Patent Description:
A rotary union for a tire inflation system is disclosed in <CIT>. <CIT> discloses an air control system for a vehicle that includes a rotating tea connection and flexible hoses that are connectable with fittings. <CIT> discloses a tire inflation system that has a rotary fitting that is fluidly connected to a tire via a tube assembly that opens a valve stem of a tire valve when installed. <CIT> discloses a tire pressure management system that has quick release bayonet type fasteners interconnected by a bridge line. <CIT> discloses a line that is attached inside of a tire by means of a bayonet lock. <CIT> discloses bayonet type coupling for connecting air lines. <CIT> discloses a tire inflation system that has Schrader valves that extend from a rotary housing. However, prior art bayonet couplings remain difficult to handle. There is a need for a coupling which facilitates gripping.

This problem is solved by the connection arrangement for a tire inflation system as set out in claim <NUM>.

The port may be oriented in a substantially vertical orientation when aligned with the hub cap in the second rotational position.

The hose assembly may be completely spaced apart from the hub cap in the second rotational position.

The port axis may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the receptacle axis and intersect the receptacle axis. The receptacle axis and the port axis may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis when the main body is in the second rotational position.

The receptacle wall may extend away from the mounting portion to a receptacle wall end surface. The receptacle wall may define a groove that extends from the receptacle wall end surface to the locking opening.

The groove may be tapered such that the groove becomes narrower as the groove extends from the receptacle wall end surface to the locking opening.

The locking opening may be generally D shaped.

The receptacle may have a first alignment feature disposed adjacent to the locking opening. The cover may have a second alignment feature that is aligned with the first alignment feature when the main body is in the second rotational position.

The rotatable fitting may have a receptacle passage that fluidly connects the mounting portion to the receptacle cavity. The hose assembly may further comprise an end fitting that is partially received inside the main passage and that protrudes from the first end of the main body into the receptacle passage.

A valve assembly may be disposed in the main passage. The valve assembly may be axially positioned between the end fitting and the hose.

The valve assembly may be partially disposed in the end fitting.

A valve assembly may be disposed in and mounted to the end fitting.

The receptacle may have a receptacle bottom wall that extends from the receptacle wall toward the receptacle axis and a ring that extends around the receptacle axis and that protrudes from the receptacle bottom wall toward the second end. The ring may be partially received in the end fitting.

A first seal may encircle the end fitting. The first seal may extend from the end fitting to the receptacle proximate the ring.

A second seal may encircle the end fitting. The second seal may extend from the end fitting to the main body such that the main body encircles the second seal.

The end fitting may have an end fitting recess that receives the ring. The end fitting recess may be axially positioned between the first seal and the second seal.

The receptacle wall may extend away from the mounting portion to a receptacle wall end surface. The receptacle wall may define a first inside portion that extends from the receptacle bottom wall and a second inside portion that extends between the first inside portion and the receptacle wall end surface. The main body may have a first outside portion that extends from the first end and is at least partially received in the first inside portion. The main body may have a second outside portion that extends between the first outside portion and the second end and that is at least partially received in the second inside portion.

The second outside portion may extend between the first outside portion and the port.

The main body may have a port passage that extends axially from the port toward the first end and is a recess that extends toward the receptacle axis.

Referring to <FIG>, a portion of an axle assembly <NUM> is shown. The axle assembly <NUM> may be provided with a vehicle like a truck, bus, farm equipment, mining equipment, military transport or weaponry vehicle, cargo loading equipment for land, air, or marine vessels, or a trailer for transporting cargo.

As an overview, the axle assembly <NUM> may be associated with a tire inflation system <NUM> that may help obtain and/or maintain a desired pressure within one or more tires <NUM>. The tire inflation system <NUM> may be disposed on the vehicle and may be configured to provide a pressurized gas or pressurized gas mixture to one or more tires <NUM>, exhaust the pressurized gas or pressurized gas mixture from one or more tires <NUM>, or both. For clarity, the term "pressurized gas" may refer to a pressurized gas mixture (e.g., air) or a purified pressurized gas or gas mixture (e.g., nitrogen). For convenience in reference, the term "air" is used below as a generic designator that is not intended to be limiting to a particular pressurized gas or gas mixture (e.g., an "air passage" may facilitate the flow of a pressurized gas other than air). Tire inflation or deflation may be desired when the tire pressure is not sufficiently close to the tire pressure specified by the vehicle manufacturer and/or is inappropriate for the type of ground over which a vehicle is travelling. For instance, higher tire pressures may be desired when a vehicle is travelling on a paved road as compared to when a vehicle is travelling off-road.

The tire inflation system <NUM> may be fluidly connected to a pressurized gas source <NUM>. The pressurized gas source <NUM> may be configured to supply or store a volume of a pressurized gas. For example, the pressurized gas source <NUM> may be a tank, a pump like a compressor, or combinations thereof. The pressurized gas source <NUM> may be configured to provide pressurized gas at a pressure that is greater than or equal to a desired inflation pressure of a tire <NUM>. The pressurized gas source <NUM> may be disposed on the vehicle and may be fluidly connected to at least one tire <NUM> via passages in various components, such as via a connection arrangement <NUM> that may include a hose assembly that fluidly connects a rotary union to a tire <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below.

