APPARATUS FOR ATTACHING A HOSE TO A FITTING

Abstract: A hose coupling for use with flexible hose (10) comprises a biconical fitting (20) which is inserted into a hose end and a frusto-conical locking sleeve (22) located about the hose portion which grips the rearward conical section of the fitting (20). Sealing arrangements for specific embodiments of hose are disclosed. The double included angle of the conical portion of the sleeve (22) and fitting (20), which engages the hose (10), is between one degree but less than ten degrees.

Description: PCT WORLD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ORGANIZATION International Bureau INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PUBLISHED UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT) (51) International Patent Classification 5 : (11) International Publication Number: WO 91/17 F16L 33/22 Al (43) International Publication Date: 14 November 1991 (14.11 (21) International Application Number: PCT/US90/02540 Published With international search report. (22) International Filing Date: 2 May 1990 (02.05.90) (71) Applicant: PROPRIETARY TECHNOLOGY, INC. [US/ US]; Suite 100, 25240 Lahser Road, Southfield, MI 48034 (US). (72) Inventor: BARTHOLOMEW, Donald, Dekle 5771 McKinley, Marine City, MI 48039 (US). (74) Agents: MILLER, H., Keith et al.; Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.O. Box 828, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48013 (US). (81) Designated States: AT, AT (European patent), AU, BB, BE (European patent), BF (OAPI patent), BG, BJ (OAPI pa¬ tent), BR, CA, CF (OAPI patent), CG (OAPI patent), CH, CH (European patent), CM (OAPI patent), DE*, DE (European patent)*, DK, DK (European patent), ES, ES (European patent), FI, FR (European patent), GA (OAPI patent), GB, GB (European patent), HU, IT (Eu¬ ropean patent), JP, KP, KR, LK, LU, LU (European pa¬ tent), MC, MG, ML (OAPI patent), MR (OAPI patent), MW, NL, NL (European patent), NO, RO, SD, SE, SE (European patent), SN (OAPI patent), SU, TD (OAPI patent), TG (OAPI patent). (54) Title: APPARATUS FOR ATTACHING A HOSE TO A FITTING (57) Abstract A hose coupling for use with flexible hose (10) comprises a biconical fitting (20) which is inserted into a hose end and frusto-conical locking sleeve (22) located about the hose portion which grips the rearward conical section of the fitting (20). Sea ing arrangements for specific embodiments of hose are disclosed. The double included angle of the conical portion of the slee (22) and fitting (20), which engages the hose (10), is between one degree but less than ten degrees. DESIGNATIONS OF "DE" Until further notice, any designation of "DE" in any international application whose international filing date is prior to October 3, 1990, shall have effect in the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany with the exception of the territory of the former German Democratic Republic. - 1 - APPARATUS FOR ATTACHING A HOSE TO A FITTING Background and Summary of the Invention This is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application serial number 189,395, filed on May 2 , 1988, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application serial number 066,749, filed on June 23, 1987. This invention relates to a method and apparatus for attaching hoses and tubes to a fitting and more particularly to a specially configured, hand assembled, tube coupling and apparatus. Attaching hoses and tubes to fittings to form a reliable fluid-tight coupling has presented problems over the years. Two basic problems are axial pull off (separation of the hose from the fitting) and pressure or vacuum sealing of a confined media. Hose clamps, crimped on ferrules, and attachments that screw on and in the hose can provide an effective method of terminating a hose but they can be complex, expensive to manufacture, and involve special tools to assemble. A fitting having both conical and double-conical shapes (i.e., diamond shaped) in combination with a frusto-conical locking sleeve have been used to terminate a hose. Generally, the hose is thrust over the large diameter of the cone and seated about the reverse tapered portion thereof. For one reason or another this type of hose coupling has not been totally reliable and this is not generally used commercially. For example, to resist axial pull off prior, terminations have made the angle of the reverse taper greater than needed. When a hose is thick or its material is stiff and unyielding, advancing the outer sleeve by hand is so difficult that the result is inadequate pressure exerted on the hose by the outer sleeve. To improve the hose connection utilizing the double conical fitting, it has been believed by others in the art that special arrangements are required for driving the sleeve relative to the fitting. Deutsches Reich 424980 - 2 - (1926) provides a spring for driving an interiorly threaded sleeve onto the hose. These threads are at a different taper than that of the sleeve or fitting and bite into the outside of the hose to compress the sleeve about the hose and the hose about the fitting, thereby retarding loosening or pull-off of the hose from the fitting. Dutch Patent No. 27183 (1932) provides a coupling nut which is threadably advanced about the sleeve in a direction that drives the outer sleeve up onto the fitting and about the hose to increase the pressure between the hose and fitting. The angle range is particularly important because the mechanical advantage of the sleeve capability decreases with increasing angle. When one uses a separate driving nut, one only has the mechanical advantage of the thread at initial installation or retightening. It would be desirable to provide a coupling wherein a threadless outer sleeve could be easily set or engaged by hand, thereby eliminating the possible need for torquing the outer sleeve. With a proper angle range only very rudimentary means