Patent Publication Number: US-2002011730-A1

Title: Apparatus and method for connecting flow conveyances

Description:
FIELD  
       [0001] The present invention relates to a coupling for connecting flow conveyances such as tubing, wire, cable, etc. to one another, so as to permit the flow from one conveyance to another through the coupling.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0002] A wide variety of flow conveyances are used to permit the flow of various commodities from one place to another. The range of commodities is very wide, including but not limited to fluids, electrical power, and optical signals. The type of conveyance used generally depends on the nature of the commodity. For example, fluid conveyances may include reservoirs, tanks, hoses, pipes, nozzles, or valves. In contrast, electrical power may be conveyed to or from wires, cables, transformers, generators, appliances, and so forth. Optical signals conveyances include fiber optics, optical switches, signal processing devices, and so forth. Similarly, other conveyances are known for other applications.  
       [0003] Couplings for engaging one conveyance with another are widely used. Known couplings typically comprise a pair of coupling heads, the coupling heads being suitable for engagement with one another, and each coupling head being suitable for connection with an appropriate conveyance. When the coupling heads are engaged, flow through the coupling is enabled.  
       [0004] It is a common problem that coupling heads tend to come uncoupled by accident. This generally results in an interruption of the flow, which often has unfortunate consequences. Loss of fluid flow from a medical device to a patient can be dangerous. Interruption of electrical power flow will shut down and possibly damage equipment that depends on that power. Loss of optical signals can corrupt data communication. Furthermore, uncontrolled flow from an uncoupled conveyance may be a direct danger. For example, the unintended disconnection of a fluid coupling may result in a spill, which, depending on the nature of the fluid, may be a nuisance or a grave hazard. A disconnected electrical coupling may be dangerous if the exposed conductor comes in contact with persons or property.  
       [0005] To avoid these difficulties, flow couplings are commonly fitted with latching mechanisms to prevent accidental uncoupling. Generally, there is a trade-off between ease of use and effectiveness at preventing accidental uncoupling.  
       [0006] For example, it is well known to use one or more threaded nuts to engage coupling heads. Although this is very secure, it requires a significant amount of time and manual dexterity to connect or disconnect such a coupling.  
       [0007] Contrariwise, it is also well known to use a simple friction fit, wherein one coupling head is provided with an opening to accept the other, and the two coupling heads are so sized that friction between their surfaces resists uncoupling. However, although this allows for quick and easy coupling and uncoupling, even a small amount of mechanical stress can uncouple such an apparatus.  
       [0008] Another deficiency of common couplings is the difficulty in determining whether a coupling is securely engaged. Close inspection or experimental stressing of the coupling may be necessary to determine whether it is indeed engaged. This requires time and effort, and under certain circumstances may result in damage to the coupling, the conveyances, or a system to which they are connected. Even with inspection or stressing, the possibility of error is always present.  
       [0009] Still another problem of known couplings is that those which are designed to provide a high level of security have numerous or complex components, and thus are commonly difficult to manufacture.  
       [0010] Yet another deficiency with available couplings is that they tend to have complex internal flow paths. They may have springs, pins, or other objects obstructing the flow path, or they may have sharp turns or tight angles. This is of particular concern with fluid couplings, as in addition to being difficult to manufacture, fluid couplings with complex flow paths tend to accumulate contaminants. Such couplings also are also prone to microorganism growth in isolated portions of the flow path. Furthermore, a complex flow path generally results in greater turbulence, and hence lower flow efficiency through the coupling. Also, certain fluids, including but not limited to wines and pharmaceuticals, are known to be sensitive to physical disruption, and may be damaged if subjected to excessive turbulence.  
       [0011] Still another difficulty with common couplings is that their internal workings are commonly exposed when they are uncoupled. This can lead to contamination, and may also be hazardous depending on the nature of the commodity being carried.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0012] The present invention relates to a coupling for connecting flow conveyances such as tubing, wire, cable, etc. to one another, so as to permit the flow from one conveyance to another through the coupling. Although the specifications and drawings herein disclose an embodiment suitable for connecting fluid conveyances, it will be understood by those knowledgeable in the art that this is exemplary only, and that the invention described herein may be equally suitable for use with commodities other than fluids, including but not limited to electrical power and optical signals.  
       [0013] One embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention includes first and second coupling heads, the coupling heads being suitable for releasable engagement with another, and each coupling head being suitable for connection with a flow conveyance. When the first and second coupling heads are engaged with one another, fluid flow through the coupling is enabled. The coupling includes releasable rotary retaining means, suitable for releasably retaining the first and second coupling heads in engagement with one another. The coupling also includes releasable latching means, suitable for releasably retaining the first and second coupling heads in engagement with one another. The rotary retaining means and the latching means are so constructed that they must both be released at substantially the same time in order to release the first and second coupling heads from engagement.  
