WO2023249656A1 - Retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly - Google Patents

Retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023249656A1
WO2023249656A1 PCT/US2022/073084 US2022073084W WO2023249656A1 WO 2023249656 A1 WO2023249656 A1 WO 2023249656A1 US 2022073084 W US2022073084 W US 2022073084W WO 2023249656 A1 WO2023249656 A1 WO 2023249656A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
retainer
legs
assembly
quick connect
distal end
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/073084
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Andrew Jon CRANE
Original Assignee
Oetiker Ny, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Oetiker Ny, Inc. filed Critical Oetiker Ny, Inc.
Priority to PCT/US2022/073084 priority Critical patent/WO2023249656A1/en
Publication of WO2023249656A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023249656A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
    • F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
    • F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
    • F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
    • F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
    • F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
    • F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
    • F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
    • F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
    • F16L37/0987—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part the flexible hook being progressively compressed by axial tensile loads acting on the coupling

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly.
  • Tube connectors are integral components for many applications. Fluid predominantly moves between components such as piping and hoses, which can be connected with a quick connect wherein a tube endform is held in place by a retainer. Properly connecting a tube endform to a quick connect can be a compromise between the convenience of the connection and the quality of the connection. When the fluid pressure is low enough, greater flexibility of the type of quick connects may be available.
  • a retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly that has a retainer having a proximal end and a distal end, the retainer having an aperture disposed therein and a tapered outer wall increasing in diameter from the distal end to the proximal end.
  • a plurality of legs extends longitudinally from the outer wall proximate to the distal end to form the proximal end of the retainer, each of the plurality of legs bifurcated by a slot arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs.
  • An inner shelf is arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribed around an outer surface of the tube endform.
  • At least some of the plurality of legs include a securement shelf arranged on an outside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs and a retaining flare arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect, the retaining flare arranged to engage a tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
  • an assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer and at least one O-ring circumscribes the tube endform, the assembly designed to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
  • an assembly of two washers and two O-rings are alternatively assembled, one washer of the two washers designed to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
  • at least one O-ring is predisposed circumscribing the tube endform within at least one groove member circumscribing the tube, one O-ring corresponding with each groove member.
  • the taper angle of the retainer substantially matches the taper of the through-bore wherein the retainer is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
  • the retainer is a polymer with leg members designed to inwardly flex and return to their original form.
  • the retainer may also be substantially a metal.
  • every other leg of the plurality of legs includes the inner shelf on its inside surface, the inner shelf arranged to abut the protrusion circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform.
  • the inner shelf may be arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut the protrusion circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform.
  • the plurality of legs are arranged wherein there is a first leg type and a second leg type, the second leg type longer than the first leg type and including the securement shelf arranged on the outside surface.
  • the second leg type in this embodiment, is further designed to extend longitudinally from the through-bore of the quick connect and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer assembly from the quick connect.
  • the second leg type in this embodiment, is further designed to include the securement shelf arranged to engage the channel disposed within the inside surface of the through-bore with the quick connect and the retaining flare arranged to engage the tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
  • Figure 1A is a side view of a representative retainer assembly installed with a tube endform into a quick connect
  • Figure IB is a perspective view of the retainer assembly illustrated in Figure 1 installed with the tube endform into the quick connect;
  • Figure 2A is an exploded side view of the retainer assembly, the tube endform, and the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
  • Figure 2B is an exploded perspective view of the retainer assembly, the tube endform, and the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is another side view of the retainer assembly installed with the tube endform into the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
  • Figure 4 is another side cross-sectional view of the retainer assembly installed with the tube endform into the quick connect illustrated in Figure 3;
  • Figure 5A is a perspective view of the retainer
  • Figure 5B is a top view of the retainer
  • Figure 5C is a side cross-sectional view of the retainer
  • Figure 6 is an embodiment of the tube endform bearing a groove for an O-ring.
  • the present inventive concept generally comprises a retainer assembly that is arranged to sealably secure a tube endform within a quick-connect connector.
