Patent ID: 8602457
Filing Date: 2013-12-10
Classification: F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A quick connect apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a first tubular element to house a portion of a second tubular element inserted into the first tubular element; a quick connect coupling to lock the first tubular element to the second tubular element, the quick connect coupling including: a locking collar attached to and surrounding the second tubular element; a semicircular wedge surrounding the first tubular element; a rocker arm attached to the first tubular element and one end coupled to the semicircular wedge, the rocker arm to change a radial distance of the semicircular wedge relative to a center of the first tubular element in response to a movement of the locking collar in a direction parallel to a direction of insertion of the second tubular element into the first tubular element; a beveled washer surrounding the first tubular element, the beveled washer to move parallel to the direction of insertion of the second tubular element into the first tubular element in response to the change in radial distance of the semicircular wedge to the center of the first tubular element; and a spring to apply a preload force to the beveled washer, the parallel movement of the beveled washer changing an amount of the preload force applied by the spring.