Patent Description:
The present invention relates to refrigeration equipment, in particular to a disassembly-prevention nut assembly and an air conditioning system.

At present, in a structure used for connecting a connection pipe on an indoor side of an air conditioning system using a flammable refrigerant, a pipe connector and a connection pipe is able to be fixed with a connection nut. An end of the connection pipe is installed in the connection nut. During installation, the connection nut is rotated and tightly connected to the pipe connector by applying a locking torque to the connection nut, so that the connection pipe can be locked to the pipe connector. The pipe connector can be removed from the connection pipe if the connection nut is rotated backwards, which cannot meet an installation requirement of the indoor side of the air conditioning system using the flammable refrigerant. German patent No. <CIT> discloses a pipe connection for conducting a fluid that is under pressure, including two tubular connection parts for a conical clamping connection, which are screwed together by a union nut while one is inserted in the other. Each connection part has a conical sealing surface that contacts the other in a sealing manner and wherein an annular groove is provided in one of the sealing surfaces. In order to enable the pipe connection also to conduct a fluid having cycling or varying temperature, according to the invention the inner of the two connection parts has thermal insulation, preferably in the form of a thermal insulation tube, on the inside of the pipe at least in the axial segment of the sealing surface of said connection part, wherein the thermal insulation tube has a cam or a collar on the outer surface, which engages in a recess, which is axially bounded by the two connection parts. <CIT> discloses a device has a screwing and fixing module for screwing and fixing a valve/hose assembly on a thread. A protective element is screwed on the module in counterclockwise direction in a working place by an installer. The module includes a support permitting screwing of a ring that has a function to prohibit public access to a nut of a sealed connector between a gas supply pipe and the valve/hose assembly. The protective element includes a bore having diameter higher than that of sides on slaughtered corners of the nut.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, the present invention provides a disassembly-prevention nut assembly for fixing a first connection pipe and a second connection pipe. The disassembly-prevention nut assembly includes a pipe connector, a connection nut and a disassembly-prevention nut. A first end of the connection nut is fixed to the first connection pipe, the pipe connector is sleeved on and fixed to the second connection pipe. The pipe connector extends in and is threadedly connected to a second end of the connection nut. The disassembly-prevention nut is sleeved on and threadedly connected to the pipe connector or the connection nut.

The disassembly-prevention nut assembly as described above has the following advantages.

By mounting the disassembly-prevention nut on the connection nut or the pipe connector, the connection nut can be anti-disassembly connected to the pipe connector, so that the first connection pipe can be anti-disassembly connected to the second connection pipe.

In an embodiment, the disassembly-prevention nut is sleeved on the connection nut and threadedly connected to the second end relatively away from the first connection pipe of the connection nut. An inner screw thread being capable of connecting with the pipe connector is defined on an inner surface of the connection nut, and an outer screw thread being capable of connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut is defined on an outer surface of the connection nut, and a spiral direction of the inner screw thread of the connection nut is opposite to that of the outer screw thread of the connection nut.

In an embodiment, a connection length between the disassembly-prevention nut and the connection nut is shorter than that between the connection nut and the pipe connector.

