WO2025199342A1

WO2025199342A1 - Vacuum excavator coupling

Info

Publication number: WO2025199342A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/020734
Authority: WO
Inventors: Timothy James STEELE; Barrett GRIFFITHS
Original assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Co
Current assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Co
Priority date: 2024-03-22
Filing date: 2025-03-20
Publication date: 2025-09-25
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-22

Abstract

A vacuum excavator coupling includes a first coupling member (102) and a second coupling member (152). The first coupling member includes a first collar (104), at least one linking protuberance (118) along an outer surface (116) of the first collar, and a first magnetic element (130) located along a first side of the first collar (104). The second coupling member (152) includes a second collar (154), at least one coupling protuberance (174) extending outwardly from a first side (156) of the second collar, and a second magnetic element (192) located along the first side of the second collar. At least a portion of the second collar (154) is nested within at least a portion of the first collar (104). Rotation of the first coupling member and/or the second coupling member locates the at least one coupling protuberance (174) in a recess of an associated linking protuberance (118) and the at least one second magnetic element (192) is magnetically coupled with the at least one first magnetic element (130).

Description

VACUUM EXCAVATOR COUPLING

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/568,697, filed March 22, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The field of disclosure relates generally to vacuum excavators, and more particularly, a coupling assembly for a vacuum excavator.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] With the increased use of underground utilities, it has become more important to locate and verify the placement of buried utilities before installation of additional underground utilities or before other excavation or digging work is performed. Conventional digging and excavation methods such as shovels, post hole diggers, powered excavators, and backhoes may be limited in their use in locating buried utilities as they may tend to cut, break, or otherwise damage the lines during use.

[0004] Devices have been previously developed to create holes in the ground to non-destructively expose underground utilities to view. One design uses high pressure air delivered through a tool to loosen soil and a vacuum system to vacuum away dirt after it is loosened to form a hole. Another system uses high pressure water delivered by a tool to soften the soil and create a soil/water slurry’ mixture. The tool is connected with a vacuum system for vacuuming the slurry away into a collection tank through a conduit. The tank may then be emptied by opening a door on the tank.

[0005] The conduit is typically connected to another conduit and/or other parts of the vacuum system using couplings, such as cam lock couplings. Given the nature of the environment where the vacuum system is operating, it is important for the couplings to function in dirty’ conditions, under an extreme vacuum, and be separatable with ease. Existing couplings are often difficult to clean, unable to handle elevated vacuum levels, and/or are difficult to separate, often requiring tools. Thus, a need exists for a coupling assembly that is easily separatable, operates in extreme vacuum conditions, and is easily maintainable.

[0006] This background section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and/or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with supporting information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0007] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein describe a coupling assembly for a vacuum excavator.

[0008] In one embodiment, a vacuum excavator coupling including a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The first coupling member includes a first collar including a first collar axis, a first side defining a first collar recess, the first collar further including an outer surface, and a second side opposite the first side, a passageway aligned axially with the first collar axis and extending between the first side and the second side. The first coupling member includes at least one linking protuberance along the outer surface of the first collar and directed away from the first collar axis, each of the at least one linking protuberances including a recess and a limiting member. The first coupling member includes at least one first magnetic coupling recess located along the first side of the first collar, and a first magnetic element located in each of the at least one first magnetic coupling recesses. The second coupling member includes a second collar including a second collar axis, a first side including a mating member extending outwardly from the first side, and a second side opposite the first side, the mating member of the second collar adapted to be nested within the first collar recess, each of the nested collars being rotatable relative to the other collar, a passageway aligned axially with the second collar axis and extending between the first side and the second side. The second coupling member includes at least one coupling protuberance extending outwardly from the first side in a direction away from the second side, at least one second magnetic coupling recess formed along the first side of the second collar. The second coupling member includes a second magnetic element located in each of the at least one second magnetic coupling recesses provided in the second collar. Wherein when the first collar is aligned axially with the second collar and the mating member of the second collar is nested within the first collar recess, rotation of at least one of the first coupling member or the second coupling member locates each of the at least one coupling protuberances in the recess of an associated linking protuberance. The first collar and the second collar remain in the axial position during rotations and each of the at least one second magnetic elements is magnetically coupled with a respective at least one first magnetic element.

[0009] In another embodiment, a method of coupling a vacuum excavator coupling is described. The vacuum excavator coupling includes a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The method includes advancing the first coupling member and the second coupling member together. The method includes nesting a mating member of the second coupling member within a first collar recess of the first coupling member and rotating the first and second coupling members relative to each other about an axis. The first collar and the second collar remain in the axial position during rotations. The method includes coupling a linking protuberance of the first coupling member with a coupling protuberance of the second coupling member. The method includes magnetically coupling a magnetic element of the first coupling member with a magnetic element of the second coupling member.

[0010] As used herein, “a”, “an”, and “the” refer to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0011] As used herein, the term “about” refers to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like and is meant to include variations of +/- 15% or less, preferably variations of +/- 10% or less, more preferably variations of +/- 5% or less, even more preferably variations of +/- 1% or less, and still more preferably variations of +/- 0.1% or less of and from the particularly recited value, in so far as such variations are appropriate to perform in the one or more embodiments of the disclosure described herein. Furthermore, it is also to be understood that the value to which the modifier “about” refers is itself specifically disclosed herein. [0012] As used herein, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath"’, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper", “front”, “back"’, “side”, “left”, “right”, “rear”, “top”, “bottom”, and the like, are used for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s). It is further understood that the terms “front”, “back”, “left”, and “right” are not intended to be limiting and are intended to be interchangeable, where appropriate. Further, it should be noted that the terms “first,” “second.” and the like herein do not denote any order, quantity, or relative importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0013] As used herein, the terms “comprise(s)”, “comprising"’, and the like, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0014] As used herein, the terms “configure(s)”, “configuring”, and the like, refer to the capability of a component and/or assembly, but do not preclude the presence or addition of other capabilities, features, components, elements, operations, and any combinations thereof.

[0015] All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. Each range disclosed herein constitutes a disclosure of any point or sub-range lying within the disclosed range.

[0016] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary' language (e.g., “such as”), is intended merely to better illustrate the present disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure or any embodiments unless otherwise claimed.

