FLUID CONDUIT

Abstract

A water faucet and a connection arrangement therefor, the connection arrangement having a body section. The body section comprises inner core section extending from the body section, the inner core section having an axial bore therethrough. An outer expandable member is arranged coaxial with the inner core section and external thereof. A first end of the expandable member is proximal the body section and a second end of the expandable member is distal the body section. An end element is positioned adjacent the distal side of the expandable member and an actuation mechanism is provided that can draw the end element towards the body section to axially compress the expandable member, resulting in radial expansion of the expandable member.

Description

1 / 32 FLUID CONDUIT Field of Invention

[001] The present invention relates to a fluid conduit, particularly a water tap or spout, a spout using hoses, a radiator inlet and conduits to allow water to pass through them. Fundamentals of the Invention

[002] Water taps, such as faucets in sinks and bathrooms, are conventionally fitted into pre-formed openings in the sink or bathtub; however, fitting the tap typically requires access to both sides of the opening, because the respective parts are placed on each side of the opening and connected to each other, with elastomeric seals being required on each side of the surface. This may be in the form of threaded sections that are screwed together to secure around the sink or bathtub. If the seals are not located appropriately, there is a significant risk of water leakage through the surface.

[003] One problem with such existing arrangements is that installation is difficult due to the depth of the sink or bathtub unit, and this is a particular problem with kitchen sinks. As such, an installer will need access to both sides of the surface where the faucet is being installed, and often two people are required. One Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 23 / 66 2 / 32 An additional problem with conventional arrangements is that where threaded connections are used, they can loosen over time, leading to leaks.

[004] In a similar way, other conduits, through which water passes and / or which are connected to receptacles filled with water, are frequently prone to leaks. In one example, the jets of whirlpool baths are connected through a wall of a receptacle and the water passes through the jets. To date, these are complicated to install and leakage around the jets is responsible for a large number of whirlpool bath failures, because the fitting of the water jet allows water to leak through it, due to the nature of its construction.

[005] Another example of a conduit that is prone to leaks is in radiators, where water can leak from the radiator inlet and / or outlet.

[006] In shower walls and other water receptacles, a conduit is required to pass water from the water supply, through the wall and into the shower stall. Usually, this is done by means of pipes that run through the wall through the tiles, with a cap being placed over the opening and a foam sealant being used to secure the cap in place to reduce the risk of leaks; however, often the cap may Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 24 / 66 3 / 32 loosening and the foam may be insufficient to prevent water from escaping. Similarly, where fluid passes from inside a receptacle to the outside, such as in a keg or barrel, leaks can occur around the outlet.

[007] The present invention seeks to provide a more secure seal for a fluid conduit that is quick and easy to install, thereby reducing the risk of leaks. Summary of the Invention

[008] Therefore, the present invention is directed to a fluid conduit connection arrangement having a body section, wherein the body section comprises: the inner core section extending from the body section, the inner core section having an axial hole through it; the external expandable sealing element coaxial with the inner and outer core section, a first end of the expandable sealing element being proximal to the body section and a second end of the expandable sealing element being distal to the body section; and an end element adjacent to the distal end of the expandable sealing element; wherein, a drive mechanism is provided that can pull the end element towards the body section. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 25 / 66 4 / 32 to axially compress the expandable sealing element, resulting in radial expansion of the expandable sealing element.

[009] The arrangement of the present invention provides a mechanism for attaching a conduit, such as a water or gas conduit, to a surface, such as a faucet or a jet in a whirlpool bath. It will be appreciated that, when the end element is moved away from the body section, the expandable element has a first extended position, in which the diameter of the expandable element has a first dimension. When the end element is moved towards the body section, the expandable element will be moved to a second compressed position. In this second compressed position, the expandable element is compressed axially and expands radially, resulting in an enlarged diameter. Therefore, when the expandable element is in the first extended position, it can pass through an opening that is slightly larger than the diameter of the opening.Subsequently, when moving to the compressed position, the diameter of the expandable section is increased so that it is larger than the diameter of the opening. As a result, the arrangement cannot pass through the opening when in the second compressed position. This locks the arrangement in place within a surface.