In an embodiment, an outer surface of the connection nut includes a thread portion and a smooth portion, and the disassembly-prevention nut is threadedly connected with the third thread portion. The pipe connector includes an assembling portion having a non-circular-shaped outer surface, and the disassembly-prevention nut is an outer hexagon-shaped nut.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, the disassembly-prevention nut is sleeved on and threadedly connected to the pipe connector.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, a first thread portion is defined on a first end relatively close to the first connection pipe of the pipe connector, and the first thread portion is capable of threadedly connecting with the connection nut. A second thread portion is defined on a second end of the pipe connector, the second thread portion is capable of threadedly connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut, and a spiral direction of the first thread portion is opposite to that of the second thread portion.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, a first thread portion is defined on a first end relatively close to the first connection pipe of the pipe connector, and the first thread portion is capable of threadedly connecting with the connection nut. A second thread portion is defined on a second end relatively away from the first connection pipe of the pipe connector, the second thread portion is capable of threadedly connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut, and a spiral direction of the first thread portion is the same with that of the second thread portion.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, a limiting portion is defined on the second end of the pipe connector extending along an axial direction of the pipe connector, and the limiting portion abuts against the disassembly-prevention nut.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, a connection length between the disassembly-prevention nut and the pipe connector is shorter than that between the connection nut and the pipe connector.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, the connection nut includes a twisting portion having a non-circular shaped outer surface, and the disassembly-prevention nut is an outer hexagon-shaped nut.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. In an embodiment, a screw thread disposed on an inner surface of the disassembly-prevention nut (<NUM>) extends to both ends of the disassembly-prevention nut.

The screw thread disposed on the inner surface of the disassembly-prevention nut extends to one end of the disassembly-prevention nut.

The present invention further provides an air conditioning system, including a first connection pipe, a second connection pipe and the disassembly-prevention nut assembly as described above.

In an embodiment, the first connection pipe is connected to the pipe connector by welding, and the second connection pipe abuts against and is fixed in the connection nut via the pipe connector.

In order to better describe and explain the embodiments and/or examples of those inventions disclosed herein, one or more drawings may be referred to. The additional details or examples used to describe the drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope of any of the disclosed inventions, the currently described embodiments and/or examples, and the best mode of these inventions currently understood.

In the figures, <NUM> represents a disassembly-prevention nut assembly; <NUM> represents a pipe connector; <NUM> represents an assembling portion; <NUM> represents an abutting portion; <NUM> represents a first thread portion; <NUM>/14a represents a second thread portion; <NUM>/15a represents a limiting portion; <NUM> represents a connection nut; <NUM> represents a third thread portion; <NUM> represents a smooth portion; <NUM> represents a twisting portion; <NUM> represents a disassembly-prevention nut; <NUM> represents a first connection pipe; <NUM> represents an expansion portion; <NUM> represents a second connection pipe.

A disassembly-prevention nut assembly and an air conditioning system provided in the present invention are further described below.

The present invention provides a disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM>, which is installed in an indoor unit of an air conditioner to prevent accidental disassembly of refrigerant connection pipes.

Of course, the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> mentioned above can also be used in other devices that need to be installed with anti-disassembly structures, such as refrigerators.

At present, an air conditioning system using a flammable refrigerant is widely used. In national indoor installation standard of air conditioning system, refrigerant pipes should be non-detachably installed, so as to prevent users from disassembling the refrigerant pipe and avoid safety hazards. In order to further optimize the refrigerant pipe system of the air conditioning system using a flammable refrigerant and realize the non-detachably connection between the refrigerant pipes, the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> further includes a disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, so that a pipe connector <NUM> is non-detachably connected to a connection nut <NUM>.

The disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> includes a pipe connector <NUM>, a connection nut <NUM> and a disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>. The pipe connector <NUM> is configured for threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM>, while fixing the first connection pipe <NUM> in the connection nut <NUM>. The connection nut <NUM> is configured to connect with the pipe connector <NUM>, and the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is configured to further tighten connection between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> and prevent the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> from disassembling.

The disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> is described by the following three embodiments.

Referring to <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of connection between a disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM>, a first connection pipe <NUM> and a second connection pipe <NUM> in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

A first end of the connection nut <NUM> is sleeved on and fixed to the first connection pipe <NUM>, and a second end of the connection nut <NUM> is threadedly connected to the pipe connector <NUM>. The first connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in the connection nut <NUM> and abuts against the pipe connector <NUM>. Upon a condition that the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM> to a maximum extent, the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the first connection pipe <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected to the second end relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the connection nut <NUM>, and the second connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in and fixed to an end of the pipe connector <NUM> away from the first connection pipe <NUM>.

Upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed to the connection nut <NUM>, the connection between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> can hardly be removed directly by an ordinary user of the air conditioner, so that the pipes of the indoor unit of the air conditioner cannot be disassembled.

The pipe connector <NUM> is approximately cylinder-shaped, one end of the pipe connector <NUM> away from the first connection pipe <NUM> extends radially and forms an assembling portion <NUM>, and the other end of the pipe connector <NUM> contracts radially and forms an abutting portion <NUM>. An outer surface close to the abutting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> is provided with a first thread portion <NUM>. The assembling portion <NUM> is configured for screwing the pipe connector <NUM> to the connection nut <NUM> using a tool, the abutting portion <NUM> is configured for abutting against the first connection pipe <NUM>, and the first thread portion <NUM> is configured to threadedly connect with the connection nut <NUM>.

The second connection pipe <NUM> is inserted and fixed in the assembling portion <NUM> by methods of welding, riveting and the like, so as to ensure the sealing between the second connection pipe <NUM> and the assembling portion <NUM>.

In an embodiment, in order to facilitate a tool to screw the pipe connector <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM>, the assembling portion <NUM> can be substantially an outer hexagon-shaped prism.

It is understood that in other embodiment, the shape of the assembling portion <NUM> can be in other non-circular structures, such as triangle-shaped prisms, as long as it can facilitate a tool to screw the pipe connector <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of a connection nut and a disassembly-prevention nut of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly in <FIG> is a section view of a disassembly-prevention nut and a connection nut in a tightened state of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly in <FIG>. <FIG> is a section view of the disassembly-prevention nut and the connection nut in an untightened state of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly in <FIG>.

The connection nut <NUM> is substantially a cylinder-shaped nut with threads configured to connect with the pipe connector <NUM> on an inner surface of the connection nut <NUM>. An end extending into the connection nut <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM> is defined as an expansion portion <NUM>. The expansion portion <NUM> is configured to prevent the first connection pipe <NUM> from pulling out the connection nut <NUM> directly. Accordingly, the connection nut <NUM> is provided with a housing cavity that is capable of accommodating the first connection pipe <NUM>, and the housing cavity is provided with a shrinkage port structure to prevent the first connection pipe <NUM> from detaching. An outer surface of the expansion portion <NUM> is attached to the inner wall of the shrinkage port. Correspondingly, a shrinkage shape of the abutting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> is also set corresponding to the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so as to ensure that the abutting portion <NUM> can closely contact with and seal the first connection pipe <NUM>.

Upon a condition that the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM> to a maximum extent via the first thread portion <NUM>, the abutting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against an inner surface of the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so that the first connection pipe <NUM> is sealed and fixed to a position between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>.

The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is an outer hexagon-shaped nut, which is sleeved on a second end relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the connection nut <NUM>. Correspondingly, an outer surface of the connection nut <NUM> includes a third thread portion <NUM>, and the third thread portion <NUM> is configured for threadedly connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>. The connection nut <NUM> is further provided with a smooth portion <NUM> connected to the third thread portion <NUM>, and a dimension of the smooth portion <NUM> equals to that of the third thread portion <NUM>. The smooth portion <NUM> is configured to prevent the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> from being screwed out of the connection nut <NUM> directly. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is arranged between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>, and the inner dimension of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is smaller than the outer dimension of the assembling portion <NUM>, making the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> not easily to be lost during installation, and facilitating direct installation of the connection by the installer.

Upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected with the third thread portion <NUM> to a maximum extent, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed until surfaces of an inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the third thread portion <NUM> produce screw loose. At this time, it is difficult for the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> to be screwed in or out by a tool, and the connection nut <NUM> cannot be further screwed in or out, thus further ensuring a non-detachably connection between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>.

The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> in the present embodiment is an outer hexagon-shaped nut. In this way, on the one hand, it is easier and saves effort for the installer to rotate the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, and on the other hand, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can be used with various existing wrench tools, increasing the range of wrench tools to choose.