[0017] Any combination or permutation of features, functions, and/or embodiments as disclosed herein is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions, and applications of the disclosed systems, methods, and assemblies of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures. All references listed in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Features and aspects of embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying draw ings, in which elements are not necessarily depicted to scale. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

[0019] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the appended figures. It is to be noted that the various features, steps and combinations of features/steps described below and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0020] To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed assemblies and systems, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:

[0021] Fig. 1 A depicts a passenger side view of a vacuum excavator system including a coupling assembly, according to the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. IB depicts a driver side view of the vacuum excavator system as shown in Fig. 1A;

[0023] Fig. 1C depicts a top view' of the vacuum excavator system as shown in Figs. 1A and IB;

[0024] Fig. 2 depicts a side view of a conduit system including the coupling assembly of the vacuum excavator system of Fig. 1A, as shown in Detail 2 in Fig. 1A;

[0025] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view- of the coupling assembly including a first coupling member and a second coupling member as shown in Fig. 2, according to the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig. 4 depicts an opposite perspective view of the coupling assembly shown in Fig. 3; [0027] Fig. 5 depicts a side view of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 3 and

4;

[0028] Fig. 6 depicts a side view of the first coupling member of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 3-5;

[0029] Fig. 7 depicts a side view of a linking protuberance of the first coupling member of Fig. 6, as shown in Detail 7 in Fig. 6;

[0030] Fig. 8 depicts a front view of the first coupling member shown in Fig. 3;

[0031] Fig. 9 depicts a cross-sectional view of the first coupling member of Fig. 8, as taken along line 9-9 in Fig. 8;

[0032] Fig. 10 depicts a side view- of the second coupling member of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 3-5;

[0033] Fig. 11 depicts a front view of the second coupling member shown in Fig. 4;

[0034] Fig. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the second coupling member of Fig. 11, as taken along line 12-12 in Fig. 11;

[0035] Fig. 13 depicts a cross-sectional view' of a coupling protuberance of the second coupling member of Fig. 11. as taken along line 13-13 in Fig. 11;

[0036] Fig. 14 depicts a perspective view of an alternative coupling assembly including the first coupling member and the second coupling member, according to the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig. 15 depicts an opposite perspective view' of the coupling assembly shown in Fig. 14;

[0038] Fig. 16 depicts a side view of the first coupling member of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 14-15; [0039] Fig. 17 depicts a perspective view of the second coupling member of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 14-15;

[0040] Fig. 18 depicts a front view of the second coupling member of the coupling assembly shown in Figs. 14-15;

[0041] Fig. 19 depicts a cross-sectional view of a coupling protuberance of the second coupling member of Fig. 18, as taken along line 19-19 in Fig. 18;

[0042] Fig. 20 depicts a cross-sectional view of the assembled coupling assembly;

[0043] Fig. 21 depicts a cross-sectional view the linking protuberance of the first coupling member coupled with the coupling protuberance of the second coupling member of Fig. 20, as taken along line 21-21 in Fig. 11;

[0044] Fig. 22 illustrates the process of coupling the first coupling member and the second coupling member to produce the coupling assembly, according to the present disclosure; and

[0045] Fig. 23 illustrates the process of decoupling the first coupling member and the second coupling member, according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0046] Referring to Figs. 1A-1C. the present disclosure describes an earth excavator system 10 (e.g.. a vacuum excavator system) that includes at least one water reservoir tank (in this embodiment, a pair of tanks) 12, a collection tank 14, and a power system 16. The power system 16 delivers power through a drive system (not shown) to one or more components of an earth removal system 20 including a wand 26 and a vacuum system 36, described below. The power system 16, the collection tank 14 and reservoir tanks 12 are mounted on a mobile chassis 22 that supports the various components. In the present embodiment, the chassis 22 of the vacuum excavator system 10 is a trailer 24. However, the chassis 22 may be a motor vehicle, which may also be considered part of the vacuum excavator system 10. It should be understood that while the herein described components of the vacuum excavator system 10 are illustrated mounted on the chassis 22 of a trailer 24 that can be towed or otherwise moved by a motorized vehicle such as a car, truck, or skid steer and that may therefore include a tongue and/or hitch coupler 25 to connect to the separate vehicle, alternatively, the system may also be supported on the chassis of a self-propelled motor vehicle (not shown) with a dedicated motor that propels the apparatus. It should be understood that the components of the vacuum excavator system 10 may be either directly mounted to the chassis 22 or indirectly mounted to the chassis 22 through connections with other system components. Vacuum excavator system 10 includes a front 11, a rear 13, and a longitudinal axis Ai that extends through the front 11 and the rear 13. It should be understood that the vacuum excavator system 10 may extend to the edge of the tongue 25 or extend beyond the edge of the tongue 25. without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure.

[0047] The connections of the various components of the vacuum excavator system 10 are illustrated schematically in Figs. 1A-1C and 2. The earth removal system 20 includes the wand 26 for directing a pressurized fluid (e.g., water) toward earthen material to cut the earthen material. The wand 26 is connected to an excavation fluid pump (not shown, attached to and powered by pow er system 16) that supplies w ater to the w and 26 via a high-pressure water hose 30. The fluid pump (not shown) may supply a pressure of, for example, at least about 500 psi or at least about 1.000 psi (e.g., from about 1,000 psi to about 5,000 psi or from 1,000 psi to about 3,000 psi).

[0048] In some embodiments, the wand 26 includes a rotary nozzle 32 for directing water toward the earthen material to cut the earthen material. Generally, any rotary nozzle that causes the water to be directed toward the earthen material in a circular path at the site of the excavation may be used. Such rotary nozzles may include a rotor insert with blades that rotate around a longitudinal axis of the nozzle when water is forced through the nozzle. The rotor insert may include three or more channels that force fluid to flow in different pathways through the rotor insert to cause the w ater to move along a circular path as it contacts the excavation material (i.e., the water moves within a cone that extends from the nozzle toward the excavated material). In other embodiments, a straight tip nozzle that directs fluid along a straight path in a concentrated j et may be used. High-pressure water hose 30 is connected, via a valve, to fluid pump (not shown) to provide water to the earth removal system 20 as selected by the user. As the system is used to form a hole, a distal end of the wand 26 is pressed downwardly into the ground. For larger diameter holes, the wand 26 is moved in a generally circular manner as it is pressed downward, thereby removing material from a large cross-section area. Slurry formed in the hole is vacuumed through a conduit (e.g., a hose) 34 and accumulates in collection tank 14. Once the excavation is completed and the utility is exposed, the vacuum excavator system 10 can be shut down, and the operators may examine or repair the utility as needed.

