Patent Publication Number: US-2023151916-A1

Title: Tubular connector

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/048,557, filed Oct. 16, 2020, which is a national phase entry of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2019/025851, filed Apr. 4, 2019, which is a supplementary application to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/718,562, filed Aug. 14, 2018, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     Tubes are used to carry a variety of liquids and/or gases. Couplings or connectors are used to join the tubes in various ways so the tubes can be arranged in a myriad of possible configurations to move material through the tubes. The tubes may be stiff or rigid as with metal or plastic pipes used in household plumbing applications, or the tubes may be flexible. Connectors are used for end-to-end connection of tubes, or they can route tubes at different directions relative to the tube axis. For example, connectors can be employed to change the direction of piping, such as by 45° or 90° angle with respect to a flow passage through the pipe to which the connector is connected. Connectors can also be employed to branch or split piping in different directions. For example, a single pipe section can be connected by a T-fitting or a Y-fitting or a multi-tube joint or a change in diameter. 
     However, existing tube connectors may be difficult to assemble or require special tools to assemble them. For example, threaded connectors may require a wrench to hold one part while rotating a mating part. There is thus a need for a connector that does not require tools to connect a tube to a connector so the connector may be achieved manually, without tools. 
     Some existing connectors require deformation to join two parts or to join the connector to the tube. For example, the ends of garden hoses have an outer portion of a hose bib crimped around the outside of the tube to connect the male or female hose bib to the garden hose. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 9,228,681 for example, has a user manually deform an end portion of a sleeve so that two parts of a connector cannot move axially apart, thus securing the parts of the connector together. There is thus a need for a simpler connector that does not require manual deformation to join parts. 
     Some connectors are irreversible and may not be removed except by destroying the connector. A welded or soldered pipe joint is an historic example of a permanent connector. But there is sometimes a need to uncouple a tube and reuse the connector. There is thus a need for a connector that may be uncoupled without destroying the connector. 
     It is desirable that the fluid connectors not leak, as it may lead to loss of system pressure, or harmful puddles of liquids, or worse if hazardous materials are transported through the tubes. Achieving good fluid seals with fast-connecting couplings is always difficult. There is thus a continuing need for an improved connector that connects fast and provides a fluid-tight seal at least at pressures several times greater than the expected operational pressure of the tubular connector. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, the invention resides in a connector comprising: 
     a connecting body having a fluid passage that extends at least part way therethrough; 
     a seal configured to provide a seal with an outer portion of a fluid tube; 
     a cartridge located near the connecting body, the cartridge having a hollow portion therethrough; 
     a grab part having one or more teeth that are configured to retain the fluid tube, the grab part being located between the cartridge and the seal; 
     a demount part being movable within the hollow portion of the cartridge and configured to move the one or more teeth to a position to allow the fluid tube to be released; and 
     a sleeve covering at least part of the cartridge and the connecting body, 
     wherein a latch is located on one of the sleeve or the connecting body and a mating catch is located on the other of the sleeve or the connecting body such that engagement of the latch with the catch connects the sleeve to the connecting body and assists in restraining movement of the cartridge. 
     In an embodiment, the latch is configured to rotate about a sidewall connected thereto in order to engage with the catch. 
     In an embodiment, the latch includes one or more protrusions extending from the sidewall. 
     In an embodiment, the latch is configured to move in a direction away from and towards the catch in order to engage the catch. 
     In an embodiment, the latch extends transversely from a side wall connected thereto. 
     In an embodiment, the latch extends in a direction of about 5 degrees transversely to the side wall. 
     In an embodiment, the catch is in the form of a recess or projection. 
     In an embodiment, the catch is located on the connecting body. 
     In an embodiment, engagement of the catch with the latch assists in preventing rotation of the sleeve relative to the connecting body. 
     In an embodiment, an external force being applied over a distance from at least the demount ring to the cartridge is unable to move the demount ring to a position that engages with the teeth to allow the fluid tube to be released. 
     In an embodiment, the external force is provided on a free end of the demount ring. 
     In an embodiment, the free end of the demount ring ends substantially in a similar plane to an end of the cartridge or the sleeve. 
     In an embodiment, the connector includes a protecting ring that is configured to assist in protecting the seal. 
     In an embodiment, the protecting ring includes a stop that assists in ensuring the seal is captured in a space where retention of the seal is suitable. 
     In an embodiment, the protecting ring includes a protrusion that assists in supporting the fluid tube. 
     In a further aspect, the invention resides in a connector comprising: 
     a connecting body having a fluid passage that extends at least part way therethrough; 
     a seal configured to provide a seal with an outer portion of a fluid tube; 
     a cartridge located near the connecting body, the cartridge having a hollow portion therethrough; 
     a grab part having one or more teeth that are configured to retain the fluid tube, the grab part being located between the cartridge and the seal; 
     a demount part being movable within the hollow portion of the cartridge and configured to move the one or more teeth to a position to allow the fluid tube to be released; and 
     a sleeve covering at least part of the cartridge and the connecting body to provide a connection therebetween, 
     wherein an external force being applied over a distance from at least a free end of the demount ring to the cartridge is unable to move the demount ring to a position that engages with the teeth to allow the fluid tube to be released. 
     In an embodiment, the connector is as herein described. 
     In a further aspect, the invention resides in a connector assembly comprising: 
     a connecting body having a fluid passage that extends at least part way therethrough; 
     a first connector as herein described using the connecting body; and 
     a second connector as herein described using the connecting body 
     To further elaborate the aspect above, the invention resides in a connector assembly comprising: 
     a connecting body having a fluid passage that extends at least part way therethrough; 
     a first connector comprising: 
     a first seal configured to provide a seal with an outer portion of a first fluid tube; 
     a first cartridge located near the connecting body, the first cartridge having a hollow portion therethrough; 
     a first grab part having one or more teeth that are configured to retain the first fluid tube, the first grab part being located between the first cartridge and the first seal; 
     a first demount part being movable within the hollow portion of the first cartridge and configured to move the one or more teeth of the first grab part to a position to allow the first fluid tube to be released; and 
     a first sleeve covering at least part of the first cartridge and the connecting body; and 
     a second connector comprising: 
     a second seal configured to provide a seal with an outer portion of a second fluid tube; 
     a second cartridge located near the connecting body, the second cartridge having a hollow portion therethrough; 
     a second grab part having one or more teeth that are configured to retain the second fluid tube, the second grab part being located between the second cartridge and the second seal; 
     a second demount part being movable within the hollow portion of the second cartridge and configured to move the one or more teeth to a position to allow the second fluid tube to be released; and 
     a second sleeve covering at least part of the second cartridge and the connecting body, 
     wherein a first latch is located on one of the first sleeve or the connecting body and a first mating catch is located on the other of the first sleeve or the connecting body such that engagement of the first latch with the first catch connects the first sleeve to the connecting body and assists in restraining movement of the first cartridge. 