of preventing tube or hose "push back" or sleeve securement are required. Accordingly, there is provided herein a hose coupling for terminating the end of a deformable hose or tubular member, which coupling includes a tubular fitting having an exterior surface and adapted to be received interiorly of the hose and a frusto-conical locking sleeve having an interior surface and adapted to be circumposed about the hose whereby the hose is clampingly secured between the surfaces of the fitting and sleeve. Further, the fitting includes a forwardly extending frusto-conical portion which defines a lead-on area at the end of the fitting. In particular, the hose engaging surfaces are frusto-conical with the angles defining each cone being limited to a narrow specified range. In accordance with this invention the frusto-conical surfaces are defined by a taper angle of between 1/2 degree to 4 degrees per side relative to the fitting axis. (i.e., the frusto-conical surfaces define a 1° to 8° double included angle.) - 3 - The prior art fails to recognize that the included conical angle of the hose engaging surfaces be small and be from about 1/2 degree per side to 4 degrees per side. Unexpectedly, this specific angle range produces locking and sealing results that are so outstanding that threads and springs, etc., are not necessary for the same reliability. Selection of the special angle range resists any relative movement of between the sleeve, hose, and fitting that could loosen the mechanical lock on the reverse taper or disrupt the pressure sealing integrity of the attachment. A fitting so configured allows the use of an outer sleeve that is very simple, requires only minimal force to compress the hose about the fitting, and is spaced away from the hose sealing area yet provides an additional locking of the hose to the exterior of the fitting. All of this may be accomplished by hand setting of the outer sleeve. It is believed that if the angle defining the frusto- conical sealing portion is greater than the above-noted specific range, very minor distortions of wall thickness will result in greater loss of sealing. Since the reliability of the attachment is also determined by how well it seals over time, angles larger than those specified herein are believed to cause a more rapid deterioration of sealing. Also, these larger angles require more distortion of the hose or tube material by what is termed secondary locking means that are incorporated on the inner member. The more rapid deterioration of the tube or hose material that results also contributes to rapid loss of sealing. Further, in accordance with this invention, there are disclosed intermediate adapter elements between the locking sleeve and hose and/or between the hose and fitting. Specific of these elements are not wedge shaped but are also defined on their interior and exterior surfaces by the same double included angle of between 1 and 8 degrees, whereby to follow the respective interior surface of the locking sleeve or exterior surface of the fitting. The purpose of these adapter elements is to distribute stresses and assist in sealing, each typically being of a suitable elastomer. An - 4 - advantage of reducing stresses is an increase in hose life. Accordingly, there is provided herein a hose coupling including a frusto-conical fitting and sleeve lock whic cooperate to resist pull off as well as having (a) resistance to the temperature caused changes that result i loosening or leaks, (b) resistance to the vibration cause changes that result in loosening or leaks, and (c) resistance to mechanical forces that push on the tube o hose in a manner that "unlocks" the sleeve lock, o encourages leaking. The interaction of all these factors generally stem from the fact that the hose or tube is spring like, an depending on its mass and/or deformation recover characteristics, the hose or tube will exhibit resonances o mechanical motion. One component of this mechanica movement are forces developed in an axial direction whic tend to unlock this type of attachment. Temperature effect affect the resistance to these and other unlockin mechanical forces. Advantageously, the specially configured outer sleev fitting provide a low cost coupling, and the labor expende in "setting" the outer sleeve is definitely lower cost tha setting clamps, crimping ferrules, or screw-over typ attachments used in some cases to replace crimped ferrules A variety of different types of pressure or vacuu confining conduits are shown and described herein. Th foregoing and other advantages will become more apparen when viewed in light of the accompanying drawings and th following detailed description wherein: Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a side elevation view in cross-section of fluid-tight coupling comprising a hose clamped by a sleev about a tubular fitting; Figure 2 is side elevation view, partially in section of an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight couplin according to this invention wherein a biconical fitting i used to terminate oppositely extending hoses; - 5 - Figures 2A and 2B provide detail of the left end ho coupling shown in Figure 2; Figure 3 is a perspective view of an alterna embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling according to th invention including an arrangement for gripping the hose; Figure 4 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, the coupling shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordi to this invention showing a redundant seal; Figure 6 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordi to this invention showing a redundant seal; Figure 7 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, o an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordin to this invention including redundant elastomeric sleeve which clampingly engage a corrugated hose; Figure 8 