Abstract:
A hose coupler is described capable of quick connection and disconnection with only a small amount of rotation required to achieve a fluid-tight seal. A plurality of threaded segments are arranged about a central axis of the coupler into a segment set. Such segments comprise a flexible, elastic material that is capable bending towards or away from the central axis under an applied force but returns to their normal as-manufactured shape upon removal of the applied force. Ease of connection and disconnection without the requirement for substantial force to be applied is one of the salient advantages of the coupler described herein.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119 from provisional patent application 61/796,548 filed Nov. 14, 2012. The entire contents of the aforesaid provisional patent application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to a hose coupler using moveable female thread clamping segments incorporated into the coupler structure, and more particularly to a device capable of attaching to, and releasing from, male threads of a threaded tube with minimal rotation, and most particularly to a coupling device of simple, robust construction requiring few parts capable of easy manufacture and low cost as required for residential and consumer markets. 
         [0004]    2. Description of Prior Art 
         [0005]    There are many examples of quick-connect couplings or connectors in the garden hose industry for residential use as well as many such devices for coupling other types of fluid-carrying tubes. However, such devices typically have one or more of the following disadvantages. 
         [0006]    a) Many such devices require a special component to be mounted on both tube ends that are to be connected, thereby increasing the cost and inconvenience of the coupler. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 4,477,109. Perhaps more important, this seriously limits the flexibility of the user of the device. For residential use, a hose carrying a first component of such a two-piece coupler must be connected only to a spigot having the complimentary, second, component. In addition, only devices having the first coupler component can be attached to the spigot having the second component. This limits the flexibility of use substantially and/or markedly increases costs to the consumer having to equip all devices with a second component, even if second components are commercially available by themselves, separate from a two-component set. Thus, a need exists in the art for a quick connection that can attach to standard threads. 
         [0007]    b) Some devices provide for rapid connection but slow and tedious disconnection. Typically a “jam nut” or ratcheting coupling device can be connected to the threaded end of a tube quickly but require a slow unwinding process, disengagement of a locking pin or similar time consuming process to disconnect the device. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,191,406; 6,425,607; 7,472,931. Such a device would be appropriate for applications in which rapid connection is essential but slow disconnection is not a serious disadvantage (e.g. fire hoses). However, for typical residential, commercial and industrial applications it is advantageous for a hose coupling to permit rapid disconnection as well as connection. Thus, a need exists in the art for a quick connection that can both attach and detach quickly to standard threads. 
         [0008]    c) Coupling devices may require considerable twisting to complete the connection (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 5,503,437). This is disadvantageous in that it slows the connect/disconnect process, can be a difficult process for users without sufficient arm, gripping or twisting strength, and/or may cause the hose to which the coupler is attached to twist which may, in turn, disturb the alignment of the two sections to be coupled. Thus, a need exists in the art for a coupling device requiring only modest twisting to effect the connection. 
         [0009]    d) Some coupling devices employ the pressure of the fluid in the hose to effect the connection (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,140,645), or provide pins or clips to hold the coupler or components of the in position (e.g. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,580,099; 5,800,108), or a “stopper member” serving effectively the same function (U.S. Pat. No. 7,857,361). The present inventor submits that a modest amount of twisting to seat the hose firmly against a sealing gasket (typically no more than about one revolution) is advantageous in that it permits the user to impose the desired amount of pressure to complete the seal, advantageously assisted by a torque-enhancing large diameter structure as described in detail elsewhere herein. As gaskets wear, more pressure may be required to effect a fluid-tight seal. Thus, a need exists in the art for a coupling device allowing the user to tailor the pressure of the connection against the sealing gasket, and to do so with only modest twisting. 
         [0010]    e) Robust and reliable operation is advantageous in all applications for all users. However, the purchase price of the device is likely to be a particularly important consideration for residential users with garden hoses and the associated equipment. Thus, limiting manufacturing costs allows the vendor of such a coupler to be price-competitive while earning a fair return and providing a high quality device. Some devices require special materials to be used, certain to increase costs. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,045,055 calls for “.a sealing means . . . sufficiently flexible to permit expansion [of lip member  22 ] during operation, while at the same time possessing sufficient resilience to retain its basic shape throughout long periods of intensive use.” (Col. 4, L. 8-12). Thus, a need exists in the art for a coupling device designed to be manufactured at low cost while achieving excellent performance. 
         [0011]    Cronley has described several one-component quick-connecting couplers including the following: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,503,437; 5,788,289; 6,786,516; 7,140,645: US Patent Application Publications: 2004/0000788; 2004/0130144; 2004/0164547. However, these devices may use hydraulic pressure to provide the final seal and/or use a “compressible-sleeve member” that is compressed radially inward during the functioning of the device, quite distinct from a sealing gasket conventionally used between the two hose components to be joined. Sealing by hydraulic pressure has drawbacks as noted above. A “compressible-sleeve member” provides an additional component to complicate manufacture and, hence, is likely increase the complexity and cost of the device as well as be subject to wear and possible degradation during use. 