     In an embodiment, a second latch is located on one of the second sleeve or the connecting body and a second mating catch is located on the other of the second sleeve or the connecting body such that engagement of the second latch with the second catch connects the second sleeve to the connecting body and assists in restraining movement of the second cartridge. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment resides in a tubular connector having an annular connecting body at a distal end of the connector, and a tubular sleeve at a proximal end of the connector and extends along a longitudinal axis. The connecting body has an outwardly extending flange adjacent a recess so the flange forms a catch that preferably extends around a circumference of the connecting body. The connecting body has an internal shoulder encircling the longitudinal axis and toward which a sealing ring is urged by an annular protecting ring, a portion of which fits inside the connecting body and also encircles the longitudinal axis. A grab ring having an annular base with teeth extending distally toward the connecting body and inward toward the longitudinal axis is contained in a cartridge part that pushes the grab ring and protecting ring against the sealing ring and the connecting body. A demount ring with a tapered distal end nests with the inclined teeth on the grab ring to either support the teeth or limit movement of the teeth in a first position, and to move the teeth out of engagement with a tube in a second, demount position. The demount ring rests against an internal shoulder on the cartridge part with a proximal end passing through the cartridge part but ending flush with the sleeve. The sleeve has several latch members extending inward toward the longitudinal axis and away from the connecting body. The latch members are spread apart by the connecting body&#39;s flange and located to move inward and engage the catch on the connecting body to connect the sealing ring, protecting ring, grab ring, cartridge part and demount ring together inside of and between the sleeve and connecting body to form a connector. 
     A tube is inserted through the proximal end of the sleeve, through the inside of the demount ring and cartridge part. The tube spreads the teeth of the grab ring as it passes the grab ring and passes through the sealing ring until a distal end of the tube hits a stop in the connecting body. Because the grab ring teeth were spread apart by the tube the teeth are resiliently urged against the outer surface of tube and the teeth are inclined in a direction to resist removal of the tube from the grab ring and connector. The sealing ring provides a fluid seal around an outer circumference of the tube, and the protecting ring aligning the sealing ring for use and protecting the sealing ring from damage by the teeth of the grab ring. The connecting body may be part of a fluid fitting, or configured to connect to a fitting or configured to connect to another tube. The demount ring may be moved toward the connecting body and grab ring teeth to spread the teeth apart and disengage them from the tube to allow removal of the tube from the connector. 
     There is thus advantageously provided a connector for a fluid tube having an outer diameter D where the connector has proximal and distal ends and extends along a longitudinal axis. The connector may include a connector body having a fluid passage extending at least part way through the body and a tube stop to limit passage of the fluid tube through the connector body during use. The assembly may further include a sealing ring encircling the longitudinal axis and having an internal diameter to provide a fluid tight seal with the fluid tube when the fluid tube passes through the sealing ring during use. The assembly may further include a protecting ring encircling the longitudinal axis with the sealing ring located between a shoulder on the connector body and the protecting ring. The assembly may also include a cartridge part encircling the longitudinal axis and holding the protecting ring against the connector body. The assembly may include a grab ring having a plurality of teeth encircling the longitudinal axis and extending inward and toward the connector body a distance sufficient to grab the fluid tube during use. The grab ring is held between the cartridge part and the protecting ring. A demount ring advantageously encircles the longitudinal axis and is held between a shoulder on the cartridge part and the grab ring. The demount ring is axially movable a distance sufficient to push the teeth outward and release the fluid tube. The assembly also has a tubular sleeve encircling the cartridge part and protecting ring and part of the connecting body. The sleeve is latched to the connecting body and holds the cartridge part against the protecting ring and holds the protecting ring against the connecting body. The sleeve has a proximal end with a sleeve opening through which the fluid tube passes during use. 
     In other variations, the demount ring has a demount tube extending through the sleeve opening and the cartridge part has a cartridge tube encircling the demount tube and also extending through the sleeve opening, with the demount tube being larger than the tube diameter D so the fluid tube passes through the demount tube. In still further variations, the sealing ring may move axially a distance of about 2-5 mm between the protecting ring and the shoulder on the connecting body. The assembly may include the fluid tube passing through the sleeve opening and grab ring teeth and sealing ring. In a further embodiment, the fluid tube contacts the fluid tube stop in the connecting body and the fluid passage extends all the way through the connector body. The connecting body advantageously includes one or more of a straight-line connector, a T connector, a Y-connector, an elbow connector, or a connector changing diameter, or a blind end. 
