Pipe connector

Abstract

A pipe connector (20) for securing a pipe has a collet (25) having a collet ring (27) at one end for limiting the movement of an O-ring (26), the collet further having an elastic collet leg (28) with a toothing (31). A cap (23) fits on the body (21) to hold the collet and urge the teeth (31) into engagement with the tube. Between the teeth (31) and the ring (27), the collet (25) has one outwardly extending projection (37) abutting the proximal end of the body. The cap has at least one recess (34) for a release tool (40) that can plastically displace a flexible tab (62) extending through the recess (34). Between the toothing (31) and the collet ring (27), the collet (25) has at least one radially extending alignment projection (70) that engages the inner wall of the body (21) to limit radial deflection of the collet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a pipe connector for receiving and securing tubing. The connector is primarily designed as a pipe connector, but can also be used in any situation requiring the retention of tubing, for example, for air / gas or cables. Specifically, this disclosure relates to... Figure 1 An improvement to the known Speedfit (RTM) connector is shown. Background Technology

[0002] The figure illustrates a connector having a hollow body 1 with an axial through-hole or passage 2. At least one proximal end of the body 1 is provided with a cap 3, which is screwed onto the body 1 by complementary threads 4. A collet 5 passes through the end cap 3 and protrudes at an open end 6 of the connector. The collet 5 includes a collet ring 7 exposed at the open end 6 and a plurality of resilient legs 8 extending into the cap 3, wherein each resilient leg terminates in an enlarged head 9, the inner surface of which has clamping teeth 10. A spacer ring 11 is provided distal to the collet 6 for holding an O-ring 12 in place to separate it from the collet 5.

[0003] When the tube is inserted into the connector, from Figure 1 Tighten the end cap 3 downwards in the indicated position until it abuts against or otherwise approaches the shoulder 13 on the body 1. In this position, the cap inhibits axial movement of the collet in at least one direction, such as the axial direction. In this configuration, any attempt to remove the tube from the connector will cause the teeth 10 to bite into the tube, thereby forcing the head 9 of the collet against the cap corner 14 in the cap 3, causing the teeth 10 to gradually bite into the tube with increasing force. This helps reduce the possibility of accidental removal of the tube.

[0004] To release the tube, cap 3 must be screwed in. Figure 1 The position is shown. The user can then hold the collet 5 in the inward position by applying proximal axial pressure to the collet ring 7. This will prevent the teeth 10 from clamping the tube, thus allowing the tube to be withdrawn from the connector.

[0005] A simpler version of this design is known, in which the cap is fixed relative to the body. In this case, to remove the tube, simply hold the collet downwards as described earlier to remove the tube.

[0006] These connectors have been very successful, mainly because the engagement, clamping, and release of the tubes, as described above, are very simple.

[0007] However, the simplicity of connectors does indeed hinder their use in some situations, as some plumbers or installers distrust easy disassembly. Instead, they may prefer connectors that require tools to disconnect. Tools are also required to provide a safety benefit: preventing the connection from being released unless the person performing the release has the appropriate tools.

[0008] CN105972359 discloses a connector that uses an open-ring collar instead of a collet with a collet ring that clamps the tube using multiple elastic legs. Therefore, the clamping of the tube is achieved by a pair of axially spaced open-ring teeth.

[0009] FR2590648 discloses a connector with clamps, wherein the clamps' jaws abut against an inclined surface on the body to force the jaws to clamp a line in the connector. A cap is fitted onto the body and has an inclined surface that pushes the jaws away to release the line when the cap moves into the connector.

[0010] One product manufactured by Hepworth, as part of the BiTite series, uses an inverted collet configuration. The collet has an end cap that screws onto the body, which holds the O-ring and collet in place. The collet rests directly against the O-ring.

[0011] A connector with an inverted collet is shown in EP0863356. This connector also has a removable end cap, which must be removed to unlock the connector. The connector has a spacer ring extending into the body to support an O-ring. The collet is then received within the spacer ring. Summary of the Invention

[0012] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a tube connector for receiving and securing a tube is provided, the connector comprising: a body having a passage having an open proximal end for receiving the tube; an O-ring located within the passage for sealing against the wall of the tube; a collet including a collet ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs, the collet ring being located at a distal end of the collet disposed within the body to restrict movement of the O-ring, the plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth for clamping the tube in the connector during use; and a cap engaging with the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow tube entry, and the cap having cap corners configured to cooperate with the collet legs during use when the tube moves proximally to push the teeth into engagement with the tube; wherein, between the teeth and the ring, the collet has at least one outwardly extending protrusion, the protrusion being sized and positioned to abut against the proximal end of the body.