[0010] The inner core section is arranged to Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 26 / 66 5 / 32 reinforces the lower part of the arrangement and also ensures that the expandable element, which is arranged around the inner core section, cannot expand inward. As a result, when the expandable element is compressed axially, it is forced to expand radially outward. Thus, the inner core forces the expandable element to increase in diameter when compressed, preventing the arrangement from returning to the surface when installed.

[0011] Ideally, the drive mechanism is placed in the body section, but it can be arranged adjacent to or within the body section, depending on the arrangement. Thus, it can be arranged externally to the body section in some situations.

[0012] The body section may be provided with a flange which, when installed, is positioned adjacent to the top of the surface on which the arrangement is located. A sealing element may be positioned between the flange and the surface to reduce the risk of water ingress under the flange and through the opening in the surface.

[0013] The end element can be connected to the expandable element so that the movement of the end element compresses the expandable element. In another arrangement, the end element may have at least one dimension that is larger than the diameter of the expandable material or it may connect to an additional element. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 27 / 66 6 / 32 which compresses the expandable element when moved.

[0014] Preferably, the expandable element is a resiliently flexible material, such as an elastomeric material or rubber. Similarly, the expandable material may be a tubular sealing element and it may be provided with grooves, ribs, folds or other elements that promote a predetermined deformation after compression of the tubular seal. It is more preferable that the expandable element be a seal that is arranged to surround the inner core and that it may be coaxial as well. Thus, it may be considered a sleeve that surrounds the core.

[0015] Thus, the present invention provides a mechanism for attaching a conduit or tap to a surface from a single side, thereby removing the need to access both sides of the surface and requiring only one person for installation.

[0016] The drive mechanism could be a lever and a cam arrangement, allowing rotational or linear movement of the lever to induce movement in the cam. In such an arrangement, the cam can be connected to the end element by a rigid connector, so that movement of the cam results in movement of the end element.

[0017] In a preferred arrangement, a flexible elongated element is connected to the end element and to Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 28 / 66 7 / 32 drive mechanism. The use of a flexible elongated element, such as a wire, chain or rope, may extend from the drive mechanism to the end element, although it is understood that one or more intermediate connecting pieces may be arranged between the parts.

[0018] Advantageously, the flexible elongated element passes through the hole in the inner core section to connect with the drive mechanism. By having the flexible elongated element pass through a hole in the inner core, the space within the inner core is maximized, since only a small amount of space is required for the elongated element, thus leaving more room for other parts to pass through the inner core.

[0019] In a preferred arrangement, the drive mechanism comprises a ratchet arrangement, the ratchet arrangement having a gear and pawl. It is more preferably that the gear be mounted on a mechanical shaft and the elongated flexible element be a wire that is connected at one end to the mechanical shaft and wraps around it after rotation of the mechanical shaft, the other end of the wire being connected to the end element, so that rotation of the mechanical shaft adjusts the position of the end element relative to the drive mechanism. With a ratchet mechanism employed, the movement of the end element can be readily controlled and it can be Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 29 / 66 8 / 32 held in a desired position, thus keeping the expandable element in the compressed position.

[0020] Where a ratchet arrangement is employed, it is preferable that the mechanical shaft be rotated during the rotation of a tool. This allows a removable tool to be used to install the arrangement by rotating the mechanical shaft to operate the ratchet. As a result, a hex key, screwdriver, or other tool can engage with the mechanical shaft or other element connected to the mechanical shaft, and after the tool rotates, the ratchet mechanism gear is rotated to move the end element toward the body section. Although a fixed handle may be provided, it is preferable that the ratchet control be removable to prevent inadvertent disengagement after the arrangement is installed. Similarly, having a removable tool reduces the space required once the product is installed.

[0021] It is particularly advantageous that a release mechanism is provided to release the tongue, thereby allowing the extension of the expandable element. Should the connecting arrangement need to be removed, it is useful to have a release mechanism, such as a button, that can release the angled tongue and disengage it. This allows the expandable element to be moved back to the first extended position, after which the arrangement can be Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 30 / 66 9 / 32 removed from the surface on which it is installed because the diameter of the expandable element is reduced to allow passage back to the opening.

[0022] In another arrangement, the drive mechanism may comprise a first threaded part and a second threaded part, wherein rotation of the first part moves the end element relative to the body section.