[0049] The earth removal system 20 includes the vacuum system 36 for removing spoil material from the excavation site. Spoil material or simply “spoils’⁷ may include, without limitation, rocks, cut earthen material (e.g., small particulate such as sand to larger pieces of earth that are cut loose by the jet of high pressure water), slurry, and water used for excavation. The spoil material may have a consistency similar to water, a slurry, or even solid earth, organic material, or rocks. The terms used herein for matenals that may be processed by the vacuum excavation system such as. for example, “spoils,” “spoil material,” “cut earthen material” and “water,” should not be considered in a limiting sense unless stated otherwise.

[0050] The vacuum system 36 includes a vacuum pump system 56 and a boom 18 that is capable of rotating toward the excavation site to remove material from the excavation site. The boom 18 may include a hose 34, that includes one or more flexible portions, that extends downward to the ground to vacuum spoil material from the excavation site. The hose 34 may be manipulated by a user to direct the vacuum suction toward the excavation site. In some instances, the hose 34 may include one or more conduit (e.g., hose) extensions. The hose extensions may be referred to as 34A, 34B, 34C but may collectively be referred to as reference number 34 and distinguishing between the hose extensions 34 enables a more thorough explanation of the vacuum system 36. It does not, however, inherently indicate differences between the hose extensions 34, unless otherwise expressly stated. Although depicted with three hose extensions 34, it should be understood that more or less hose extensions may be utilized, without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure. [0051] The vacuum system 36 acts to entrain the cut earth and the water used to excavate the site in a stream of air. The blower or vacuum pump 56 pulls a vacuum through the boom 18 to entrain the material in the airstream. Air is discharged through exhaust 40 (Figs. IB and 1C) from the blower 38 after material is removed from the airstream. The airstream having water and cut earth entrained therein is pulled through boom 18 and through a series of conduits and is pulled into collection tank 14. The collection tank 14 removes at least a portion of cut earthen material and water from the airstream. Air exits one or more collection tank air outlets 42 through one or more conduits 44 and is introduced into cyclones 46 via conduit 44 to remove additional spoil material (e.g., water, small solids such as sand, low density particles such as sticks and grass, and the like) not separated in the collection tank. Material that collects in the bottom of the cyclones 46 is collected in chamber 48. In alternative embodiments, material collected in the bottom of the cyclones is conveyed by a cyclone discharge pump (e.g., peristaltic pump) or, alternatively, is gravity fed to a dewatering system. The air removed from cyclones 46 is introduced into one or more filter elements 28 before entering the vacuum pump 56. The vacuum pump 56 may be disposed in or near the power system 16 compartment. Air is removed from the apparatus through the exhaust 40.

[0052] The vacuum pump 56 generates vacuum in the system to pull water and cut earthen material into vacuum excavator system 10 for processing. In some embodiments, the vacuum pump 56 is a positive displacement pump. Such positive displacement pumps may include dual-lobe or tri-lobe impellers (e.g., a screw rotor) that draw air into a vacuum side of the pump and forces air out the pressure side. The vacuum pump 56 may be powered by a power system having a power output of, for example, at least 75 hp, at least 100 hp or even at least 125 hp.

[0053] The collection tank 14 has a generally cylindrical body 15 having a closed front end 17 and open rear end 19 (Fig. 1C). A discharge door 50 is connected to the open rear end 19 of the tank body 15 by a hinge 52 that allows the door 50 to swing open, thereby providing access to the tank's interior for material discharge and cleaning. It should be understood that the discharge door 50 may be located at a different position relative to the cylindrical body 15. It should also be understood that the hinge 52 may be located at various positions relative to the discharge door 50. A pair of hydraulic cylinders (not shown) may be provided for tilting the front end 17 of tank 14 upwards in order to cause the contents to run towards the discharge door 50. A gate valve and drain (not shown) in the discharge door 50, drains the liquid portion of the slurry in the collection tank 14 without requiring the door 50 to be opened. The gate valve may also be used to introduce air into the collection tank 14 to reduce the vacuum in the tank so that the door 50 may be more easily opened.

[0054] Optionally running the length of the interior of collection tank 14 is a nozzle tube that includes nozzles for directing high pressure water about the interior of the tank, and particularly towards the base of the tank. The nozzles are actuated by opening a valve connected to a water pump (not shown), which delivers high pressure water from the pump to the nozzles for producing a vigorous cleaning action in the tank. When the nozzles are not being used for cleaning, a small amount of water is allowed to continuously drip through the nozzles to pressurize them so as to prevent dirt and slurry from entering and clogging the nozzles.

[0055] The hydraulic cylinders (not shown), used to tilt collection tank 14, may be powered, e.g., by a hydraulic pump (not shown, attached to and powered by power system 16) provided for the purpose, by the power system 16. The hydraulic pump connects to a hydraulic reservoir and is driven by the power system 16. A high-pressure output line and a return line connect the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic cylinders.

[0056] The vacuum excavator system 10 can be used to dig multiple holes before having to empty collection tank 14. However, once collection tank 14 is full, it can be emptied at an appropriate dump site. When ready to open discharge door 50, the vacuum pump 56 is shut down, and the vacuum pressure is released so that air enters the tank, thereby allowing the internal pressure of the tank to match the ambient atmospheric pressure and allowing the door to be opened. Once the door 50 is opened, the hydraulic cylinders can be activated to raise front end 17 upward, dumping the slurry from the tank. For this purpose, the tank 14 is pivotally attached to chassis 22 at a pair of hinges (not shown) that pivot about a horizontal axis transverse to axis Ai to allow the tank 14 to pivot as the hydraulic cylinders move the tank's forward end up and down, and such that when the hydraulic cylinders push the tank's front end 17 upward, liquid and solid matter retained in the collection tank 14 may be discharged through the tank's open rear end 19.

[0057] As should be understood, a linear actuator is an actuator that creates motion in a straight line, which may be referred to as the actuation dimension. Examples of linear actuators include, but are not limited to, mechanical actuators (such as screws, rack and pinion devices, belt drives, hydraulic cylinders, and pneumatic actuators), electro-mechanical actuators, and linear motors. Thus, while hydraulic cylinders are used in the examples described herein, it should be understood that this is for purposes of example only and that other linear and non-linear actuators may be used to drive one or more linkage assemblies as discussed herein.

