Patent ID: 6070624
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: B67D,Y10T

Abstract:
A quick-disconnect fluid coupling for selectively providing a substantially straight fluid path through said coupling, comprising:a spout assembly for attachment to and fluid communication with a container comprising:a spout fitment including a cover having a first fluid opening for fluid communicating therethrough with the interior of the container, anda spout valve member having a second fluid opening and capable of rotating from a first position whereat there is an absence of a spout fluid path coupling said first and second fluid openings, to a second position whereat there is a presence of said spout fluid path coupling said first and second fluid openings; anda service-line connector comprising:a line fitment member including a line fitting for attachment to and fluid communication with a fluid flow line, said fitting including a third fluid opening, anda connector valve member having a fourth fluid opening and capable of rotating from a third position whereat there is an absence of a connector fluid path coupling said third and fourth fluid openings, to a fourth position whereat there is a presence of said connector fluid path coupling said third and fourth fluid openings, said fourth fluid opening being situated with respect to said second fluid opening of said spout valve member that upon attachment of the service-line connector to the spout assembly, a spout-connector fluid path is formed coupling said second and fourth fluid openings,said connector valve member further including an engagement mechanism for engaging with said spout valve member in a manner that rotation of said connector valve member from said third position to said fourth position causes said spout valve member to rotate from said first position to said second position, whereat said spout fluid path, said spout-connector fluid path and said connector fluid path are coupled in series, thereby forming said substantially straight fluid path.