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, o an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordin to this invention showing a corrugated hose; Figure 9 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, o an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordin to this invention showing a redundant seal; Figure 10 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, o an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling accordin to this invention showing a low pressure cup seal; Figure 11 is a side elevation view, in section, of a alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight coupling according t this invention, showing the incorporation of a seal betwee the fitting end and conduit interior, and means fo strengthening the fitting end; Figure 12A is a side elevation view, in cross-section of an alternate embodiment of a fluid-tight couplin according to this invention, showing a serpentine-shape sleeve clamped about the fitting; and Figure 12B is a perspective view of the serpentine shaped sleeve shown in Figure 12A. - 6 - Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Turning now to the drawings. Figs. 1-12 show fl couplings each generally comprising a biconical fitting locking sleeve disposed about the fitting and at least tubular hose or conduit 10 clampingly secured to the fitt by the sleeve. The forward end portion of hose 10 is pus onto a frusto-conical lead on entry defining an open end the fitting, over a crest and onto a reverse frusto-coni portion and held thereto by the clamping or gripping act of the outer sleeve. Various embodiments of h connections and gripping arrangements are disclosed here The tubing or hose 10 is representative of single multiple wall, reinforced, or not-reinforced genera routable, not rigid metal, construction for use in fl installations, such as hydraulic or pneumatic equipme Hose 10 consists of a material that is deformable to extent, but not (or only slightly) compressible. In ot words, not a foam which is compressible because of porosity or trapped gas which is compressible. Hose 10 generally axially extending having concentric outer inner surfaces 12 and 14 and a forward end 16 cut squ the inner surface defining a central bore 18 to confine pass the fluid. Figure 1 shows a fluid coupling formed along an axis wherein the forward end portion of hose 10 is coaxi sandwiched between generally axially extending tub fitting 20 and outer lock sleeve 22. Fitting 20 has axial bore extending therethrough and generally compris cylindrical body member 24 from which a hose termina biconical portion 26 extends, the biconical por including a first and a second end portion 28 and 30, end portion being generally fruεto-conically shaped. respective exterior surfaces of portions 32 and 34 conical and defined by a double included angle "B" and relative to axis "A" and intersect at a crest 32 defi the largest diameter portion which expands the h Generally, cylindrical body member 24 is a portion of device such as a rigid pipe, a fluid connector, or - 7 - attachment which passes the fluid confined by hose 10. portion 30 defines a lead-on area for receiving the expanding the hose end portion and end portion 28 define reverse taper surface for the hose to grip. Fitting would preferably be constructed of rigid material, so as resist diametric reduction during the life of the attachm such as steel, brass or an oriented organic fiber. Outer sleeve 22 is generally frusto-conical in cro section and its interior wall is conical for gripping hose exterior and is formed by a double included angle relative to axis "A". Sleeve 22 includes forward rearward end portions 34 and 36 at its opposite en Rearward end portion 34 defines a radial flange 34 extend radially outward from the sleeve to assist the user coaxially driving the outer sleeve relative to hose 10 body portion 28 of fitting 20 over which .sleeve 22 located whereby to lock the outer sleeve relative to hose and fitting. Preferably, forward end portion 36 outwardly flared and extends to a point equal to forwardly of crest 32 between frusto-conical end portions and 30 when the outer sleeve is locked to the hose, t extended portion (or overhang) assisting in the inw insertion of the hose end portion, the positioning of t sleeve, or in supporting the hose in situations where t hose is bent adjacent the fitting end. Preferably sleeve is made from some material that has band strength a resists diametric expansion during the life of t attachment, such as steel, brass or an oriented organ fiber material. In accordance with this invention, it has been fou that the double included angle "B" for the exterior frust conical surface portion on fitting, and "D" for the interi surface of outer sleeve 22 are very important to achievi the unexpected results that improve the reliability of t attachment to an extent that it is commercially desirabl Specifically the double included angles "B" and "D" of the frusto-conical surfaces should be nearly matched, a preferably be between one degree and eight degrees (i.e., - 8 - taper angle of about 1/2 degree to less than 5 degrees per side) . These small double included angles "B" and "D" result in a tremendous "mechanical advantage" wherein forces applied to sleeve 22, to "drive" the sleeve towards the largest diameter at crest 32 and into engagement with conduit 10, are multiplied many times to result in extremely high capturing or clamping forces being applied to conduit 10. Surprisingly so, the small conical angles result in relatively small discontinuities in the conical surfaces of fitting 20 and sleeve 22 which contact the surfaces 12 and 14 of conduit 10 requiring a much larger force being applied in order to disrupt the secured relationship of conduit 10, fitting 20 and sleeve 22. There are situations with constructions of conduit 10 where it is very difficult to expand the diameter of conduit 10. In order