The axle assembly <NUM> may be configured to support one or more wheels <NUM>. The axle assembly also be configured to support a brake assembly <NUM>, such as a friction brake like a disc brake or drum brake. The axle assembly <NUM> may be provided in a steerable configuration or a non-steerable configuration. In a steerable configuration, the axle assembly <NUM> may be a steerable structural component, such as a steering knuckle. In at least one configuration, the axle assembly <NUM> may include a spindle <NUM>, a hub <NUM>, one or more wheel bearings <NUM>, and a hub seal <NUM>. The axle assembly may also include a spindle plug <NUM>, a hose <NUM>, a rotary union <NUM>, a sleeve <NUM>, and one or more hose assemblies <NUM>.

The spindle <NUM> may be disposed along or may extend around an axis <NUM>. The spindle <NUM> may be fixedly positioned with respect to a structural component <NUM>, such as a steering knuckle or an axle housing. It is contemplated that the spindle <NUM> may be integrally formed with the structural component <NUM> rather than being a separate part from the structural component <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the spindle <NUM> may define a spindle hole <NUM>.

The spindle hole <NUM> may be disposed along the axis <NUM>. The spindle hole <NUM> may be a through hole that may extend through the spindle <NUM>. The spindle hole <NUM> may receive various components, such as the spindle plug <NUM>, the hose <NUM>, and the sleeve <NUM>. In a drive axle configuration, the spindle hole <NUM> may also receive an axle shaft that may operatively connect a power source or torque source such as an engine or electric motor to the hub <NUM> to help propel the vehicle.

The hub <NUM> may be rotatable about the axis <NUM> with respect to the spindle <NUM>. In addition, the hub <NUM> may facilitate mounting of at least one wheel <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the hub <NUM> may include a hub cavity <NUM>, a hub mounting flange <NUM>, and a hub cap <NUM>.

The hub cavity <NUM> may be disposed inside the hub <NUM> and may be encircled by the hub <NUM>. As such, the hub cavity <NUM> may extend around the axis <NUM>. The hub cavity <NUM> may receive at least a portion of various components of the axle assembly <NUM>, such as the spindle <NUM>, one or more wheel bearings <NUM>, and the hub seal <NUM>.

The hub mounting flange <NUM> may facilitate mounting of at least one wheel <NUM>. For example, the hub mounting flange <NUM> may extend around the axis <NUM> and away from the axis <NUM> and may include a set of mounting fastener holes that may each receive a mounting lug bolt <NUM>. A mounting lug bolt <NUM> may extend through a corresponding hole in a wheel <NUM>. A lug nut <NUM> may be threaded onto a mounting lug bolt <NUM> to secure a wheel <NUM> to the hub <NUM>. In the configuration shown in <FIG>, two wheels <NUM> are illustrated that each support a corresponding tire <NUM>; however, it is contemplated that a single wheel <NUM> and tire <NUM> may be provided.

The hub cap <NUM> may be disposed proximate an outboard end of the hub <NUM>. The hub cap <NUM> may help enclose the hub cavity <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the hub cap <NUM> define a hub cap cavity <NUM> that may receive at least a portion of the rotary union <NUM>.

One or more wheel bearings <NUM> may be disposed on the spindle <NUM> and may rotatably support the hub <NUM>. In the configuration shown, two wheel bearings <NUM> are illustrated. A wheel bearing <NUM> may have any suitable configuration. For instance, a wheel bearing <NUM> may include a plurality of rolling elements, such as balls or rollers, that may be disposed between an inner race and an outer race. The inner race may encircle and may engage the spindle <NUM>. The outer race may engage the hub <NUM> and may extend around the inner race.

The hub seal <NUM> may extend from the spindle <NUM> to the hub <NUM>. The hub seal <NUM> may be disposed near an inboard end of the hub <NUM> that may be disposed opposite the hub cap <NUM>. The hub <NUM>, hub seal <NUM>, and the hub cap <NUM> may cooperate to inhibit contaminants from entering the hub cavity <NUM>.

The spindle plug <NUM> may be disposed in the spindle hole <NUM>. The spindle plug <NUM> may be fixedly positioned with respect to the spindle <NUM>. As such, the spindle plug <NUM> may not rotate about the axis <NUM> with respect to the spindle <NUM>. The spindle plug <NUM> may be made of one or more components. In at least one configuration, the spindle plug <NUM> may include an opening through which the hose <NUM> and the sleeve <NUM> may extend.

The hose <NUM> may fluidly connect the pressurized gas source <NUM> to the rotary union <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the hose <NUM> or a portion thereof may extend along the axis <NUM>. The hose <NUM> may be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material. The hose <NUM> may be fluidly coupled to a hose fitting that may be provided with a through hole in the axle assembly to facilitate a fluid connection to the pressurized gas source <NUM>. As such, one end of the hose <NUM> may be mounted to a portion of the axle assembly such as the spindle or axle housing while the other end may be mounted to or fluidly connected to the rotary union <NUM>.

