Patent ID: 6179346
Filing Date: 2001-01-30
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A releasable coupling device for use with a tubular component, the coupling device comprising:a tubular pipe fitting;a tubular cap member having a first end, an opposing second end, and an interior surface extending therebetween, the first end of the cap member being configured to couple with the pipe fitting so as to selectively rotate between a release position and a clamping position, the second end of the cap member having hole configured to receive the tubular component, the interior surface of the cap member including a first portion and a second portion;a generally annular gripping member disposed within the cap member, the gripping member having an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface of the gripping member being configured to receive the tubular component, the exterior surface of the gripping component including a frusto-conical first portion and a generally axially extending second portion;a primary cam disposed on one of the second portion of the cap member or second portion of the gripping member with a complementary primary guide surface disposed on the other of the second portion of the cap member or second portion of the gripping member, the primary cam engaging the primary guide surface so as to deform the gripping member radially inward when the cap member is moved to the clamping position; anda secondary cam disposed on one of the first portion of the cap member or frusto-conical first portion of the gripping member with a complementary secondary guide surface disposed on the other of the first portion of the cap member or frusto-conical first portion of the gripping member, the secondary cam engaging the secondary guide surface so as to take-up any radial clearance which may develop between the interior surface of the cap member and the exterior surface of the gripping member when the cap member is moved to the clamping position.