[0023] In such an arrangement, the inner core section may have an external surface on which threads are provided, and the end element may be provided with internal threads that can engage with the threads of the inner core section. It will be appreciated that in such an arrangement the end element will be coaxial with the inner core and external to it. Although the end element, in such arrangements, could be internal to the inner core section, in which case the threads are switched to be external to the end element and internal to the inner core section, such an arrangement is more complex.

[0024] Where the inner core section is provided with a threaded surface that engages with the threads on the end element, the inner core section can be rotated within the device body. Thus, the expandable seal can be arranged coaxially with the inner core section and the end element, so that the movement of the end section, which is preferably internal to the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 31 / 66 10 / 32 sealing element, but it can be arranged externally to it in some arrangements, compress or extend the sealing element, thereby causing radial expansion or contraction of the sealing element.

[0025] There are several ways in which the inner core section can be rotated. For example, the inner core section can be provided with radial openings there to receive a tool so that the inner core can be rotated around its axis. Thus, a tool can be inserted into an opening, the inner core section rotated moving the tool in a particular direction, and the tool removed. It will be appreciated that a ratchet arrangement can be incorporated into the inner core section, either to prevent inadvertent rotation in a particular direction or to make it easier to rotate the inner core section, not requiring the tool to be removed in order to return the tool to its initial position.

[0026] In another example, the inner core section can be rotated by means of a worm gear and the corresponding teeth on the inner core section, the teeth being arranged either radially or axially. Thus, the teeth of the inner core section engage with the worm gear so that the rotation of the worm gear results in the rotation of the inner core section. To that end, the worm gear can be adapted and arranged to accept Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 32 / 66 11 / 32 a tool in it to rotate the worm gear. It will be appreciated that the use of a worm gear reduces the risk of unwanted rotation of the inner core section. Although a worm gear has been described in this document and is of particular advantage, it could be replaced by one or more gear wheels, which may be bevel gears or miter gears, to produce a similar result, especially where a pawl is used with the gear wheel. Gear and ratchet systems similar to those described in this document can be used to lock a gear wheel in place.

[0027] Where a rotating section of the inner core is employed, the expandable sealing element will preferably be arranged to be compressed between the body section and one side of the surface into which the conduit is being fitted. This keeps the expandable sealing element in place even though the rotating parts are in operation, thus allowing movement of the respective parts without corresponding rotational movement of the expandable sealing element.

[0028] In a particularly beneficial arrangement, the body section is provided with at least one opening through it, and, preferably, at least one fluid conduit passes through at least one opening. Although it is foreseen that the fluid may pass directly through the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 33 / 66 12 / 32 section of the body, using fluid conduits that pass through the body section allows more than one fluid to pass through the faucet, for example, hot water and cold water. Conduits of this type are commonly known as "spout pigtail connectors" and allow water to pass through the connection arrangement with a reduced risk of leakage.

[0029] In one arrangement, a plurality of end elements is provided and, where appropriate, a plurality of elongated flexible elements may be provided, which are connected to the end element. In this arrangement, more than one end element and / or flexible elements may be provided, thus allowing the central part of the body section to remain free. A single mechanical shaft may connect to two or more flexible elements that may pass close to the inner periphery of the inner core section.

[0030] The present invention extends to a water tap comprising a water tap connection arrangement as described in this document or to a water jet or conduit having a fastening arrangement as described in this document. Thus, the invention can extend to a spout or other conduit arrangement that is provided with the connection arrangement described. This provides a tap that can be easily fitted from the 'top' side of the sink or Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 34 / 66 13 / 32 bathtub, making it quicker and easier to install such a device.

[0031] The faucet can be created with a spout and water control valves connected to the body section or they can be mounted on the body section after installation.