The rotary union <NUM> may be configured to fluidly connect the hose <NUM> to one or more hose assemblies <NUM>. The connection arrangement <NUM> includes the rotary union <NUM> and one or more hose assemblies <NUM>. In at least one configuration and as is best shown with reference to <FIG>, the rotary union <NUM> may include a torque tube <NUM>, a stator <NUM>, and a hose retainer <NUM>, and includes a rotatable fitting <NUM>.

The torque tube <NUM> may be a hollow tube that may be disposed along the axis <NUM>. The torque tube <NUM> may have a first end and a second end. The first end may be fluidly connected to the hose <NUM>. For instance, the first end may engage or contact the hose <NUM>. In <FIG>, the hose <NUM> is received inside of the hose <NUM>; however, it is contemplated that this arrangement may be reversed. The second end may be disposed opposite the first end. For example, the second end may face toward and may be received inside the rotatable fitting <NUM>. As such, the torque tube <NUM> may provide a fluid connection between the hose <NUM> and the rotatable fitting <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the torque tube <NUM> may be mounted to the stator <NUM> such that the torque tube <NUM> does not rotate with respect to the stator <NUM>.

The stator <NUM> may extend from the torque tube <NUM> in a direction that extends toward the spindle plug <NUM>. The stator <NUM> may be received inside of the hub cap cavity <NUM> and may be spaced apart from the rotatable fitting <NUM>. The torque tube <NUM> may engage the hose <NUM> inside the stator <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> may be mounted to the stator <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the sleeve <NUM> may cooperate with the spindle plug <NUM> to limit rotation of the stator <NUM> and the hose <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> may receive or encircle the hose <NUM> and may extend from the spindle plug <NUM> to the stator <NUM> of the rotary union <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the hose retainer <NUM> may help secure the hose <NUM> to the stator <NUM>. The hose retainer <NUM> may encircle the hose <NUM> and may be at least partially received inside of the stator <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG> and <FIG>, the rotatable fitting <NUM>, which may also be called a tee fitting, is rotatable about the axis <NUM> with the hub <NUM>. In addition, the rotatable fitting <NUM> may be spaced apart from and rotatable with respect to the hose <NUM>, the sleeve <NUM>, the torque tube <NUM>, and the stator <NUM>. For instance, as is best shown in <FIG> a bearing <NUM> may extend from the torque tube <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM> to facilitate rotation of the rotatable fitting <NUM> with respect to the torque tube <NUM> and the stator <NUM>. One or more seals <NUM> may also extend from the torque tube <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM> to help inhibit the leakage of pressurized gas. In the configuration shown, seals <NUM> encircle the torque tube <NUM> and are axially positioned on opposite sides of the bearing <NUM>. As such, the rotatable fitting <NUM> may be rotatable about the axis <NUM> with respect to the torque tube <NUM> and the stator <NUM>.

The rotatable fitting <NUM> may fluidly connect the torque tube <NUM> to one or more hose assemblies <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the rotatable fitting <NUM> includes a mounting portion <NUM>, at least one receptacle <NUM>, and a receptacle passage <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG> and <FIG>, the mounting portion <NUM> facilitates mounting of the rotatable fitting <NUM> to the hub cap <NUM>. The mounting portion <NUM> may be mounted to the hub cap <NUM> in any suitable manner. For instance, the mounting portion <NUM> may include a threaded portion <NUM> that may mate with a corresponding threaded portion of the hub cap <NUM>. The mounting portion <NUM> may extend around and may encircle the axis <NUM> and may define a cavity <NUM> and a passage <NUM>, which are best shown in <FIG>.

The cavity <NUM> may be disposed inside the mounting portion <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> may be open in a direction that faces toward the stator <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> may receive a portion of the torque tube <NUM>, a portion of the stator <NUM>, the bearing <NUM>, and one or more seals <NUM>.

The passage <NUM> may fluidly connect the cavity <NUM> to one or more receptacle passages <NUM>. The passage <NUM> may be configured as a through hole that may extend through and end wall of the mounting portion <NUM> that is disposed adjacent to a receptacle <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG>, the receptacle <NUM> is fluidly connected to the mounting portion <NUM>. In addition, the receptacle <NUM> may facilitate mounting of a hose assembly <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM>. The receptacle <NUM> may be disposed at an angle with respect to the mounting portion <NUM>. For instance, the receptacle <NUM> may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the mounting portion <NUM>. The term "substantially perpendicular" is used herein to designate features or axes that are the same as or very close to perpendicular and includes features that are within ±<NUM>° of being perpendicular each other. In at least one configuration and as is best shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the receptacle <NUM> may include a receptacle bottom wall <NUM> and includes a receptacle wall <NUM>. Optionally, the receptacle <NUM> may include a first alignment feature <NUM>.

The receptacle bottom wall <NUM> may be disposed proximate an end of the receptacle <NUM> that may be disposed closest to the axis <NUM>. The receptacle bottom wall <NUM> may encircle a portion of the receptacle passage <NUM> and a receptacle axis <NUM> along which the receptacle passage <NUM> may extend. The receptacle axis <NUM> may intersect the axis <NUM>, may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis <NUM>, or both. In at least one configuration, the receptacle bottom wall <NUM> may include or may define a ring <NUM>, which is best shown in <FIG>.