[0013] Compared to the conventional connectors described above, the collets of this connector are oriented in the opposite direction. Therefore, it is impossible to keep the collet teeth away from the tube by pressing the exposed portion of the collet as described above.

[0014] By using a collet ring to restrict the movement of the O-ring, the additional volume and complexity required by the spacer ring in EP0863356 are eliminated.

[0015] By using a collet with a collet ring that utilizes multiple elastic leg clamping tubes, the connector has a clamping arrangement that is fundamentally different from that in CN105972359.

[0016] By providing a cover corner on the cover to push the teeth toward the tube, the connector is fundamentally different from FR2590648, which instead uses a cover to provide a release mechanism.

[0017] At least one outward protrusion limits the extent to which the collet can extend into the body. In Hepworth connectors, the tube can be inserted into the connector at an angle, allowing it to press against one side of the collet. This may cause the collet to be slightly misaligned within the connector. In the case of this application, even if the collet is misaligned during tube insertion, at least one outward protrusion means that the action should not cause the O-ring to dislodge, as the protrusion prevents the collet ring from applying excessive pressure to the O-ring.

[0018] At least one protrusion allows the collet to contact the O-ring. Alternatively, the protrusion is sized and positioned such that the collet ring is spaced apart from the O-ring when the protrusion abuts against the proximal end of the body. This provides further protection for the O-ring.

[0019] In one example, the connector may be a disposable connector, which cannot be released without damaging the connector once the tube has been inserted. In an alternative example where the connector can be reused, the opening on the cap may have at least one recess to allow a tool to be inserted distally between the tube and the cap during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube.

[0020] Therefore, releasing the connector is not simply a matter of pushing the connector end. Instead, a separate tool needs to be inserted into the connector. This provides the benefit of tamper resistance, as a special tool is required to disconnect the connector. It also allows for simplified connector design. In fact, existing connectors require each connector to have its own permanent release mechanism. In this example, the release mechanism is not integrated into the connector. Instead, the release mechanism is provided by a separate tool, and a single tool can be used to disconnect multiple connectors.

[0021] As described above, the locking mechanism of the prior art first requires a rotating cap to allow the collet to be kept away from the tube. This provides some protection against accidental release of the tube. However, since the collet is not constructed to release by external axial pressure, it cannot be accidentally dislodged. Thus, there is no need for the cap to provide a rotatably locking sleeve. Therefore, in one example, the cap is fixed axially relative to the body. Furthermore, this simplifies the connector structure because the threaded connection between the cap and the body can be eliminated. This allows for a lower profile design of the connector. In other examples, a rotatable cap can be retained, particularly to allow this disclosure to be used with existing bodies.

[0022] When the cap is fixed axially relative to the body, the space allowing the tool to keep the teeth away from the tube is generally smaller. This can be achieved by providing a larger radial clearance between the collet and the cap corner. However, this compromises the cap corner's ability to function. Therefore, when the collet receives the tube in use and is in the fully engaged position, the collet can move axially. In this case, as the tube moves proximally, the engagement between the teeth and the tube will drive the collet and move it proximally to allow the cap corner to function. This also pushes the collet distally when the tool is inserted, and when the collet legs are deflected radially outward, thus keeping the legs away from the cap corner and allowing sufficient clearance for the radial outward deflection of the collet legs.

[0023] The collet can extend proximally to the cap. However, if the cap extends proximally beyond the collet, the collet can be fully contained within the cap. This provides protection against accidental movement of the collet.

[0024] The collet ring can be a continuous ring. The collet ring can project radially outward relative to the collet legs. The cap can have only a single cap corner. The only teeth can be located at the proximal end of the collet. Each collet leg can have an enlarged head that engages with the cap corner during use.

[0025] In cases where connector disconnection is required, this disclosure also extends to a combination of a tube connector and a release tool, the release tool being able to be inserted into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

[0026] The release tool can be a single piece mating on one side of the connector, or it can be made of several parts that individually mat in the connector. In one example, the release tool can have an open-loop configuration that is flexible enough to allow the tool to engage radially on the tube before moving axially into the connector. This allows the tool to be a single piece and to engage laterally on the tube extending from the connector, and then axially in the connector, such that the tool extends around most of the connector and can therefore engage multiple parts of the collet.