[0032] The invention extends to an insert having a body section and an inner core with threads around it. An end element is connected to the inner core and an expandable sleeve element is arranged coaxially with and external to the inner core. The end element engages the threads in the inner core so that rotation of the inner core results in axial movement of the end element. Such movement of the end element along the inner core can compress or extend the expandable element, thereby increasing or decreasing its width. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a side view of a connecting conduit arrangement according to the present invention, in a first position; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting conduit arrangement of Figure 1; Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 35 / 66 14 / 32 Figure 3 is a front view of the arrangement in Figure 1; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a side view of a connecting conduit arrangement from Figure 1, in a second position; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 5; Figure 7 is a front view of the arrangement in Figure 5; Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 7; Figure 9 is a spout incorporating a connection arrangement of the present invention; Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the spout shown in Figure 9; Figure 11 is an enlarged view of part of Figure 10; Figure 12 is an additional spout according to the present invention; Figure 13 is a view of the spout connection arrangement shown in Figure 12; Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 13 in a first state; Figure 15 is an enlarged view of part of Figure 14; Figure 16 is an additional cross-sectional view of Figure 13 in a second state; Figure 17 is an enlarged view of part of Figure 16; Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 36 / 66 15 / 32 Figure 18 shows another arrangement for use in a fluid conduit; Figure 19 is a side view of the arrangement in Figure 18; Figure 20 is a top cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 18; Figure 21 is an enlarged view of part of Figure 20; Figure 22 is a view of an insert according to the present invention; Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 22 in a first state; Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 22 in a second state; Figure 25 is a view of an additional insert according to the present invention; Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 25 in a first state; and Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 26 in a second state. Detailed Description of Exemplary Modalities

[0034] To facilitate understanding, equivalent parts in different forms are numbered in the same way, where practical.

[0035] Figures 1 to 11 show a spout 10 having a spout section 12 and a connection arrangement 14. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 37 / 66 16 / 32

[0036] The connection arrangement 14 has a body section 16 which has an upper end 18 and a lower end 20. Adjacent to the lower end 20 is a radially extending flange 22 which may have an elastomeric sealing fitting underneath it. Inside the body section 16 is a hole 24 which allows communication through the body section 16. An inner core section 26 extends from the lower end 20 of the body section 16 and is coaxial with the hole 24 of the body section 16. The inner core 26 is provided with two slots 28 opposite each other.

[0037] Around the outer surface of the inner core 26 is arranged an expandable element 30. This is in the form of a tube of elastomeric material that has a first end 32 adjacent to the flange 22 of the body section 16 and a second end 34 distal from the body section 16. The expandable element 30 extends along the inner core 26 so that the second end 34 of the expandable element 30 is arranged to be positioned halfway along the length of the slots 28 of the inner core 26.

[0038] Also arranged coaxially with the inner core 26 and external to it is an end element 36, which is positioned adjacent to the second end 34 of the expandable element 30. The end element 36 can Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 38 / 66 17 / 32 being connected to the expandable element 30 at or adjacent to the second end 34 of the expandable element 30. Additionally or alternatively, the end element 36 may extend radially so that it has a larger diameter than that of the expandable element 30. The end element 36 is provided with a bar 38 that extends along the diameter of the end element 36, the bar being received within the respective slots 28 of the inner core 26. This bar 38 may move within the slots 28 of the inner core 26 and when the bar 28 and the end element 36 move to the lower end 20 of the body section 16, the expandable element 30 is compressed axially. Because the inner core 26 is located internally of the expandable element 30, when compressed axially, the expandable element 30 expands radially, because it cannot expand internally due to the inner core being in the way.

[0039] Connected to bar 38 of end element 36 is a metal wire 40. The metal wire 40 extends towards body section 16 through hole 24. Inside body section 16 is a drive mechanism 42, which is in the form of a ratchet arrangement comprising a toothed wheel 44, which is mounted on a mechanical shaft 46. The mechanical shaft 46 is arranged inside body section 16, with the ends of the mechanical shaft 46 passing through the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 39 / 66 18 / 32 wall of body section 16 so that the ends are accessible from the outside of body section 16. The ends of the mechanical shaft 46 are provided with recesses 48 to receive a tool. In addition to the wire 40 being connected to the bar 38, it is also connected to the mechanical shaft 46.

[0040] Engaged with the toothed wheel 44 is a tongue 50, which is inclined by a spring 52 so that one end of the tongue 50 engages with the teeth of the toothed wheel 44. Thus, a ratchet arrangement is provided so that by rotating the mechanical shaft 46, the toothed wheel 44 rotates and the tongue 50 prevents the toothed wheel 44 from rotating in the opposite direction. The other end of the tongue 50 is provided with a release button 54 which, when pressed, neutralizes the inclination of the spring 52 to disengage the tongue 50, thus allowing the toothed wheel 44 to rotate in the opposite direction. As will be seen, as the wire 40 is connected to the mechanical shaft 46, the rotation of the mechanical shaft 46 will wind the wire 40 around the mechanical shaft, which, in turn, pulls the end element 36 towards the lower end 20 of the body section 16, thereby axially compressing the expandable element 30.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, when the connection arrangement is in a first uncompressed state, the expandable element 30 will be extended and thus will have a first diameter that will be slightly larger than that Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 40 / 66 19 / 32 of the inner core 26. In this state, the spout 10 and connection arrangement 14 can be placed through an opening in a surface 56, so that the flange 22 is adjacent to the top side of the surface 56.