The ring <NUM> may extend around the receptacle axis <NUM>. The ring <NUM> may be disposed inside the receptacle <NUM> and may protrude from the receptacle bottom wall <NUM> in a direction that extends away from the mounting portion <NUM>, or to the right from the perspective shown in <FIG>. The ring <NUM> may be partially received inside an end fitting of the hose assembly <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the receptacle wall <NUM> extends away from the mounting portion <NUM>. For instance, the receptacle wall <NUM> may extend from the receptacle bottom wall <NUM> to a receptacle wall end surface <NUM>. The receptacle wall end surface <NUM> may face away from the mounting portion <NUM> and may be disposed at an end of the receptacle wall <NUM>. In addition, the receptacle wall <NUM> may be spaced apart from and extends around or encircle the receptacle axis <NUM>. The receptacle wall <NUM> may cooperate with the receptacle bottom wall <NUM> to define a receptacle cavity <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the receptacle wall <NUM> may define at least one groove <NUM> and includes at least one locking opening <NUM>. In addition, the receptacle wall <NUM> may be provided with one or more inside diameters, such as a first inside portion <NUM> and a second inside portion <NUM>.

The receptacle passage <NUM> may fluidly connect the mounting portion <NUM> to the receptacle cavity <NUM>. In addition, the receptacle passage <NUM> may have a smaller diameter than the receptacle cavity <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG> and <FIG>, one or more grooves <NUM> may be formed in the receptacle wall <NUM>. In the configuration shown, four grooves <NUM> are provided; however, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of grooves may be provided. A groove <NUM> may be disposed inside the receptacle <NUM> such that the groove <NUM> may extend from an interior side of the receptacle wall <NUM> away from the receptacle axis <NUM> and toward an opposing exterior side of the receptacle wall <NUM>. The groove <NUM> may extend from the receptacle wall end surface <NUM> toward the mounting portion <NUM> and the receptacle bottom wall <NUM>. More specifically, a groove <NUM> may extend from the receptacle wall end surface <NUM> to a corresponding locking opening <NUM>. The groove <NUM> may spiral or twist with respect to the receptacle axis <NUM> as it extends away from the receptacle wall end surface <NUM>. The groove <NUM> may be tapered such that the groove <NUM> becomes narrower as the groove <NUM> extends from the receptacle wall end surface <NUM> to or toward the locking opening <NUM>.

The locking opening <NUM> is provided in the receptacle wall <NUM>. The locking opening <NUM> may be disposed at an end of the groove <NUM>. In addition, the locking opening <NUM> may be configured as a through hole that may extend from the interior side to the exterior side of the receptacle wall <NUM>. The locking opening <NUM> may receive a locking protrusion of the hose assembly <NUM> to secure the hose assembly <NUM> to the receptacle <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below. In at least one configuration, the locking opening <NUM> may be generally D-shaped. For instance, the locking opening <NUM> may have a side that is linear or substantially linear that may be disposed adjacent to the groove <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG>, the first inside portion <NUM> may extend around the receptacle axis <NUM> and may be an inside diameter or inside circumference of at least a portion of the receptacle <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the first inside portion <NUM> may extend from the receptacle bottom wall <NUM> in a direction that extends away from the mounting portion <NUM>.

The second inside portion <NUM> may also extend around the receptacle axis <NUM> and may also be an inside diameter or inside circumference of a portion of the receptacle <NUM>. The second inside portion <NUM> may extend between the first inside portion <NUM> and the receptacle wall end surface <NUM>. The second inside portion <NUM> may extend further from the receptacle axis <NUM> or have a larger diameter than the first inside portion <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG>, the first alignment feature <NUM> may cooperate with the hose assembly <NUM> to provide a visual indication of the rotational position of the hose assembly <NUM> with respect to the receptacle <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below. The first alignment feature <NUM> may have any suitable configuration. For instance, the first alignment feature <NUM> may protrude from the receptacle <NUM>, be recessed into the receptacle <NUM>, may be flush with the receptacle <NUM>, or combinations thereof. In the configuration shown, the first alignment feature <NUM> is configured as a protrusion that extends from the exterior side of the receptacle wall <NUM> in a direction that extends away from the receptacle axis <NUM>. In addition, the first alignment feature <NUM> is illustrated as extending substantially parallel to the receptacle axis <NUM>. The term "substantially parallel" as used herein means the same as or very close to parallel and includes features or axes that are within ±<NUM>° of being parallel each other. The first alignment feature <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to the locking opening <NUM>. For instance, the first alignment feature <NUM> may be disposed along a generally linear or straight side of the locking opening <NUM> in one or more configurations.