[0027] The release tool may have a radially extending flange portion providing a support surface and an engaging portion extending axially from the flange to enter the connector. In use, the user can axially push the tool into the connector by means of the support surface. This allows for easy manipulation of the tool. Because the flange is not a permanent part of the connector, it can be much larger than the exposed portion of a collet that needs to be pressed down to release a conventional connector.

[0028] The engagement portion may include multiple engagement elements or features arranged circumferentially, such as engagement forks, wherein the connector requires the insertion of each engagement element to allow the tube to be released. This provides a connector that cannot be released simply by placing a single blade or some other suitable object on one side of the connector.

[0029] In a stress-free state, in one example configuration, the tool can extend over its maximum or outermost circumferential range by an angle of at least 270 degrees. In other or alternative configurations, this angle can be at least 280 degrees, at least 290 degrees, at least 300 degrees, at least 310 degrees, at least 320 degrees, or at least 330 degrees. This helps to surround most of the connector.

[0030] The tool may have a chamfered end face that complements the chamfered end face of the collet legs. This facilitates the tool's fit within the collet.

[0031] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a tube connector for receiving and securing a tube is provided, the connector comprising: a body having a passage having an open proximal end for receiving a tube; an O-ring located within the passage for sealing against the wall of the tube; a collet including a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth for clamping the tube in the connector during use; and a cap mating to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow tube entry, and the cap having cap corners configured to cooperate with the collet legs during use when the tube moves proximally to push the teeth into engagement with the tube; wherein the opening on the cap has at least one recess to allow a release tool to be inserted distally between the tube and the cap during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube; wherein the collet extends proximally into at least one recess.

[0032] By extending the collet into at least one recess, the ability of dirt and debris to enter the recess is reduced. This will also improve the appearance of the connector and eliminate / reduce any concerns among users that the presence of the opening recess may impair connector performance.

[0033] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a tube connector for receiving and securing a tube is provided, the connector comprising: a body having a passage having an open proximal end for receiving a tube; an O-ring located within the passage for sealing against the wall of the tube; a collet including a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth for clamping the tube in the connector during use; and a cap mating to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow tube entry, and the cap having cap corners configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube when the tube moves proximally during use; wherein the opening on the cap has at least one recess to allow a release tool to be inserted distally between the tube and the cap during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube; wherein the cap has at least one flexible lug extending through at least one recess and configured such that the lug can be displaced by a release tool to allow insertion of the release tool into the cap.

[0034] By providing at least one flexible lug extending across at least one recess, the ability of dirt and debris to enter the recess is reduced. This will also improve the appearance of the connector and eliminate / reduce any concerns among users that the presence of the opening recess may impair connector performance.

[0035] The flexible lug can be elastically deformable or can be designed as a shear tab. However, alternatively, at least one flexible lug is configured to plastically deform when deflected toward the cover.

[0036] In this situation, applying a release tool or other object to the cover will cause plastic deformation of at least one flexible lug. This provides a continuous visual indication that the connector has been released, or at least that an attempt has been made to release it. This visual indication is useful in many situations. For example, if an installer has already installed multiple connectors in the field and then returns a later day to complete the installation, the installer has a clear visual indication of whether any previously installed connectors have subsequently been disconnected. For example, a subsequent worker might want to remove a conduit connection to install items such as wires or panels. In this case, the original installer is alerted to the fact that the connector has been interfered with, and appropriate remedial measures can be taken if necessary.

[0037] Alternatively, in the event of a connector failure, the installer's best practice is to disconnect the conduit system adjacent to the connector and return both the conduit system and the connector to the manufacturer for further diagnosis. Manufacturers utilize malleable tabs to obtain a clear visual indication of whether the connection has been broken, which is useful diagnostic information.

[0038] Preferably, the joint between the cap and at least one flexible lug is arc-shaped. The lug hinges substantially around the joint between the cap and the lug during plastic deformation. Making this hinge arc-shaped enhances the resistance to the tendency of the lug to return to its undeformed state, thus maintaining a more prominent visual indication that the lug has been deformed.

