Patent ID: 6216986
Filing Date: 2001-04-17
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A clip for engaging a tubular element comprising:an outer periphery;an opening in said outer periphery leading to a channel;said channel being bounded by locking arms;said locking arms each including a proximal segment, a distal segment, and a hinge portion;said proximal segments being integral to said outer periphery proximate to said opening, said hinge portions joining said proximal segments to said distal segments, and said distal segments diverging away from each other to form a tube pocket therebetween;said distal segments including outwardly turned locking elements;locking pockets formed inwardly from said outer periphery, whereby when distal segments flex outwardly about said hinges in response to insertion of a tubular element through said channel, said outwardly turned locking elements engage said locking pockets thereby locking a tubular element into the clip.