         [0012]    Thus, a need exists in the art for a hose coupler capable of connecting and disconnecting easily and quickly with standard hose threads and only requiring a minimal rotation (typically clockwise) to seal (couple) to the hose or faucet. Embodiments of the device described herein meet these and other needs as discussed in detail. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    Accordingly and advantageously, some embodiments of the thread clamping coupler device (TCCD) disclosed herein include a plurality of threaded segments having inward-facing threads thereon, arranged circumferentially around a central axis joined into a segment set, wherein the segment set can move axially along the direction of the central axis in both directions as well as rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise about the central axis as a single unit. The threads on the segments are capable of engaging with the threads of a hose and forming a fluid-tight seal with the TCCD upon rotation of the segment set. 
         [0014]    Each of the segments in the segment set is advantageously made of a flexible, elastic material capable of bending towards or away from the TCCD central axis under the influence of an applied force but returning to its normal position when the applied force is removed. Among numerous possible metals, plastics or other materials suited for use as segments, glass filled polyester is found to be advantageous. 
         [0015]    The structure and composition of the segments, threads and the segment set (among other structural features described in detail below) permit rapid connection and disconnection of the TCCD with only modest rotational motion. 
         [0016]    These and other features and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention will be understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention and the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0017]    To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It should be noted here that some of the drawings depict internal and/or external threads. The threads illustrated are for explanation purposes and may not always show a true spiral because of imprecision of the CAD software used to generate the drawings. However, the thread profile is accurate. The embodiments described herein have a customary helical structure associated with the particular thread. 
           [0018]    The drawings herein are schematic, not necessarily to scale and the relative dimensions of various elements in the drawings are not to scale. 
           [0019]    The devices and techniques of the present invention can readily be understood by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0020]      FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a typical TCCD. 
           [0021]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a typical TCCD with a typical hose nipple. 
           [0022]      FIG. 3  is a bottom perspective view of a typical TCCD. 
           [0023]      FIG. 4  is an exploded view of a typical TCCD in which the combination of inner core  6   a  and outer core  6   b  is denoted by  6 . 
           [0024]      FIG. 5  is a top plan view of a typical TCCD. 
           [0025]      FIG. 6  is a side cross sectional view of a typical TCCD and hose nipple. 
           [0026]      FIG. 7  is a side cross sectional′view of a typical TCCD with a hose nipple. 
           [0027]      FIG. 8  is a side cross sectional view of a typical TCCD. 
           [0028]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a one eighth slice of a typical TCCD. 
           [0029]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a one eighth slice of a typical TCCD. 
           [0030]      FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of a partial segment set sliced. 
           [0031]      FIG. 12  is a bottom perspective view of a partial segment set slice 
           [0032]      FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective of a typical TCCD. 
           [0033]      FIG. 14  is bottom perspective view of a TCCD and hose nipple as in  FIG. 2  with the addition of alignment marks  13 ,  50  and index band  48 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 15  is a top perspective view of the outer core. 
           [0035]      FIG. 16  is a top perspective view of the inner core. 
           [0036]      FIG. 17  is a top plan view of a typical TCCD. 
           [0037]      FIG. 18  is a top perspective view of an assembled inner core and outer core and a one-eighth slice of a segment set. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0038]    After considering the following description, those skilled in the art will clearly realize that the teachings of the invention can be readily utilized in the fabrication and use of connectors for joining threaded ends of hoses or other fluid-carrying structures. 
         [0039]    Embodiments of the present invention relate to the connection and disconnection of fluid-carrying structures in a rapid, effective and reliable fluid-tight manner. The devices described herein have advantages for both connecting and disconnecting fluid-carrying structures. However, for economy of language, we typically refer simply to the connection of such structures understanding thereby that disconnection is understood by the obvious reverse procedure. Separate mention is made of disconnection when such a distinction is intended. Further, we refer to all such fluid-carrying structures as “hoses” not thereby limiting the description to flexible fluid carriers but includes all such fluid-carrying devices. 
         [0040]    It is envisioned that a primary use for the thread clamping coupling devices (TCCDs) described herein is for the connection of water hoses in a residential, commercial, industrial, hospital, fire fighting, environmental, hazmat, public safety and/or military setting. However, the devices described herein are not limited to carrying water. Other fluids can also be transported by structures employing the devices described herein, as can slurries, emulsions, powders, mixtures, gasses and essentially any substance transported in pipes, tubes or similar structures. However, for economy of language we refer to the present TCCDs as transporting “water” or “fluid” via “hoses” or “water hoses” not intending to limit the scope to a particular fluid or means of transport. 
         [0041]    In addition, for economy of language we describe the present TCCDs as joining a “hose” to another fluid-carrying structure. This is not intended to limit the applications of the present TCCDs to joining a flexible fluid-carrying structure to another structure. The present TCCDs can be used to connect flexible or rigid fluid carrying structures (pipes, faucets, spigots, among others) to other flexible or rigid fluid-carrying structures as apparent to those having ordinary skills in the art. However, since the residential use for connecting water hoses is expected to be a primary use for the present TCCDs, we use “hose” as a brief designation, intending thereby to include the full range of fluid carrying devices. 