[0042] When in situ, a tool is engaged with the recess 48 and the mechanical shaft 46 is rotated to wrap the wire 40 around the mechanical shaft 46. At the same time, the drive or ratchet arrangement 42 prevents the mechanical shaft 46 from counter-rotating, thus ensuring that the end element 36 is moved towards the body section 16 and does not move away from it. As the wire is wrapped around the mechanical shaft 46, the expandable element 30 is compressed and it projects outwards, as shown in Figures 5 to 8, thus moving the arrangement to the second compressed position. Figures 9 to 11 illustrate the spout 10 and the connection arrangement when installed on a surface 56. Because the expandable element 30 has a larger diameter than the opening in the surface 56, when in the compressed position, the spout is secured to the surface 56.It will be appreciated that, since the user only requires access to recess 48 during installation, the spout can be 'fitted on top', meaning that it can be installed from one side of the surface 56.

[0043] In spout 10 of Figures 9 to 11, a connector of Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 41 / 66 A 20 / 32 pigtail 58 is provided, which passes through the body section 16. When the spout 10 is installed on the surface 56, this pigtail connector 58 can be connected to a water supply to allow the spout to operate. For the sake of clarity, the valve arrangement on the spout is not shown, but a person skilled in the art will understand how a spout according to the present invention will function to dispense water.

[0044] As the expandable element 30 reaches the flange 22, it may not be necessary to employ an additional seal on the underside of the flange 22; however, in some arrangements, it may be desirable to prevent water ingress between the surface 56 and the flange 22.

[0045] Within the body section, a channel or guide may be used to allow the wire to flow freely through it. This could be in the form of a bar or pulley wheel.

[0046] Figures 12 to 17 show a spout 70 with a fastening arrangement 72 on it. The arrangement comprises a body section 16 having an upper end 18 and a lower end 20. Adjacent to the lower end 20 is a flange 22 that extends radially. Inside the body section 16 is a hole that allows fluid communication through the body section 16.

[0047] A section of the inner core 76 is contained Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 42 / 66 21 / 32 within the top section 16, with the inner core section 76 extending from the lower end 20 of the body section 16. The portion of the inner core section 76 contained within the body section 16 comprises a tubular element and may be provided with a radially extending top flange 78, thereby preventing it from passing through the hole in the body section 16. The tubular element of the inner core section 76 extends through the lower end 20 of the body section 16 and projects therefrom, with the inner core section 76 being provided with a hole 24a through it to allow the passage of fluid, either directly or within conduits placed in the hole 24a.

[0048] The inner core section 76 is preferably coaxial with the bore of the body section 16 and is able to rotate about its axis within the body section 16. The radially extending flange 78 has a width greater than the bore within the body section 76, so that it cannot pass through the bottom 20 of the body section 16. Therefore, by inserting the inner core section 76 into the body section 16, the top of the body section 16 can be removed. Thus, the top of the body section 16 can be provided with a threaded top piece 79 which can be fitted into the corresponding threads 80 in the body section 16.

[0049] The flange that extends radially 78 of the section Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 43 / 66 22 / 32 of the inner core 76 is provided with openings 82 that are substantially radial to the axis of the inner core section 76. Thus, the openings 82 have a recess that extends substantially perpendicular to the axis of the inner core section 76. The body section 16 has an elongated opening 83 on its surface that exposes the openings 82. Thus, the openings 82 can be accessed when the inner core section 76 is inside the body section 16.