  • the present inventive concept, and its alternative embodiments, are illustrated and discussed in greater detail herein.
  • the assembly of the present inventive concept is illustrated in the associated figures.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate that the present inventive concept broadly comprises retainer 10 and quick connect assembly 100 having quick connector 300, retainer 10 inserted therein, and tube endform 200 inserted within retainer 10.
  • the inventive concept has a longitudinal center 60 and at least one latitudinal divide 61.
  • FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate two exploded views of the present inventive concept.
  • Tube endform 200 is arranged to accept washers 50 and O-rings 52, in the representative embodiment including a first washer 50a, first O-ring 52a, second washer 50b, and second O- ring 52b around the distal end of the tube endform 200 (illustrated above as the leftwardly arranged end), where the distal end of tube endform 200 extends longitudinally through retainer 10 when inserted therein.
  • Retainer 10 and tube endform 200 then sealably connect within quick connect 300.
  • FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the complete assembly of the present inventive concept and a cross-sectional view respectively taken generally along the longitudinal center 60 of the assembly illustrated.
  • Quick connect 300 generally comprises through-bore 301 having inner wall 303, tapered portion 304 which is arranged proximate to the opening arranged to accept retainer 10 and tube endform 200, and channel 302 which is arranged within tapered portion 304 and most proximate to the opening of through-bore 301 which is arranged to accept retainer 10 and tube endform 200.
  • first washer 50a, first O-ring 52a, second washer 50b, and second O-ring 52b are also illustrated within quick connect 300 and secured around the outside surface of tube endform 200.
  • FIGS 5A-5C illustrate respectively a perspective view of retainer 10, a top plan view of retainer 10, and a cross-sectional view of retainer 10 taken from the top plan view of retainer 10.
  • Retainer 10 in this representative embodiment, includes aperture 12 where first legs 20 and second legs 30 are circumscribed there-around.
  • Outer wall 11 has a tapered configuration that extends from the distal opening of aperture 12, that is, outer wall 11 has a greater circumference the longitudinally farther it extends from the distal opening of aperture 12. As outer wall 11 extends upwardly from the distal opening of aperture 12, its locations, defined by slots 40.
  • Slots 40 separate legs, in the representative embodiment, first legs 20 from second legs 30, though other separation arrangements may exist in other embodiments, for example, a retainer with only two second legs 30 wherein one or more first legs 20 may be adjacent to another.
  • Outer wall 11 is arranged to abut the inner surface of quick connect 300, restricting the radial movement of retainer 10 and tube endform 200 when inserted therein.
  • FIGS 5A-5C further illustrate that first legs 20 are primarily configured to secure tube endform 200 within retainer 10.
  • First legs each include outer shelf 21 and inner shelf 22, where inner shelf 22 is arranged to abut a protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of tube endform 200, restricting the axial movement of tube endform 200 within retainer 10.
  • FIGS 5A-5C further illustrate that second legs 30 are primarily configured to secure retainer 10 within quick connect 300, as shown in the assembly sectional view, supra.
  • Second legs 30 each include securement shelf 31 and retaining flare 32.
  • Each of second legs 30 is arranged to be deformably flexed when retainer 10 is inserted into quick connect 300 such that second legs will unflex so that securement shelf 31 can rest within channel 302, securing retainer 10 within quick connect 300 and restricting axial movement of retainer 10 within quick connect 300.
  • Retaining flare 32 of each of second legs 30 is arranged to abut the outer surface of tube endform 200 when tube endform 200 is inserted within retainer 10, thereby restricting the axial movement of tube endform 200 within retainer 10.
  • second legs 30 are flexed inwardly, towards the center point of through-bore 12 of quick connect 300, such that outer shelf 31 of each of second legs 30 will be released from channel 302 of the quick connect, allowing tube endform 200 and retainer 10 to be removed therefrom.
  • the tapered configuration of outer wall 11 of retainer 10 is arranged to assist retainer 10 during insertion into quick connect 300.