It is understood that in other embodiments, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> may also be in other shapes, such as a pentagon-shaped nut, as long as the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can be easily connected to the connection nut <NUM>. The connection nut <NUM> may further be in other structures to prevent the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> from being directly screwed out of the connection nut <NUM>. For example, by providing a limiting portion on the outer surface of the connection nut <NUM>, as long as the structure can prevent the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> from being screwed out directly of the connection nut <NUM>.

In an embodiment, hardness of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is lower than hardness of the pipe connector <NUM> or the connection nut <NUM>. In this way, upon a condition that screw loose is generated between the surfaces of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>, an inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> are damaged, while neither the pipe connector <NUM> nor the connection nut <NUM> is damaged.

In an embodiment, an outer screw thread being capable of connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is defined on an outer surface of the connection nut <NUM>, and an inner screw thread being capable of connecting with the pipe connector <NUM> is defined on an inner surface of the connection nut <NUM>. A spiral direction of the inner screw thread of the connection nut <NUM> is opposite to that of the outer screw thread of the connection nut <NUM>. That is, a direction of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM> is opposite to a direction of the connection nut <NUM> screwed into the pipe connector <NUM>. In this way, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can further drive the connection nut <NUM> to screw into the pipe connector <NUM> while being tightened, and prevent the connection nut <NUM> from being screwed out of the pipe connector <NUM>. Specifically, the inner screw thread on the inner surface of the connection nut <NUM> can be a right-hand thread and the outer screw thread on the outer surface of the connection nut <NUM> can be a left-hand thread on the contrary. A direction F1 in which the installer screws the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM> and a direction F2 in which the pipe connector <NUM> is screwed into the connection nut <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, respectively. However, upon a condition that the installer fixes the connection nut <NUM> and screw the pipe connector <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM> with the tool, the direction in which the pipe connector <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM> is opposite to the direction of F2 in the <FIG>.

In an embodiment, in order to ensure threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> smaller than threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, a biting depth between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is deeper than that between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. Therefore, a force of the pipe connector <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM> is greater than a force of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM>. In this way, upon a condition that screw loose is generated between surfaces of the inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the third thread portion <NUM>, screw loose is hardly generated between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

In an embodiment, upon a condition that screw loose is generated between surfaces of the inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the third thread portion <NUM>, in order to prevent the first connection pipe <NUM> from being damaged by a pressing force between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> caused by a locking force of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, a connection length between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is longer than that between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. In an embodiment, the number of screw threads between the connection nut <NUM> and pipe connector <NUM> is greater than that between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the inner screw thread disposed on an inner surface of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> extends between both ends of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, so that the connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> is greater.

In an embodiment, the inner screw thread disposed on the inner surface of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> extends to one end of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, so that the processing of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is convenient and time-saving, and the processing cost is reduced.

A process of fixing the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> to the first connection pipe <NUM> or the second connection pipe <NUM> is shown hereinafter.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, during installation, firstly, an end of the first connection pipe <NUM> with the expansion portion <NUM> is inserted into the connection nut <NUM>, and extends out from a first end of the connection nut <NUM>, and the pipe connector <NUM> is screwed into the second end of the connection nut <NUM> along the direction F2 with a wrench to fix the pipe connector <NUM>. Then the pipe connector <NUM> is tightened and abuts against the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so that a wall of the expansion portion <NUM> is clamped between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed along the direction F1, and drives the pipe connector <NUM> further screw into the connection nut <NUM>, so that the first connection pipe <NUM> can be further compressed. After the first connection pipe <NUM> is compressed, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed along the direction F1. At this time, since the threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> is smaller than the threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, screw loose is generated between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. That is, the inner thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the outer thread of the third thread portion <NUM> cannot be engaged. At this time, whether the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed in or out of the connection nut <NUM>, the connection nut <NUM> does not rotate. In addition, since the outer surface of the smooth portion <NUM> is a smooth surface, it is impossible to rotate the connection nut <NUM> by other tools and loosen the connection nut <NUM>. Therefore, the requirement that the connection nut <NUM> is disassembled is achieved, preventing the leakage of refrigerant caused by manual disassembly.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of connection between a disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM>, a first connection pipe <NUM>, and a second connection pipe <NUM> in an embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of a pipe connector <NUM> of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> in <FIG>. <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of a disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and a pipe connector <NUM> in an untightened state of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> in <FIG>.