[0039] Optionally, the undeformed tab extends at an angle of 25 to 65 degrees relative to the adjacent wall of the cover, and optionally at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees. Optionally, the thickness of the tab is between 0.2 mm and 0.8 mm, and optionally between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm.

[0040] The cap and collet can be the same color. However, alternatively, the cap and collet can be different colors. When the tab has been plastically deformed, the contrasting color of adjacent parts of the collet makes the fact that the tab has been deformed more visually apparent.

[0041] A third aspect of this disclosure extends to the combination of the aforementioned tube connector and release tool, wherein the release tool is capable of being inserted into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube. In this case, at least one flexible lug is optionally configured to plastically deform upon insertion of the release tool.

[0042] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a tube connector for receiving and securing a tube is provided, the connector comprising a body having a passage having an open proximal end for receiving the tube; an O-ring located within the passage for sealing against the wall of the tube; a collet including a collet ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs, the collet ring being located at a distal end of the collet disposed within the body to restrict movement of the O-ring, the plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth for clamping the tube in the connector during use; and a cap mating to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow tube entry, and the cap having cap corners configured to cooperate with the collet legs during use when the tube moves proximally to push the teeth into engagement with the tube; wherein, between the teeth and the collet ring, the collet has at least one radially extending alignment protrusion, the at least one radially extending alignment protrusion being sized and positioned to engage with an inner wall of the body to restrict radial deflection of the collet within the body.

[0043] Because the collet is configured in an inverted position compared to a conventional collet, the radial movement of the collet at its distal end is restricted by the presence of the collet ring. However, the collet may also skew at its proximal end during assembly, causing it to become misaligned within the connector. This can lead to tube insertion problems, further displacing the collet. To prevent this, a radially extending alignment protrusion engages with the inner diameter of the body to limit the collet's deflection range within the body. This helps ensure the collet is centered within the connector, facilitating tube insertion. Optionally, the collet ring extends radially outward beyond the collet legs. Optionally, the alignment protrusion and collet ring are positioned within a portion of the body and have the same inner diameter.

[0044] The connectors of the second to fourth aspects may have the optional features of the first aspect. The connectors of the second to fourth aspects may be configured in combination with a release tool that is capable of being inserted into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Examples of connectors and tools according to this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view taken through an existing technology connector;

[0047] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the first connector;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the first connector assembly;

[0049] Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective cross-sectional view of the first connector and tool;

[0050] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view taken through the first connector, and also shows the tube;

[0051] Figure 6 Is with Figure 5 A similar view, in which the tube has been inserted into the connector;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first connector, showing the tube already inserted and the tool in the pre-engaged position;

[0053] Figure 8 Is with Figure 7 A similar view, showing the tools in partial engagement;

[0054] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of the device shown;

[0055] Figure 10 Is with Figure 9 A similar view, in which the tool is fully inserted into the connector;

[0056] Figure 11 Is with Figure 10 A similar view, in which the tube is partially removed from the connector;

[0057] Figure 12 Is with Figure 3 A similar view of the second connector based on the first and second aspects;

[0058] Figure 13 Is with Figure 6 A similar view of the second connector;

[0059] Figure 14 Is with Figure 10 A similar view of the second connector;

[0060] Figure 15 Is with Figure 3 Similarly, a view of the third connector based on the first and third aspects;

[0061] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the third connector;

[0062] Figure 17 Is with Figure 3 A similar view of the fourth connector;

[0063] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the fourth connector;

[0064] Figure 19 This is an end view of the fifth connector before the insertion tube;

[0065] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the fifth connector after the tube is fully inserted;

[0066] Figure 21 Is with Figure 19 A similar view, in which the tube has been inserted;

[0067] Figure 22 Is with Figure 20 A similar view is shown in the diagram, illustrating the release tool before insertion;

[0068] Figure 23 Is with Figure 22 A similar view is shown in the figure, illustrating the release tool fully inserted into the connector;

[0069] Figure 24 Is with Figure 23 A similar view, in which the tube has been removed and the release tool remains in place; and

[0070] Figures 25 to 27 Is with Figures 19 to 21 A similar view is shown in the diagram, illustrating the connector after the release tool has been removed. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Now refer to Figures 2 to 11 The first example describing a connector.