  • the retainer assembly for engaging the tube endform 200 within the quick connect assembly has the retainer 10 having the proximal end 18 and the distal end 19, the retainer 10 having the aperture 12 disposed therein and the tapered outer wall 11 increasing in diameter from the distal end 19 to the proximal end 18.
  • the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 extends from the outer wall proximate to the distal end 19 to form the proximal end 18 of the retainer 10, each of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 bifurcated by the slot 40 arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate representative embodiments of the inventive concept wherein at least some of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 include the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200.
  • At least some of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 include the securement shelf 31 arranged on the outside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 and the retaining flare 32 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the securement shelf 31 arranged to engage the channel 302 disposed within the inside surface of the through-bore 301 with the quick connect 300, the retaining flare 32 arranged to engage the tapered section of the protrusion 203 of the tube endform 200.
  • all legs are substantially identical and include the outer shelf 21, the inner shelf 22, and the securement shelf 31.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate representative embodiments of the inventive concept wherein the assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer 50 and at least one O-ring 52 circumscribes the tube endform 200, the assembly designed to abut the distal end of the retainer 10 within the quick connect 100.
  • the assembly of two washers 50 and two O-rings 52 are alternatively assembled, one washer 50 of the two washers 50 designed to abut the distal end of the retainer 19 within the quick connect 300.
  • at least one O-ring 52 is disposed circumscribing the tube endform 200 within at least one machine groove member 65 circumscribing the tube endform.
  • at least one of the at least one machine groove members 65 may capture the retainer 10.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate a representative embodiment of the inventive concept wherein the taper angle 11 of the retainer 10 substantially matches the taper of the through-bore 301 wherein the retainer 10 is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore 301 and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate that in some embodiments of the retainer assembly 10, the retainer 10 is a polymer designed to flex and return to its original form.
  • the retainer 10 may also be substantially metal designed to flex and return to its original form.
  • FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate that in some embodiments of the retainer assembly 10, every second leg 30 of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 includes the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200.
  • the second legs 30 are longitudinally extended longer than the first legs 20 and include the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200.
  • the second legs 30 are, in this representative embodiment, further designed to extend longitudinally from the through-bore 301 of the quick connect 100 and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer 10 from the quick connect 100.
  • the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 numbers six. Three of the six are designed, as second legs 30, to extend longitudinally from the through-bore 301 of the quick connect 100 and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer 10 from the quick connect 300.

Abstract

A retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform (200) within a quick connect assembly (300). The retainer (10) has an aperture (12) disposed therein and a tapered outer wall (11) increasing in diameter longitudinally from a distal end. A plurality of legs (20, 30) extends longitudinally from the outer wall to form the proximal end of the retainer, with slots (40) between each adjacent leg of the plurality of legs. Some legs including an inner shelf (22) arranged on an inside surface of the legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribing an outer surface of the tube endform. Some legs include a securement shelf (31) arranged on an outside surface of the legs and a retaining flare (32) arranged on an inside surface of the legs, the securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect.

Description

RETAINER ASSEMBLY FOR ENGAGING A TUBE ENDFORM WITHIN A QUICK CONNECT ASSEMBLY
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Tube connectors are integral components for many applications. Fluid predominantly moves between components such as piping and hoses, which can be connected with a quick connect wherein a tube endform is held in place by a retainer. Properly connecting a tube endform to a quick connect can be a compromise between the convenience of the connection and the quality of the connection. When the fluid pressure is low enough, greater flexibility of the type of quick connects may be available. But some connect mechanisms and retainers may prove less structurally sound than other quick connect solutions that allow for connecting and releasing a tube endform — particularly where release is a required feature — and may introduce undesirable features such as hand-levers and helically threaded connections that while suitable for installation and removal by hand, may be bulky, cumbersome to operate, or represent a weak point in the overall system for transporting fluid. Therefore, there is a need in the market for an improved retainer for a tube connector for quick releases from which to connect the quick release with such fluid carriers as piping and hoses.
