Patent ID: 6866064
Filing Date: 2005-03-15
Classification: F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A coupling assembly removably securable to an apparatus, the apparatus including a port having an interior surface and a receiving groove extending outwardly from the interior surface, the port also including a retaining surface and a resilient locking member receivable in the receiving groove, the coupling assembly comprising: a first coupling member releasably connectable to a second coupling member; the first coupling member including a body having a central longitudinal channel and an inner and outer surface, the body extending along an axis from a leading portion having an internal end to a trailing portion having an external end, the leading portion of the body configured for receipt within the port of the apparatus, the trailing portion of the body configured to releasably connect the first coupling member to the second coupling member by axial movement of one of the first and second coupling members into the other; the body including a rib that extends outwardly from the outer surface, the rib including a ramp tapering outwardly in a direction way from the internal end and away from the axis, the rib further including a shoulder tapering away from the internal end and inwardly toward the axis; and wherein the first coupling member and the port are sized such that upon insertion of the first coupling member into the port, the resilient locking member travels up the ramp and then contracts becoming trapped between the shoulder and the retaining surface in the port to secure the first coupling member to the apparatus.