       [0014] Because two separate mechanisms must be released to release the coupling heads from engagement, the coupling is resistant to accidental uncoupling. However, because both mechanisms function in a straightforward manner, the coupling is easily coupled and uncoupled.  
       [0015] In another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the coupling produces an audible noise upon engagement of the coupling heads.  
       [0016] In another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the coupling heads include shrouds that restrict contact with their insides.  
       [0017] In still another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with-the principles of the present invention, the coupling heads are each one-piece, integrally formed structures.  
       [0018] In yet another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the first and second coupling heads have first and second passages respectively therethrough, such that when the coupling heads are engaged the first and second passages cooperate to form a flow passage through the coupling. Thereby, fluid flow through the coupling is enabled. The flow passage is generally smooth and without obstruction, so as to minimize the deposition of contaminants, the growth of microorganisms, and the creation of turbulence in fluid flowing through the coupling.  
       [0019] A variety of additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. 
     
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
     [0020] Like reference numbers generally indicate corresponding elements in the figures.  
     [0021]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention.  
     [0022]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first coupling head of the coupling shown in FIG. 1.  
     [0023]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second coupling head of the coupling shown in FIG. 1.  
     [0024]FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-section of another preferred embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention.  
     [0025]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cap suitable for a first coupling head of the coupling shown in FIG. 1.  
     [0026]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cap suitable for a second coupling head of the coupling shown in FIG. 1.  
     [0027]FIG. 7 is a longitudinal external view a preferred embodiment of a conveying system in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
     [0028] FIGS.  1 - 3  illustrate a preferred embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the coupling being generally referenced by the reference number  10 . The coupling  10  comprises a first coupling head  12 , and a second coupling head  14 . Each of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  comprise a coupling end  18  and a conveyance end  20 . The first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  are suitable for releasable engagement with one another at their coupling ends  18 . When the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  are in engagement with one another, flow through the coupling  10  is enabled.  
     [0029] The coupling  10  comprises a releasable rotary retaining means  24 . The coupling likewise comprises releasable latching means  34 . The rotary retaining means  24  and the releasable latching means  34  cooperate in such a fashion that both must be released at substantially the same time in order to release the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  from engagement with one another.  
     [0030] As is visible in FIG. 7, each of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  are suitable for connection with a flow conveyance  16 . As shown, the conveyances  16  are hoses, and the conveyance ends  20  of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  are barbed so as to be suitable for connection with hoses. Such an embodiment is advantageous, as it is suitable for carrying a wide variety of fluids, including but not limited to beverages, foods, inks, medicines, detergents, solvents, etc. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other conveyances and conveyance ends may be equally suitable. In particular, it is envisioned that an embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention may be suitable for connection with other fluid conveyances, including but not limited to pipes, bags, bottles, drums, Gaylords, valves, dispensers, etc. It is further envisioned that an embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention may be suitable for conveying commodities other than fluids, including but not limited to electrical power and optical signals. Other suitable applications may be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art.  
     [0031] It is preferable that the rotary retaining means  24  comprises an arrangement of slots  26  and pins  32 . As illustrated in FIGS.  1 - 3 , the first coupling head  12  comprises two slots  26 , the slots  26  being formed so that a start end  28  of each slot  26  is closer to the coupling end  18  of the first coupling head  12  than a stop end  30  of each slot  26 . The second coupling head  14  comprises two pins  32 , the pins  32  being sized so as to fit into the start end  28  of each slot  26 , but not past the stop end  30  of each slot  26 . It is envisioned that the rotary engagement means  24  as shown would be engaged by inserting the coupling end  18  of the second coupling head  14  into the coupling end  18  of the first coupling head  12  oriented so that the pins  32  align with the start ends  28  of the slots  26 , then rotating the second coupling head  14  relative to the first coupling head  12  in a first direction until the pins  28  reach the stop ends  30  of the slots. Because the pins  32  are sized not to fit past the stop ends  30  of the slots  26 , the second coupling head  14  cannot be rotated in the first direction beyond this point. This configuration is commonly referred to by those knowledgeable in the art as a “bayonet joint”. It is advantageous, in that it is relatively secure, and easily manufactured and operated, and provides a solid stop after installation. That is, it cannot be overtightened, as can for example some threaded joints. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, depending on the application, it may be suitable to have only a single pin or a single slot, or a plurality of pins or slots. Likewise, it may be suitable to locate the slot or slots on the second coupling head, and the pin or pins on the first coupling head. Furthermore, it may be suitable to use a different rotary retaining means entirely.  