         [0042]    Some embodiments of the TCCDs described herein relate to devices that screw into the female end of a hose, or could be an integral part of the original hose construction. Thus, the TCCD becomes the female end of the hose, available to facilitate coupling to another fluid-carrying structure. The TCCDs described will engage any other matching male hose threads (hose nipple) with the quick connect/disconnect features of the TCCD with fewer parts, a simplified structure amenable to low cost fabrication, tight sealing with minimal rotation and other advantages as described herein. 
         [0043]    Summary of Structure and Operation of Some Embodiments. 
         [0044]    In this concise initial description we discuss the behavior of a single segment  22  as TCCD  4  is engaged and disengaged. Multiple segments are actually used in a practical device but the description of a single segment is sufficient for one of ordinary skill in the art to readily understand the structure and operation of a TCCD containing multiple segments. 
         [0045]    A typical thread clamping coupler device (TCCD) described herein, denoted  4  in  FIG. 1 , has several important properties and advantages over prior art devices. Among these are the ability quickly to connect or engage the male threads on the end of a hose or any matching male thread. The TCCD  4  also quickly disconnects from the same male thread. To effect the desired and desirable quick engagement, the TCCD  4  is first positioned approximately as depicted in  FIG. 2  with respect to the male hose thread (“hose thread”)  16  and hose nipple  18 . That is, TCCD  4  facing hose nipple end  19  approximately parallel and aligned along central axis  2 . 
         [0046]    An axial cross sectional view of TCCD  4  in its closed state is given in  FIG. 8 . Segment beam  32  is integrally joined to the exterior of segment set  12 , conveniently formed in a single piece of plastic or other suitable material. Segment threads  20  are located on each segment  22 . 
         [0047]    The core of the TCCD  4  has two parts, an inner core  6   a  and an outer core  6   b . Inner core  6   a  and outer core  6   b  are integrally joined (typically as snap-together components) or formed as a unified unit, indicated in  FIGS. 6-10  by the use of identical cross hatching for  6   a  and  6   b . Segment beam  32  moves vertically (axially in the direction of central axis  2 ) between the inner and outer core structures and thus has a slot or similar opening through which the connector  52  between the inner and outer cores traverses. 
         [0048]    Essentially, the outer core  6   b  may be used to urge the segments  22  radially inward toward the central axis  2  and the inner core  6   a  may be used to urge the segments  22  radially outward away from central axis  2 . However, in some embodiments the segment beams  32  are fabricated in their inner or closed position as depicted in  FIG. 8 . The segments are fabricated of a material suitable for bending such that, in the absence of any countervailing forces, segment beams  32  will naturally assume the inward or closed position of  FIG. 8 . Segments of flexible, elastic material (or simply “bendable material”) fabricated in the outward or open position are discussed elsewhere. With segment set  12  in its lowered position as indicated in  FIG. 8 , the segments may be further urged toward the central axis  2  by the outer core load bearing surface  28  engaging segment load bearing surface  26 . This engagement of the surfaces  28  and  26  is accomplished by CW rotation of TCCD. The axial forces generated by the engagement of surfaces  28  and  26  drive the hose nipple end  19  into gasket  14  to make an adequate seal. Segments  22  may be urged toward the central axis  2  by the outer core  6   b , in particular by the core load bearing surface  28  engaging segment load bearing surface  26 . However, the flexible, elastic nature of the segment beams will also urge the segments into the closed position. It is advantageous in some embodiments that this bending force provide the primary impetus urging the segments into their closed position. 
         [0049]    There are numerous candidate materials for the bendable segments  22  as used herein. Clearly, it is advantageous for all materials in the TCCD that come into contact with the fluid being transported to be substantially impervious to degradation by rust, corrosion, etc. to facilitate a long service life for the TCCD. Many metals meet these criteria for water-carrying TCCDs including aluminum, steel, brass, zinc diecast among others. Many plastics also meet the criteria. Glass filled polyester is one advantageous choice providing an appropriate combination of manufacturability, material properties and cost. 
         [0050]    Segment threads  20  in the closed position depicted in  FIG. 8  are suited for engaging (threading) with the hose threads  16  or the core threads  8 , but are too close together to allow convenient insertion of hose nipple  18  into the TCCD. However, in some embodiments, simple mechanical pressure of hose threads  16  urged against segment threads  20  will be sufficient to cause the segments to be pushed aside and the hose threads can ratchet along segment threads to a bound position substantially as depicted in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0051]    From the initial, as fabricated, position depicted in  FIG. 8 , segment set  12  is urged upward (“upward” in the sense depicted in  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  8 ). This causes segments  22  and threads thereon  20  to move radially away from the central axis  2  into the configuration depicted in cross sectional view in  FIG. 6 . This urges segment  22  and threads  20  to move radially away from central axis  2  due to contact with the lower edge of inner core  6   a  with the uppermost thread  22  (or uppermost portion of the threaded region of segment  20 , whether or not it is an actual thread), or a combination of these mechanisms. 