     In an embodiment, there is also advantageously provided a connector for a fluid tube having an outer diameter D, where the connector has proximal and distal ends and extending along a longitudinal axis. The connector includes a connecting body having an annular proximal end with an internal cylindrical recess extending along the longitudinal axis and a fluid passage that extends at least part way through the connecting body. The connecting body has an inwardly extending shoulder and a tube stop also extending inward. The connecting body also has a distal end. A sealing ring is located in the internal cylindrical recess adjacent the inwardly extending shoulder of the connecting body. The sealing ring has a circular inner diameter sufficiently smaller than D to form a fluid seal with the outer diameter of the tube during use. The assembly further has an annular protecting ring encircling and centered on the longitudinal axis and having at least a portion of the protecting ring inside the cylindrical recess to trap the sealing ring between the inwardly extending shoulder and the protecting ring. Further, an annular cartridge part encircles and is centered on the longitudinal axis. The cartridge part has a distal end contacting the connecting body and advantageously has first and second annular shoulders encircling the longitudinal axis and having a tubular proximal end. The assembly further includes an annular grab ring encircling and centered on the longitudinal axis and having a plurality of teeth with distal ends of the teeth encircling the longitudinal axis at a diameter smaller than D. The grab ring teeth are inclined inward toward the longitudinal axis and toward the proximal end of the assembly. The grab ring has a base held axially between the first annular shoulder on the cartridge part and the protecting ring. The protecting ring is interposed between the grab ring and the sealing ring to prevent the grab ring teeth from damaging the sealing ring. The assembly also has a demount ring encircling and centered on the longitudinal axis and having an inclined surface inclined inward and toward the distal end of the assembly. The demount ring is movable between a first position contacting the second annular shoulder on the cartridge part and a second position contacting the grab ring teeth and urging the teeth outward a distance greater than D. The assembly also has a tubular sleeve on the proximal end of the connector. The sleeve has a sleeve sidewall encircling and centered on the longitudinal axis, with a proximal end having an opening larger than D. The sleeve sidewall encloses the grab ring, cartridge part, demount ring, protecting ring and a portion of the connecting body. A latch on one of the sleeve or connecting body and a mating catch on the other of the sleeve or connecting body to restrain axial movement of the sleeve and connecting body relative to each other. 
     Any or all of the connectors or connector assemblies may have the following variations, including locating the catch on the sleeve sidewall and locating the latch on the connector body. The sealing ring can advantageously move about 2-5 mm along the cylindrical recess between the protecting ring and the inwardly extending shoulder on the connecting body. The protecting ring preferably has an axial length sufficient to prevent the grab ring teeth from contacting the sealing ring, and may further have an inclined surface which is inclined inward toward the longitudinal axis and toward the distal end of the connector to protect the sealing ring from the grab ring teeth. The demount ring may have a cylindrical demount tube on its proximal end extending along the longitudinal axis and having an inner diameter about the same as but slightly larger than D so the tube can pass through the demount tube during use. The tube on the proximal end of the cartridge part may encircle the cylindrical demount tube and extend in the proximal direction about the same distance as or slightly greater than the cylindrical demount tube. Advantageously, the proximal ends of the cylindrical tubes end in substantially the same plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, the proximal end of the cylindrical demount tube ends distal of the proximal end of the tube on the cartridge part. The proximal end of the sleeve may include a rounded outer surface and/or an inclined surface extending around the circumference of the sleeve end—mostly to strengthen the sleeve&#39;s end. 
     Any or all of the connectors or connector assemblies may also have the following variations. The connecting body may comprise one of a straight-line connector, a T connector, a Y-connector, an elbow connector, a blind end connector, or a connector changing diameter. The connecting body advantageously has a fluid passage extending all the way through the connecting body. Moreover, the connector advantageously includes the fluid tube and has the grab ring engaging an outer surface of the fluid tube to restrain removal of the fluid tube from the connector, with the sealing ring providing a fluid tight connection around a circumference of the fluid tube. 
     In a further embodiment, there is also provided a kit for connecting two fluid tubes. The kit may include any of the connector assemblies described herein along with at least one tube having an outer diameter D at one end of the tube for connection with one of the connector. Advantageously, there are a plurality of connector assemblies and a plurality of tubes. The kit advantageously has connector assemblies in which the sealing ring can move about 2-5 mm along the cylindrical recess between the protecting ring and the inwardly extending shoulder on the connecting body. The kit advantageously includes a connecting body that comprises one of a straight-line connector, a T connector, a Y-connector, an elbow connector, a blind end connector, or a connector changing diameter. The kit advantageously has a demount ring with a cylindrical demount tube on its proximal end that extends along the longitudinal axis and has an inner diameter about the same as but slightly larger than D so the tube can fit snugly inside the cylindrical demount tube. The kit also advantageously has the tubular proximal end of the cartridge encircling the cylindrical demount tube, with the proximal end of the demount tube not extending beyond the proximal end of the cylindrical tube on the cartridge part. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       By way of example only, other embodiments of the invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which like numbers refer to like parts throughout, wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is an exploded sectional view of a connector using a blind connector taken along section  1 - 1  of  FIG.  4   , according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  2    is a side view of the parts of  FIG.  1    combined to form a connector, with the opposing side views, top view and bottom view being substantially the same; 
         FIG.  3    is a right-side view of the connector of  FIG.  2   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a left-side view of the connector of  FIG.  2   ; 
         FIG.  5    is a side view of the connector of  FIG.  2    with a fluid tube connected to the connector; 
         FIG.  6    is a sectional view of the connector and fluid tube of  FIG.  5   ; 
         FIG.  7    is a side view of a connector with an unspecified connecting body instead of the blind connector of  FIG.  2   ; 
         FIG.  8    is a sectional view of the connector of  FIG.  7   ; 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of the connector of  FIG.  2   , showing the connecting body; 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of the connector of  FIG.  2   , showing the sleeve opening of the connector; 
         FIG.  11    is an exploded cross-sectional view of the connector of  FIG.  2    with some parts specially modified to be made of metal, according to a further embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  12    is a sectional view of the parts of  FIG.  11    assembled to form a connector with a blind connecting body; 
         FIG.  13 A  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form a coupling fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 B  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form a T-fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 C  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form an elbow fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 D  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form a blind fitting or dead-end fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 E  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form an angle fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 F  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form a 4-way fitting, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  13 G  is a side view of a connector assembly using components of the connector in  FIG.  2    to form a Y-fitting; 
         FIG.  14    is an exploded cross-sectional view of a connector, according to a further embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG.  15    is a sectional view of the parts of  FIG.  14    assembled to form a connector with a blind connecting body. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As used herein, the relative directions and terms inward and outward are with respect to the longitudinal axis, with inward being toward the longitudinal axis and outward being away from that axis. The relative directions and terms distal and proximal are with respect to a connector fastened to an end of a tube, with the distal direction being toward the end of the connector on the end of the tube, and the proximal direction being toward the beginning of the tube segment to which the connector is fastened. The relative direction and term lateral or laterally are in a plane generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. 