SUMMARY
[0003] Disclosed is a retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly that has a retainer having a proximal end and a distal end, the retainer having an aperture disposed therein and a tapered outer wall increasing in diameter from the distal end to the proximal end. A plurality of legs extends longitudinally from the outer wall proximate to the distal end to form the proximal end of the retainer, each of the plurality of legs bifurcated by a slot arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs. An inner shelf is arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribed around an outer surface of the tube endform. At least some of the plurality of legs include a securement shelf arranged on an outside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs and a retaining flare arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect, the retaining flare arranged to engage a tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
[0004] In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, an assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer and at least one O-ring circumscribes the tube endform, the assembly designed to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, an assembly of two washers and two O-rings are alternatively assembled, one washer of the two washers designed to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, at least one O-ring is predisposed circumscribing the tube endform within at least one groove member circumscribing the tube, one O-ring corresponding with each groove member.
[0005] In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, the taper angle of the retainer substantially matches the taper of the through-bore wherein the retainer is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
[0006] In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, the retainer is a polymer with leg members designed to inwardly flex and return to their original form. The retainer may also be substantially a metal.
[0007] In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, every other leg of the plurality of legs includes the inner shelf on its inside surface, the inner shelf arranged to abut the protrusion circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, the inner shelf may be arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut the protrusion circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, the plurality of legs are arranged wherein there is a first leg type and a second leg type, the second leg type longer than the first leg type and including the securement shelf arranged on the outside surface. The second leg type, in this embodiment, is further designed to extend longitudinally from the through-bore of the quick connect and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer assembly from the quick connect. The second leg type, in this embodiment, is further designed to include the securement shelf arranged to engage the channel disposed within the inside surface of the through-bore with the quick connect and the retaining flare arranged to engage the tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
[0008] The inventive concept now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to be read in conjunction with both this summary, the detailed description, and any preferred and/or particular embodiments specifically discussed or otherwise disclosed. Inventive concepts may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete, and will fully convey the full scope of the inventive concepts to those skilled in the art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Various embodiments are disclosed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which:
Figure 1A is a side view of a representative retainer assembly installed with a tube endform into a quick connect;
Figure IB is a perspective view of the retainer assembly illustrated in Figure 1 installed with the tube endform into the quick connect;
Figure 2A is an exploded side view of the retainer assembly, the tube endform, and the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
Figure 2B is an exploded perspective view of the retainer assembly, the tube endform, and the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is another side view of the retainer assembly installed with the tube endform into the quick connect illustrated in Figure 1;
Figure 4 is another side cross-sectional view of the retainer assembly installed with the tube endform into the quick connect illustrated in Figure 3;
Figure 5A is a perspective view of the retainer;
Figure 5B is a top view of the retainer;
Figure 5C is a side cross-sectional view of the retainer;
Figure 6 is an embodiment of the tube endform bearing a groove for an O-ring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0010] Following are more detailed descriptions of various related concepts related to, and embodiments of, methods and apparatus according to the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that various aspects of the subject matter introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the subject matter is not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. The present inventive concept generally comprises a retainer assembly that is arranged to sealably secure a tube endform within a quick-connect connector. The present inventive concept, and its alternative embodiments, are illustrated and discussed in greater detail herein. The assembly of the present inventive concept is illustrated in the associated figures.
[0011] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate that the present inventive concept broadly comprises retainer 10 and quick connect assembly 100 having quick connector 300, retainer 10 inserted therein, and tube endform 200 inserted within retainer 10. The inventive concept has a longitudinal center 60 and at least one latitudinal divide 61.
[0012] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate two exploded views of the present inventive concept. Tube endform 200 is arranged to accept washers 50 and O-rings 52, in the representative embodiment including a first washer 50a, first O-ring 52a, second washer 50b, and second O- ring 52b around the distal end of the tube endform 200 (illustrated above as the leftwardly arranged end), where the distal end of tube endform 200 extends longitudinally through retainer 10 when inserted therein. Retainer 10 and tube endform 200 then sealably connect within quick connect 300.