[0058] One or more exemplary vacuum excavator systems 10 may be utilized with or encompassed by the systems and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11.499,290, entitled “Hydro Excavation Vacuum Apparatus Having Deceleration Vessels and Methods for Hydro Excavating a Site, and U.S. Patent No. 11,801,785, entitled “Vacuum Excavator Tank and Door System,” the entirety of both disclosures are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0059] Referring to Figs. 1 A-2, the hose 34 of the vacuum excavator system 10 includes a coupling assembly 100. In some instances, the hose 34 may include two or more coupling assemblies 100. The coupling assembly 100 may connect the hose 34 to an excavation tool (e.g., a dig tube and/or excavation tool 34C) or connect the hose 34 to a first hose extension 34A. In some instances, the coupling assembly 100 may connect portions of the hose 34 together, such as, connecting the first hose extension 34A to a second hose extension 34B. In some instances, a first coupling assembly 100 may connect the hose 34 to the first hose extension 34A and a second coupling assembly 100 may connect the first hose extension 34A to the second hose extension 34B. In some instances, a third coupling assembly 100 may connect the second hose extension 34B to an excavation tool 34C. The number of coupling assemblies 100 is not limited to three (3), and the length and/or quantity⁷ of hose extensions are not limited to the embodiments described herein. [0060] Referring to Figs. 3-5, 20, and 21, the coupling assembly 100 includes a first coupling member 102 and a second coupling member 152. First coupling member 102 is further shown in Figs. 6-9. The first coupling member may be a male coupling member. The second coupling member 152 is shown in Figs. 10-13. The second coupling member may be a female coupling member. The first and second coupling members 102, 152 are configured to be removably coupled to each other. Fig. 16 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the first coupling member 102, as shown and described with respect to Figs. 6-9, and of the coupling assembly 100, as shown and described with respect to Figs. 3-5, 20, and 21. Figs. 17-19 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the second coupling member 152, as shown and described with respect to Figs. 10-13. and of the coupling assembly 100, as shown and described with respect to Figs. 3-5, 20, and 21. The first and second coupling members 102, 152 of Figs. 16- 19 provide an alternative embodiment to the first and second coupling members 102, 152 of Figs. 6-13. Thus, as the description proceeds, like parts/features will be numbered the same throughout the various embodiments. The features described with respect to one embodiment may apply to the other embodiments unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0061] As shown in Figs. 3-9, 20, and 21, the first coupling member 102 includes a first collar 104 which defines a first side 106 and a second side 108 opposite the first side 106. The first collar 104 defines a first collar axis A2 that extends between at least the first side 106 and the second side 108. The first collar 104 is aligned axially with the first collar axis A2. The first collar 104 defines a first collar recess 110, which is aligned axially with the first collar axis A2. The first collar recess 110 is sized and shaped to engage with at least a portion of the second coupling member 152. The first collar 104 defines a first face 112 proximate the first side 106 and a second face 114 proximate the second side 108, and oriented in a direction opposite the first face 112. The first collar 104 defines an outer peripheral surface 116 that circumferentially extends around the first collar axis A2 and extends between the first face 112 and the second face 114. The first collar 104 defines a cylindrical outer shape, as defined, in part, by the first face 112, the second face 1 14, and the outer surface 1 16.

[0062] The first collar 104 includes at least one feature positioned along one of the first face 112, the second face 114. and/or the outer surface 116. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the first face 112, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the second face 114. The at least one feature positioned along the first face 112 may extend in a direction toward the second face 114. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the second face 114, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the first face 112. The at least one feature positioned along the second face 114 may extend in a direction toward the first face 112. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the outer surface 116, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the first collar axis A2. The at least one feature positioned along the outer surface 116 may extend in a direction toward the first collar axis A2.

[0063] In some embodiments and as illustrated in the figures, the at least one feature is a protuberance (e.g., a linking protuberance) 118 that is positioned along the outer surface 116 of the first collar 104. The protuberance 118 extends outwardly from the outer surface 116 in a radial direction, away from the first collar axis A2. It should be understood that the first collar 104 may include one protuberance 118 or may include a plurality of protuberances 118. In some instances, the plurality of protuberances 118 may be spaced circumferentially around the first collar 104 along the outer surface 116. The plurality of protuberances 118 may be equally spaced circumferentially around the outer surface 116 of the first collar 104 extending in a direction away from the first collar axis A2. The linking protuberances 118 are substantially the same so that as the description proceeds the features of one linking protuberance will be described. Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the features of the one described linking protuberance apply to all of the linking protuberances 118 along the outer surface 116.

[0064] The linking protuberance 118 extends radially from the outer surface 116 and has a constant radial thickness Di as shown most clearly in Fig. 8. The thickness Di may be between about 0.03125 inches and about 0.75 inches. In one example, the thickness Di may be about 0.125 inches. The linking protuberance defines a first wall 120 and a limiting member 122. See Fig. 7. The first wall 120 and the limiting member 122 are positioned in proximity to each other and define a recess 124 therebetween. For example, the first wall 120 and the limiting member 122 may be angled relative to each other. As shown in Fig. 7 the first wall 120 and the limiting member may be separated by an angle of ninety degrees. However, the first wall and limiting member may be separated by any suitable angle. The limiting member 122 defines a leading surface (or surfaces) 126 that extends from a first end 127 in the direction of the first wall 120. As depicted in Fig. 7, the leading surface 126 extends to the first wall 120 and, in part, defines the recess 124. The leading surface 126 is curved in a convex orientation as it extends between the first end 127 of the linking protuberance 118 and the recess 124. The recess 124 may be sized and shaped to receive a corresponding member, such as, a corresponding member associated with the second coupling member 152. When the first and second coupling members are coupled, the first wall 120 and/or the limiting member 122 may at least partially retain the corresponding member relative proximate the recess 124. See Figs. 20 and 21.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 6, the limiting member 122 may be situated in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the first collar axis A2. However, it should be understood that alternative orientations relative to the first collar axis A2 and/or the first collar 104 may be implemented without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure. The first wall 120 may be situated in a substantially parallel orientation relative to the first collar axis A2. However, it should be understood that alternative orientations relative to the first collar axis A2, the limiting member 122, and/or the first collar 104 may be implemented without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure. In one embodiment, the limiting member 122 may be situated in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the first wall 120. For example, the linking protuberance 118 is L-shaped, as defined, at least in part, by the first wall 120 and the limiting member 122.