[0050] Arranged around the outer surface of the inner core 76 is an expandable element 30. This is in the form of a tube of elastomeric material having a first end 32 adjacent to the flange 22 of the body section 16 and a second end 34 distal from the body section 16, with the ends 32 and 34 preferably being on opposite sides of the surface 56. The end of the expandable element 30 that is adjacent to the flange 22 preferably extends radially along the bottom of the flange 22. This is so that, when the device is installed, the expandable element 30 is arranged between the flange 22 and the surface 56 on which it is being installed, thus allowing it to be compressed between the flange 22 and the surface 56 during installation, thereby creating a seal. The expandable element 30 extends along the inner core 76 so that the second end 34 of the expandable element 30 Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 44 / 66 23 / 32 should be arranged to be positioned adjacent to the end of the inner core 76 that is distal from the body section 16.

[0051] Also arranged coaxially with the inner core 26 and the outer core is an end element 36, which is positioned adjacent to the second end 34 of the expandable element 30. The end element 36 can be affixed to the expandable element 30 at or adjacent to the second end 34 of the expandable element 30. The end element 36 can be received within an internal channel adjacent to the end of the expandable element 30, thus keeping the end element 36 more securely held in place in the expandable element 30. The end element 30 is provided with internal threads 84 that engage with external threads 86 on the outer surface of the inner core section 76. Thus, since the expandable element 30 is held between the flange 22 and the surface 56 on which the device is being installed, rotation of the inner core moves the end element toward or away from the body section 16.

[0052] As the expandable element 30 is held in place, rotation of the inner core 26 results in linear motion of the end element 36 along the axial length of the inner core 26. The motion of the end element 36 towards the body section 16 compresses the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 45 / 66 24 / 32 expandable section 30 axially and increases its radial width. Therefore, as with the embodiment described previously, once the fastening arrangement is fed through an opening in a surface 56, while the expandable section 30 is in its first extended position, the inner core can be rotated to compress the expandable section 30 in its second compressed position. The width of the expandable section 30 when in its second position is greater than the diameter of the opening in the surface 56, thus locking the fastening arrangement in place, as shown in Figures 16 and 17. The inner core 76 can be rotated in the opposite direction using a tool fitted into the openings 82 to extend the expandable element 30, thus reducing its radial width in order to remove the fastener 72 from the surface 56.

[0053] Figures 18 to 21 show a clamping arrangement similar to that shown in Figures 12 to 17; however, instead of using a tool to rotate the clamping arrangement directly, a different mechanism is used at the top end of the device, with the bottom part of the clamping arrangement being the same as that described in relation to Figures 12 to 17. Thus, in the embodiment of Figures 18 to 21, the inner core 76 comprises teeth that extend radially 90° around the outer surface of the inner core 76, with the teeth being arranged adjacent to Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 46 / 66 25 / 32 end of the inner core 76 which is distal from the end element.

[0054] As shown more clearly in Figure 21, a worm gear 92 is mounted within the body section 16 and the worm gear 92 engages the teeth 90. At least one end of the worm gear 92 is provided with a section to receive a tool, for example, a recess 94. The lower part of the inner core 76, the expandable element 30 and the end element 36 follow the same arrangement as shown in Figures 12 to 17, with the end element 36 having internal threads that engage with threads on the outer surface of the inner core 30.

[0055] Once a tool is inserted into recess 94, the tool can be rotated, which then rotates the worm gear 92, which in turn rotates the inner core section 76. Therefore, the worm gear 92 is used to rotate the inner core section 76, which then compresses or expands the expandable element 30 axially, resulting in radial expansion or contraction of the expandable element 30. The use of a worm gear 92 reduces the risk of loosening of the arrangement.

[0056] Figures 22 to 27 show two inserts 100 and 120 comprising an inlet 102, a body section 104 and an inner core 106. A channel is formed through the inlet 102, the body section 104 and the inner core 106. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 47 / 66 26 / 32 to allow fluid communication through inserts 100 and 120.

[0057] In the first insert 100, shown in Figures 22 to 24, the inner core section 106 comprises a tubular section 108 which is provided with external threads 110. The body section 104 comprises a hexagonal top profile 112 which is shaped to be engaged by a wrench and which has a flange extending radially distal from the entry 102. Rotation of the top profile 112 rotates the inner core section 106 and the threads 110 arranged on it.

[0058] The inner core section 106 is surrounded by a coaxial expandable section 114. The expandable section 114 is substantially tubular with a radial flange 116 at the end adjacent to the body section 104. Adjacent to the end of the expandable section 114 that is distal from the radial flange 116 is an end element 118 that is internal to the expandable section 114. The end element 118 is provided with internal threads that engage with the external threads 110 of the inner core 106.