[0013] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the complete assembly of the present inventive concept and a cross-sectional view respectively taken generally along the longitudinal center 60 of the assembly illustrated. Quick connect 300 generally comprises through-bore 301 having inner wall 303, tapered portion 304 which is arranged proximate to the opening arranged to accept retainer 10 and tube endform 200, and channel 302 which is arranged within tapered portion 304 and most proximate to the opening of through-bore 301 which is arranged to accept retainer 10 and tube endform 200. Also illustrated within quick connect 300 and secured around the outside surface of tube endform 200 are first washer 50a, first O-ring 52a, second washer 50b, and second O-ring 52b. [0014] FIGS 5A-5C illustrate respectively a perspective view of retainer 10, a top plan view of retainer 10, and a cross-sectional view of retainer 10 taken from the top plan view of retainer 10. Retainer 10, in this representative embodiment, includes aperture 12 where first legs 20 and second legs 30 are circumscribed there-around. Outer wall 11 has a tapered configuration that extends from the distal opening of aperture 12, that is, outer wall 11 has a greater circumference the longitudinally farther it extends from the distal opening of aperture 12. As outer wall 11 extends upwardly from the distal opening of aperture 12, its locations, defined by slots 40. Slots 40 separate legs, in the representative embodiment, first legs 20 from second legs 30, though other separation arrangements may exist in other embodiments, for example, a retainer with only two second legs 30 wherein one or more first legs 20 may be adjacent to another. Outer wall 11 is arranged to abut the inner surface of quick connect 300, restricting the radial movement of retainer 10 and tube endform 200 when inserted therein.
[0015] FIGS 5A-5C further illustrate that first legs 20 are primarily configured to secure tube endform 200 within retainer 10. First legs each include outer shelf 21 and inner shelf 22, where inner shelf 22 is arranged to abut a protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of tube endform 200, restricting the axial movement of tube endform 200 within retainer 10.
[0016] FIGS 5A-5C further illustrate that second legs 30 are primarily configured to secure retainer 10 within quick connect 300, as shown in the assembly sectional view, supra. Second legs 30 each include securement shelf 31 and retaining flare 32. Each of second legs 30 is arranged to be deformably flexed when retainer 10 is inserted into quick connect 300 such that second legs will unflex so that securement shelf 31 can rest within channel 302, securing retainer 10 within quick connect 300 and restricting axial movement of retainer 10 within quick connect 300. Retaining flare 32 of each of second legs 30 is arranged to abut the outer surface of tube endform 200 when tube endform 200 is inserted within retainer 10, thereby restricting the axial movement of tube endform 200 within retainer 10.
[0017] To remove retainer 10 from quick connect 300 — thereby removing tube endform 200 from quick connect 300, second legs 30 are flexed inwardly, towards the center point of through-bore 12 of quick connect 300, such that outer shelf 31 of each of second legs 30 will be released from channel 302 of the quick connect, allowing tube endform 200 and retainer 10 to be removed therefrom. [0018] It should also be appreciated that the tapered configuration of outer wall 11 of retainer 10 is arranged to assist retainer 10 during insertion into quick connect 300.
[0019] In representative embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C, the retainer assembly for engaging the tube endform 200 within the quick connect assembly has the retainer 10 having the proximal end 18 and the distal end 19, the retainer 10 having the aperture 12 disposed therein and the tapered outer wall 11 increasing in diameter from the distal end 19 to the proximal end 18. The plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 extends from the outer wall proximate to the distal end 19 to form the proximal end 18 of the retainer 10, each of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 bifurcated by the slot 40 arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30.
[0020] FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate representative embodiments of the inventive concept wherein at least some of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 include the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200. At least some of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 include the securement shelf 31 arranged on the outside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 and the retaining flare 32 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the securement shelf 31 arranged to engage the channel 302 disposed within the inside surface of the through-bore 301 with the quick connect 300, the retaining flare 32 arranged to engage the tapered section of the protrusion 203 of the tube endform 200. In some embodiments, all legs are substantially identical and include the outer shelf 21, the inner shelf 22, and the securement shelf 31.