       FIGS.  1 - 4    illustrate a connector  20  extending along a longitudinal axis  22 . The connector  20  includes an annular connecting body  24 , a sleeve  28 , a seal in the form of sealing ring  32 , a protecting part in the form of protecting ring  36 , a grab part in the form of grab ring  40 , a cartridge in the form of cartridge part  46  and a demount part in the form of demount ring  54 . In some embodiments, the cartridge part  46  may be configured as a cartridge ring. 
     By way of a brief summary, the connecting body  24  includes a catch  26  at a distal end of the connector  20 . The catch  26  is in the form of a groove that extends radially around the connecting body  24 . The sleeve  28  has at least one and, in this embodiment, four latches  30  extending inwardly at a proximal end of the connector  20 . The latches  30  engage the catch  26  to connect the sleeve  28  to the connecting body  24 . 
     The connector  20  has other parts, as outlined above and in further detail below, held between and preferably contained within the connecting body  24  and sleeve  28 . For instance, the sealing ring  32  is urged towards or rests against an internal shoulder  34  of the connecting body  20  by the protecting ring  34  having an inwardly stepped distal end  36  contacting the sealing ring  32 . The grab ring  40  has an annular base  42  with a plurality of protrusions in the form of teeth  44  extending inward and distally toward the connecting body  24 . The cartridge part  46  has a tubular wall  48  on its distal end and a smaller diameter proximal end  50 . The tubular wall  48  fits into a recess in the connecting body  24  having an annular, internal shoulder  52  that limits the motion along the axis in the longitudinal direction. The tubular wall  48  extends along the longitudinal axis  22  and encloses the sealing ring  32 , the protecting ring  36  and the grab ring  40 . 
     The demount ring  54  is also located within the sleeve  28  and it has a tubular proximal (free) end  58  passing through the proximal end  50  of the cartridge part  46  as it extends along the longitudinal axis  22 . The (free) end  58  has no externally extending part connected thereto. A stop flange  60  is between the distal end surface  56  and the proximal tubular end  58  and contacts an internal stop  62  on the cartridge part  46 , preferably formed by an internal shoulder on the cartridge part  46 . The demount ring  54  has a distal end advantageously taking the form of an outwardly facing surface  56  inclined toward the longitudinal axis and inclined toward the connecting body  22  and configured to generally conform to the conical shape formed by the inclined grab ring teeth  44 . The teeth  44  are likewise inclined toward the sealing ring  32 . 
     To further elaborate on the components above, the connecting body  24  may be of metal (e.g., brass, stainless steel) or plastic suitable for the intended use, such as polyethylene or PPR or UHMWP. The fluid transported by the tubes  70  and pressures will determine the suitable material for the tubes and for the connector body  24 . In  FIGS.  1 - 6   , the connecting body  24  is shown as a blind connector which has end wall  72  closing off the fluid path through the connecting body  24  and from the tube  70  connected to that connecting body. The end wall  72  forms a tube stop which limits movement of the tube  70  through the connecting body  24 . 
     However, to form other connector assemblies required in industry, the connecting body may be a straight-line connecting body  24   a  or coupler ( FIG.  13 A ), a T connecting body  24   b  ( FIG.  13 B ), an elbow connecting body  24   c  ( FIG.  13 C ), a blind end connecting  24   c  ? ( FIG.  13 D ) which blocks flow through the pipe (similar to connecting body  24 ), a connector changing diameter of the connected pipes (not shown), an angle connecting body  24   e  ( FIG.  13 E ), a multi-line (or 4-way) connecting body  24 /( FIG.  13 F ), a wye (Y) connecting body  24   g  ( FIG.  13 G ), a tee-wye connector (not shown), or another type of connector or combinations of connectors. Naturally, the connecting bodies  24   a - 24   g  may have a similar or the same catching arrangement to the catch  26 . 
     The various connector assemblies shown in  FIGS.  13 A- 13 G  may have one or more parts of the connector  20  described above, and the description of those parts is not repeated although some of the part numbers are shown in the figures. In particular, it will be appreciated that the connecting bodies  24   a - 24   g  may be used instead of the connecting body  24  whilst the remaining parts of the connector  20  (i.e. the sleeve  28 , the sealing ring  32 , the protecting ring  36 , the grab ring  40 , the cartridge part  46  and the demount ring  54 ) are used to create the respective connectors. As can be seen in  FIGS.  13 A- 13 G , multiple connectors are respectively used on each end of the connecting bodies  24   a - 24   g  to form the connector assemblies. If the fluid passage extends through the connecting body  24   a - 24   c,    24   e - 24   g,  then a tube stop may take the form of an internal shoulder on the connecting body  24   a - 24   c,    24   e - 24   g  encircling the flow passage, and preferably forming an annular surface. 
     As seen in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the proximal end of the connecting body  24  is slightly chamfered so it may resiliently urge the resilient latches  30  outward as the sleeve  28  and connecting body  24  are moved relative to each other until the latch  30  engages the catch  26 . It will be appreciated that the same feature may be included on any one of the connecting bodies  24   a - 24   g.  An inclined exterior shoulder  74  adjacent the catch  26  may optionally be provided with the shoulder inclined inward and toward the proximal end so as to be aligned with the latch  30 . The shoulder  74  may prevent the latch  30  from being bent inward and may strengthen the latch-catch connection to better resist separation along the longitudinal axis  22 . 
     The sleeve  28  has a sleeve sidewall  64  from which the latches  30  extend. The latches  30  comprise a resiliently flexible protrusion. The latches  30  extends away from the sleeve sidewall  62  towards the axis  22 . That is, in this embodiment, the latches  30  are in the form of tabs and have an opening  66  at the proximal end of each tab. In this regard, the latch  30  may comprise an elongated member resiliently urged in a direction to engage the catch  26 . Accordingly, the latch  30  extends transversely to the axis  22  in order to suitably engage with the catch  26 . 
     The depicted latch  30  is shown as a generally rectangular plate cut into the sidewall  64  of the sleeve  28  and bent inward toward the longitudinal axis  22 . The opening  66  in the sidewall defines an end of the latch  30  (before it is bent inward) and two parallel cuts aligned with axis  22  extend to the opening  66  to define the remaining two sides of the generally rectangular plate forming the latch. As the sidewall  64  is curved, the free end of the latch  30  is slightly curved, advantageously at the same general curvature as the radially outward extending flange forming the catch  26 . The latches  30  typically extend at an angle of approximately 5 degrees transversely to the axis  22  when captured by the catch  26 . This assists with achieving a higher burst pressure as the latches  30  are less likely to fail. Separately, the sleeve  28  has an axially aligned opening  68  in its proximal end sized to allow passage of a first fluid tube  70 , with the opening advantageously defined by a cylindrical tube. 