Referring to <FIG>, one or more hose assemblies <NUM> may fluidly connect the rotatable fitting <NUM> to a corresponding tire <NUM>. In the configuration shown, two hose assemblies <NUM> are depicted with each hose assembly <NUM> being fluidly connected to a different tire <NUM>. A single hose assembly <NUM> may be provided in a configuration having one tire <NUM> or when the rotatable fitting <NUM> is provided with a single receptacle <NUM>. In an embodiment of the invention and as is best shown with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the hose assembly <NUM> includes a main body <NUM>, a cover <NUM>, and a hose subassembly <NUM> and may include an end fitting <NUM>, a valve assembly <NUM>, a port valve assembly <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> may be selectively coupled to the receptacle <NUM>. For instance, the main body <NUM> is insertable into the receptacle cavity <NUM> and may be rotated about the receptacle axis <NUM> to couple or decouple the hose assembly <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below. The main body <NUM> may be a unitary one-piece component that may be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material. In at least one configuration, the main body <NUM> includes a first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM>, a main passage <NUM>, one or more locking protrusions <NUM>, and a port <NUM>. Optionally and as is best shown in <FIG>, the main body <NUM> may include a first outside portion <NUM>, a second outside portion <NUM>, one or more ribs <NUM>, or combinations thereof.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first end <NUM> may be disposed at a distal end of the main body <NUM>. The first end <NUM> may be insertable into the receptacle cavity <NUM>.

The second end <NUM> may be disposed opposite the first end <NUM>. The second end <NUM> may be disposed outside of the receptacle cavity <NUM> and may be disposed adjacent to the cover <NUM> and the hose subassembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the main passage <NUM> may be configured as a through hole that extends from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM>. The main passage <NUM> may extend along the receptacle axis <NUM> when the hose assembly <NUM> is coupled to the rotatable fitting <NUM> or when the main body <NUM> is disposed in the receptacle cavity <NUM>. In at least one configuration and as is best shown in <FIG>, the main passage <NUM> may be at least partially defined by a first interior portion <NUM> and the second interior portion <NUM>.

The first interior portion <NUM> may be disposed inside the main body <NUM> and may partially define the main passage <NUM>. The first interior portion <NUM> may extend from the first end <NUM> toward the second end <NUM>. The first interior portion <NUM> may receive a portion of the end fitting <NUM>. The first interior portion <NUM> may have a larger diameter than the second interior portion <NUM>.

The second interior portion <NUM> may also be disposed inside the main body <NUM> and may partially define the main passage <NUM>. The second interior portion <NUM> may extend from the second end <NUM> toward or to the first interior portion <NUM>. The second interior portion <NUM> may receive a portion of the hose subassembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, one or more locking protrusions <NUM> may extend from the main body <NUM>. In the configuration shown, four locking protrusions <NUM> are provided; however, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of locking protrusions may be provided. A locking protrusion <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior of the main body <NUM> such that the locking protrusion <NUM> is disposed opposite the main passage <NUM> and extends away from the main passage <NUM>. The locking protrusions <NUM> may be spaced apart from each other. Each locking protrusion <NUM> may be configured to be received in a corresponding groove <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM> during installation of a hose assembly <NUM> and is configured to be received in a corresponding locking opening <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM> to inhibit rotation of the hose assembly <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below.

The port <NUM> may be axially positioned between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The port <NUM> may be disposed outside of the receptacle <NUM> and may be configured to receive the port valve assembly <NUM>. The port <NUM> may have any suitable configuration. In the configuration shown, the port <NUM> has a generally cylindrical configuration that extends from an exterior side of the main body <NUM> in a direction that extends away from the receptacle axis <NUM> and the main passage <NUM>. The port <NUM> extends along a port axis <NUM>. The port axis <NUM> may intersect and may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the receptacle axis <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the port <NUM> is fluidly connected to the main passage <NUM>. For example, the port <NUM> may be fluidly connected to the main passage <NUM> via a port passage <NUM> that may be provided with the main body <NUM>. The port passage <NUM> may be configured as a recess that may be disposed proximate the bottom of the port <NUM> and that extend toward the receptacle axis <NUM>, a recess that may be disposed in the second interior portion <NUM> that may extend away from the receptacle axis <NUM> toward the port <NUM>, or combinations thereof. The port passage <NUM> may extend axially from the port <NUM> toward the first end <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG>, the first outside portion <NUM> may extend from the first end <NUM> toward the second end <NUM>. The first outside portion <NUM> may face toward and may be at least partially encircled by or received in the first inside portion <NUM> of the receptacle wall <NUM>. The first outside portion <NUM> may have a smaller outside diameter than the second outside portion <NUM>.

The second outside portion <NUM> may extend between the first outside portion <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. For instance, the second outside portion <NUM> may extend from the first outside portion <NUM> or toward the port <NUM>. The second outside portion <NUM> may face toward and may be at least partially encircled by or received in the second inside portion <NUM> of the receptacle wall <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, one or more ribs <NUM> may be provided to help secure or inhibit rotation of the cover <NUM> with respect to the main body <NUM>. A rib <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior of the main body <NUM> and may extend between the second end <NUM> and the first end <NUM>. For instance, one or more ribs <NUM> may extend axially from the second end <NUM> toward the first end <NUM>. It is also contemplated that one or more ribs <NUM>' may extend circumferentially around the main body <NUM> and that a rib <NUM>' may intersect the port <NUM>.

