Patent ID: 6158784
Filing Date: 2000-12-12
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A connector for fastening a length of tubing having an internal surface of predetermined size and an open end, said connector comprising a tubular portion having an internal surface extending along an axis, a contoured exterior and an insertion end portion;(a) said insertion end portion including(i) first and second end edges, said end edges being spaced apart from each other, each of said end edges extending from a point of origin to a point of terminus;(ii) a first tapered edge disposed at an angle to said axis and extending arcuately from the point of origin of said first end edge to the point of origin of said second end edge;(iii) a second tapered edge disposed at an angle to said axis and extending arcuately from the point of terminus of said first end edge to the point of terminus of said second end edge; and(b) said contoured exterior including(i) a plurality of spaced apart surfaces;(ii) a plurality of annular barbs spaced axially from said end edges and extending outwardly from areas between said spaced apart surfaces, each said barb including(1) a first surface tapering outwardly from one of said spaced apart surfaces in a direction away from said insertion end,(2) a second surface extending inwardly toward an adjacent spaced apart surface, and(3) an apex between said first surface and said second surface.