Patent ID: 7147253
Filing Date: 2006-12-12
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
1. A quick-connect coupling suitable for being fitted onto a tube which has a substantially radial catch surface that is remote from its free end, the coupling comprising: a body provided with an internal cavity having a first portion suitable for co-operating with sealing means for establishing a leaktight connection with the tube, and a second portion which is situated between the first portion of the cavity and an inlet of the body of the coupling, and in the second portion a locking ring is disposed that is retained by retaining means so as to be prevented from being torn out of the body of the coupling; said ring having at least one locking zone situated in a region in which its radius is at a minimum, and at least one unlocking bridge situated in a region in which its radius is at its maximum, the ring being suitable, starting from a locking configuration in which the locking zone is capable of co-operating with the catch surface of the tube, for being deformed elastically by means of pressure being exerted on the bridge to take up an unlocking configuration; the wall of the internal cavity of the body being provided with at least one slot which opens out into the second portion of the cavity and through which said unlocking bridge protrudes, the locking ring being constituted by a strip of metal deformed plastically so as to have at least said locking zone and said bridge; the locking ring forming a closed loop and having two ends which slidingly overlap, wherein the locking ring has at least one fold line extending substantially transversely relative to an axial direction of the coupling, the locking zone being formed by a portion of the ring that is situated on an opposite side of said at least one fold line with respect to the inlet side of the body of the coupling, and which is deflected radially inwardly so as to be curved towards the axis of the coupling from said line.