outlet port and a fluid control mechanism.

More specifically, the inlet port comprises a releasable member having the hose connected thereto, the releasable member comprising a valve. The inlet port further comprises a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the 10 receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber.

The outlet port is in fluid communication with the chamber and is connected to the fluid-powered device. The fluid control mechanism is operatively coupled to the chamber and is provided for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

15 According to step 1302, the fluid control mechanism is set to a closed position wherein dispensing of fluid between the inlet port and the outlet port of the coupler assembly is prevented.

According to step 1304, the releasable member is released from the receiving member of the inlet port.

20 According to step 1306, the valve is moved to a closed position wherein dispensing of compressed fluid from the hose is prevented.

In an embodiment wherein the valve is a spring-loaded check valve, as described hereabove, the spring-loaded check valve is resiliently maintained by the receiving member in an open position wherein compressed fluid is dispensed 25 from the hose to the chamber when the releasable member is received therein. In such an embodiment, the releasing of the releasable member from the receiving member thus causes the moving of the valve from the open position to the closed position. Our ref 276827 4

In an embodiment wherein the coupler assembly further comprises the pressure relief mechanism, as described hereabove, the method may further comprise, after setting the fluid control mechanism to the closed position, the step of setting the pressure relief mechanism to an open position wherein an amount of 5 pressure is evacuated from the chamber.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that a benefit of the present invention is the combination of multiple features into one compact coupler assembly 100 and is especially useful when used as a coupling of a paintball marker and a compressed gas bottle. The coupler assembly 100 provides a 0 paintball player with means to adjust the trajectory of a paintball fired from the paintball marker using the fluid control mechanism 120, means to safely disconnect the paintball marker from the coupler assembly 100 with a combined use of the fluid control mechanism 120 and the pressure relief mechanism 124 and means to safely disconnect the compressed gas bottle from the coupler 5 assembly 100 with a combined use of the fluid control mechanism 120 and the releasable member 150.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the coupler assembly hereby described is simple enough to be easily manufactured using basic manufacturing techniques known to the addressee such as milling, turning, tapping, welding, gluing and the 0 like. Additionally, as the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 and the releasable member 150 are provided as detachable parts from the hollow coupling body 200, they can easily replaced by similar parts in case of malfunction, damage or normal wear of the parts.

Although the above description relates to a specific preferred embodiment as 5 presently contemplated by the inventor, it will be understood that the invention in its broad aspect includes mechanical and functional equivalents of the elements described herein.

Claims

Our ref.: 276827. 4CLAIMS:

1. A coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source, the coupler assembly comprising:

a chamber;

an inlet port, said inlet port comprising a releasable member to be connected to a hose originating from a compressed fluid source, said releasable member comprising a valve, said inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber;

an outlet port in fluid communication with the chamber; and

a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

2. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said fluid control mechanism comprises a fluid control piston selectively moving between a closed position wherein dispensing of fluid from the inlet port to the outlet port is prevented and an open position wherein fluid is dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

3. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 and 2, wherein said fluid control mechanism is operated manually using a fluid control knob.

4. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 and 2, wherein said fluid control mechanism is operated using actuation means operatively connected thereto, said automated actuation means being selected from a group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator and a hydraulic actuator.

5. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 4 further comprising a pressure relief mechanism to selectively evacuate, from said chamber, an amount of pressure created by a an amount of compressed fluid Our ref 276827 4 therein, said pressure relief mechanism being operatively coupled to said chamber.

6. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein said pressure relief mechanism comprises a pressure relief piston selectively moving between a

5 closed position wherein evacuation of an amount of pressure from said chamber is prevented and an open position wherein an amount of pressure is evacuated from said chamber.

7. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 5 and 6, wherein said pressure relief mechanism is operated manually using a pressure relief

10 knob.

8. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 5 and 6, wherein said pressure relief mechanism is operatively connected to actuation means operatively connected thereto, said actuation means being selected from a group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator and a hydraulic actuator.

15 9. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 8, wherein said valve comprises a spring-loaded check valve.

10. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said receiving member comprises an inlet connecting duct provided with an inlet connecting duct end nipple concentrically and outwardly extending therefrom for activating

20 said spring-loaded check valve.

11. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein said inlet connecting duct nipple is axially centered on said inlet connecting duct.

12. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 10 and 11 , wherein said receiving member comprises an inlet port compression nut concentrically

25 mounted on said inlet connecting duct.

13. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said inlet port compression nut has a knurled outer surface. Our ref 276827 4

14. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 9 to 13, wherein said spring-loaded check valve comprises a ball check valve.

15. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 9 to 13, wherein said spring-loaded check valve comprises a poppet valve.

5 16. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 15 further comprising a pressure gauge port for receiving a pressure gauge therein, said pressure gauge port being in fluid communication with said chamber.

17. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 16 further comprising said pressure gauge mounted in said gauge port.

10 18. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 17 further comprising a pressure limiting mechanism operatively coupled to said chamber for preventing an amount of pressure, created by an amount of compressed fluid inside said chamber, from exceeding a predetermined amount of pressure.

19. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 18, wherein said pressure 15 limiting mechanism comprises a bursting disc.

20. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 19, wherein said outlet port delivers compressed fluid to a fluid-powered device.

21. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein said fluid-powered device comprises a paintball marker.

20 22. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein said fluid-powered device comprises a spray gun.

23. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 22, wherein said hose further comprises a check valve mechanism located at a compressed fluid source engaging end thereof, said compressed fluid source engaging end 25 sealingly and removably engaging said compressed fluid source, said check valve mechanism comprising an open position wherein said compressed fluid source and said hose are in fluid communication and a closed position wherein Our ref 276827 4 fluid communication between said compressed fluid source and said hose is prevented.

24. The coupler assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 23, wherein said coupler assembly is manufactured from a rigid material selected from a

5 group consisting of aluminium and an alloy thereof, stainless steel, titanium and an alloy thereof, magnesium and an alloy thereof, brass, cast iron, copper and an alloy thereof, PVC, ABS, polytetrafluoroethylene, PVDF and polypropylene.

25. A method for disconnecting a hose originating from a compressed fluid source from a fluid-powered device, the method comprising:

10 - providing a coupler assembly comprising:

a chamber;

an inlet port comprising a releasable member having the hose connected thereto, the releasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the 15 releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber;

an outlet port in fluid communication with the chamber, the outlet port being connected to the fluid-powered device; and

a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for 20 controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port;

- setting the fluid control mechanism to a closed position wherein dispensing of fluid between the inlet port and the outlet port is prevented;

- releasing the releasable member from the receiving member;

25 - moving the valve to a closed position wherein dispensing of compressed fluid from the hose is prevented. Our ref 276827 4

26. The method as claimed in claim 25, wherein the valve comprises a spring- loaded check valve, the spring-loaded check valve being resiliency maintained by the receiving member in an open position wherein compressed fluid is dispensed from the hose to the chamber when the releasable member is received therein,

5 further wherein the releasing of the releasable member from the receiving member causes the moving of the valve from the open position to the closed position.

27. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 25 and 26, wherein the coupler assembly further comprises a pressure relief mechanism, further wherein

10 the method comprises:

- after setting the fluid control mechanism to the closed position, setting the pressure relief mechanism to an open position wherein an amount of pressure is evacuated from the chamber.