     The sealing ring  32  is made of resilient material such as rubber, EPDM or other suitable elastomers. The sealing ring  32  is shown as an O-ring with a circular cross-section but may have various cross-sectional shapes. The inner and outer diameter of the sealing ring  32  are selected to fit into and seal against the connecting body  24  and to form a fluid tight seal with the tube  70  passing through the inner diameter of the sealing ring  32 . Advantageously, the internal shoulder  34  of the connecting body  24  is configured to seal against the sealing ring  32 , and in the depicted embodiment the internal shoulder  34  is shown as having a curved corner between the axial and radial portions of the shoulder  34  which curve is selected to conform to shape and size of the cross-section of the sealing ring  32 . 
     The protecting ring  36  has its distal end  38  (i.e., one end) configured to fit inside the proximal end of the connecting body  24  to trap the sealing ring  32  between the shoulder  34  and the protecting ring  36 . The sealing ring  32  is advantageously allowed axial motion, preferably about 2-5 mm motion along longitudinal axis  22 . Thus, the sealing ring  32  may advantageously move about 2-5 mm along the longitudinal axis  22  between the protecting ring  36  and the shoulder  34  of the connecting body. The protecting ring&#39;s distal end  38  is preferably cylindrical as is the larger diameter, outer body of the annular, protecting ring  36 , so as to form an annular, radially inward extending shoulder acting as stop  76  that contacts the annular, proximal end of the connecting body  24  to limit the relative positions of the protecting ring  36  and connecting body  24  along the longitudinal axis  22 . The shoulder or stop  76  also centers the protecting ring  36  within the connecting body  24  and by locating the distal end  38  of the protecting ring  36  relative to the stop  76  on the protective ring  36 , it allows that distal end  38  to extend a predetermined distance into the (cylindrical) recess that extends from the connecting body&#39;s shoulder  34  to the proximal end of the connecting body  24  and thereby determine the preferred 2-5 mm axial movement of the sealing ring  32  within that (cylindrical) recess. In other words, the protecting ring  36  includes a projection  39  extending away from the stop  76  that assists in locating it in the fluid passage extending through the connecting body  24 . The extension of projection  39  through at least part of the connecting body  24  assists in fluid tube support and achieving higher pressure ratings. Furthermore, the stop  76  prevents a tolerance stack up that may affect the location of the sealing ring  32  and its subsequent sealing. Accordingly, the projection  39  assists in assembly as calibration requirements may be reduced. Separately, the stop  76  extends radially outward only a short distance and less than a radial thickness of the proximal end of the connecting body  24 . 
     The protecting ring  36  advantageously has an inclined surface  78  inclined inward and toward the distal end of the connector  20 , so as to generally align with the teeth  44  of the grab ring  40 . The inclined surface  78  forms a generally conical surface. The axial length of the protecting ring  36  and the inclined surface  78  prevent the teeth  44  from contacting and damaging the sealing ring  32 . 
     The annular grab ring  40  is preferably of metal with a flat, radially extending base  42 , and inclined teeth  44  encircling the longitudinal axis  22 . The teeth  44  are equally spaced and sufficient in number to resiliently engage the outer surface of the tube  70  and restrain it from being removed along the axis  22 . The grab ring  40  is held between the cartridge part  46  and the protecting ring  36 . Advantageously, a proximal end of the protecting ring  36  contacts the distal side of the base  42 , while internal shoulder  52  on the cartridge part  46  contacts the proximal side of the base  42 . As the teeth  44  flex outward when the tube  70  passes through the opening formed by the teeth  44 , the teeth  44  bend toward the generally conical surface  78  on the protecting ring  36 . One or all of the inner diameters of the protecting ring  36  and the relative angles of the teeth  44  and surface  78  and the inner diameter of tubular proximal end  58  of the demount ring  54 , may limit the maximum diameter of the tube  70  inserted through the grab ring  40  and protecting ring  36 . 
     As outlined above, the cartridge part  46  has a second internal shoulder forming stop  62  inward of the shoulder  52 . The shoulder  52  forms an axially aligned face against which the stop flange  60  on the demount ring  54  rests to limit axial motion of the demount ring  54  relative to the cartridge part  46  in one axial direction. The tubular proximal end  58  of the demount ring  54  is inserted from the distal end of the cartridge part  46  until the stop flange  60  contacts the radially extending, annular shoulder  62  on the cartridge part  46 . Thus, the cartridge part  46  limits motion along the longitudinal axis  22  (in the proximal direction) of the demount ring  54  and/or the grab ring  40 . The demount ring  54  can move in the distal direction along axis  22  and can spread the grab ring teeth  44  outward to disengage those teeth from the tube  70  previously engaged by those teeth  44 . Thus, pushing in the distal direction on the proximal end of the demount ring  54  may disengage the grab ring teeth  44  from the tube  70  and allow removal of the tube  70  from the connector  20 . 
     The demount ring  54  is positioned on the cartridge part  46  to move therealong. The inclined surface  56  of the demount ring  54  is on a proximal side of the grab ring teeth  44 , while the inclined surface  78  on the protecting ring  36  is on the distal side of the grab ring teeth  44 . The grab ring teeth  44  are between the inclined surfaces  56  and  78 . Advantageously, the inclined surface  56  on the demount ring  54  is configured to engage the base of the teeth  40  adjacent the grab ring&#39;s base  42 . 