         [0052]    Once the segment threads  20  have been retracted from central axis  2  to such an extent that the minor diameter of the threads is greater than the major diameter of hose thread  16 , the hose nipple end  19  is inserted into the TCCD  4  and stopped against the surface of the sealing gasket  14  (see  FIG. 6 ). When the hose nipple end  19  is thus engaged with the gasket  14 , segment set  12  is returned to its original lowered position (as in  FIG. 6 ), causing thereby segment threads  20  to engage with hose threads  16  as depicted in  FIG. 7 . Upon clockwise (CW) rotation of the TCCD  4 , the segments  22  are urged away from gasket  14  as the hose end seals against the gasket surface. The motion of the segment  22  away from the gasket  14  causes the segment load bearing surface  26  to engage outer core surface  28 . Engagement of surface  26  with surface  28  drives the segment  22  radially inward against hose nipple threads  16 . This action drives the hose nipple toward the gasket  14 . The engagement of segment load bearing surface  26  with outer core surface  28  tightens the seal of gasket  14  to hose nipple end  19 . Clockwise (CW) rotation of the TCCD with respect to the hose nipple urges the hose nipple toward the TCCD (for customary right-handed threads) and effects a watertight seal. Typically the TCCD  4  needs to be rotated CW by only approximately 180 degrees or less relative to the hose nipple to effect a water tight seal (see  FIG. 7 ). This is a decided advantage over typical prior art female hose connectors since, if one only has to rotate the hose no more than approximately 180 degrees to achieve a sealed connection, the need for a swivel at the end of the hose is eliminated. Once a water tight seal is in effect as described herein, the connection is complete. 
         [0053]    Disengaging or disconnecting TCCD  4  from hose nipple  18  requires only modest time and effort. The TCCD  4  is rotated CCW (counter-clockwise) relative to the hose nipple  18  until the hose threads  16  loosen from the segment threads  20 . As soon as the threads are slightly loose the segments  22  can be retracted to the open position by moving the segment set  12  in the direction away from the hose nipple  18  thus opening segments  22  and releasing the TCCD  4  from the hose nipple  18 , as depicted in  FIG. 6 . 
         [0054]    Further Description 
         [0055]    Some embodiments of the TCCDs described herein use threaded female moving segments that facilitate quick connection to a threaded tube (or hose nipple). Upon applying an external CW torque to tighten the TCCD, the TCCD drives the segments into the threaded tube when the TCCD rotates and urges the male threads axially further into the TCCD. This provides locking friction between the segment threads and the tube threads (hose nipple  18 ). 
         [0056]    The structure of threads on threaded tubes may be defined according to profile geometry, diametral pitch, axial pitch and dimension among other characteristics. See for example, Machinery&#39;s Handbook, 28 th  Ed. (Industrial Press, 2008), pp. 1708-2026. The diameter of the tube also affects the geometry of the threads on the tube. For economy of language, we use “thread type”, “thread structure”, “thread geometry” and the like to denote a particular thread on a tube with a particular diameter. 
         [0057]    The movable segments of the TCCD typically have different thread structures capable of engaging corresponding thread structures on different types of tubes. That is, each movable segment (or set of segments) of a TCCD will be designed to meet the standards for a particular thread on a particular tube. 
         [0058]    Thus, to be concrete in our description, the TCCDs described herein typically have four equally spaced segments. Other configurations and numbers of segments and segment sets are clearly envisioned within the scope of this invention, and a few illustrative examples are also given. Each TCCD is designed to engage a specific male thread. The following are typical thread standards for hoses and other structures: 
         [0059]    NH (“National Hose”)—Standard hose coupling threads of full form as produced by cutting or rolling. 
         [0060]    NHR (“National Hose (Rolled or Rounded)”)—Standard hose coupling threads for garden hose applications where the design utilizes thin walled material which is formed to the desired thread. 
         [0061]    NPSH (“National Pipe Straight Hose”)—Standard straight hose coupling thread series in sizes 0.5 to 4 inches for joining to American National Standard taper pipe threads using a gasket to seal the joint. 
         [0062]    American National Fire Hose Connection Screw Thread. 
         [0063]    American National and Unified Screw Thread Form (typically referred to as English or inch threads). 
         [0064]    American National Standard Metric Screw Thread (typically referred to as Metric threads). 
         [0065]    SAE Spark-Plug Screw Threads. 
         [0066]    Lamp base and Socket Shell Threads. 
         [0067]    Tire Valve Inflation Connection Typically referred to as a Shrader Valve. 
         [0068]      FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a typical TCCD  4 . 
         [0069]      FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of a typical TCCD with four segments  22  in the position they would have when engaging hose thread  16  (or simply the “engaged position”). A typical hose nipple  18  (the male thread end of the hose) is shown separated from the TCCD in a position where engagement between the TCCD and segment threads  20  and hose nipple threads  16  would occur should the TCCD be urged toward hose threads  16  and segment threads  20  moved to a disengaged position as described and depicted elsewhere herein. 
         [0070]      FIG. 3  is a bottom perspective view of TCCD  4 . In this view, gasket  14 , gasket retention wedges  15  are visible. Segments  22  are shown in the open, retracted or disengaged position (“open,” “retracted,” “disengaged” position refer to the same state of the TCCD and are used herein interchangeably). Since the segments are retracted in  FIG. 3 , this indicates that segment set  12  is also in a “retracted” position, moved upwards along inner core  6   a  as depicted in  FIG. 6 . This is clear since segments  22  and segment  12  are all the same part. Because the segment set  12  is retracted more of outer core  6   b  is exposed revealing an exposed core  9 . 