[0021] FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate representative embodiments of the inventive concept wherein the assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer 50 and at least one O-ring 52 circumscribes the tube endform 200, the assembly designed to abut the distal end of the retainer 10 within the quick connect 100. In this representative embodiment of the retainer assembly 10, the assembly of two washers 50 and two O-rings 52 are alternatively assembled, one washer 50 of the two washers 50 designed to abut the distal end of the retainer 19 within the quick connect 300. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, as illustrated in FIG. 6, at least one O-ring 52 is disposed circumscribing the tube endform 200 within at least one machine groove member 65 circumscribing the tube endform. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one machine groove members 65 may capture the retainer 10.
[0022] FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate a representative embodiment of the inventive concept wherein the taper angle 11 of the retainer 10 substantially matches the taper of the through-bore 301 wherein the retainer 10 is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore 301 and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
[0023] FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate that in some embodiments of the retainer assembly 10, the retainer 10 is a polymer designed to flex and return to its original form. The retainer 10 may also be substantially metal designed to flex and return to its original form.
[0024] FIGS. 1A-1B through FIGS. 5A-5C further illustrate that in some embodiments of the retainer assembly 10, every second leg 30 of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 includes the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200. In some embodiments of the retainer assembly, and as presented in the representative embodiment, the second legs 30 are longitudinally extended longer than the first legs 20 and include the inner shelf 22 arranged on the inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30, the inner shelf 22 arranged to abut the protrusion 203 circumscribed around the outer surface of the tube endform 200. The second legs 30 are, in this representative embodiment, further designed to extend longitudinally from the through-bore 301 of the quick connect 100 and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer 10 from the quick connect 100. In the representative embodiment of the retainer assembly 10, the plurality of first legs 20 and second legs 30 numbers six. Three of the six are designed, as second legs 30, to extend longitudinally from the through-bore 301 of the quick connect 100 and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer 10 from the quick connect 300.
[0025] The following patents are incorporated by reference in their entireties: US8, 113,548, US7,488,005, US6,010,160, US5,752,726, US5,069,424, US4,781,400, US10,221,976, US2017/0254453, GB2337373, PCT/EP2019/074318, PCT/EP2019/074316, W0002021069047A1 - PCA-51195, W0002021069048A1 - PCA-51201,
W02005047753A1, [0026] While inventive concepts have been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Upon reading the teachings of this disclosure, many modifications and other embodiments of the inventive concepts will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which these inventive concepts pertain, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is indeed intended that the scope of the inventive concepts should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.
REFERENCE NUMERALS Retainer Retainer outer wall Aperture Distal opening of aperture Tapered outer wall Proximal end of the retainer Distal end of the retainer First legs Outer shelf Inner shelf Second legs Securement shelf Retaining flare Slot Washer a First washer b Second washer O-ring a First O-ring b Second O-ring Longitudinal center Latitudinal divide Machine groove 0 Quick connect assembly 0 Tube endform 3 Protrusion 0 Quick connect 1 Through-bore 2 Channel 3 Inner wall 4 Tapered portion

Claims

CLAIMS What Is Claimed Is:
1. A retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly, comprising: a retainer having a proximal end and a distal end, the retainer having an aperture disposed therein and a tapered outer wall of the retainer increasing in diameter from the distal end to the proximal end; a plurality of legs extending longitudinally from the outer wall proximate to the distal end to form the proximal end of the retainer, each of the plurality of legs bifurcated by a slot arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs; an inner shelf arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribed around an outer surface of the tube endform; and, a securement shelf arranged on an outside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs and a retaining flare arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect, the retaining flare arranged to engage a tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
2. The retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein an assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer and at least one O-ring circumscribes the tube endform, the assembly adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
3. The retainer assembly of claim 2, wherein an assembly of two washers and two O- rings are alternatively assembled, one washer of the two washers adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
4. The retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one O-ring is predisposed circumscribing the tube endform within at least one groove member circumscribing the tube, one O-ring corresponding with each groove member.