[0066] The first collar 104 includes one or more first magnetic coupling recesses 128. Referring to Fig. 8, the first collar 104 includes a plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128. The plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 are spaced circumferentially around the axis A2, and the first face 112. In some instances, the plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 are equally spaced circumferentially around the axis A2. The plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 are situated on the first face 112 of the first collar 104 and extend an axial distance in the direction of the second face 114. In some instances, the plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 extend entirely through the first face 112 and the second face 114. For example, each of the plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 are a through hole that extends between the second face 114 and the first face 112. Alternatively, the recesses 128 may extend a partial distance between the faces 1 12 and 114. In some instances, the first magnetic coupling recess 128 may have a larger opening through the second face 114 than in proximity' to the first face 112. In other instances, the first magnetic coupling recess 128 may have a larger opening through the first face 112 than in proximity to the second face 114.

[0067] The plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses 128 are each sized and shaped to receive a corresponding first magnetic element 130. Each magnetic element is seated in a magnetic coupling recess. The plurality of first magnetic elements 130 may be selected from the group including, a plurality of magnets, a plurality of ferromagnetic elements, or a combination of magnets and ferromagnetic elements. The plurality of first magnetic elements 130 may be positioned at a location between the first face 112 and the second face 114. In some instances, at least a portion of the first magnetic elements 130 may extend outwardly from the first face 112 and/or the second face 114. At least a portion of the first magnetic elements 130 may be positioned inwardly the first face 112 and/or the second face 114. Thus, at least a portion of the first magnetic elements 130 may be positioned at a location between the first face 112 and the second face 114, at a location outward from the first face 112 and/or the second face 114, and combinations thereof. The first magnetic elements 130 may be removable from the first magnetic coupling recess 128. In a non-limiting example, the first magnetic elements 130 may be removed from the first magnetic coupling recess 128 to repair, clean, and/or replace.

[0068] The first collar 104 defines a passageway 132 that is aligned axially with the first collar axis A2 (Fig. 9). The passageway 132 extends between the first side 106 and the second opposite side 108. such that at least a portion of the first side 106 is in fluid communication with at least a portion of the second side 108. The passageway 132 may extend at least partially through the first collar recess 110. The first collar recess 110 and the passageway 132 are aligned axially with each other. The first collar recess 110 and the passageway 132 are in fluid communication therewith. [0069] Referring to Fig. 8, the first collar recess 110 of the first collar 104 defines a tapered portion 134. The tapered portion 134 defines a first diameter in proximity to the first side 106 that is larger than a second diameter in proximity to the second side 108. The first collar recess 110 may define an introduction portion 136 that connects the first face 112 of the first collar 104 with the tapered portion 134. The introduction portion 136 may define a straight cross-sectional shape, as shown in Fig. 9. In other instances, the introduction portion 136 may define a tapered cross-sectional shape, or a straight cross-sectional shape and a tapered cross-sectional shape.

[0070] The first coupling member 102 includes at least one conduit attachment member 138 that extends from the second side 108 of the first collar 104. As depicted in the figures, such as Figs. 3-6, 8, and 9, the conduit attachment member 138 is at least partially axially aligned wi th the axis A2. Alternatively, however, the conduit attachment member 138 may be angled relative to the axis A2. In exemplary embodiments, the conduit attachment member 138 is integrally attached to the first collar 104 and extends from the second side 108 in a direction away from the first side 106. The passageway 132 extends entirely through the conduit attachment member 138. Thus, the passageway 132 extends entirely through the first coupling member 102 so as to allow a fluid (e.g., spoil material), including gaseous, semi-gaseous, liquid, semi-liquid, solid, and semisolid to pass therethrough. The conduit attachment member 138 defines at least one engagement feature 140 that extends at least a portion of the outer periphery 142 of the conduit attachment member 138. The conduit attachment member 138 defines a plurality of engagement features 140 spaced along the outer periphery' 142 of the conduit attachment member 138. The engagement feature 140 is configured to restrict movement of a conduit (not shown) relative to the at least one conduit attachment member 138 of the first coupling member 102. The conduit may be selected from the group including a hose, a tube, and combinations thereof.

[0071] Turning to Figs. 3-5, and Figs. 10-13, the second coupling member 152 includes a second collar 154 which defines a first side 156 and a second side 158, opposite the first side 156. The second collar 154 defines a second collar axis A3 that extends between at least the first side 156 and the second side 158. The second collar 154 is aligned axially with the second collar axis A3. The second collar 154 defines a mating member 160 which is aligned axially with the second collar axis A3. The second collar 154 defines a first surface 162 relative to the first side 156 and a second surface 164 opposite from the first surface 162 in the direction of the second side 158. The second collar 154 defines an outer surface 166 that circumferentially extends around the second collar axis A3 and extends between the first surface 162 and the second surface 164. The second collar 154 defines a cylindrical outer shape, as defined, in part, by the first surface 162. the second surface 164, and the outer surface 166.

[0072] The mating member 160 extends outwardly from the first surface 162 of the second collar 154 in a direction away from the second surface 164. The mating member 160 is sized and shaped to be nested at least partially within the first collar recess 1 10 of the first coupling member 102. The mating member 160 defines a tapered portion 168 for ease of nesting within the first collar recess 110. The mating member 160 includes an outer surface 170 that, when nested, is in proximity to an inner surface of the first collar recess 110. The mating member 160 also defines a sealing member (not shown), such as a rubber o-ring. or gasket, that is positioned, at least in part, around the outer periphery of the mating member 160. The sealing member may extend outwardly from a portion of the mating member 160 in a direction away from the axis A3. For example, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis A3 such that the sealing member is equal to, greater than, or less than the outer surface 170 distance relative to the axis A3. The sealing member (not shown) may be positioned, at least in part, within a channel 172. The channel 172 extends inwardly from the outer surface 170 in the direction of the axis A3. The channel 172 and the sealing member (not shown) may extend around the entire outer periphery of the mating member 160.

[0073] The second collar 154 includes at least one feature positioned along one of the first surface 162, the second surface 164, and/or the outer surface 166. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the first surface 162, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the second surface 164. The at least one feature positioned along the first surface 162 may extend in a direction toward the second surface 164. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the second surface 164, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the first surface 162. The at least one feature positioned along the second surface 164 may extend in a direction toward the first surface 162. In embodiments where the at least one feature is positioned along the outer surface 166, the at least one feature may extend in a direction away from the second collar axis A3. The at least one feature positioned along the outer surface 166 may extend in a direction toward the second collar axis A3.