     [0032] It is also preferable that the latching means  34  comprises an arrangement of clip members  36  and tab members  42 . As illustrated in FIGS.  1 - 3 , the first coupling head comprises two tab members  44 . It is envisioned that the tab members will be generally wedge-shaped with a sliding edge  46  and an abutting edge  48 . The second coupling head  14  comprises a clip member  36  with a latch head  38  thereon. It is envisioned that the clip member  36  is actuatable between a release position, whereby engaging and disengaging the rotary retaining means  24  is enabled, and a retaining position, whereby engaging and disengaging the rotary retaining means  24  is not enabled. As is best visible in FIG. 1, it is further envisioned that, in the retaining position, the clip member  36  is so positioned that the latch head  38  cooperates with the abutting edge  48  of a tab member  44  to prevent the rotation of the second coupling head  14  relative to the first coupling head  12  in a second direction generally opposite the first direction. It is likewise envisioned that in the release position the clip member  36  will be so positioned that the latch head  38  does not cooperate with the abutting edge  48  of a tab member  44 . However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, it may be suitable to provide only a single tab member, or to provide two clip members. Likewise, it may be suitable to provide a plurality of tab members and clip members. Furthermore, it may be suitable to use a different latching means entirely.  
     [0033] It is preferable that the clip member  36  will be actuated to the release configuration by the application of pressure to the clip member  36 . However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such an arrangement is exemplary only, and that other arrangements may be equally suitable.  
     [0034] It is also preferable that the latching means  34  will comprise biasing means  42  for biasing the clip member  36  towards the retaining position. It is further envisioned that the biasing means  42  will comprise a flexure spring integrally molded with the clip member  36 . However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable.  
     [0035] It is additionally preferable that that the latching means  34  will comprise urging means  40  for urging the clip member  36  towards the release position when the rotary retaining means  24  are being engaged. Furthermore, it is envisioned that the urging means  40  will comprise a wedge-shaped surface of the latch head  38 , suitable for cooperating with the sliding edge  46  of a tab member  44 , to urge the clip member  36  towards the release position when the rotary retaining means  24  are being engaged. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable.  
     [0036] As illustrated in FIGS.  1 - 3 , the rotary retaining means  24  and the latching means  34  must be substantially simultaneously released in order to release the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  from engagement with one another. As shown, the rotary retaining means  24  cannot be released alone because the latching means  34  prevent rotation of the second coupling head  14  relative to the first coupling head  12  in the second direction. Conversely, even if the latching means  34  are released, the rotary retaining means  24  continue to engage the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14 . Thus, only with the essentially simultaneous release of the latching means  34  and the rotary retaining means  24  can the first and second heads  12  and  14  be released from engagement. This is advantageous, in that although both the rotary retaining means  24  and the latching means  34  are easily manipulated and manufactured, the combination of the two produces in a coupling that requires simultaneous compression and rotation stresses in order to be disengaged, and thus results in a coupling that is highly resistant to accidental disengagement. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that these rotary retaining means and latching means are exemplary only, and that other such means may be equally suitable.  
     [0037] In another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the coupling  10  produces an audible noise upon engagement of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  with one another. This is advantageous, in that it allows confirmation of full and correct engagement of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  without a close visual inspection of the coupling  10 . It is envisioned that as the rotary retaining means  24  are fully engaged, when the latch head  38  will passes the abutting edge  48  of a tab member  44 , the biasing means  42  will cause the clip member  36  to rapidly actuate towards the retaining position, whereby the latch head  38  and the abutting edge  48  cooperate to frictionally generate a sharp snapping or popping sound. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such an arrangement is exemplary only, and that other arrangements may be equally suitable. It will also be apparent that it may be appropriate for some applications to avoid producing any audible noise upon engagement.  
     [0038] In another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  comprise shrouds  22  to restrict contact with their insides. Depending on their application, the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  may have internal components such as electrical wires, fluid passages, etc., and contact with them may be undesirable or even dangerous. Likewise, contact with traces of the commodities conducted through the coupling may be undesireable or dangerous. It is envisioned that the shrouds will comprise generally cylindrical walls concentric with a central axis of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14 . This is advantageous, in that it restricts contact with any internal components of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  from all directions except approximately straight forward of their coupling ends  18 . It is further advantageous, in that it allows the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  to be set on a horizontal surface without permitting contact to any internal components. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, it may be advantageous for some applications to incorporate a shroud in only one of the first and second coupling heads. Likewise, it may be advantageous to omit the shroud entirely.  
     [0039] In still another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the latching means  34  is frangible, whereby releasing the latching means  34  causes it to break so that it may not be reused. This is advantageous for applications in which sterility or cleanliness is of great importance, including but not limited to food processing and medical procedures. It is envisioned that the clip member  36  would be made of a rigid material, and that some portion thereof would be scored, made deliberately thin, or otherwise weakened, so that the clip member  36  would have to be broken completely off in order to release the latching means  34  and thereby release the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  from engagement. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such an arrangement is exemplary only, and that other arrangements may be equally suitable.  