that conduit 10 be hand assembled over the largest diameter of fitting 20 at the area where the reverse taper portion 28 meets the lead on portion 30, it is necessary to limit this largest diameter. To gain extra retention it is convenient to slightly reduce the free diameter of conduit 10 at the root or smallest diameter of reverse taper area 28. In every case since the surface area of portion 28 is tapered, there will be a smallest and largest diameter. The wall thickness of conduit 10 will be slightly less at the largest fitting diameter than it would be at the smallest diameter of portion 28. Since the largest "footprint", that is the surface area of conduit 10 captured between fitting 20 and outer sleeve 22, is desirable in order that stresses on the material of conduit 10 be minimized by having the capturing force distributed over a large area, it is necessary that double included angle of the outer sleeve be somewhat less than the double included angle of the fitting. This difference is dictated by the variation in thickness of conduit 10. It is possible to make a workable attachment using angle "B" equal to o even slightly less than angle "D", because of the unusuall tolerant situation that is achieved when angles between on and four degrees are used, but best results are obtaine - 9 - from a longevity standpoint by minimizing the stresses the material of conduit 10. It will be found to be advantageous to dimension sle 22 in a manner such that in the maximum tolerance condit where the dimensions are such that the sleeve 22 moves the least an amount over lead on portion 30, and that sle 22 contact area with conduit 10 be positioned so as to be contact with the conduit 10 at the area of greatest diame of fitting 20. Secondary locking means serve to assure t the positional relationship of conduit 10 relative fitting 20 and sleeve 22 is secured throughout the serv life of the attachment. Generally, as the hose tends to pulled off the biconical fitting, the outer sleeve foll the hose to further tighten the joint. The lock between hose and sleeve could in some applications be limited to small half of the sleeve and operable directly on the ou portion of the hose (or outer portion of an intermedi element positioned between the exterior of the hose and interior of the sleeve) so that the stresses imposed hav minimal effect on the stresses involved in sealing retention. In the embodiments shown in Figures 2-12 the respect sleeve and fittings use the same matched angles "B" and " to achieve the same result. Elements that are the same previously described will be marked with the same refere number. The embodiments to be discussed will respond surface shape and conditions that are common to vario conduits 10, and the use of a separate sealing means to se the conduit to fitting 20 which is used in conjunction wi the attaching means. For example, an interposed seal necessary when the inner surface of the conduit is n smooth enough to make an adequate seal. Figure 2, 2A and 2B show a hose coupling wherein bo ends of cylindrical body member 24 will be used to receiv each, a hose 10a and 10b, the body member having cylindrical annulus 38 which defines a stop. Each end body member 24, designated with the letters "a" and H b respectively, when considering the left or right extendi - 10 - end, is provided with a biconical portion 26a and 26b including first and second end portions 28a and 30a and 28b and 30b, respectively, to receive one respective hose 10a and 10b. A frusto-conical clamping member or lock sleeve 22a and 22b is located about the respective hose end portion and end portion 28a and 28b. The respective inner surfaces of sleeves 22a and 22b and exterior surfaces of conical end portions 28a and 28b clampingly grip the respective hose 10a and 10b end portion. The frusto-conical angles "B" that describe exterior surfaces of end portions 28a and 28b and "D" that describe interior surfaces of sleeves 22a and 22b would be defined by the double included angle of between 1° and 8 relative to center axis "A". Sleeve 22a would be manufactured with a flange 40 partially turned inward, flange 40 being bent radially inward to allow sleeve 22a to be loosely attached to fitting 20a. Sleeve 22a is located onto fitting 22a prior to pushing conduit 10a up over fitting 22a. By making flange 40 so that conduit 10a is not stopped by sleeve 22a as it is pushed onto fitting 20a, conduit 10a will merely centralize sleeve 22a as conduit 10a is pushed on. After assembly of sleeve 22a over fitting 20a, the inward forming of flange 40 would be completed. This would then loosely secure sleeve 22a to fitting 20a, so that the resulting assembly would be ready to use in the field. The flared portion 36a and 36b would be provided on sleeves 22a and 22b. Means of assuring the positioning of the parts throughout .the life of the attachment include provision of a slot 42 at the turned in transition of flange 40, slot 42 providing an area where the material of conduit 10a can bulge up into the slot 42 after the distortion of conduit 10a that results from locking or "setting" sleeve 22a to effect the attachment of conduit 10a to fitting 20a. Because of the large "footprint" (previously defined) of sleeve 22a, and the special angles "B" and "D", very large compressive forces are developed on conduit 10a, but only a small distortion of conduit results. Because of the special small angles "B" and "D" however, very little material is - 11 - required in shear (the bulged up portion of the material conduit 10a) to effect a very robust locking of the positi of sleeve 22a on conduit 10a. Means to lock conduit 10a to fitting 20a inclu provision of one or more raised portions on the surface the reverse taper portion 28a of fitting 20a. As shown, raised area 44 to secure the position of conduit 10a fitting 20a is located from the minimum diameter area fitting 20a. Note