[0074] In some embodiments and as illustrated in the figures, the at least one feature is a protuberance (e g., a coupling protuberance) 174 that is positioned along the first surface 162 of the second collar 154. The protuberance 174 extends outwardly from the first surface 162 in a direction away from the second surface 164. It should be understood that the second collar 154 may include one protuberance 174 or may include a plurality of protuberances 174. In some instances, the plurality of protuberances 174 may be spaced circumferentially around the second collar 154 along the first surface 162. The plurality of protuberances 174 may be equally spaced circumferentially around the first surface 162 of the second collar 154 extending in a direction away from the second surface 164. The features of the protuberance(s) 174 are consistent regardless of the number of protuberances 174, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0075] Referring to Fig. 13, the coupling protuberance 174 defines a second wall 176 and a retention member 178. The second wall 176 and the retention member 178 are positioned in proximity to each other and define a recess 180 therebetween. For example, a retention surface 182 of the second wall 176 and the retention member 178, at least in part, define the recess 180. The second wall 176 defines an outer surface that is opposite from the retention surface 182. In some instances, the outer surface of the second wall 176 is the outer surface 166 of the second collar 154.

[0076] The retention member 178 defines a leading surface (or surfaces) 184 that extends from a first end 186 in the direction of a first wall 188. As depicted in Fig. 13, the leading surface 184 extends to the first wall 188 and, in part, defines the recess 180. The recess 180 may be sized and shaped to receive a corresponding member, such as, a corresponding member associated with the first coupling member 102. For example, the recess 180 is sized and shaped to engage with at least a portion of the limiting member 122. The leading surface 184 and/or the first wall 188 of the retention member 178 at least partially retain the corresponding member relative to the recess 180. [0077] As shown in Figs. 4 and 13, the leading surface 184 of the retention member 178 is situated in a substantially parallel orientation with the first surface 162 of the second collar 154. The leading surface 184 may transition from the first end 186 of the coupling protuberance 174 to the recess 180. However, it should be understood that alternative orientations relative to the first surface 162, the outer surface 166, and/or the second surface 164 may be implemented without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure. The first wall 188 may be angled relative to the first surface 162, may be substantially perpendicular relative to the first surface 162, or may be partially angled and partially perpendicular relative to the first surface 162.

[0078] In one embodiment and as shown in Figs. 17 and 19, the leading surface 184 of the retention member 178 is situated in an angled orientation relative to the first surface 162 of the second collar 154. In some examples, the leading surface 184 may be partially angled relative to the first surface 162 and partially parallel relative to the first surface 162. For example, the leading surface 184 may have an angle between about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to the first surface 162. Specifically, the leading surface 184 may have an angle between about 15 degrees to about 22.5 degrees relative to the first surface 162. The first wall 188 may be angled relative to the first surface 162, may be substantially perpendicular relative to the first surface 162, or may be partially angled and partially perpendicular relative to the first surface 162.

[0079] The second collar 154 includes one or more second magnetic coupling recesses 190. Referring to Fig. 11, the second collar 154 includes a plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190. The plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 are spaced circumferentially around the axis A3 and along first surface 162. In some instances, the plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 are equally spaced circumferentially around the axis A3. The plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 are situated on the second surface 164 of the second collar 154 and extend a distance in the direction of the first surface 162. In some instances, the plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 extend entirely through the first surface 162 and the second surface 164. For example, each of the plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 are a through hole that extends between the first surface 162 and the second surface 164. Alternatively, the recesses 190 may extend a partial distance between the surfaces 162 and 164. In some instances, the second magnetic coupling recess 190 may have a larger opening through the second surface 164 than in proximity to the first surface 162. In other instances, the second magnetic coupling recess 190 may have a larger opening through the first surface 162 than in proximity to the second surface 164.

[0080] The plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses 190 are each sized and shaped to receive a corresponding second magnetic element 192. The plurality of second magnetic elements 192 may be selected from the group including, a plurality of magnets, a plurality of ferromagnetic elements, or a combination of magnets and ferromagnetic elements. The plurality of second magnetic elements 192 may be positioned at a location between the first surface 162 and the second surface 164. In some instances, at least a portion of the second magnetic elements 192 may extend outwardly from the first surface 162 and/or the second surface 164. At least a portion of the second magnetic elements 192 may be positioned inwardly the first surface 162 and/or the second surface 164. Thus, at least a portion of the second magnetic elements 192 may be positioned at a location between the first surface 162 and the second surface 164, at a location outward from the first surface 162 and/or the second surface 164, and combinations thereof. The second magnetic elements 192 may be removable from the second magnetic coupling recess 190. In a non-limiting example, the second magnetic elements 192 may be removed from the second magnetic coupling recess 190 to repair, clean, and/or replace.

[0081] The second collar 154 defines a passageway 194 that is aligned axially with the second collar axis A3 (Fig. 12). The passageway 194 extends between the first side 156 and the second opposite side 158, such that at least a portion of the first side 156 is in fluid communication with at least a portion of the second side 158. The passageway 194 extends through the mating member 160. The mating member 160 and the passageway 194 are aligned axially with each other. The mating member 160 and the passageway 194 are in fluid communication therewith.

[0082] The second coupling member 152 includes at least one conduit attachment member 196 that extends from the second side 158 of the second collar 154. As depicted in the figures, such as Figs. 3-5, 10. and 12, the conduit attachment member 196 is at least partially axially aligned with the axis As. Alternatively, however, the conduit attachment member 196 may be angled relative to the axis A3. In exemplary⁷ embodiments, the conduit attachment member 196 is integrally attached to the second collar 154 and extends from the second side 158 in a direction away from the first side 156. The passageway 194 extends entirely through the conduit attachment member 196. Thus, the passageway 194 extends entirely through the second coupling member 152 so as to allow a fluid to pass therethrough. The conduit attachment member 196 defines at least one engagement feature 198 that extends at least a portion of the outer periphery 199 of the conduit attachment member 196. The conduit attachment member 196 defines a plurality of engagement features 198 spaced along the outer periphery 199 of the conduit attachment member 196. The engagement feature 198 is configured to restrict movement of a conduit (not shown) relative to the at least one conduit attachment member 196 of the second coupling member 152. The conduit may be selected from the group including a hose, a tube, a pipe, and combinations thereof.

