Patent ID: 7040670
Filing Date: 2006-05-09
Classification: F16L,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A coupling apparatus comprising: a receiving element defining an axial bore having an annular groove; a retaining ring supported in the annular groove; an insertion element having a radially extending projection for engaging the retaining ring in the annular groove; the insertion element being axially inserted into the axial bore, at least partially passing through the retaining ring and the radially extending projection being received in the annular groove; the receiving element and the insertion element are rotated relative to one another and the radially extending projection is axially biased by the retaining ring to cause an end of the insertion element to bear on an inner surface in the axial bore of the receiving element; and wherein the retaining ring forms a helical spring seated in the annular groove to axially bias the radially extending projection.