The first connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in a first end of the connection nut <NUM>, and a second end of the connection nut <NUM> is threadedly connected the pipe connector <NUM>. The first connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in the connection nut <NUM> and abuts against the pipe connector <NUM>. Upon a condition that the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM> to a maximum extent, the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the first connection pipe <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected to the pipe connector <NUM>, and the second connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in and fixed to a second end of the pipe connector <NUM> away from the first connection pipe <NUM>.

Upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed to the pipe connector <NUM>, the connection between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> cannot be removed directly by the ordinary user of the air conditioner, thus achieving the purpose of making the pipes of the indoor unit of the air conditioner unable to be disassembled.

The pipe connector <NUM> is approximately cylinder-shaped, the second end of the pipe connector <NUM> away from the first connection pipe <NUM> is threadedly connected with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, and the first end of the pipe connector <NUM> contracts along a radial direction of a cross section of the pipe connector <NUM> and forms an abutting portion <NUM>. The abutting portion <NUM> is configured to abut against the first connection pipe <NUM>, and a thread portion is configured for threadedly connecting with the connection nut <NUM>. The first thread portion <NUM> is defined on an outer surface relatively close to the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, the first thread portion <NUM> is capable of threadedly connecting with the connection nut <NUM>, and the first thread portion <NUM> is relatively close to the abutting portion <NUM>.

The second connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in and fixed to the pipe connector <NUM> by methods of welding, riveting and the like, so as to ensure sealing between the second connection pipe <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

Furthermore, an outer side of the pipe connector <NUM> further includes an exposed smooth curved portion (not labeled), so that the user cannot directly remove the pipe connector <NUM> with ordinary tools after the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is connected to the connection nut <NUM>.

The connection nut <NUM> is substantially cylinder-shaped, and an inner surface of the connection nut <NUM> is provided with a thread for connecting with the pipe connector <NUM>. An expansion portion <NUM> is defined on an end connecting to the connection nut <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>. The expansion portion <NUM> is configured to prevent the first connection pipe <NUM> from being pulled out of the connection nut <NUM> directly. Accordingly, the connection nut <NUM> is provided with a housing cavity that is capable of accommodating the first connection pipe <NUM>, and the housing cavity is provided with a shrinkage port structure to prevent the first connection pipe <NUM> from detaching. The outer surface of the expansion portion <NUM> is attached to the inner wall of the shrinkage port. Correspondingly, the shrinkage shape of the abutting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> is also set corresponding to the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so as to ensure that the abutting portion <NUM> can closely contact and seal with the first connection pipe <NUM>.

Upon a condition that the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM> to a maximum extent via the first thread portion <NUM>, the abutting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the inner wall of the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so that the first connection pipe <NUM> is sealed and fixed to a position between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>.

The connection nut <NUM> is provided with a twisting portion <NUM> for the user to screw the connection nut <NUM> to the pipe connector <NUM> with a tool.

In an embodiment, in order to facilitate screwing the pipe connector <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM> with a tool, the twisting portion <NUM> is substantially an outer hexagon-shaped prism.

It could be understood that in other embodiment, the shape of the twisting portion <NUM> can be in other non-circular structures, such as triangle-shaped prisms, as long as it can facilitate screwing the pipe connector <NUM> into the connection nut <NUM> with a tool.