[0083] In operation, the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 are positioned in proximity with each other such that the first side 106 of the first collar 104 is proximate the first side 156 of the second collar 154. The first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 are advanced towards each other such that the first face 112 of the first collar 104 and the first surface 162 of the second collar 154 are in close proximity with each other. For example, the first face 112 of the first collar 104 and the first surface 162 of the second collar 154 may be in at least partial contact with each other. As the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 are advanced towards each other, the mating member 160 of the second collar 154 begins to nest within the first collar recess 110 of the first collar 104. The first collar axis A2 of the first collar 104 and the second collar axis A3 of the second collar 154 are substantially aligned with each other. The mating member 160 is nested within the first collar recess 110 when the mating face 169 is in close proximity to the recess face 111. In some instances, the mating face 169 of the mating member 160 is in contact with the recess face 111 of the first collar recess 110. The passageway 132 of the first coupling member 102 and the passageway of the second coupling member 152 are aligned axially with each other. After at least the nesting of the mating member 160 within the first collar recess 110 is completed, the first face 112 of the first collar 104 and the first surface 162 of the second collar 154 are in close proximity or in contact with each other.

[0084] With the mating member 160 of the second collar 154 at least partially nested within the first collar recess 110 of the first collar 104, at least one of the first coupling member 102 and/or the second coupling member 152 are rotated relative to each other around axes A2. A3. During rotation, one linking protuberance 118 of the first collar 104 is located within a coupling protuberance 174 of the second collar 154. The first collar 104 and second collar 154 may remain in the axial position during rotation, e.g., in some embodiments, the first collar 104 and the second collar 154 do not move axially during rotations. As depicted in Figs. 3-5. 14. 15. 20. and 21, at least one of the plurality of linking protuberances 118 of the first collar 104 is located within one of the plurality of coupling protuberances 174 of the second collar 154. The limiting member 122 of the discrete linking protuberance 118 couples with the associated retention member 178 of the coupling protuberances 174. See Figs. 20 and 21. Specifically, the leading surface 126 of limiting member 122 of the linking protuberances 118 interacts with the leading surface 184 of the retention member 178 of the coupling protuberance 174 and as a result of the interaction and associated contact, each leading surface 126, 184 slides closer to the corresponding first walls 120, 188. Once coupled, at least a portion of the linking protuberance 118 is positioned within the recess 180 of the coupling protuberance 174 (Fig. 20) and at least a portion of the coupling protuberance 174 is positioned within the recess 124 of the linking protuberance 118 (Fig. 21). The first wall 120 of the linking protuberance 118 may be in close proximity⁷ to or in contact with the coupling protuberance 174. Similarly, the first wall 188 of the coupling protuberance 174 may be in close proximity to or in contact with the linking protuberance 118.

[0085] During rotation of the coupling members 102 and 152, the first magnetic elements 130 of the first coupling member 102 and the second magnetic elements 192 of the second coupling member 152 move closer together. For example, the first and second magnetic elements 130, 192 rotate together around axes A2 and As. At some point during the rotation, the first and second magnetic elements 130, 192 are drawn together such that the first and second magnetic elements 130. 192 are magnetically coupled. See Fig. 21. As used herein, magnetically coupled may refer to the first and second magnetic elements 130, 192 being in contact with each other, or having a gap therebetween, but strongly attracted to each other. The first and second magnetic elements 130, 192 snap together to substantially align each other and couple the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174. Prior to the rotation, the first and second magnetic elements 130, 192 may be offset axially from each other such that the rotation axially aligns and magnetically couples the first and second magnetic elements 130, 192.

[0086] In some instances, the first coupling member 102 may include more linking protuberances 118 than the number of coupling protuberances 174. In other instances, the second coupling member 152 may include more coupling protuberances 174 than the number of linking protuberances 118. In some embodiments, the first coupling member 102 may include more first magnetic elements 130 than the number of second magnetic elements 192. In other embodiments, the second coupling member 152 may include more second magnetic elements 192 than the number of first magnetic elements 130.

[0087] The operation of the coupling assembly 100 may be used for a variety⁷ of applications, including applications where a vacuum is applied and/or where a pressure is applied. For example, the coupling assembly 100 may be used to connect one or more hose extensions 34 of the vacuum system 36 of the vacuum excavator system 10. As depicted in Figs. 1A-2, the coupling assembly 100 is coupled between the first hose extension 34A and the second hose extension 34B, and between the second hose extension 34B and the excavation tool 34C. For example, either of the first coupling member 102 or the second coupling member 152 is coupled to the first hose extension 34A and the other of the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 is coupled to the second hose extension 34B. Similarly, either of the first coupling member 102 or the second coupling member 152 is coupled to the second hose extension 34B and the other of the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 is coupled to the excavation tool 34C. The coupling assembly 100 is capable of withstanding a significant pressure and a significant vacuum. For example, the coupling assembly 100 is capable of withstanding up to about 29.92 inches of mercury⁷. Specifically, the coupling assembly 100 is capable of withstanding up to about 27 inches of mercury. The coupling assembly 100 may be capable of withstanding external forces, such as the weight of an operator standing on the coupling assembly 100. The coupling assembly 100 is capable of working with a variety of fluids, including liquids, rocks, dirt, sand, and other materials commonly found in earth excavation. Applying a vacuum to the coupling assembly 100 may draw the first and second coupling members 102, 152 together along the axes A2, A3.

[0088] Referring to Fig. 22, the method 200 (e g., method of use or operation) includes a step 202 of advancing the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 together. Then, a step 204 includes nesting the mating member 160 of the second coupling member 152 within the first collar recess 110 of the first coupling member 102. Then, a step 206 includes rotating the first and second coupling members 102, 152 relative to each other about axes A2, A3. Then, a step 208 includes coupling the linking protuberance 118 of the first coupling member 102 with the coupling protuberance 174 of the second coupling member 152. Then, a step 210 includes magnetically coupling the magnetic element 130 of the first coupling member 102 with the magnetic element 192 of the second coupling member 152. It should be understood that the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174 may occur before, during, or after the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements 130, 192. Similarly, the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements 130, 192 may occur before, during, or after the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174. In some instances, the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174 and the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements 130, 192 may occur simultaneously or near simultaneously. The coupling of the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 may be accomplished without the use of tools.

[0089] Referring to Fig. 23, the method 300 (e.g., method of use or operation) includes a step 302 of rotating the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152. The direction of rotation may be opposite from the direction of rotation described in step 204 of the method 200. Then, a step 304 includes magnetically decoupling the magnetic element 130 of the first coupling member 102 wi th the magnetic element 192 of the second coupling member 152. Then, a step 306 includes decoupling the linking protuberance 118 of the first coupling member 102 with the coupling protuberance 174 of the second coupling member 152. It should be understood that the decoupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118. 174 may occur before, during, or after the decoupling of the magnetic elements 130. 192. Similarly, the decoupling of the magnetic elements 130, 192 may occur before, during, or after the decoupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174. In some instances, the decoupling of the linking and coupling protuberances 118, 174 and the decoupling of the magnetic elements 130, 192 may occur simultaneously or near simultaneously. Then, a step 308 includes separating the mating member 160 of the second coupling member 1 2 from the first collar recess 110 of the first coupling member 102. Then, a step 310 includes separating the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152. The decoupling of the first coupling member 102 and the second coupling member 152 may be accomplished without the use of tools.