         [0071]      FIG. 4  illustrates a complete TCCD  4  with parts exploded. Comprising TCCD  4  are the retainer snap ring  10  (or “snap ring”), segment set  12 , outer core  6   b  and gasket  14 . The segments  22  are shown in the closed position. 
         [0072]      FIG. 5  is a top view of TCCD  4  showing the section lines that define the cross sections shown in figures. Section Line A-A′ ( FIG. 6 ,  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 8 ), Section Line A′-B ( FIG. 9 ,  FIG. 10 ), Section Line C-C′ ( FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 ). 
         [0073]      FIG. 6  is a cross section taken along line A-A′ in  FIG. 5 . TCCD  4  and hose nipple (“threaded tube”)  18  are shown in cross section. Hose nipple  18  is shown separated from TCCD  4  in a position ready to be inserted into TCCD  4 . Segment beam  32  is shown deflected to the open position as a result of segment set  12  moving upward toward core threads  8 . The deflection of segment beam  32  is caused when segment ramp  30  engages core cam (or “core cam edge”)  24 . Full deflection to the open or retracted position of segments  22  is achieved when segment set  12  reaches the limit of rearward travel toward core threads  8  and away from the TCCD opening that receives hose nipple  18 . Clearance is shown between segment load bearing surface  26  and core load bearing surface  28 . The free end  35  of segment beam  32  (or “cantilever segment beam”) is shown along with the connected end  33  of cantilever segment beam  32 . The outside surface  37  of segment set  12  is shown where the user would typically grasp TCCD  4 . 
         [0074]      FIG. 7  is a cross section taken along A-A′ in  FIG. 5 . TCCD  4  and hose nipple  18  are shown in cross section. Hose nipple  18  is shown engaged with TCCD  4 . Specifically, segment threads  20  are shown engaged with hose nipple threads  16  (or “hose threads”). Segment beam  32  is shown non-deflected in the closed or engaged position. Also shown is segment load bearing surface  26  engaged with core load bearing surface  28 . Both load bearing surfaces  26  and  28  are at an angle of approximately 38 degrees with respect to central axis  2 , although a fairly wide range of angles around 38 deg. can also be used. Also shown is hose nipple end  19  engaged with gasket  14 . The outside surface  37  of segment set  12  is shown where the user would typically grasp TCCD  4  to apply torque to engage TCCD or disengage TCCD  4  with respect to hose nipple  18 . 
         [0075]      FIG. 8  is a cross section along A-A′ in  FIG. 5  the same as  FIG. 7  except that hose nipple  18  is removed to show more clearly segments  22  in the closed position and segment load bearing surface  26  engaged with core load bearing surface  28 . 
         [0076]      FIG. 9  is a magnified perspective view of a slice of TCCD  4  along section line A′-B of  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 9  is another view of segment  22  in the closed position where segment load bearing surface  26  is engaged with core load bearing surface  28 . Also shown is segment ramp  30  disengaged from core cam  24 . Segment beam  32  is shown in the non-deflected state. Segment set  12  is in its most forward position or closest to the opening in TCCD  4  that receives hose nipple  18 . Segment set  12  is prevented from moving further forward because of core  6  load bearing surface  28  and core wall  29 . 
         [0077]      FIG. 10  is a magnified perspective view of slice taken of TCCD  4  along section line A′-B of  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 10  is another view of segment  22  in the open position where segment load bearing surface  26  is clear of core load bearing surface  28 . Segment beam  32  is shown in the deflected state. Segment set  12  is in its most rearward (upward, retracted or elevated) position or furthest from the opening in TCCD  4  that receives hose nipple  18 . Segment set  12  is prevented from moving further rearward by snap ring  10 . In some embodiments, snap ring  10  is replaced with a pin located at substantially the same location and suited for preventing further rearward movement of segment set  12 . Either snap ring, pin or other retaining device as obvious to those having ordinary skills in the art can be used to retain or restrain segment set  12  from moving too far along central axis  2  away from threaded tube  18 . 
         [0078]      FIG. 11  is a magnified, cut-away perspective view of a slice of segment set  12  taken along section line C-C′ of  FIG. 5 . This  FIG. 11  more clearly shows the segment beams  32 , segments  22  and segment threads  20  as a single part. Only three of the four segment beams  32  are shown because of the slice removing part of the outer wall  11  of segment set  12  whereon the fourth segment beam would appear. Although a different number of segments can be used (2, 3 or more than 4), the use of four segments appears to be advantageous in terms of achieving a good balance of function and economics. 
         [0079]    Some or all of the segments in segment set  12  can be made to be replaceable. Plastic segment beams offer advantages in the economics of fabrication but might not offer the durability of a steel or another material. One example of this is presented in  FIG. 12  which is a perspective view of a slice of segment set  44  taken along section line C-C′ of  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 11  more clearly shows the segment beams  32  and replaceable segments  36 . Only three of the four segment beams  42  are shown because of the slice removing part of the outer wall  46  of segment set  44 . Segment set  44  has replaceable segments  36  with post  38  extending from the top of replaceable segment  36 . The free end  35  of segment beams  42  have a receptacle  40  for receiving post  38 . Functionally, segment set  44  is identical to segment set  12  except that replaceable segments  36  may be constructed of different material than segment beams  42 . Other than the post  38  extending from the top of replaceable segment  36 , the geometry of replaceable segment  36  is essentially the same as that of segment  22 . If a segment set has four segments then all four segments must have a different geometry since the segments must have a phased thread to match the thread phase of the hose thread  16 . Also the replaceable segments  36  must be assembled in the correct sequence to match the hose thread  16 . 
