Patent ID: 6122997
Filing Date: 2000-09-26
Classification: B25B

Abstract:
An adapter usuable between a turning implement equipped with a torque indicator and a hollow threaded fitting for establishing a pressure seal around a flexible fluid tube; wherein the fitting has an exposed flange and the flexible tube extends axially from said flange;said adapter comprising:a rotary drive element having a rotational axis and a non-circular clutch surface centered on said axis, said clutch surface being matable with a turning implement, whereby the turning implement can be manually operated to rotate said drive element around said rotational axis;and at least two prongs extending from said drive element parallel to said rotational axis; said prongs having terminal ends spaced apart for gripping the exposed flange of the hollow fitting, whereby rotation of said turning implement tightens the threaded fitting to a torque valve indicated on the turning implement;said prongs having elongated side surfaces that are bare, whereby the spaces between the prongs are enabled to freely accept the aforementioned flexible tube during placement of the prongs on the flange of the hollow fitting;said prongs being spaced apart by a predetermined distance related to the diametrical dimension of the flange on the fitting;each prong having an axial length that is at least twice the distance between the prongs, whereby an axially elongated vacant zone is established within the space circumscribed by the prongs;the entire prong length being unobstructed so that the prongs can freely pass across the flexible tube during placement of the adapter on the hollow fitting;each prong having a transverse thickness that is less than sixty degrees measured in a circumferential direction around the drive element rotational axis, whereby the adapter can be rotated through a substantial arc prior to coming into contact with the flexible tube.