also, that very little deformation of t material of conduit 10a would be used so that stresses conduit 10a would be minimized. Small "pinched up ears" the surface of fitting 20a which would in effect be sma segments of raised area 44 are effective. The advantage this treatment is that the "pinching" operation on t fitting 20a results in small pockets adjacent to the "ears" The material of the conduit 10a may thus be distorted in these pockets when displaced by the ears. This greatl reduces the force required to cause this distortion, a makes "setting" sleeve 22a easier and with less variabilit The section extending to the right of body member 24 sho includes an annular groove 46 which acts very much like th slot 42 and sleeve 22b includes a raised radial groove o rib 48 that acts very much like the raised area 44. It is anticipated that in using the disclosed attachin method, that sleeves 22a and 22b will be "set" by variou means. These means would include "hand setting", an setting by means of simple tooling. Some users may prefe a more visual mechanical means of setting with an easil inspectable result. Figures 3 and 4 show a fluid coupling wherein a alternate means of "setting" the sleeve are provided Elements that are the same as previously described will b marked with the same reference number. An arcuate slot 5 (similar to slot 40 in Figure 2) has been formed in sleev 22 so that it frees a portion of outward radial flange 34 A flange 52 is then provided to be employed as a bendabl segment which drives sleeve 22 up on to engagement to loc conduit 10 about fitting 20. Flange 52 would be bent wit - 12 - an appropriate tool and because of the nature of th material of sleeve 22 act to urge sleeve 22 into a "set position. The confirmation that sleeve 22 has been "set could then be visually accomplished by merely noting tha flange 52 is in intimate contact with device 24. As before extrusion of the hose into slot 50 assists locking of th hose relative to the coupling. Figure 5 shows a fluid coupling wherein conduit 10 ha a rough outer surface. Elements that are the same a previously described will be marked with the same referenc number. To minimize the stresses applied to conduit 10 i order to maximize its service life, a collar 54 o deformable material is sandwiched between the interio surface of sleeve 22 and exterior surface 12 of the conduit Collar 54 distributes the forces applied by sleeve 22 to th conduit 10 more evenly, thus reducing the stresses develope in the conduit 10 from the compression forces that resul from "setting" sleeve 22. The rough outer surface o conduit 10 will "lock" material 54 into position. I desired, a slot 40 or 50 may be used to lock outer sleeve 2 to the material of collar 54. Forward end of the sleev would be flared at 36 and a reversely bent flange 56 whic has a radially inward portion 58 to captivate the colla about the hose and assist its movement during locking. radial outward portion 60 assists in driving the sleeve 2 relative to the hose. The sleeve 22, collar 54 and fittin end portion 28 would be formed at the special double angl of about 1 to 8 degrees. Figure 6 shows a fluid coupling that is similar to th coupling shown in Figure 5. Elements that are the same a previously described will be marked with the same referenc number. In this embodiment the inner wall 14 of conduit 1 is not sufficiently smooth to be axially positioned, t properly seal, or to reduce the stresses in the conduit Interposed between the hose and end portion 28 of fitting 2 is a frusto-conical band 62 comprised of a material that i more tolerant of conduit deformation, so as to functionall survive the increased useful life. Fitting 20 is forme - 13 - with a outward radial portion 64 to prevent interposed ba 62 from being pulled off of the fitting 30. Preferably ba 62 would be preformed with the double included conical angl of about 1 to 8 degrees. Figure 7 shows a fluid coupling embodiment disclosing further aspect of the embodiments discussed in Figures 5 an 6. Elements that are the same as previously described wil be marked with the same reference number. In thi embodiment conduit 10 is formed by a corrugated materia that is often used for very low pressure applications, bu which is not suited for the sleeve lock approache heretofore described. Conduit 10 is interposed betwee shaped sleeves 64 and 66, sleeve 64 being inner and sleev 64 being outer to the conduit, the sleeves 64, 66 bein interposed between the lock sleeve 22 interior frusto conical surface and fitting 20 exterior frusto-conica surface, the sleeves 64, 66 being conical with their doubl included angle being between one and eight degrees an substantially matching the inner and outer surfac configuration of conduit 10. A very low stress is develope in conduit 10, which greatly extends the service life of th conduit. If the projecting portions 68 and 70, from th respective sleeves 64, 66 are helically wound, and th corrugations 72 are helically wound, each mesh together an rotation tightens the coupling. Figure 8 shows a "Greenfield" type conduit 74 comprisin a liner conduit 10 and a rugged outer conduit 76 to provid mechanical strength in and a sealed relationship with th fitting 20 with the required mechanical integrity to b useful for high pressure applications. Conduit 74 that ha been assembled over fitting 20 and into sleeve 22 and "set or locked as previously described. Mechanical strengt outer conduit 76 has been compressed back (it is sprin like) during this operation. Ferrule 78, having an outwar flare 82 forwardly of the crest 32 and having been firs assembled over fitting 20 along with sleeve 22, is used t drive sleeve 22 into its locked position by inward flange 8 of ferrule 78 driving outer flange 34 of lock sleeve 22 . - 14 - The interior of outer conduit 76, being larger in diameter than the diameter of flange 34, passes over flange 34, and