         [0080]      FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective view of TCCD  4 . showing core cam  24 . Core cam  24  engages segment ramp  30  (shown in  FIG. 6  through  FIG. 11 ) when segment set  12  or segment set  44  is transitioning from the closed or engaged position to the open or retracted position. Upon engagement of core cam  24  with segment ramp  30  segment beam  32  is deflected, thereby stressing the segment beam material and thus storing energy and providing the self closing force that urges the segments  22  to the closed position. 
         [0081]    Also shown in  FIG. 13  are gasket retention wedges  15 . This embodiment has four wedges  15  equally spaced 90 degrees apart on core gasket surface  17 , only three of which are visible in  FIG. 13 . 
         [0082]    There are two fundamental positions of segments  22  relative to the core structure  6   a ,  6   b  during normal operation of TCCDs. There is an open position (shown in  FIG. 3 ,  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 10 ) and there is a closed position (shown in  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 4 ,  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 8 ,  FIG. 9 ,  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 ). The open position refers to segments  22  being moved radially outward, axially upward along central axis  2  and rotated approximately eight degrees while attached to the end of the segment beam  32  as segment beam  32  is deflected outward radially from central axis  2 . An eight degree deflection is an approximate value for the deflection of conventional segment beam material. Other materials would lead to other values for this deflection angle. 
         [0083]    The segment beams in the current TCCD devices are flexible and elastic (“bendable”), capable of bending to accommodate the motion of the segments toward and away from the central axis, but returning to the closed position of  FIG. 8  when no forces are present urging them into the open position away from the central axis. This bendable property of segment beams  32  serves the function of, and replaces, several components present in typical prior art devices, and provides the basis for some of the simplicity, ease of use and low cost of the present devices. Similar advantages accrue for segments manufactured in the open position as discussed below. 
         [0084]    Segment beam  32  is a cantilever beam in which one end  33  (see  FIG. 6 ,  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 8  and  FIG. 9 ) is attached (or integrally fabricated with) to the remaining segment set structure including the outside surface  37  and opposite free end  35  is attached to segment  22  (or integrally fabricated therewith). Free end  35  and segment  22  are free to deflect if forces are applied in the appropriate direction. One of the functions of segment beam  32  is to act as a spring. One definition of a spring is, “an elastic body or device that recovers its original shape when released after being distorted” and this is the sense in which this particular property of the segment beam  32  is used herein. 
         [0085]    The “closed position” for segments  22  denotes the case in which they are in the position close to central axis  2  as if engaging with hose thread  16 . It is convenient in some embodiments for the segments  22  to be manufactured in this position so that, when displaced away from central axis  2 , natural forces arise in the material of segments  22  urging them back towards the central axis. After the initial manufacture segment set  12  and segments  22  are in an unassembled condition with respect to inner and outer core  6   a  and  6   b . This closed position is physically the same as the engaged position when TCCD  4  is attached to hose nipple  18 . To reach the closed or engaged position when attaching TCCD  4  to hoses thread  16 , segment beam  32  must be deflected to the open position so segment threads  20  pass over hose threads  16  during hose nipple  18  insertion into TCCD  4 . If segment threads  20  are engaged with hose threads  16  then segment  22  is referred to as being in the engaged position. When segments  22  are in the engaged position with respect to hose thread  16  segments  22  are also in the closed position. However, the segments can be in the closed position and not be engaged with hose nipple  18  as for example when segment set  12  is initially manufactured and as shown in  FIG. 4 ,  FIG. 8 ,  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 11 . 
         [0086]    To move the segments from the closed position to the open position, the user applies a force sliding segment set  12  away from TCCD  4  opening and toward core threads  8 , that is from the configuration of  FIG. 7  to that of  FIG. 6 . Segments  22  will move easily until segment ramp  30  engages core cam  24  (see  FIG. 8  and  FIG. 9 ). Continued axial travel will cause core cam  24  to ride up segment ramp  30  and deflect segment beam  32  (see  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 10 ). Segment beam  32  must deflect away from core  6  as the segments continue movement toward core threads  8 . This segment beam  32  deflection stresses the beam material internally. The force to urge segment set  12  axially toward core threads  8  increases as segment beams  32  continue to deflect until segments  22  are in the open position shown in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 10 . 
         [0087]    If the force provided by the user is removed (that is, axial sliding force on segment set  12 ), the segments will attempt to move axially in the opposite direction away from core threads  8 . This self-closing force is provided by the mechanical energy stored in deflected segment beams  32  attempting to return to the non-deflected state or a material state where no excess mechanical energy is stored. 