     To further detail the construction of the connector  20 , the protecting ring  36  advantageously has an engaging member on its outer surface mating with another engaging part on the cartridge part  54 . The depicted construction has an engaging member in the form of a slight outward protrusion  77 , preferably a slightly raised, circumferential ring with inclined leading and/or trailing edges. The protrusion  77  is located and configured to fit into an engaging part in the form of a circumferential recess  79  in the inside of the tubular wall  48  of the cartridge part  46 . Advantageously, when the protrusion  77  on the protecting ring  36  engages the recess  79  on the cartridge part  46 , the two parts are held together so as to secure the grab ring  40  between the shoulder  52  on the cartridge part and the proximal end of the protecting ring. Moreover, the demount ring  54  is preferably already seated with its stop  60  on the stop  62  of the cartridge part  46  so the snap connection of the protrusion and recess  77 ,  79  also restrains the demount ring  54  from moving out of the cartridge part  46 . The demount ring  54  can move axially between the shoulder  62  and the grab ring  40 . The cartridge part  46  and protecting ring  36  may thus form a snap-fit sub assembly restraining movement of the demount ring  54  and grab ring  40 , so all those parts may move as a unit. 
     The cartridge part  46  has the diameter of its tubular wall  48  selected so that it contacts the connecting body  24 . When the cartridge part  46  contacts the connecting body  24 , the grab ring  40  is trapped between the protecting ring  36  and the internal shoulder  52  on the cartridge part  46 , with the demount ring  54  located so its inclined surface  56  does not urge the grab ring teeth  44  outward and away from the longitudinal axis  22 . Advantageously, the protecting ring  36  extends into the connecting body  24  and, as outlined above, allows the sealing ring  32  to move axially about 2-5 mm before contacting the protecting ring or the shoulder  34  on the connecting body  24 . The axial motion of the sealing ring  32  is insufficient to allow the sealing ring  32  to skew or tilt enough to become misaligned when the distal end of the tube  70  contacts the sealing ring  32 . 
     With the above in mind, the sleeve  28  has opening  68  in its proximal end sized to allow the proximal end  50  of the cartridge part  46  to pass. Advantageously, the fit is snug so the sleeve  28  radially supports the proximal end  50  of the cartridge part  46 , which in turn supports the proximal end  58  of the demount ring  54 , which supports the tube  70  passing through the demount ring  54 . The proximal end of the sleeve  28  is shown with an inwardly inclined surface  82  and a rounded reduction in diameter  84  at its proximal end. These contours increase the radial and axial stiffness of the sleeve  28 , and allow a suitable length of the parts contained within the sleeve  28 . By way of example, the proximal end of the sleeve  28  includes a straight portion next to the rounded reduction  84  that suitably increases the strength of the retainer and stops unrolling of the sleeve  28 . The outer periphery of the sleeve  28  preferably conforms to the outer shape of the parts inside the sleeve  28 , including the portion of the connecting body  24  enclosed by the sleeve  28 . Advantageously, as seen in  FIG.  2   , the distal end of the sleeve  28  overlaps a portion of the connecting body. The remainder of the connecting body  24  will vary, as outlined above, depending on whether the connecting body  28  is an in-line connector, an elbow connector, a T-connector, a Y-connector, a multi-tube connector, or a blind end connector as depicted in  FIG.  2   , or another type of connector. 
     For ease of reference, it is also noted that the connecting body  24  may be made of metal or suitable plastic compatible with the fluid being carried by the tube  70 . By way of example, a connecting body  24  made of a modified PPSU (polyphenylsulfone) may be suitable, with one such PPSU sold under the trademark Acudel®. PPSU or PSU (polysulfone) may also be suitable. The sealing ring  32  is advantageously made of rubber or suitable elastomer. For example, a sealing ring  32  of EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer) may be suitable. The protecting ring  36  can be made of a suitable plastic, with Nylon a possible option. The grab ring  40  in this embodiment is made from stainless steel. The cartridge part  46  is made of a suitable strong polymer compatible with the fluid carried in the tube  70 . A cartridge part  46  made of POM (polyoxymethylene) is potentially suitable. A demount ring  54  made of the same POM material is also believed suitable. The sleeve  28  is advantageously of stainless steel, and advantageously drawn to shape by successive drawing steps with the opening  66  and latches  30  punched in the later drawing stages. 
     For assembly, the demount ring  54  and grab ring  40  are contained between the cartridge part  46  and protecting ring  36  by the protrusion and recess  77 ,  79 , described above to form a sub-assembly. Separately, the sealing ring  32  is placed into the connecting body  24  and the above-described sub-assembly is then inserted into the connecting body  24  so the distal end of the protecting ring  36  enters the cylindrical recess of the connecting body  24  until the stop  76  contacts the proximal end of the connecting body  24 , trapping the sealing ring  32  between the shoulder  34  of the connecting body  24  and the distal end  38  of the protecting ring  36 . Following this, the sidewall  64  of the sleeve  28  is passed over the intervening parts and the proximal end of the connecting body  24 , until the sleeve latch  30  engages catch  26  to lock the sleeve  28  to the connecting body  24  and form the connector  20 . For the latch  30  to engage the catch  26 , the latch  30  rotates in a first direction, as the sleeve  28  moves relative to the connecting body  24 , and then returns in an opposite direction to be retained by the catch  26 . Whilst being retained by the catch  26 , the latch  30  extends in a transverse direction to the axis  22 . The connector  20  may be provided as a separate, assembled part, or it may be provided in an unassembled state. 
     In a further embodiment, it would be appreciated that, for example, the sleeve  28 , the protection ring  36 , the grab ring  40 , the cartridge part  46  and the demount ring  54  may form a subassembly during production. This subassembly may then be compressed onto the connecting body  24  with the sealing ring  32  therein. With this in mind, during production of the connector  20  according to an embodiment of the invention, the latch  30  may require the above subassemblies to be compressed to allow it to engage with the catch  26 . That is, one or more of the internal components of the subassemblies need to be compressed to a point that allows the latch  30  to engage with the catch  26 . After the compression force is released, one or more internal components of the subassemblies would then assist in applying a tension force on the sleeve  28 . This tension force would then lock the latch  30  against the catch  26 , substantially preventing rotation of the sleeve  28  about the axis  22 . The engagement of the latch  30  with the catch  26  in this regard also assists in providing the forces necessary to sustain the integrity of the connector  20  when a (high pressure) fluid passes therethrough. 
     In addition, in other embodiments, the assembly of the connector  20  may include a tube liner that is retained within the connector  20 . The tube liner assists in supporting the inner wall of the tube  70 . In this regard, the tube liner would be located inboard of the demount ring  54  and configured to receive the tube  70  thereover. 