[0072] The instruction manual mentions proximal and distal ends, as well as proximal and distal directions. The proximal end is the open end of the connector, and the distal end is the end furthest from the open end. The proximal direction is the direction from the distal end to the proximal end (i.e., away from the connector). The distal direction is the direction from the proximal end to the distal end (i.e., into the connector).

[0073] The connector 20 shown has only one connection. Similar arrangements can be provided at opposite ends of the connector. Alternatively, the connector may include a bend, tee, end stop or end, manifold with branches, or any other suitable shape or fitting configuration. In other cases, connector 20 may be configured for a single joint, and different types of connectors may be used for other joints. As another alternative, connector 20 may be part of a larger component and provide means for connecting the larger component to the pipe, such as a valve or other piping facility or equipment.

[0074] Connector 20 includes a body 21 having an axial through-hole 22. A cap 23 is screwed onto the body 21 via complementary threads 24. Alternatively, a snap-fit ​​engagement may be used. A collet 25 is held within the body 21 and cap 23 and is provided with an O-ring 26 to seal against the outer wall of the tube T inserted into the connector.

[0075] The collet 25 includes a collet ring 27 and a plurality of flexible collet legs 28 extending from the collet ring 27 toward the open end 29 of the connector. Each collet leg 28 has an enlarged head 30, on which inwardly angled teeth 31 are provided.

[0076] O-ring 26 is captured between collet ring 27 and shoulder 32, which forms part of through hole 22.

[0077] and Figure 1 Compared to the conventional connector shown, it should be understood that the collet 25 positions the collet ring 27 in the innermost position in the opposite manner. This allows the O-ring 26 to be supported by the collet ring without the need for a separate spacer ring.

[0078] The cover 23 extends proximally beyond the collet head 30 to completely surround the collet head 30. A cover corner portion 33, as described below, is provided on the inner surface of the cover 23.

[0079] On the inner surface of the cover 23 at the opening end 29, there are a plurality of circumferentially arranged recesses 34 around the central opening 35 for inserting the release tool 40, as described below.

[0080] Now refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 Describe the connection method between connector 20 and tube T.

[0081] Connector 20 can be operated with cover 23 in the "locked" position. In other words, tube T can be inserted or released without actuating or moving cover 23 between different positions.

[0082] Even when the cap 23 is fully screwed onto the body 21, the cap corner 33 is still long enough that there is still sufficient clearance between the cap corner 33 and the collet head 30 for the collet leg 28 to deflect radially outward, thereby allowing the tube to be inserted.

[0083] In an alternative design, the cap corners can be shorter, so that the cap must be unscrewed to the unlocked position to allow sufficient clearance for the insertion of the tube T.

[0084] Then, the tube T is inserted into the collet 25, thereby deflecting the leg 28 outward to allow the tube T to insert and pass through the O-ring 26 until it reaches the end stop 36. This position is... Figure 6 As shown in the image.

[0085] In this configuration, any attempt to remove tube T by pulling it proximally will cause the angled teeth 31 to clamp the tube wall. The engagement of the head 30 with the cap corner 33 prevents the collet legs 28 from deflecting outward, ensuring that the greater the force applied to tube T, the tighter the teeth 31 clamp the tube.

[0086] To limit the extent to which the collet 25 can enter the body 21, the collet has a flange 37 extending radially outward from the leg 28. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, these flanges 37 abut against the axial end face 38 of the body 21. This creates a gap 39 between the O-ring 26 and the collet ring 27.

[0087] During the insertion of tube T, if the tube is inserted at an angle, it may only push against the head 30 on one side of the collet. Since the extent to which the collet 25 can enter the body 21 is limited by the flange 37, this abnormal loading does not allow the collet to press against the side of the O-ring, otherwise the O-ring may dislodge. The precise arrangement of the flange 37 is not important, as long as it prevents this accidental movement of the collet, especially in cases of asymmetrical loading.

[0088] Before describing the release of tube T, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Description of release tool 40.

[0089] The release tool 40 is a single injection-molded part. The release tool 40 includes a flange 41 and a plurality of engaging portions 42. The flange 41 has a generally annular configuration, and the plurality of engaging portions 42 extend axially from the inner edge of the flange 41. Each engaging portion 42 has a generally arcuate cross-section and complements a recess 34 on an opening 35 of the cover 23. An opening spacing 45 is provided through the flange 41 and the engaging portions 42 to give the tool 40 an open annular configuration.

[0090] Now refer to Figures 7 to 11 Describes how to release the connector using release tool 40.