         [0088]    Deflected segment ramp  30  is provides a force directed against core cam  24 . Ramp  30  is at an angle of approximately 30 degrees relative to central axis  2  when the segment beams  32  are in the unstressed or non-deflected condition. Upon deflection segment beams  32  bend away from inner core  6   a  causing segments  22  that are attached to segment beam  32  to rotate approximately eight degrees. The deflected and stressed beams provide a self-closing function with respect to the segment set  12 . Segment set  12  will move to the closed position or will engage threads  16  of hose nipple  18  if present. 
         [0089]    The angle of the segment ramp  30  relates to the force required to cause segment set  12  to move away from the TCCD opening as the segment beam  32  is deflected as ramp  30  moves up the core cam edge  24 . As the ramp angle increases relative to the central axis  2  (the angle being measured at in the as-manufactured position and not after segment deflection) so does the force to urge the segment set  12  to move away from the TCCD opening increase. Conversely the force increases as provided by the deflected segments  22  that urges the segments  22  along with the entire segment set  12  to move toward the TCCD opening and to the closed position as ramp  30  angle increases relative to central axis  2 . 
         [0090]    Segment set  12  is comprised of all segments  22  and segment beams  32 , typically manufactured as a single part. The segment threads  20  are phased with respect to each segment  22 . Segment threads  20  are equivalent to a tube with an internal thread identical to segment threads  20 . If one removed a 20 degree pie slice four times equally spaced about the threaded tube perimeter what would remain is equivalent to the segments threads  20  in the segment set  12 . As manufactured, the segment threads  20  are in the closed position and have a minor diameter less than or equal to the hose thread  16  minor diameter. Therefore when the segment beam  32  is not deflected the segment thread  20  will engage the hose thread  16 . 
         [0091]    In another embodiment of the present invention it is possible to manufacture the segment set  12  so the segments are initially in the open position. Therefore, such segments will tend to remain in the open position. In order to cause the segments to deflect inward toward and reach the closed or engaged position, the segment set  12  must be urged forward, opposite the as-manufactured segments in the closed position. As the segments move forward segment load bearing surface  26  will engage core load bearing surface  28  (see  FIG. 6 ). The engagement of surfaces  26  and  28  will cause the segment beams  32  to deflect inward and have opposite curvature of deflection as currently shown in  FIG. 6 . The segments will reach the closed position and/or engage the hose threads  16  on nipple  18 . Rotating the engaged segment threads  20  of TCCD CW with respect to the nipple  18  will lock the TCCD to nipple  18  and secure a water tight seal as nipple end  19  is urged toward and sealed against gasket  14 . 
         [0092]    Disengagement is accomplished through a CCW rotation and loosening of TCCD  4  relative to nipple  18 . In this “reverse” configuration, segments  22  will self-open rather than self-close. Nipple  18  will be easily released from TCCD  4 . 
         [0093]    Referring to the as-manufactured closed embodiment described herein and examining segments  22 , after hose nipple  18  is inserted into TCCD  4  and nipple end  19  engages gasket  14 , TCCD  4  must be rotated CW to effect a watertight seal. Upon CW rotation engaged segments  22  urge hose nipple  18  toward gasket  14  which in turn is supported by core gasket surface  17 . A reaction force urges segments  22  in the opposite direction until the segments load bearing surface  26  is tight against the corresponding core load bearing surface  28 . As the seal is tightened, segments  22  are compressed between hose thread  16  and core load bearing surface  28 . When in compression the segment threads  20  are able to transfer much higher loads than standard threads in a nut that are stressed in pure shear when loaded. This unique configuration allows the TCCD  4  to survive relatively high external torques to be applied and not have segment threads fail even though the segment thread  20  material may have substantially less ultimate strength than the material of hose thread  16 . Since the segments  22  are typically manufactured as a single piece the segment threads  20  will engage or disengage at the same time with the hose threads  16 . 
         [0094]    The method of retaining gasket  14  by the retention wedges  15  is shown in  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 13 . 
         [0095]    The points of the wedges are conveniently on a circle concentric with central axis  2 . The circle has a diameter less than the outside diameter of gasket  14 . The interference between the wedge points and the gasket outer diameter compresses the gasket material and provides retention forces for the gasket. During operation of the TCCD  4  when hose nipple  18  is engaged, the gasket  14  is trapped between core gasket surface  17  and hose nipple end  19 . When no hose nipple is attached to TCCD  4  the forces on the gasket  14  provided by wedges  15  retain the gasket in place. The forces provided by the wedges  15  are caused to be sufficient to retain the gasket  14 , but replacement of the gasket is still very easy to accomplish merely by pulling the gasket out and pushing a replacement in between the wedges  15  and against core gasket surface  17 . 
         [0096]      FIG. 11  depicts another embodiment using segment set  44  with replaceable segments  36 . Segments  36  have post  38  extending from the top surface of segment  36 . Post  38  is received by receptacle  40  in the bottom surface of segment beam  42 . Once segment  36  is firmly attached to segment beam  42  segment set  44  will operate the same as segment set  12  in our first embodiment. An advantage of replaceable segments is that the material of the segments can be changed typically to employ more durable material than that of the segment beams  44 . Any or all of the segments in this embodiment could be replaceable or not as desired. All four of segments  36  must use a phased thread and must be assembled in the same sequence as the first embodiment to have the equivalent function. 