the end of conduit 76 drives ferrule 78 back against device 24 when it engages inward flange 80. Ferrule 78 is then crimped adaptively around the inner form presented by conduit 76, flange 34 and sleeve 22 by means of adaptive crimping die shoes that are made from some deformable material-like rubber or urethane. Ferrule 78 thus mechanically secures conduit 76, which is additionally engaged to flange 34 of sleeve 22, and further drives sleeve 22 into further engagement over inner liner conduit 10 to additionally secure and seal conduit liner 10 to fitting 20. Note that now inner conduit liner 10 is no longer required to withstand the blow-out forces of high pressure or temperature effects that might weaken conduit 10, since a slight expansion of conduit 10 is immediately limited by the very strong and temperature resistant outer conduit 76. Outer conduit 76 would be manufactured from metal (as an example of a suitable material) and thus inner conduit 10 may be made from a material-like plastic that does not have the mechanical properties at high temperatures that are necessary for the outer conduit 76, and the required high pressure and temperature performance. The combination of conduits will thus operate at temperatures in excess of the capability of conduit 10 alone. Figures 9 and 10 are for situations wherein the redundant sealing capability would comprise a "dynamic" type seal which exerts more sealing pressure in response to an increase in pressure. In accordance with this invention the dynamic seal would be placed forward of the static seal, such as described in the preceding embodiments. A benefit of the forward location, in conjunction with the sleeve lock-type attachment, is that less "penalty" in interior diameter through the attachment is encountered. The forward attachment will offer an improved (static) compression seal which will easily out perform in time the known static compression seals that are used because of "large footprint" and low deformation percentage, but will also offer the - 15 - added benefits to be derived from the use of a dynamic seal. There is a definite need to be able to get extended service life, and to be able to safely employ the otherwise superior plastic piping that is available today. Figure 9 shows a fluid coupling wherein fitting 20 has near its hose receiving terminus an inward radial recessed channel 86 sized to receive therein elastomeric seal 84. The depth of the channel is such that seal 84 projects above the periphery of the fitting end portions 28 and 30. The seal is shown as an O-ring, and acts as an additional seal to seal the hose against the fitting end portions. Figure 10 is a fluid coupling useful in situations where extremely low pressures are to be confined for periods of time that are long compared to the creep properties of an elastomeric O-ring similar to that shown in Figure 9. The coupling includes an inward radial recessed channel 88 shaped to receive a "TJ" cup or "lip" type seal 90 comprised of metal. ϋ-shaped seal 56 better utilizes the confined pressure to develop seal contact force. Figure 11 shows a fluid coupling wherein the fitting is modified to include a nipple 92 formed of plastic having an axial bore 94 therethrough and a metal sleeve 96 positioned within the bore. Outward radial flanges 98 and 100 from the sleeve serve to couple the sleeve 96 to the nipple such that the bore wall fits snugly about the nipple. An annular groove 102 is formed between a step 104 in the nipple and raised flange 100 on the sleeve, the groove sized to receive an elastomeric O-ring 106 that projects about the periphery 108 of the nipple to be in contact with the inner wall 14 of hose 10. The nipple and sleeve are manufactured as a portion of device 24. Sleeve 22 operates as previously described, and embodiments shown in other figures might also be employed here, as they might be with any of the other embodiments shown in the various figures. The purpose of fitting end portion 30 is to provide a lead area 34, allow O-ring groove to be easily provided in manufacture, and to strengthen tapered central portion 110 of the fitting sleeve. One would select metal as the material for sleeve

Claims: - 16 - 96 if device 24 were made from a material which would not resist the compressive forces (applied by sleeve 22) over a long period of time for example. Conversely, if the material of device 24 were metal which would have the desired strength, then sleeve 96 portion might be made of plastic. Figures 12 and 12A show a coupling similar to Figure 1 wherein a serpentine formed frusto-conical sleeve 112 is disposed about the fitting. Sleeve 112 is generally stamped from a flat sheet of metal stock with axial slots 114 extending inwardly from opposite edges 116 and 118 of the sheet but end short of the opposing edge. The slot radial widths are suitably dimensioned to allow the sheet to be rolled into a frusto-conical shape, whereupon the adjoined edges are joined. Resiliency of the cone to accommodate rough surfaced hose and could be provided by keyhole 120 enlargements at the root of one or more of the slots. End 36 is overhung beyond crest 32 connecting frusto-conical end portions 28 and 30. The interior and exterior surfaces of the sleeve 112 and fitting 20 are provided with the special double included conical angle of 1 to 8 degrees. From the foregoing figures and explanations, it is seen that the sleeve lock concept is adaptable to many variations of conduits. The sleeve lock concept is commercially viable because of the recognition that there is a small range of angles, that when used, provide a dramatic improvement in retention and sealing that make a commercially reliable, and therefore .acceptable device possible. The inherent low cost of the reverse taper locking means has made such a device be recognized as potentially commercially attractive for years, but previous attempts