     After assembly of the connector  20 , the tube  70  may then be inserted through the open end of the connector  20 . The tube  70  is inserted through the sleeve  28 , demount ring  54  and encircling tubular wall  48  of the cartridge part  46  until the distal end of the tube  70  passes through the grab ring  40 , protecting ring  36  and sealing ring  32  before contacting the internal shoulder  34  which stops relative axial movement of the tube  70  through the distal end of the connector  20 . The grab ring  40  and its teeth  44  prevent the tube  70  from being pulled out of the proximal end of the connector  20 , while the shoulder  34  on the connecting body  24  (or  24   a - 24   g ) prevents the tube  70  from being pushed out the distal end of the connecting body  24 . The outer diameter D of the tube  70  is sufficiently larger than the smaller inner diameter of the sealing ring  32  to form a fluid tight seal. Depending the amount of fluid seal or leakage that is desired or permitted, the interference fit between the sealing ring  32  and tube  47  will vary. The sealing ring  32  is advantageously allowed to slide axially in the cylindrical recess ending with shoulder  34  a distance of about 2-5 mm. However, if desired, the sealing ring  38  could be pressed against the shoulder  34  by the distal end  38  of the protecting ring  36 . That is, the projection  39  may, for instance, extend to a position to compress the sealing ring  32 . This may increase the integrity of the sealing by the sealing ring  32  but, as appreciated from above, needs to be traded off with a tolerance stack during assembly. 
     To avoid accidental disengagement of the tube  70  from the connector  20 , the tubular proximal end  58  of the demount ring  54  has an axial length selected to end with the proximal end of the sleeve  28  and/or the cartridge part  46 . Thus, the sleeve opening  68  and the proximal end of the demount ring  54  and its tubular proximal end  58  are in the same general plane, and the proximal end  50  of the cartridge part  46  is in that same general plane. Advantageously the demount ring  54  is slightly distal of the plane through the proximal end  58  and/or proximal end  50 , by about 1 mm or less. The cartridge part  46  contacts the connecting body  24  and it is desirable to have those connected parts stationary relative to the demount ring  54  which can move axially toward the connecting body  24 . To avoid accidental contact with the proximal end of the demount ring  54  from moving the demount ring  54  and reducing the gripping force of the grab ring  40  on the tube  70 , it is desirable to have the proximal end of the demount ring  54  flush with or slightly distal of the proximal ends  68 ,  50  so the connecting body  24  or the cartridge part  46  resists axial movement cartridge part restricts axial movement of the demount ring  54  when a force is provided over at least the demount ring  54  to the cartridge part  46  or the connecting body  24 . In other words, the demount ring  54  is positioned such that an external force being applied from at least the demount ring  54  to the cartridge part  46  will not allow the demount ring  54  to move to a position to disengage the teeth  44  from the tube  70 . On this basis, in order to release the tube  70 , the connector  20  requires a specific tool to engage the demount ring  54  alone whilst not engaging another component of the connector  20 . 
     With the above in mind, if the connector  20  is to be removed from the tube  70 , the demount ring  54  is pushed toward the distal end of the connector (with a specific tool) and towards the connecting body  24  so the inclined surface  56  on the demount ring  54  spreads the grab ring teeth  44  outward, disengaging them from the outer surface of the tube  70  and allowing the tube  70  to be removed along the axis  22 . It would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, based on the present specification, that the various parts of the connector  20  encircle and prevent lateral movement of the tube  70  relative to the connector  20  and parts of that assembly, and that those parts also prevent removal of the tube  70  laterally from the connector  20 . 
     Advantageously, the connector  20  allows parts to be arranged and snapped together for use relatively conveniently. The connector  20  does not require manual deformation of any parts to create a connection as the connector  20  need only be placed on the end of the tube  70  and either or both of the parts moved axially together in order to connect them, with the sealing ring  32  providing a fluid tight connection while the connecting body  24  (or  24   a - 24   g ) allows the tube  70  to be used in a variety of fluid connections. If desired to disconnect the parts, the demount ring  54  may be used and pressed manually to disengage the tube, although preferably a tool is used to engage the proximal end of the demount ring  54  and move it to release the grab ring  40  and disengage the tube  70 . If desired to open up the connector  20 , a tool could be inserted into each opening  66  in the sleeve sidewall  64  to urge the latches  30  out of engagement with the catch  26  and thus disassemble the connector  20 . Advantageously, though, the sleeve&#39;s sidewall opening  66  does not allow manual access by a user&#39;s fingers to release latch  30  from catch  26  and the use of two or more mating latches and catch(es) along with a tight fit of the sleeve  28  around the enclosed parts, makes it impractical to release the latches  30  sequentially from the catch(es)  26 . Thus, disengaging the latches  30  from the catch(es)  26  is preferably not achieved without special purposed tools or requires permanently deforming at least one latch  30  or catch  26 . Thus, the latch and catch  30 ,  26  is preferably not a releasable connection and instead requires deformation or breakage which leaves a visible record that the latches were disconnected. Preferably, the latch and catch  30 ,  26  form a permanent connection between the sleeve and catch body that cannot be removed without breaking the connector  20 . 
     As outlined above, the connector  20  may be formed from one or more materials. For high strength or high-pressure applications, it is believed suitable to make all parts of suitable metal, except the sealing ring  40 . The material used for the tube  70  will vary with the intended use, and may include metal pipes (e.g., copper, brass, iron), stiff plastic pipes (e.g., for plumbing), flexible tubes of plastic or flexible tubes of braided metal, braided plastic or other braided materials. 
     To further illustrate the above options in materials, a connector  20 ′ having a connecting body  24 ′ made of metal (e.g., brass) is shown in  FIGS.  11 - 12   , and in which like numbers refer to the same parts and the descriptions of such parts are not repeated. Modified parts are denoted by a prime marking (′) while new parts are given new numbers. The metal connecting body  24 ′ omits the inclined exterior shoulder  74  and instead has a uniform diameter outer surface  74 ′. The protecting ring  36 ′ has a flange  86  extending radially outward from the outer surface of the annular protecting ring  36 ′, with a plurality of axially aligned ribs  88  extending from the distal end of the flange  86  toward the distal end of the protecting ring  36 ′. The ribs  88  and flange  86  help center the protecting ring  36 ′ in the cartridge part  46  on the longitudinal axis  22 —while reducing the weight of the protecting ring  36 ′. The protecting ring  36 ′ has a stepped inner surface to help reduce weight, with a step  90  interposed between the inclined surface  78 ′ and the proximal end of the protecting ring  36 ′. cartridge part. In this variation, it is also suitable to make the sealing ring  32  from EPDM, the protecting ring  36 ′ from Nylon, the grab ring  40  and the sleeve  28  from stainless steel, and the cartridge part  46  and demount ring  54  are made of POM. 