[0091] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the release tool 40 is used against connector 20 by moving radially toward tube T near connector 20. The gap 45 is pushed against tube T, thereby unfolding the ring. Upon further pushing, the elasticity of the release tool 40 causes the tool to return to an unpressurized position, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in this position, the tool surrounds the tube T. If necessary, the tool 40 can then be rotated to release it, aligning the engaging portion 42 with the recess 34 in the cap 23.

[0092] Once both components are in the correct position, the user presses the flange 41, causing the engaging portion 42 to enter the recess 34. The end of the engaging portion 42 is provided with a chamfer 46, which enters the collet 25 and pushes the head 30 radially outward, thereby disengaging the teeth 31 from the tube T. Figure 10 As shown. A small radial gap exists between flange 37 and cap 23 to allow leg 28 to be deflected outward to the desired degree. Alternatively, there may be no gap on the outer side of flange 37, but leg 28 would need to be longer and / or more flexible to allow the desired deflection. When the tool is in this position, tube T can be pulled proximally from connector 20, as... Figure 11 As shown. When this occurs, tool 40 keeps teeth 31 away from tube T. Once tube T is removed, release tool 40 can be pulled directly from connector 20 to the distal end.

[0093] Figures 12 to 14 The second connector is shown, and the same reference numerals denote the same parts. The second connector operates in essentially the same manner as the first connector. The only modification is that the collet legs 28 have axial extensions 50, each extension 50 extending into a corresponding recess 34. This means that there is no significant large gap near the proximal end of the connector surrounding the tube T. Figure 14As shown, the tool 40 is shaped to fit within the extension 50, causing the collet legs 28 to deflect outwards. The tool end face has a stop surface 51 that abuts against the proximal end of the extension to prevent over-insertion of the tool.

[0094] Although this example shows a collet extension 50 coupled with flange 37, extension 50 can also be used with collets without flange 37.

[0095] Figures 15 to 16 The third connector is shown, and the same reference numerals denote the same parts. The third connector operates in essentially the same manner as the first connector. The only modification is that the cover has flexible lugs 60 located in each recess 34. Figure 16 As shown, the lug extends inward from the proximal end of the cover 23 in a distal direction. The lug 60 functions similarly to the extension 50, as the lug 60 and the extension fill most of the recess 34. The connector operates similarly to the aforementioned method, except that the tool T deflects the lug 60 radially outward when inserted into the connector.

[0096] Figure 17 and Figure 18 The fourth connector is shown. This connector is the same as the third design, but has two flexible lugs 61 in each recess 34.

[0097] Although these examples show flexible lugs 60 and 61 in conjunction with flange 37, flexible lugs 60 and 61 can also be used on connectors without flange 37 on the collet.

[0098] Figures 19 to 27 The fifth connector is shown. This connector is largely the same as the third and fourth connectors; the differences will be described below.

[0099] In the fifth connector, three flexible lugs 62 are provided in each recess 34. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the recess 34 is separated by a radially extending boss 63, which has an arcuate inner surface 64 that keeps the tube T in a centered position despite the presence of the recess 34.

[0100] Figure 20 The fifth connector is shown in the operating position, in which the fifth connector holds and seals the tube T. Figure 22 It shows that it is in the same position as Figure 9 Release tool 40 at the same location, Figure 23 It shows the corresponding Figure 10 The release tool is fully inserted in this manner. In this position, keep the collet head 30 and teeth 31 away from the tube T, thereby allowing... Figure 24 Remove tube T as shown.

[0101] In this fifth example, the lug 62 is configured such that when the release tool 40 is inserted... Figure 23 In the indicated position, the lugs 62 deflect radially outward to the extent that they hinge around their engagement with the cap. The lugs 62 deflect beyond their elastic limit and undergo plastic deformation, at least at the engagement with the cap 23. When the release tool 40 is removed, as... Figures 25 to 27 As shown, the lug 62 remains radially outwardly deflected, resulting in a noticeable visual difference at the open end 29 of the connector. This is from... Figure 19 and Figure 25 , Figure 20 and Figure 26 as well as Figure 21 and Figure 27 The difference is obvious from the comparison.

[0102] If the clip 25 and the cap 23 are made of different colored materials, this difference will be more visually apparent. For example, if the cap 23 is made of white or black plastic, the clip 25 could be gray. Alternatively, if the cap 23 is gray, the clip 25 could be black or white. Any contrasting color pair can be used to enhance this difference.