to provide such a device always failed because those who were attempting to develop and market such a device failed to comprehend the special small range of angles, that make such devices commercially acceptable, is a necessary precedent to achieving that goal. While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation, and - 17 - change without departing from the proper scope or fa meaning of the accompanying claims. - 18 - What I claim is: 1. A hose coupling for terminating the end of deformable hose or tubular member, comprising a fitti having an end adapted to be received interiorly of said ho and to expand the interior diameter of said hose wh inserted therein, and a locking sleeve locatable over sa hose whereby to clampingly secure the hose between t fitting and sleeve, the improvement characterized in th said fitting and sleeve are constructed such that a porti of each is formed with matching frusto-conical surfa defined by a double included angle of less than ten b greater than one degree, the conical surfaces increasing diameter toward the inserting end of said fitting. 2. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, furth characterized by non-threaded means provided between sa locking sleeve and fitting for locking said sleeve to t exterior of said hose. 3. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1 where the hose includes a thread-like shape and including mea interior to said locking sleeve and having a thread-li shape, for interengaging with the thread on the hose. 4. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, furth characterized in a seal element being sandwiched betwe said locking sleeve and the exterior of said hose, said se element being frusto-conical in shape with the cone bei defined by a double included angle of less than ten degre but more than one degree. 5. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, furth characterized in a seal member being sandwiched between sa locking sleeve and the exterior of said hose, said se element being frusto-conical in shape with the cone bei defined by a double included angle of less than ten degre but more than one degree. - 19 - 6. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1 characterized in that a seal element is interposed betwee the hose and the fitting, said seal member being frusto conical in shape with the cone being defined by a doubl included angle of less than ten degrees but more than on degree. 7. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, furthe characterized by a seal element being sandwiched between th interior of said hose and the exterior of said fitting, sai seal member being frusto-conical in shape with the con being defined by a double included angle of less than te degrees but more than one degree. 8. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, further characterized by means, associated with said fitting for locating said sealing member so as to be within the frusto- conical area of said fitting which is surrounded by said outer sleeve. 9. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, characterized by means associated with said fitting so as to locate said sealing member within the area of said fitting so as to be surrounded by said outer sleeve. 10. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said locking sleeve extends axially beyond the largest diameter of said fitting. 11. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, wherein said locking sleeve extends axially beyond the largest diameter of said fitting. - 20 - 12. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said fitting includes a second frusto-conical portion at the end thereof, said second frusto-conical portion being beyond the largest diameter of the first portion thereof and having a diameter which is smaller than the largest diameter of said fitting. 13. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, wherein said fitting includes a second frusto-conical portion at the end thereof, said second frusto-conical portion being beyond the largest diameter of the first portion thereof and having a diameter which is smaller than the largest diameter of said fitting. 14. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 12, wherein said smaller diameter is less than the inside diameter of said hose. 15. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 13, wherein said smaller diameter is less than the inside diameter of said hose. 16. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, further including wherein said outer sleeve includes a radially inwardly directed flange portion adapted to seat against the forward end of said hose for positioning said hose relative to said fitting. 17. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 3, further including wherein said outer sleeve includes a radially inwardly directed flange portion adapted to seat against the forward end of said hose for positioning said hose relative to said fitting. 18. The hose coupling as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said outer sleeve includes a radially outwardly directed flange portion for driving said locking sleeve towards the largest diameter of said fitting. - 21 - 19. In a fluid coupling fitting adapted for attachi a flexible conduit including smooth tubing, reinforced hos and corrugated hose having an inner and outer wall, th inner wall defining an axial bore to convey fluid to fitting secured at the end of the conduit, securing mean for securing the fitting to the conduit in a fluid-tigh manner, said securing means being characterized by: a fitting having a frusto-conical end section tha expands in diameter at a double included angle of from abou one to less than ten degrees, and a decreasing diamete portion associated with said end for providing a lead on fo said fitting adapted to enable insertion into said condui so that said fitting is axially insertable into the bore o said conduit; and an outer frusto-conical sleeve adapted to be positione over said conduit when said fitting is installed onto sai conduit such that said outer frusto-conical sleeve interio has an expanding diameter substantially identical to th included angle of said fitting. 