5. The retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein the taper angle of the retainer substantially matches the taper of the through-bore wherein the retainer is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
6. The retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein the retainer is a polymer adapted to flex and return to its original form.
7. The retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of legs numbers six, three of the six adapted to extend longitudinally from the through-bore of the quick connect and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer assembly from the quick connect.
8. A retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly, comprising: a retainer having a proximal end and a distal end, the retainer having an aperture disposed therein and a tapered outer wall increasing in diameter from the distal end to the proximal end; a plurality of legs extending longitudinally from the outer wall proximate to the distal end to form the proximal end of the retainer, each of the plurality of legs bifurcated by a slot arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs; an inner shelf arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribed around an outer surface of the tube endform; and, every second leg of the plurality of legs including a securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect and a retaining flare arranged to engage a tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
9. The retainer assembly of claim 8, wherein an assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer and at least one O-ring circumscribes the tube endform, the assembly adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
10. The retainer assembly of claim 9, wherein an assembly of two washers and two O-rings are alternatively assembled, one washer of the two washers adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
11. The retainer assembly of claim 8, wherein at least one O-ring is predisposed circumscribing the tube endform within at least one groove member circumscribing the tube, one O-ring corresponding with each groove member.
12. The retainer assembly of claim 8, wherein the taper angle of the retainer substantially matches the taper of the through-bore wherein the retainer is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
13. The retainer assembly of claim 8, wherein the retainer is a polymer adapted to flex and return to its original form.
14. The retainer assembly of claim 8, wherein the plurality of legs numbers six, three of the six legs adapted to extend longitudinally from the through-bore of the quick connect and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer assembly from the quick connect.
15. A retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick assembly connect, comprising: a retainer having a proximal end and a distal end, the retainer having an aperture disposed therein and a tapered outer wall increasing in diameter from the distal end to the proximal end; a plurality of legs extending longitudinally from the outer wall proximate to the distal end to form the proximal end of the retainer, each of the plurality of legs bifurcated by a slot arranged between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs; an inner shelf arranged on an inside surface of at least some legs of the plurality of legs, the inner shelf arranged to abut a protrusion circumscribed around an outer surface of the tube endform; the plurality of legs arranged wherein there is a first leg type and a second leg type, the second leg type longer than the first leg type and including a securement shelf arranged on an outside surface, the second leg type further adapted to extend longitudinally from the through-bore of the quick connect and be inwardly flexed to release the retainer assembly from the quick connect; and the second leg type further adapted to include a securement shelf arranged to engage a channel disposed within an inside surface of a through-bore with the quick connect and a retaining flare arranged to engage a tapered section of the protrusion of the tube endform.
16. The retainer assembly of claim 15, wherein an assembly of at least one or more of at least one washer and at least one O-ring circumscribes the tube endform, the assembly adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
17. The retainer assembly of claim 16, wherein an assembly of two washers and two firings are alternatively assembled, one washer of the two washers adapted to abut the distal end of the retainer within the quick connect.
18. The retainer assembly of claim 15, wherein at least one O-ring is predisposed circumscribing the tube endform within at least one groove member circumscribing the tube, one O-ring corresponding with each groove member.
19. The retainer assembly of claim 15, wherein the taper angle of the retainer substantially matches the taper of the through-bore wherein the retainer is longitudinally aligned with the through-bore and prevented from radial and further inward axial movement.
20. The retainer assembly of claim 15, wherein the retainer is a polymer adapted to flex and return to its original form.
