Patent ID: 6415789
Filing Date: 2002-07-09
Classification: A61M,F16L,Y10S

Abstract:
A connector for openly connecting conduit elements, comprising:a first conduit element and constituting a female portion comprising an inner cylindrical surface; a second part associated with a second conduit element and constituting a male portion comprising an outer cylindrical surface; said first and second parts being structured and arranged to effect a tang and clevis connection capable of low friction rotation while maintaining a fluid tight seal at the interface between said first and second parts; whereinsaid first conduit element includes a connection end comprising a tang; and said second conduit element includes a hollow interior between: a first open end, constituting said male portion; and a second open end structured as a clevis and arranged to couple in snap-fit engagement with said connection end of said first conduit element; and wherein said male portion comprises:an outer surface configured to register, in sliding seal relation, with said female portion; and a distal and segment of enlarged diameter such that it effects a self-biased engagement with an inner cylindrical surface of said female portion across a relatively small surface area.