Referring to <FIG> is a section view of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> in <FIG>. <FIG> is a section view of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> in <FIG>.

In an embodiment, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is an outer hexagon-shaped nut, which is sleeved on the pipe connector <NUM>. Correspondingly, a second thread portion <NUM> is defined on an outer surface relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the second thread portion <NUM> is capable of threadedly connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>.

In an embodiment, a limiting portion <NUM> is defined on a first end away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> extending along an axial direction of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the limiting portion <NUM> is configured to abut against the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is sleeved on and threadedly connected to the pipe connector <NUM>, and the inside dimension of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is smaller than the outside dimension of the limiting portion <NUM>, making the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> easy for the installer to install directly with tools.

In one embodiment, a second thread portion <NUM> is provided between the limiting portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> and the first thread portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the second thread portion <NUM> is configured for connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>. In this way, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> are installed on the same side of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the inner dimension of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is smaller than the outer dimension of the twisting portion <NUM> of the connection nut <NUM>, so that it is not easy for the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> to lose during installation, and easy for the installer to install directly.

Preferably, a dimension of the second thread portion <NUM> is larger than that of the first thread portion <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a spiral direction of the first thread portion <NUM> is opposite to that of the second thread portion <NUM>. That is, a direction of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> is opposite to a direction of the connection nut <NUM> screwed into the pipe connector <NUM>. In this way, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can drive the pipe connector <NUM> to screw into the connection nut <NUM> while being tightened. Specifically, the first thread portion <NUM> can be set as a right-hand thread and the second thread portion <NUM> can be set as a left-hand thread on the contrary. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> in a direction F1, and the connection nut <NUM> is screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> in a direction F2.

In one embodiment, upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected with the second thread portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> and abuts against the limiting portion <NUM>, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed until screw loose is generated between surfaces of an inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the second thread portion <NUM>. At this time, it is difficult for the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> to be screwed in or out by the tool, and the connection nut <NUM> cannot be further screwed in or out, thus further ensuring a non-detachably connection between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

It is understood that in other embodiments, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> may also be in other shapes, such as a pentagon-shaped nut, as long as the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can be easily connected to the pipe connector <NUM>. The spiral directions of the first thread portion <NUM> and the second thread portion <NUM> can also be interchanged, as long as the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can drive the pipe connector <NUM> to be screwed into the connection nut <NUM> while screwing into the pipe connector <NUM>.

In an embodiment, hardness of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is lower than hardness of the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. In this way, upon a condition that screw loose is generated between the surfaces of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, an inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> are damaged, while neither the first thread portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> nor the connection nut <NUM> is damaged.

In an embodiment, in order to ensure threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> smaller than threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, a biting depth of a threaded connection between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is deeper than a biting depth of a threaded connection between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. Therefore, a force of the pipe connector <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM> is greater than a force of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM>. In some embodiments, a connection length between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is longer than that between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. In this way, upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is tightly tightened and abuts against the limiting portion <NUM>, the connection between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is tight, but screw loose is hardly generated between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the inner screw thread disposed on an inner surface of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> extends to both ends of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, so that the connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is greater.

Referring to <FIG>, during installation, firstly, an end of the first connection pipe <NUM> with the expansion portion <NUM> is inserted into the connection nut <NUM>, and extends from a first end of the connection nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is sleeved on the pipe connector <NUM>, and the connection nut <NUM> is screwed into the first thread portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> along the direction F2 with a wrench to fix the connection nut <NUM>. Then the connection nut <NUM> is screwed and tightened, and the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so that a wall of the expansion portion <NUM> is clamped between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed along the direction F1, and drives the pipe connector <NUM> to screw into the connection nut <NUM>, so that the first connection pipe <NUM> is further compressed. After the first connection pipe <NUM> is compressed, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed along a locking direction until the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> abuts against the limiting portion <NUM>. At this time, since the threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is smaller than the threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, screw loose is generated between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. That is, the inner thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the first thread portion <NUM> cannot be engaged. At this time, whether the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed in or out of the pipe connector <NUM>, the pipe connector <NUM> does not rotate. In addition, since the outer circumference of the pipe connector <NUM> is a smooth surface, it is impossible to rotate the pipe connector <NUM> by other tools and loosen the pipe connector <NUM>. Therefore, the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> can be non-detachably connected. The disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> can be used in an air conditioning system to prevent leakage of refrigerant from the indoor unit of the air conditioning system, thus avoiding the safety hazards caused by the air conditioning system.