PCT/US2022/073084 2022-06-22 2022-06-22 Retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly WO2023249656A1 (en)

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PCT/US2022/073084 WO2023249656A1 (en) 2022-06-22 2022-06-22 Retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2022/073084 WO2023249656A1 (en) 2022-06-22 2022-06-22 Retainer assembly for engaging a tube endform within a quick connect assembly

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Citations (16)

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US4781400A (en) 1987-07-01 1988-11-01 General Motors Corporation Quick connect tube coupling
US5063968A (en) * 1980-10-29 1991-11-12 Proprietary Technology, Inc. Swivelable quick connector assembly
US5069424A (en) 1990-10-17 1991-12-03 Itt Corporation Quick connector
US5141264A (en) * 1990-03-19 1992-08-25 Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Ltd. Connector for connecting thin tube
US5752726A (en) 1995-05-03 1998-05-19 Aeroquip Zweigniederlassung Der Trinova Gmbh Quick-action coupling, in particular for refrigerant lines
GB2337373A (en) 1998-03-04 1999-11-17 Bicc Plc Snap-fit cable glands
US6010160A (en) 1995-03-27 2000-01-04 Proprietary Technology, Inc. Quick connector having ring for confirming proper connection
US6497433B1 (en) * 1999-08-20 2002-12-24 Ti Group Automotive Systems Corporation Coupling assemblies for providing fluid connection
WO2005047753A1 (en) 2003-11-14 2005-05-26 Aba Of Sweden Ab A device for connecting two rigid tubular objetcs comprising a male part and a female part
US7488005B2 (en) 2004-09-13 2009-02-10 Ti Group Automotive Systems, Llc Quick connector for high pressure applications
US8113548B2 (en) 2005-06-30 2012-02-14 Ti Group Automotive Systems, Llc Quick connector for high pressure applications
DE102015201367A1 (en) * 2014-02-06 2015-08-06 Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG connecting device
US20170254453A1 (en) 2016-03-03 2017-09-07 Jiffy-Tite Co., Inc. Fluid connector having a deformable tab and plug/connector assembly
US10221976B2 (en) 2013-11-27 2019-03-05 Oatiker NY, Inc. Fluid coupling with lock connection
WO2021069048A1 (en) 2019-10-10 2021-04-15 Oetiker Schweiz Ag Quick connector made of plastics
WO2021069047A1 (en) 2019-10-10 2021-04-15 Oetiker Schweiz Ag Quick connector

Patent Citations (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5063968A (en) * 1980-10-29 1991-11-12 Proprietary Technology, Inc. Swivelable quick connector assembly
US4781400A (en) 1987-07-01 1988-11-01 General Motors Corporation Quick connect tube coupling
US5141264A (en) * 1990-03-19 1992-08-25 Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Ltd. Connector for connecting thin tube
US5069424A (en) 1990-10-17 1991-12-03 Itt Corporation Quick connector
US6010160A (en) 1995-03-27 2000-01-04 Proprietary Technology, Inc. Quick connector having ring for confirming proper connection
US5752726A (en) 1995-05-03 1998-05-19 Aeroquip Zweigniederlassung Der Trinova Gmbh Quick-action coupling, in particular for refrigerant lines
GB2337373A (en) 1998-03-04 1999-11-17 Bicc Plc Snap-fit cable glands
US6497433B1 (en) * 1999-08-20 2002-12-24 Ti Group Automotive Systems Corporation Coupling assemblies for providing fluid connection
WO2005047753A1 (en) 2003-11-14 2005-05-26 Aba Of Sweden Ab A device for connecting two rigid tubular objetcs comprising a male part and a female part
US7488005B2 (en) 2004-09-13 2009-02-10 Ti Group Automotive Systems, Llc Quick connector for high pressure applications
US8113548B2 (en) 2005-06-30 2012-02-14 Ti Group Automotive Systems, Llc Quick connector for high pressure applications
US10221976B2 (en) 2013-11-27 2019-03-05 Oatiker NY, Inc. Fluid coupling with lock connection
DE102015201367A1 (en) * 2014-02-06 2015-08-06 Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG connecting device
US20170254453A1 (en) 2016-03-03 2017-09-07 Jiffy-Tite Co., Inc. Fluid connector having a deformable tab and plug/connector assembly
WO2021069048A1 (en) 2019-10-10 2021-04-15 Oetiker Schweiz Ag Quick connector made of plastics
WO2021069047A1 (en) 2019-10-10 2021-04-15 Oetiker Schweiz Ag Quick connector

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