[0090] While the disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for the elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt the teaching of the disclosure to particular use, application, manufacturing conditions, use conditions, composition, medium, size, and/or materials without departing from the essential scope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of this disclosure as described herein. Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described examples, it is intended that all matters in the preceding description and shown in the accompanying figures be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A vacuum excavator coupling comprising: a first coupling member comprising: a first collar comprising a first collar axis, a first side defining a first collar recess, the first collar further comprising an outer surface, and a second side opposite the first side, a passageway aligned axially with the first collar axis and extending between the first side and the second side; at least one linking protuberance along the outer surface of the first collar and directed away from the first collar axis, each of the at least one linking protuberances including a recess and a limiting member; and at least one first magnetic coupling recess located along the first side of the first collar, and a first magnetic element located in each of the at least one first magnetic coupling recesses; and a second coupling member comprising: a second collar comprising a second collar axis, a first side comprising a mating member extending outwardly from the first side, and a second side opposite the first side, the mating member of the second collar adapted to be nested within the first collar recess, each of the nested collars being rotatable relative to the other collar, a passageway aligned axially with the second collar axis and extending between the first side and the second side: at least one coupling protuberance extending outwardly from the first side in a direction away from the second side, at least one second magnetic coupling recess formed along the first side of the second collar; a second magnetic element located in each of the at least one second magnetic coupling recesses provided in the second collar; and wherein when the first collar is aligned axially with the second collar and the mating member of the second collar is nested within the first collar recess, rotation of at least one of the first coupling member or the second coupling member locates each of the at least one coupling protuberances in the recess of an associated linking protuberance, wherein the first collar and the second collar remain in the axial position during rotations, and each of the at least one second magnetic elements is magnetically coupled with a respective at least one first magnetic element.

2. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first collar includes a plurality of linking protuberances along the outer surface.

3. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of the at least one linking protuberances is L-shaped, the recess being defined by a first wall and the limiting member.

4. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 3 wherein the limiting member is oriented perpendicular to the direction of rotation of either the first coupling member or second coupling member.

5. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 3 wherein the limiting member is oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction of coupling rotation of the first coupling member and/or the second coupling member.

6. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first collar includes a plurality’ of first magnetic coupling recesses located along the first side of the first collar, each of the plurality of first magnetic coupling recesses including a corresponding first magnetic element in the recess.

7. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second collar includes a plurality of coupling protuberances spaced radially around the second collar axis.

8. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 7 wherein the second collar includes four coupling protuberances, each separated from an adjacent coupling protuberance by about ninety degrees.

9. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of the coupling protuberances defines a recessed portion configured to receive at least a portion of the limiting member of the at least one linking protuberance.

10. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second collar includes a plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses.

11. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first side of the first collar includes a surface each of the at least one first magnetic elements being located in a respective magnetic coupling recess below the surface of the first side of the first collar.

12. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 11 wherein the magnetic elements comprises a ferromagnetic material.

13. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first side of the second collar includes a plurality of second magnetic coupling recesses.

14. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of the at least one members comprises a recess that extends between the first and second sides of the second collar.

15. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 13 wherein each of the magnetic elements comprises a magnet located in the recess, each magnet comprising a magnet end, the magnet end being located in proximity to the first side of the second collar.

16. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one linking protuberance of the first coupler is an L-shaped mechanical feature defining a recess sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the at least one coupling protuberance of the second coupler and restrict movement relative thereto.

17. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first collar defines a plurality of linking protuberances spaced circumferentially around the outer periphery of the first collar relative to the first collar axis.

18. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second collar defines a plurality of coupling protuberances spaced circumferentially around the outer periphery of the second collar relative to the second collar axis, the plurality of second coupling protuberances are positioned at a distance away from the first side of the second collar.

19. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first magnetic element is a ferromagnetic material and the second magnetic element is a magnet.

20. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1. wherein the mating member of the second collar is tapered outwardly away from the first side of the second collar.

21. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 20. wherein the mating member of the second collar further comprises a sealing member positioned circumferentially around the mating member.

22. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first collar recess is tapered to receive the mating member of the second collar.

23. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coupling member or the second coupling member are configured to be drawn together axially relative to the second coupling member or the first coupling member when the vacuum coupler assembly is under vacuum.

24. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member further comprises at least one conduit attachment member made integral with the first collar and/or the second collar along the second side of the first collar and/or the second collar and extending away therefrom, the at least one conduit attachment member and the first collar and/or the second collar define the passageway therebetween.

25. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 24, wherein the at least one of the conduit attachment feature defines an engagement feature that extends at least a portion of the outer periphery⁷ of the at least one conduit attachment feature, the engagement feature is configured to restrict movement of a conduit relative to the at least one conduit attachment feature.

26. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 24, wherein the at least one conduit attachment member is configured to engage with a conduit, wherein the conduit is selected from the group comprising a hose, a tube, and combinations thereof.

27. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1. wherein the vacuum excavator coupling is configured to withstand a vacuum of about 27 inches of mercury⁷.

28. The vacuum excavator coupling as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling protuberance defines a leading surface comprising a degree angle measured relative to the first side of the second collar between about 15 degrees and about 22.5 degrees.

29. A method of coupling a vacuum excavator coupling, wherein the vacuum excavator coupling includes a first coupling member and a second coupling member; the method comprising: advancing the first coupling member and the second coupling member together; nesting a mating member of the second coupling member within a first collar recess of the first coupling member; rotating the first and second coupling members relative to each other about an axis, wherein the first collar and the second collar remain in the axial position during rotations; coupling a linking protuberance of the first coupling member with a coupling protuberance of the second coupling member; and magnetically coupling a magnetic element of the first coupling member with a magnetic element of the second coupling member.

30. The method as claimed in claim 29. wherein the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances may occur before, during, or after the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements.

31. The method as claimed in claim 29, wherein the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements may occur before, during, or after the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances.

32. The method as claimed in claim 29, wherein the coupling of the linking and coupling protuberances and the magnetic coupling of the magnetic elements may occur simultaneously or near simultaneously.