     [0040] In yet another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, at least one of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  comprises indicia  50  disclosing at least instructions for engaging the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14 . It is envisioned that the indicia  50  comprise an arrow indicating the relative direction in which the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  must be rotated for engagement, and the word “lock”. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such an arrangement is exemplary only, and that other arrangements may be equally suitable. In particular, it may be advantageous for some applications to disclose instructions for disengaging the coupling. Likewise, it may be advantageous to use other words or symbols, in particular non-English indicia. Furthermore, it may be advantageous for certain applications to omit the indicia entirely.  
     [0041] In another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, at least one of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  comprises at least one grip member  54 , the grip members providing improved purchase on the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  so that they may be more easily rotated relative to one another, and hence more easily engaged and disengaged. It is envision that the grip members  54  comprise raised ridges. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, it may be advantageous to for some applications to incorporate textured or roughened surfaces, raised bumps, grooved depressions, etc. Likewise, it may be advantageous for some applications to omit the grip members.  
     [0042] In still another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, at least one of the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  is a one-piece, integrally formed structure. This is advantageous, in that it permits efficient and inexpensive manufacture and assembly. Such a configuration also tends to be highly reliable, as there are relatively few components to fail. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that such a configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, it may be advantageous in certain applications for the coupling heads to be made with multiple pieces.  
     [0043] As is best visible in FIG. 4, in yet another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the first coupling head  12  comprises a first passage  60  therethrough, and the second coupling head  14  comprises a second passage  62  therethrough, whereby when the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  are in engagement with one another, the first and second passages  60  and  62  cooperate to form a flow passage  64  through the coupling  10 , whereby fluid flow through the coupling  10  is enabled. Such a configuration is advantageous for fluid flow. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be advantageous for other applications, including but not limited to electrical power flow and optical signal flow.  
     [0044] It is envisioned that the flow passage  64  is generally smooth and without obstruction. This is advantageous, in that such a smooth structure limits the availability of sites hospitable for the growth of micro-organisms or the accumulation of contaminants. Furthermore, a smooth structure provides for reduced turbulence in fluid flowing therethrough, thereby improving flow efficiency through the coupling  10 , and reducing the risk of damage to turbulence-sensitive fluids flowing therethrough. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be advantageous for other applications.  
     [0045] In another embodiment of a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the coupling  10  comprises at least one sealing member, whereby the sealing member provides a fluid tight seal between the first and second coupling heads  12  and  14  when they are in engagement with one another. This is advantageous for fluid couplings, in that the sealing member  52  acts to prevent leaks of the fluid being conveyed from the coupling into the outside environment. This is also advantageous for other couplings, in that the sealing member  52  acts to prevent the entry of environmental hazards from entering the coupling. For example, this includes but is not limited to the entry of water into electrical couplings. It is envisioned that the sealing member  52  is an O-ring. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable. In particular, for certain applications it may be advantageous to omit a sealing member.  
     [0046] It is envisioned that the coupling  10  is composed of a plastic material. This is advantageous, in that plastic materials are typically inexpensive, light-weight, easily formed, generally inert, and easily cleaned and sterilized. Many plastics are known to have suitable properties for a coupling  10  in accordance with the principles of the present invention. It is further envisioned that the coupling  10  is composed of polysulfone or polycarbonate, as these materials are known to have suitable properties. However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this is exemplary only, and that other materials may be equally suitable. In particular, other suitable materials may include but are not limited to rubber, metal, glass, ceramic, or wood.  
     [0047] As is visible in FIG. 5, in still another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the first coupling head  12  is suitable for engaging with a first protective cover  56  when the first coupling head  12  is not in engagement with the second coupling head  14 . It is envisioned that the first protective cover  56  will comprise pins  32  suitable for engaging with slots  26  in the first coupling head  12  to form rotary retaining means  24 . However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable.  
     [0048] As is visible in FIG. 6, in yet another embodiment of a coupling in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the second coupling head  14  is suitable for engaging with a second protective cover  58  when the first coupling head  14  is not in engagement with the first coupling head  12 . It is envisioned that the second protective cover  58  will comprise slots  26  suitable for engaging with pins  32  in the second coupling head  14  to form rotary retaining means  24 . However, it will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art that this configuration is exemplary only, and that other configurations may be equally suitable.  
     [0049] It is to be understood that while certain embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, the invention is not limited to the specific forms or arrangements of the parts described and shown, and that the specification and depicted embodiment is to be considered exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the broad meaning of the following claims.