Central vacuum system universal hose end

Abstract

A universal hose ending fitting for connecting central vacuum system wall valves and cleaning attachment hose ends. Wall valves and hose ends provided by various manufacturers within the central vacuum industry are commonly mismatched and do not provide a snug, secure connection. The disclosed fitting is a sleeve that attaches to the hose end and upon insertion into the wall valve, provides the necessary secure fit. The disclosed embodiment is of a sleeve having flex to accommodate different size components.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a central vacuum system and in particular, to fittings and parts used therein. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] For some time, the central vacuum cleaning industry has had problems with hoses fitting the central vacuum system wall valves. Wall valves are manufactured by at least three North American vendors and three European vendors. At least four different hose manufacturers exist for the hose product that fits into these valves. No common standards exist or are adhered to for the industry. While it has been proposed to develop standards to address concerns over interchangeability, no standards have been developed, nor are apparently close to being developed. Data collected on various wall valves show differences of about 1 millimeter in opening diameters and differences at 1 inch deep of about 0.50 millimeters. With just a visual view of the various hose ends available, one can tell that large variations exists. The combin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] The objects of the present invention are: to provide a universal fit hose end fitting which enables different hose ends to be connected to different wall valves of various manufacturers; to provide such a fitting which is flexible and provides a snug insertion fit; to provide such a fitting which is long-lasting; to provide such a fitting which is well-suited for the intended purpose and is economical in price. Other objects and advantages of the following invention will become apparent from the disclosure hereafter.

Problems solved by technology

For some time, the central vacuum cleaning industry has had problems with hoses fitting the central vacuum system wall valves.

While it has been proposed to develop standards to address concerns over interchangeability, no standards have been developed, nor are apparently close to being developed.

The combination of different wall valves and different hose ends causes problems for end users concerning the mating of the hose and the wall plate.

Soft materials wear and eventually become too loose.

The extended portion hose fit covers the broadest range of valves, but its length will interfere with air performance on the valves designed for thin walls.

Some of the proposed solutions are not solutions at all, as they require the user to force the hose end into the valve so tightly that it is difficult to remove.

The anti-rotation feature causes the most serious design problem.

Unfortunately, the additional requirement of the anti-rotation device usually only allows a 0.100 inch change in the mating location, not enough distance to allow for good fit for all the different hose to valve combinations.

Unfortunately, soft hose ends eventually wear and stress relieve themselves to become an even smaller size, eventually causing dissatisfaction.

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