The following embodiment concerned does not form part of the claimed invention. Referring to <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of combination between a disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM>, a first connection pipe <NUM>, and a second connection pipe <NUM> in an embodiment. <FIG> is a structural schematic diagram of a pipe connector <NUM> of the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> in <FIG>.

The first connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in a first end of the connection nut <NUM>, and a second end of the connection nut <NUM> is threadedly connected the pipe connector <NUM>. The first connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in and abuts against the connection nut <NUM> via the pipe connector <NUM>. Upon a condition that the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the connection nut <NUM> to a maximum extent, the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the first connection pipe <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected to a second end relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the second connection pipe <NUM> is inserted in and fixed to the second end of the pipe connector <NUM> away from the first connection pipe <NUM>.

Upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed to the pipe connector <NUM>, the connection between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> cannot be removed directly by the ordinary user of the air conditioner, so that the pipes of the indoor unit of the air conditioner cannot be disassembled.

The pipe connector <NUM> is approximately cylinder-shaped, the second end away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> is threadedly connected with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, and the first end of the pipe connector <NUM> contracts along a radial direction of a cross section of the pipe connector <NUM> and forms an abutting portion <NUM>. The abutting portion <NUM> is configured to abut against the first connection pipe <NUM>, and a thread portion is configured for threadedly connecting with the connection nut <NUM>. The first thread portion <NUM> is defined on an outer surface relatively close to the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, the first thread portion <NUM> is capable of threadedly connecting with the connection nut <NUM>, and the first thread portion <NUM> is relatively close to the abutting portion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, combination between a disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> and a first connection pipe <NUM> or a second connection pipe <NUM> in <FIG>.

In an embodiment, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is an outer hexagon-shaped nut, which is sleeved on an end relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>. Correspondingly, a second thread portion 14a is defined on an outer surface relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the second thread portion 14a is capable of threadedly connecting with the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>.

The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> in the present embodiment is a hexagon-shaped nut. In this way, on the one hand, it is easier and saves effort for the installer to rotate the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>, and on the other hand, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can be used with various existing wrench tools, increasing the range of wrench tools to choose.

In one embodiment, a spiral direction of the first thread portion <NUM> is the same with that of the second thread portion 14a. That is, a direction of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> is opposite to a direction of the connection nut <NUM> screwed into the pipe connector <NUM>. In this way, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can drive the pipe connector <NUM> to screw into the connection nut <NUM> while being tightened. Specifically, both the first thread portion <NUM> and the second thread portion 14a can be set as a right-hand thread. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> in a direction F1, and the connection nut <NUM> is screwed into the pipe connector <NUM> in a direction F2.

In an embodiment, a limiting portion 15a extends along an axial direction of the pipe connector <NUM>. The limiting portion 15a is located between the first thread portion <NUM> and the second thread portion 14a, and configured to abut against the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected to an end relatively away from the first connection pipe <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM>, and the inside dimension of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is smaller than the outside dimension of the limiting portion 15a, making the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> easy for the installer to install directly with tools.

In one embodiment, upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is threadedly connected with the second thread portion 14a of the pipe connector <NUM> and abuts against the limiting portion 15a, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed until screw loose is generated between surfaces of an inner screw thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the second thread portion 14a. At this time, it is difficult for the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> to be screwed in or out by the tool, and the connection nut <NUM> cannot be further screwed in or out, thus further ensuring a non-detachably connection between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

It could be understood that in other embodiments, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> may also be in other shapes, such as a pentagon-shaped nut, as long as the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> can be easily connected to the pipe connector <NUM>.