Referring primarily to <FIG> and <FIG>, the cover <NUM> extends around and may conceal a portion of the main body <NUM>. According to the invention, the cover <NUM> extends from the second end <NUM> of the main body <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may be disposed outside of the receptacle cavity <NUM> when the hose assembly <NUM> is mounted to the rotary union <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may include one or more recesses that may receive a corresponding rib <NUM>, <NUM>'. In addition, the cover <NUM> may include a plurality of openings. For instance, the cover <NUM> may include a first opening that may face toward the receptacle <NUM> and may encircle the second interior portion <NUM>, a second opening that may encircle the hose subassembly <NUM>, and a third opening that encircles the port <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material or rubber and may be textured to facilitate gripping.

Referring to <FIG>, the cover <NUM> may include various markings. For instance, the cover <NUM> may include one or more rotational markings <NUM> and a second alignment feature <NUM>.

The rotational marking <NUM> may be provided on a visible exterior side of the cover <NUM>. The rotational marking <NUM> may include information regarding the direction in which the main body <NUM> should be rotated to couple and/or decouple the hose assembly <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM>. In an example not within the scope of the claims, it is also contemplated that the rotational marking <NUM> may be provided with the main body <NUM> if the cover <NUM> is omitted.

The second alignment feature <NUM> may cooperate with the first alignment feature <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM> to provide a visual indication the rotational position of the hose assembly <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below. The second alignment feature <NUM> is illustrated as being provided with the cover <NUM>; however, it is also contemplated that the second alignment feature <NUM> may be partially or entirely provided with the main body <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the end fitting <NUM> may be disposed at an end of the hose assembly <NUM>. For instance, a portion of the end fitting <NUM> may be encircled by the main body <NUM> and may be received inside the main passage <NUM> of the main body <NUM> while another portion of the end fitting <NUM> may protrude out of the main body <NUM> past the first end <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The end fitting <NUM> may be insertable into the receptacle <NUM>, such as into the receptacle cavity <NUM> and the receptacle passage <NUM>. A free end of the end fitting <NUM> may be received in the passage <NUM> of the rotatable fitting <NUM> when the hose assembly <NUM> is mounted to the rotatable fitting <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the end fitting <NUM> may include a center portion <NUM> and a flange <NUM>.

The center portion <NUM> may be insertable into the receptacle passage <NUM> and optionally the passage <NUM>. The center portion <NUM> may encircle the receptacle axis <NUM>. In at least one configuration and as is best shown in <FIG>, the center portion <NUM> may include a first seal groove <NUM>, a threaded portion <NUM>, or both.

The first seal groove <NUM> may extend from an exterior side of the center portion <NUM> toward the receptacle axis <NUM>. The first seal groove <NUM> may receive a first seal <NUM>, such as an O-ring, that may encircle the center portion <NUM>. The first seal <NUM> may be received inside of the receptacle passage <NUM> and may extend from the center portion <NUM> to the receptacle <NUM> to inhibit leakage between the end fitting <NUM> and the receptacle <NUM>. The first seal <NUM> may be disposed proximate the ring <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM>.

The threaded portion <NUM>, if provided, may be disposed inside the center portion <NUM> and may encircle the receptacle axis <NUM>. The threaded portion <NUM> may facilitate mounting of a valve assembly <NUM> and one or more configurations, such as the configuration shown in <FIG>.

The flange <NUM> may extend radially outward from the center portion <NUM>. As such, the flange <NUM> may have a larger outside diameter than the center portion <NUM>. The flange <NUM> may be insertable into the receptacle cavity <NUM> but not the receptacle passage <NUM>. In at least one configuration, the flange <NUM> may include a second seal groove <NUM>, an end fitting recess <NUM>, or both.

The second seal groove <NUM> may extend from an exterior side of the flange <NUM> toward the receptacle axis <NUM>. The second seal groove <NUM> may receive a second seal <NUM>, such as an O-ring, that may encircle the flange <NUM>. The second seal <NUM> may be received inside of the main passage <NUM> of the main body <NUM> and may extend from the flange <NUM> to the first interior portion <NUM> of the main body <NUM> to inhibit leakage between the end fitting <NUM> and the main body <NUM>. As such, the first interior portion <NUM> of the main body <NUM> may encircle the second seal <NUM>. The second seal <NUM> may be spaced apart from and may not engage the receptacle <NUM>.