     Separately, to illustrate that the connector of the present invention may be suitably scaled,  FIGS.  14 - 15    illustrate a further embodiment of the present invention. The connector  20 ″ in  FIGS.  14 - 15    includes a connecting body  24 ″, a sleeve  28 ″, a sealing ring  32 ″, a protecting ring  36 ″, a grab ring  40 ″, a cartridge part  46 ″ and a demount ring  54 ″. The components of the connector  20 ″ are substantially similar to those of connector  20  (only different size) but with the following notable differences. In a similar manner to the connector  20 ′, the connecting body  24 ″ includes a uniform diameter outer surface  74 ′. That is, the surface  74 ′ is in the form of a slot extending at least partway round the connecting body  24 ″. Furthermore, the connector  20 ″ includes sleeve  28 ″ with a size reduction  84 ″ connecting two offset surfaces. One of the offset surfaces forms the opening  68 ″ whilst the other offset surface includes the latch  30 ″ therein. 
     Any one of the connectors  20 ,  20 ′,  20 ″ may be provided in a kit form that includes the unassembled parts forming the connector, but preferably includes one or more of the connectors  20 ,  20 ′,  20 ″ alone, or with at least one tube configured to fit into one or more of the connector assemblies and form a fluid tight seal. Advantageously, the kit comprises a plurality of connectors  20 ,  20 ′,  20 ″ or a length of tube  70  and at least one or two connectors  20 ,  20 ′,  20 ″. The kit may include a plurality of connectors  20  and a plurality of tubes  70  sized to provide a fluid tight connection with the connector  20 . Any of the above kits may include a connector body  24 - 24   g  that comprises an in-line connector, an elbow connector, a T-connector, a Y-connector, a multi-tube connector or a blind end connector, or any combination of these connector bodies  24 - 24   g,  or other connector bodies. 
     As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. 
     The above description is given by way of example, and not limitation. Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art could devise variations that are within the scope and spirit of the invention, including various ways of connecting the demount ring  54  and the cartridge part  46 , such forming an axial slot along the length of the demount ring  54 , with the slot sufficiently large that the demount ring could compress enough to fit through the proximal end of the cartridge part  46  and expand so the stop flange engaged the second internal shoulder  62  on the cartridge part  46  to connect those parts. Similarly, while the latch  30  is on the sleeve  28  and the catch  26  is on the connecting body  24 , the location of the parts may be reversed and other configurations of latches and catches may be used. Further, the various features of this invention can be used alone, or in varying combinations with each other and are not intended to be limited to the specific combination described herein. Thus, the invention is not to be limited by the illustrated embodiments. 
     In this specification, adjectives such as left and right, top and bottom, hot and cold, first and second, and the like may be used to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where context permits, reference to a component, an integer or step (or the alike) is not to be construed as being limited to only one of that component, integer, or step, but rather could be one or more of that component, integer or step. 
     In this specification, the terms ‘comprises’, ‘comprising’, ‘includes’, ‘including’, or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may well include other elements not listed. 
     ITEM LIST 
     
         
           20  Connector 
           22  Longitudinal axis 
           24  Connecting body 
           24   a - 24   g  Connecting body 
           26  Catch 
           28  Sleeve 
           30  Latch 
           32  Sealing ring 
           34  Internal shoulder 
           36  Protecting ring 
           38  Distal end of ring  34   
           39  Projection 
           40  Grab ring 
           42  Grab ring base 
           44  Grab ring teeth 
           46  Cartridge part 
           48  Tubular wall 
           50  Proximal end of cartridge part 
           52  Internal shoulder 
           54  Demount ring 
           56  Inclined distal surface on ring 
           58  Tubular proximal end 
           60  Top flange on demount ring 
           62  Stop on ring  46   
           64  Sleeve sidewall 
           66  Opening in sidewall 
           68  Opening in proximal end of sleeve 
           70  First fluid tube 
           72  End wall or tube stop 
           74  Inclined exterior shoulder 
           76  Stop on protecting ring 
           77  Outward protrusion 
           78  Inclined inner surface on protecting ring 
           79  Circumferential recess 
           82  Inwardly inclined surface on sleeve 
           84  Rounded reduction in diameter on sleeve 
           20 ′ Connector 
           22  Longitudinal axis 
           24 ′ Connecting body 
           26  Catch 
           28  Sleeve 
           30  Latch 
           32  Sealing ring 
           34  Internal shoulder 
           36 ′ Protecting ring 
           40  Grab ring 
           42  Grab ring base 
           44  Grab ring teeth 
           48  Tubular wall 
           50  Proximal end of cartridge part  46   
           52  Internal shoulder 
           54  Demount ring 
           56  Inclined distal surface on ring  54   
           58  Tubular proximal end 
           60  Top flange on demount ring  54   
           62  Stop on ring  46   
           66  Opening in sidewall 
           68  Opening in proximal end of sleeve 
           72  End wall or tube stop 
           74 ′ Exterior shoulder 
           78 ′ Inclined inner surface on protecting ring 
           82  Inwardly inclined surface on sleeve 
           84  Rounded reduction in diameter on sleeve 
           86  Flange on protecting ring 
           88  Ribs on protecting ring 
           90  Step on protecting ring 
           20 ″ Connector 
           22 ″ Longitudinal axis 
           24 ″ Connecting body 
           28 ″ Sleeve 
           30 ″ Latch 
           32 ″ Sealing ring 
           36 ″ Protecting ring 
           40 ″ Grab ring 
           54 ″ Demount ring 
           68 ″ Opening 
           74 ″ Exterior shoulder 
           84 ″ Reduction