         [0097]    Another embodiment is depicted in  FIG. 14  which is a TCCD as described elsewhere herein with the addition of alignment marks, typically an arrow or alignment arrow  13  on the TCCD and index mark  50  on index band  48 . Arrow  13  is added to the TCCD in an arbitrary position around the circumference of the segment set. The hose nipple is firmly attached to the TCCD and twisted firmly in position against gasket  14  as described elsewhere herein. The segment set is then rotated in a disconnecting fashion (typically CCW) until the segment threads disengage from the hose threads. At this position, index band  48  is attached around threaded tube with the index mark  50  aligned arrow  13  (or rotated to this position if the band is pre-attached). In this configuration arrow  13  in alignment with index mark  50  denotes the optimal position for inserting the threaded tube into the TCCD, facilitating rapid attachment and detachment in the optimal orientation for reduced twisting. 
         [0098]    It should be noted that the circumferential position of alignment arrow  13  with respect to the phase of the segment threads should be the same for all TCCDs so that all TCCDs have the same radial position for advantageous thread engagement and disengagement for any specific hose nipple  18 . For example, a residential user of a TCCD typically acquires a TCCD with alignment arrow  13  thereon, along with an index band  13  having an index mark  50  thereon. This user then mounts the index band  48  onto a spigot or other male-threaded hose and aligns the index mark  50  with the alignment arrow  13  as described above. The user naturally wants the same index and alignment marks to provide proper alignment when different TCCDs are joined to the same spigot. This will occur only if alignment mark  13  has the same radial position with respect to segment thread phases on all TCCDs. 
         [0099]      FIG. 15  is a top perspective view of outer core  56  showing features that lock to the inner core  54 . The four inner core locking tabs  64  lock into inner core channels  62  (see  FIG. 16 ). Torque is transmitted from the inner core channels  62  to the outer core tabs  64  and then to the segments when outer core load bearing surface  66  engages segment load bearing surface  78  shown in  FIG. 18 . Also shown in  FIG. 15  are four segment slots  74  that receive the four segments during assembly of the segments into the inner core/outer core assembly shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         [0100]      FIG. 16  is a top perspective view of the inner core  54  showing features that guide the inner core  54  axially with respect to the segment set (one eighth slice shown in  FIG. 18 ) and transmit torque with the segment set and with the outer core  56 . The four inner core walls  60  transmit torque from the segment set top opening  76  (shown in  FIG. 17  and  FIG. 18 ). The top opening  76  also provides axial guidance when engaging inner core wall  60 . Segment set top opening  76  also transmits torque to inner core  54  through engagement with inner core wall  60 . Inner core channel  62  locks with outer core tab  64  providing a fixed core assembly that provides guidance and torque to the segment set  68 . Torque is passed from inner core  54  to outer core  56  through the channel  62  and tab  64  locking interface. Also shown is core load bearing surface  66  (in other embodiments surface  66  is referred to as surface  28  as in  FIG. 8 ) that transmits torque to segments through segment load bearing surface  78  (referred to as surface  26  in  FIG. 8 ). 
         [0101]    It is important to note that inner core load bearing surface  66  (and  28 ) and segment load bearing surface  78  (and  26 ) are flat surfaces. It is the torque transmitted to the segments that causes the segments to engage the hose nipple threads and to rotate about the hose nipple to cause the TCCD to seal to the hose nipple. 
         [0102]      FIG. 17  is a top plan view of TCCD  53 . The user transmits torque to the TCCD by grasping segment set outer surface  59  and applying a twisting motion. The torque generated by the user is transmitted to the inner core  54  through the engagement of segment set top opening  76  and inner core wall  60 . Also depicted is the segment set one eighth slice section (shown in  FIG. 18 ) defined by D-D′. 
         [0103]      FIG. 18  is a top perspective view of an assembled inner core and outer core and a one eighth slice of a segment set. Shown is an inner core  54  attached to an outer core  56  to form a core assembly  58 . The outer core tab  64  is shown locked into inner core channel  62 .  FIG. 18  also shows a segment set with deflected segment beam  72  being installed over inner core  54 . The engagement of wall  60  with segment set beam  72  is what deflects the segment beam to its maximum open position. Upon further axial travel down the segment beam  72  will be guided by outer core segment slot  74  until the segment beam reaches the opening  70 . Upon reaching the opening  70  the segment beam  70  will return to its as fabricated closed configuration (shown in FIGS.  8 , 9  and  10 ). 
         [0104]    Other embodiments can readily be configured to engage lamp socket threads to provide quick coupling and decoupling for light bulbs or other electrical devices using lamp socket threads. One of the segments would necessarily be reconfigured to provide electrical conduction to the outer thread structure and another connection would be required in the center where the current gasket  14  resides. The inner hole that now carries fluid (water) would be used to house electrical conductors such as wires. 
         [0105]    Yet other embodiments could readily be configured to engage tire valves for bicycles, autos, trucks or any vehicle or device requiring inflatable tires. Such a configuration would provide quick coupling and decoupling for tire inflation devices. 
         [0106]    Although various embodiments which incorporate the teachings of the present invention have been shown and described in detail herein, those skilled in the art can readily devise many other varied embodiments that still incorporate these teachings.