The end fitting recess <NUM> may be provided in the flange <NUM>. The end fitting recess <NUM> may encircle the center portion <NUM> and may be open in a direction that faces toward the free end of the end fitting <NUM>. The end fitting recess <NUM> may be axially positioned between the first seal groove <NUM> and the second seal groove <NUM>, and thus may be axially positioned between the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM>. The end fitting recess <NUM> may receive a portion of the ring <NUM> that extends from the receptacle bottom wall <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the valve assembly <NUM> may help control the flow of pressurized gas. For instance, a valve of the valve assembly <NUM> may be configured to permit pressurized gas to flow through the rotary union <NUM> and the hose assembly <NUM> into a tire <NUM> when the supply pressure or air pressure provided to the rotary union <NUM> is sufficient to open the valve or keep the valve in an open position. Conversely, the valve may be configured to close when the air pressure in the tire <NUM> exceeds the supply pressure. The valve assembly <NUM> may be at least partially disposed in the main passage <NUM>. In <FIG>, a majority of the valve assembly <NUM> is axially positioned between the end fitting <NUM> and the hose subassembly <NUM>. In <FIG>, a majority of the valve assembly <NUM> is disposed in the end fitting <NUM> and may have threads that mate with threaded portion <NUM> of the end fitting <NUM>. In either configuration, the valve assembly <NUM> may be partially disposed in the end fitting <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the port valve assembly <NUM> may be at least partially received in the port <NUM>. The port valve assembly <NUM> may have any suitable configuration. For instance, in <FIG> the port valve assembly <NUM> may include a stem <NUM> that is mounted to the port <NUM> and that may receive a valve <NUM>, such as a Schrader valve. The port valve assembly <NUM> may be disposed downstream of the valve assembly <NUM> and thus may be in fluid communication with the tire <NUM>. As such, the port valve assembly <NUM> may be used to check the inflation pressure of a tire <NUM> and optionally adjust the pressure of the tire <NUM>. For example, a tire gauge may be engaged with the distal end of the port valve assembly <NUM> to open the valve <NUM> and check the tire pressure. Similarly, an external supply hose may be engaged with the distal end of the port valve assembly <NUM> to open the valve <NUM> and inflate the tire <NUM>. It is also contemplated that the valve <NUM> may be opened to exhaust pressurized gas.

Referring to <FIG>, the hose subassembly <NUM> is adapted to be fluidly connected to a tire <NUM>. More specifically, the hose subassembly <NUM> may fluidly connect the main body <NUM> and a tire <NUM> when the hose subassembly <NUM> is coupled to the main body <NUM> and to the tire <NUM>. The hose subassembly <NUM> may be provided in various configurations. In each configuration, the hose subassembly <NUM> may have a first end <NUM>, which is best shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and a second end <NUM>. At least one hose segment <NUM> may be provided between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first end <NUM> may be coupled to the main body <NUM>. For instance, the first end <NUM> may include a fitting <NUM> that may be attached to a hose segment <NUM> and that may be received inside of the main body <NUM>. The first end <NUM> may be disposed opposite the second end <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the second end <NUM> may be connectable to a tire <NUM>. For instance, the second end may be mounted to a tire valve <NUM> that may extend through a hole in the wheel <NUM> and that may permit gas to enter or exit the tire <NUM> when the tire valve <NUM> is open. The hose assembly <NUM> may be configured to hold the tire valve <NUM> in an open position when secured to the tire valve <NUM>. Moreover, the tire valve <NUM> may close when the hose assembly <NUM> is disengaged from the tire valve <NUM> to prevent deflation of the tire <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, installation and removal of the hose assembly <NUM> will now be described. For clarity, a single hose assembly <NUM> is depicted in these figures. Installation may include coupling the hose assembly <NUM> to the rotatable fitting <NUM>. Removal may include decoupling the hose assembly <NUM> from the rotatable fitting <NUM>. As an overview, the main body <NUM> is rotatable between a first rotational position and a second rotational position when the main body <NUM> is at least partially received in the receptacle cavity <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the hose assembly <NUM> is detached from and decoupled from the rotatable fitting <NUM>. The hose assembly <NUM> may be installed by orienting the end fitting <NUM> toward the receptacle <NUM> such that the end fitting <NUM> is generally centered about the receptacle axis <NUM> and such that each locking protrusion <NUM> is generally rotationally aligned with corresponding groove <NUM> in the receptacle <NUM> so that the locking protrusion <NUM> may be inserted into the groove <NUM>. Rotational alignment of a locking protrusion <NUM> and a corresponding groove <NUM> may occur before or after the main body <NUM> is engaged with the receptacle <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the hose assembly <NUM> is shown in a first rotational position with the main body <NUM> at least partially inserted into the receptacle cavity <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM>. Each locking protrusion <NUM> may be received in corresponding groove <NUM>. Depending on the configuration of the groove <NUM>, the main body <NUM> may be further inserted into the receptacle <NUM> than is shown. For instance, the main body <NUM> may be advanced further without rotating the main body <NUM> about the receptacle axis <NUM> in a configuration in which the groove has an L-shaped configuration rather than a tapered configuration like that shown.

In <FIG>, the hose assembly <NUM> is shown in a second rotational position. The hose assembly <NUM> may be moved from the first rotational position to the second rotational position by rotating the main body <NUM> about the receptacle axis <NUM> in a first rotational direction, which is depicted as being a clockwise direction from the perspective shown. Rotating the main body <NUM> in the first rotational direction may cause the locking protrusion <NUM> to cooperate with the groove <NUM> to allow the main body <NUM> to advance along the receptacle axis <NUM> toward the axis <NUM> when the groove <NUM> spirals or twists along its length. The main body <NUM> may be rotatable in the first direction until the locking protrusion <NUM> enters the locking opening <NUM> and the locking protrusion <NUM> contacts the end of the groove <NUM> or the locking opening <NUM>. As such, the locking protrusion <NUM> is received in the locking opening <NUM> to secure the main body <NUM> to the receptacle <NUM> in the second rotational position.