20. A fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19, furthe comprising an annular step extending radially outward fro said fitting to form a large diameter portion of sai fitting for engaging an elastomeric sleeve which i positioned peripherally about said frusto-conical sectio for sealing non-smooth conduit interiors to said fittin end. 21. A fluid coupling as recited in Claim 20, wherei said elastomeric sleeve has raised portions extending fro its outer periphery for engaging successive inne • corrugations of a corrugated conduit, said outer sleev being adapted to engage the exterior of said corrugate conduit. - 22 - 22. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 21, wherein the raised portions of said sleeve are helically positioned around the exterior surface of said elastomeric sleeve, and said outer sleeve is adapted to engage the exterior of said conduit such that the inner surface of said conduit is forcibly engaged with said elastomeric sleeve when said outer sleeve is moved. 23. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19, wherein said outer sleeve includes means for maintaining position of the exterior of said conduit. 24. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19, wherein said fitting includes means for maintaining position of the conduit on the fitting. 25. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19 wherein said outer sleeve is fitted with a deformable interior liner. 26. The fluid coupling according to Claim 19 wherein said outer sleeve includes means for positioning said sleeve in a locking relationship with the conduit and maintaining the outer sleeve relative to the end of said fitting. 27. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19 further comprising a seal member about the periphery of said fitting for sealing the fitting end to the interior of the conduit. 28. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19 wherein a metal liner is inserted into the through passage of the fitting end. 29. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 20 wherein the elastomeric sleeve is generally frusto-conical in shape. - 23 - 30. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 29 where the elastomeric sleeve is defined by a double included ang from about one to less than ten degrees. 31. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 19 includi a pair of frusto-conical elastomeric sleeves for engagi successive corrugations of a corrugated conduit, the sleev being disposed between said outer frusto-conical sleeve a fitting with one and the other elastomeric sleeve bei adapted to engage the interior and exterior of sa corrugated conduit. 32. The fluid coupling as recited in Claim 31 where said elastomeric sleeves are defined by a double includ angle from about one to less than ten degrees. - 24 - 33. In a fluid coupling including a hose having an inner and outer wall the inner wall defining an axial bore to convey fluid to a fitting secured to the end of the hose, securing means for securing the fitting to the hose in a fluid-tight manner, said securing means being characterized by the fitting having a frusto-conical end section axially insertable into the bore of said hose and then provided with an annular step extending radially outward therefrom for engaging the hose inner wall and expanding the outer wall radially outward and a further frusto-conical portion of decreasing exterior diameter, an outer sleeve having an interior passage and being circumposed around the fitting, the smallest interior diameter of the passage being greater than the largest diameter of the fitting, said interior also being frusto-conical and approximately matching the conical angle of said fitting whereby to limit radial expansion of the hose, said fitting frusto-conical end section and sleeve end section expanding in a diameter at an included angle of about one but less than ten degrees, and means for resisting movement of said hose with respect to said fitting, said means for resisting movement coupled with said outer sleeve, said outer sleeve being positioned so as to compress and secure said hose to said fitting. - 25 - 34. In a fluid coupling including a hose having an inner and outer wall the inner wall defining an axial bore to convey fluid to a fitting secured to the end of the hose, securing means for securing the fitting to the hose in a fluid-tight manner, said securing means being characterized by the fitting having a biconical end section axially insertable into the bore of said hose, said biconical section having a first and second end portion each of frusto-conical configuration and a radial deformation formed between said first and second portions, the radial deformation and the second portion engaging the hose inner wall to expand the outer wall radially outward, an outer sleeve having an interior passage divided into two portions, a first portion that extends beyond the second portion of said tilting to support and position the hose and a second conical portion that approximately matches the conical angle of the fitting being circumposed around the fitting and defined by an included angle that is less than ten degrees, the smallest interior diameter of the passage being greater than the largest diameter of the fitting whereby to limit the radial expansion of the hose, said outer sleeve being positioned so as to compress and secure said hose to said fitting.

Inventors: BARTHOLOMEW DONALD DEKLE, BARTHOLOMEW, DONALD, DEKLE
Applicants: PROPRIETARY TECHNOLOGY INC, PROPRIETARY TECHNOLOGY, INC.
Application year: 1990
Main classification: F16L33
IPC codes: F16L33