[0103] As from Figure 25 As can be understood, each lug 62 and cap 23 engages along an arcuate path. The lug 62 is essentially hinged at this engagement. Because the fold line is non-linear, this limits the extent to which the deformable lug 62 returns to its original position, thus ensuring that the spacing remains easily visible.

[0104] like Figure 27 As shown, the boss 63 remains in contact with the tube T, thereby ensuring that the tube T remains centered within the connector even when the tab 62 is deflected outward.

[0105] As can be clearly seen from the descriptions of the third to fifth examples, the number and form of the deformable tabs can be varied. Furthermore, the number of recesses 34, and therefore the number and form of the radial bosses 63, can also be varied.

[0106] The cap 23 and tab 62 can be made of filled nylon (such as PA6 or PA66) with mineral or glass fiber filler. Other grades of nylon, polysulfone (PSU), or polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU) can also be used. The thickness of the tab is determined by the material of the connector and is selected to ensure reliable plastic deformation of the tab upon insertion of the release tool 40. The tab thickness is selected to ensure reliable plastic deformation of the tab upon insertion of the release tool 40. The tab thickness can be between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm, and can be approximately 0.3 mm.

[0107] exist Figure 20 and Figure 22The image shows the tab 62 extending at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the inner wall of the cover 23 on which the tab 62 is mounted. However, the tab 62 can also be mounted at an angle between 25 degrees and 65 degrees.

[0108] In most installations, the installer will install the cover and piping as described above. In some cases, the release tool 40 must be used to release the connector. Typically, the installer will establish multiple connections during a site visit without using the release tool 40 and without removing any connectors. In any subsequent inspection, such as if the installer returns to the site later, it will be immediately apparent from the location of the tab 62 that an attempt to release the connector was made. If this is the case, the installer can further investigate whether the connection has been compromised in any way.

[0109] It should be noted that tab 62 does not seal or clamp the tube T, therefore the connector will continue to function even if tab 62 has undergone plastic deformation. Simply put, the deformation of tab 62 provides external indication of the early application of the release tool 40.

[0110] A further modification of the fifth example is the presence of a radially centering flange 70, located axially between ring 27 and flange 37, projecting radially outward from the collet. A radially outwardly extending centering flange 70 is provided on each collet leg 28. The outer diameter of the centering flange 70 is equal to or exactly less than the inner diameter of the adjacent portion of connector 71.

[0111] from Figure 24 It is evident that if the tube T is not in the proper position, the collet 25 is centered only by the collet ring 27. This is at the distal end of the collet 25. Therefore, the collet 25 may be slightly misaligned within the body 21, causing the proximal end of the collet 25 to not be perfectly aligned with the cap 23. The presence of the centering flange 70 reduces the likelihood of the collet 25 being misaligned within the body 21.

[0112] The centering flange 70 can be used in the aforementioned example.

Claims

1. A tube connector for receiving and securing a tube, the tube connector comprising: The body has a passageway having an opening proximal to receive a tube; An O-ring, located within the passage, is used to seal the wall of the tube; A collet, comprising a collet ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs, the collet ring being located at the distal end of the collet disposed within the body to restrict movement of the O-ring, the plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the collet ring, the legs having teeth for clamping a tube in the connector during use; as well as A cap, which fits into the body to hold the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow the tube to enter, and the cap having a cap corner configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube when the tube moves proximally during use; Wherein, between the teeth and the collet ring, the collet has at least one outwardly extending protrusion, the size and position of which are configured to abut against the proximal end of the body.

2. The pipe connector according to claim 1, wherein, The size and position of the at least one outwardly extending protrusion are configured such that when the at least one outwardly extending protrusion abuts against the proximal end of the body, the collet ring is spaced apart from the O-ring.

3. The pipe connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The opening on the cap has at least one recess to allow a release tool to be inserted distally between the tube and the cap during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube.

4. The tube connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The cover is fixed axially relative to the body.

5. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When the connector is in use and receives the tube and is in the fully engaged position, the collet can move axially.

6. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cover extends proximally beyond the collet.

7. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The collet ring is a continuous ring.

8. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The collet ring protrudes radially outward relative to the collet leg.

9. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each collet leg has an enlarged head that engages with the cap corner during use.

10. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cover has only a single corner.

11. The tube connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The only teeth are located at the proximal end of the collet.

12. A combination of a tube connector and a release tool according to claim 3, the release tool being insertable in the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap to deflect the collet leg away from the tube.

13. The combination according to claim 12, wherein, The release tool has an open ring configuration that is flexible enough to allow the release tool to engage radially with the tube before it moves axially into the connector.

14. The combination according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The release tool has a radially extending flange portion that provides a support surface and an engagement portion that extends axially from the flange to enter the connector. In use, the user can axially push the release tool into the connector by means of the support surface.

15. The combination according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein, The engagement portion includes a plurality of engagement elements arranged circumferentially, and wherein the connector requires each of the engagement elements to be inserted in order to allow the tube to be released.

16. The combination according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein, In a stress-free state, the release tool extends through an angle of at least 270 degrees over its maximum circumference.

17. The combination according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein, The release tool has a chamfered end face, which is complementary to the chamfered end face of the collet leg.

18. A tube connector for receiving and securing a tube, the tube connector comprising: The body has a passageway having an opening proximal to receive a tube; An O-ring, located within the passage, is used to seal the wall of the tube; The collet includes a collet ring at the distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the collet ring, the legs having teeth for clamping a tube in the connector during use. as well as A cap, which fits into the body to hold the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow the tube to enter, and the cap having a cap corner configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube when the tube moves proximally during use; The opening on the cap has at least one recess to allow a release tool to be inserted into the tube and the cap in a distal direction during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube; The collet extends proximally into the at least one recess.

19. A combination of a tube connector and a release tool according to claim 18, the release tool being insertable in the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap to deflect the collet leg away from the tube.

20. A tube connector for receiving and securing a tube, the tube connector comprising: The body has a passageway having an opening proximal to receive a tube; An O-ring, located within the passage, is used to seal the wall of the tube; The collet includes a collet ring at the distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the collet ring, the legs having teeth for clamping a tube in the connector during use. as well as A cap, which fits into the body to hold the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow the tube to enter, and the cap having a cap corner configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube when the tube moves proximally during use; The opening on the cap has at least one recess to allow a release tool to be inserted into the tube and the cap in a distal direction during use, thereby deflecting the collet legs away from the tube; The cover has at least one flexible lug extending through the at least one recess and configured such that the at least one flexible lug can be displaced by the release tool to allow the release tool to be inserted into the cover.

21. The pipe connector according to claim 20, wherein, The at least one flexible lug is designed to plastically deform when deflected toward the cover.

22. The pipe connector according to claim 20 or 21, wherein, The junction between the cover and the at least one flexible lug is arc-shaped.

23. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein, The undeformed tabs extend at an angle of 25 to 65 degrees relative to the adjacent wall of the cover, and optionally at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees.

24. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein, The thickness of the undeformed tab is between 0.2 mm and 0.8 mm, and optionally between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm.

25. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein, The cap and the collet are different colors.

26. A combination of a tube connector and a release tool according to any one of claims 20 to 25, the release tool being insertable in the connector in a distal direction between the tube and the cap to deflect the collet leg away from the tube.

27. The combination according to claim 26, which is dependent on claim 21, wherein, The at least one flexible lug structure is plastically deformable by inserting the release tool.

28. A tube connector for receiving and securing a tube, the tube connector comprising: The body has a passageway having an opening proximal to receive a tube; An O-ring, located within the passage, is used to seal the wall of the tube; A collet, comprising a collet ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs, the collet ring being located at the distal end of the collet disposed within the body to restrict movement of the O-ring, the plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the collet ring, the legs having teeth for clamping a tube in the connector during use; as well as A cap, which fits into the body to hold the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow the tube to enter, and the cap having a cap corner configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube when the tube moves proximally during use; Wherein, between the teeth and the collet ring, the collet has at least one radially extending alignment protrusion, the at least one radially extending alignment protrusion being sized and positioned to engage with the inner wall of the body to limit radial deflection of the collet within the body.

29. The pipe connector according to claim 28, wherein, The collet ring extends radially outward beyond the collet leg.

30. The pipe connector according to claim 28 or 29, wherein, The at least one radially extending alignment protrusion and the collet ring are positioned within a portion of the body and have the same inner diameter.

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