It is contemplated that the locking protrusion <NUM> may be compressed toward the receptacle axis <NUM> by the receptacle wall <NUM> when in the groove <NUM> and may move away from the receptacle axis <NUM> when the locking protrusion <NUM> enters the locking opening <NUM>. Such a configuration may inhibit rotation of the main body <NUM> in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction unless sufficient force is applied, the locking protrusion <NUM> is depressed toward the receptacle axis <NUM>, or both.

The second alignment feature <NUM> of the hose assembly <NUM> may be aligned with the first alignment feature <NUM> of the rotatable fitting <NUM> when the main body <NUM> is in the second rotational position to provide a visual indication that the main body <NUM> is in the second rotational position.

The second rotational position may be configured to place the hose assembly <NUM> in a predetermined position or alignment with other components of the axle assembly <NUM>. For instance, the port <NUM> may be aligned with the hub cap <NUM> so that the port <NUM> is accessible for use and not positioned in an orientation in which the port <NUM> may be more susceptible to damage, such being oriented generally parallel to the axis <NUM>. As is best shown in <FIG>, the port <NUM> may be aligned with the hub cap <NUM> and oriented in a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., within ±<NUM>° of vertical when the axis <NUM> is in a horizontal plane) when aligned with the hub cap in the second rotational position. For example, the port axis <NUM> may be substantially perpendicular to the axis <NUM> and may not intersect the axis <NUM> when the main body <NUM> is in the second rotational position. In addition, the hose assembly <NUM> may be completely spaced apart from the hub cap <NUM> in the second rotational position to inhibit the hose assembly from wear or potential damage.

The hose assembly <NUM> may be removed or disengaged from the rotary union <NUM> by rotating the main body <NUM> in the second rotational direction to the first rotational position and then moving the main body <NUM> along the receptacle axis <NUM> out of the receptacle <NUM>. As such, the main body <NUM> may be insertable into the receptacle cavity <NUM> and may be removable from the receptacle cavity <NUM> when in the first rotational position.

The configurations described above may allow a hose assembly to be quickly and reliably attached to a rotary union without the use of a threaded fitting or threaded connection between the hose assembly and the rotary union. Such a threaded connection can be misaligned or overtightened, which may damage the hose assembly, the rotatable fitting, or both. Moreover, a threaded fitting or threaded connection is susceptible to under tightening, which may result in a leak. The present invention allows the rotational orientation of the port to be controlled in a reliable and repeatable manner to facilitate port access and avoid potential port damage by locating the port in a predetermined or predefined orientation when in the second rotational position. In contrast, the port may be oriented at any rotational position with a threaded connection. Controlling the orientation of the port may also help prevent the hose assembly from contacting the hub cap or associated wheel end components, which may help reduce noise and wear that may occur when the hose assembly rubs or vibrates against such components.

Claim 1:
A connection arrangement (<NUM>) for a tire inflation system (<NUM>), the connection arrangement (<NUM>) comprising:
a rotary union (<NUM>) having a rotatable fitting (<NUM>) that is rotatable about an axis (<NUM>) with a hub cap (<NUM>) and that includes:
a mounting portion (<NUM>) that is mountable to the hub cap (<NUM>); and
a receptacle (<NUM>) that is fluidly connected to the mounting portion (<NUM>), the receptacle (<NUM>) including:
a receptacle wall (<NUM>) that extends away from the mounting portion (<NUM>) and extends around a receptacle axis (<NUM>) to define a receptacle cavity (<NUM>); and
a locking opening (<NUM>) that is provided in the receptacle wall (<NUM>); and
a hose assembly (<NUM>) that includes:
a main body (<NUM>) that is receivable in the receptacle cavity (<NUM>), wherein the main body (<NUM>) has a first end (<NUM>), a second end (<NUM>), a main passage (<NUM>) that extends from the first end (<NUM>) to the second end (<NUM>), a locking protrusion (<NUM>) that is disposed opposite the main passage (<NUM>) and extends away from the main passage (<NUM>), and a port (<NUM>) that extends along a port axis (<NUM>) and is fluidly connected to the main passage (<NUM>); and
a hose (<NUM>) that is coupled to the main body (<NUM>) and adapted to be fluidly connected to a tire (<NUM>);
wherein the main body (<NUM>) is rotatable between a first rotational position and a second rotational position when the main body (<NUM>) is received in the receptacle cavity (<NUM>), the main body (<NUM>) being insertable into and removeable from the receptacle cavity (<NUM>) in the first rotational position, and the locking protrusion (<NUM>) being received in the locking opening (<NUM>) to secure the main body (<NUM>) to the receptacle (<NUM>) in the second rotational position and wherein the hose assembly (<NUM>) further comprises a cover (<NUM>) that extends around the main body (<NUM>), encircles the port (<NUM>), and extends from the second end (<NUM>) toward the first end (<NUM>).