In an embodiment, in order to ensure threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> smaller than threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, a biting depth of a threaded connection between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is deeper than a biting depth of a threaded connection between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. Therefore, a force of the pipe connector <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM> is greater than a force of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> screwed into the connection nut <NUM>. In some embodiments, a connection length between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is longer than that between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. In this way, upon a condition that the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is tightly tightened and abuts against the limiting portion 15a, the connection between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is tight, but screw loose is hardly generated between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, during installation, firstly, an end of the first connection pipe <NUM> provided with the expansion portion <NUM> is inserted into the connection nut <NUM>, and extends from a first end of the connection nut <NUM>. The connection nut <NUM> is screwed into the first thread portion <NUM> of the pipe connector <NUM> along the direction F2 with a wrench to fix the connection nut <NUM>. Then the connection nut <NUM> is screwed and tightened, and the pipe connector <NUM> abuts against the expansion portion <NUM> of the first connection pipe <NUM>, so that a wall of the expansion portion <NUM> is clamped between the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM>. The disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed along the direction F1, and drives the pipe connector <NUM> to screw into the connection nut <NUM>, so that the first connection pipe <NUM> is further compressed. After the first connection pipe <NUM> is compressed, the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is further screwed along a locking direction until the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> abuts against the limiting portion 15a. At this time, since the threaded connection strength between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM> is smaller than the threaded connection strength between the connection nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>, screw loose is generated between the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the pipe connector <NUM>. That is, the inner thread of the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> and the first thread portion <NUM> cannot be engaged. At this time, whether the disassembly-prevention nut <NUM> is screwed in or out of the pipe connector <NUM>, the pipe connector <NUM> does not rotate. In addition, since the outer circumference of the pipe connector <NUM> is a smooth surface, it is impossible to rotate the pipe connector <NUM> by other tools and loosen the pipe connector <NUM>. Therefore, the pipe connector <NUM> and the connection nut <NUM> can be non-detachably connected. The disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> can be applied in an air conditioning system to prevent leakage of refrigerant from the indoor unit of the air conditioning system, thus avoiding the safety hazards caused by the air conditioning system.

In the disassembly-prevention nut assembly provided by the present invention, by mounting the disassembly-prevention nut on the connection nut or the pipe connector, the connection nut can be non-detachably connected to the pipe connector, so that the first connection pipe can be non-detachably connected to the second connection pipe.

The present invention further provides an air conditioning system (not shown). The air conditioning system includes the disassembly-prevention nut assembly as described above, and other necessary components connected to the disassembly-prevention nut assembly <NUM> of the air conditioning system, such as compressors, heat exchangers, pipes, etc., so that the air conditioning system can function properly.

Claim 1:
An air conditioning system, comprising a first connection pipe (<NUM>), a second connection pipe (<NUM>) and a disassembly-prevention nut assembly (<NUM>),
wherein the disassembly-prevention nut assembly (<NUM>) is configured for fixing a first connection pipe (<NUM>) and a second connection pipe (<NUM>), the disassembly-prevention nut assembly (<NUM>) comprises a pipe connector (<NUM>), a connection nut (<NUM>) and a disassembly-prevention nut (<NUM>),
a first end of the connection nut (<NUM>) is fixed to the first connection pipe (<NUM>), the pipe connector (<NUM>) is sleeved on and fixed to the second connection pipe (<NUM>), and
characterized in that, the pipe connector (<NUM>) extends in and is threadedly connected to a second end of the connection nut (<NUM>), the disassembly-prevention nut (<NUM>) is sleeved on the connection nut (<NUM>) and threadedly connected to the second end relatively away from the first connection pipe (<NUM>) of the connection nut (<NUM>).