[0059] To fit the insert 100, the insert 100 is placed in an opening so that the flange of the expandable section 114 is in contact with the surface surrounding the opening. The frictional contact between the flange 116 of the expandable section 116 and the surroundings of the opening reduces the risk of rotation of the expandable section 114. Thus, due to the threads Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 48 / 66 27 / 32 of the inner core 106 and the end element 118 fitting, the rotation of the top profile 112 results in the axial movement of the end element 118 along the inner core 106. Thus, the expandable section 114 is compressed and, due to the inner core 106 being arranged internally to the expandable section 114, the expandable section 114 expands radially. The increased diameter of the insert 100 prevents its removal from the surface within which it is installed.

[0060] The insert 120 also comprises an entry 102, a body section 104 and an inner core 122. The body section comprises a hexagonal profile 112 to which a wrench can be connected.

[0061] In this embodiment, the core 122 is an elongated rod that is provided with a head element 124 and a mechanical shaft 126, with the mechanical shaft 126 having an external threaded section 128 along at least part of the mechanical shaft 126. The head element 124 of the core 122 can be connected to the body section 104, so that rotation of the profile 112 simultaneously rotates the elongated rod.

[0062] An expandable element 130 is arranged coaxially with the mechanical shaft 126 of the inner core 122. As with the arrangement in Figures 22 to 24, the expandable element 130 has a flange that extends radially 132 at the proximal end to the body section 104. The expandable element 130 is provided with an internal profile that ensures Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 49 / 66 28 / 32, which, when radially compressed, causes the expandable element to expand radially. The profile may comprise weakened sections and reinforced sections.

[0063] Adjacent to the end of the expandable element 130 that is distal from the body section 104 is an end element 134. The end element 134 is substantially circular and has a cross piece 136 that extends through the midpoint of the end element 134 and the opposite connecting sides thereof. The end element 134 has openings in it to allow fluid flow through it. Similarly, at the opposite end of the insert, the body section 104 may be provided with a cross piece that passes through the middle of the channel, with the inner core 122 positioned therein.

[0064] To install the insert 120, the insert 120 is placed in an opening, with the flange 132 of the expandable element 130 being adjacent to the surrounding surface of the opening, thus providing a friction connection. The head element 124 is then rotated, changing the profile 112. Since the expandable element 130 cannot rotate, the end element 134 moves axially along the mechanical axis of the elongated element or inner core 122. Thus, the movement of the end element will axially compress the expandable section 130, thus causing its radial expansion. Similarly, the rotation of the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 50 / 66 29 / 32 head element 124 in an opposite manner will induce the extension of the expandable section 130, thus reducing the radial dimensions of the expandable section 130. The insert can be placed in a conduit or through an opening in a surface.

[0065] It will be appreciated that the arrangement can be used in relation to a shower fitting or other water conduit that can be installed on a surface through an opening, for example, for whirlpool bath jets or to support jets in whirlpool baths. Thus, where a tap fitting can be described in this document, it will be appreciated that it can also be used on a conduit of a different type and the disclosure is not limited to a tap only.

[0066] Although water can flow directly through the water conduit connection arrangement, it is preferable that internal conduits or pipes be provided for fluid flow, which may be liquid or gas. In one arrangement, two conduits may pass through the connection arrangement, for example, a gas conduit and a water conduit, thus allowing carbonated water to be supplied from the tap water outlet. Similarly, spout hoses may be used to supply fluid through the conduit.

[0067] The invention can be applied to a container in which the liquid or gas is kept, for example, a tank, Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 51 / 66 30 / 32 a barrel or keg-type barrel.

[0068] The invention has been described in relation to water; however, the present invention can be used in relation to a gas conduit or outlet, especially where internal gas conduits are used. Thus, the present invention can be applicable to attaching a conduit to a surface, to provide a channel for fluid and / or smaller conduits. It will be appreciated that the section of the inner core can be lengthened to provide a significant channel on the other side of the surface. Similarly, the inner core can be provided with a connection mechanism or part of a connection mechanism to allow an additional conduit to be connected to it. For example, the inner core can be provided with an internal or external thread, so that once installed on a surface, an additional pipe or hose can be connected to the section of the inner core.

[0069] The fastening arrangement described in this document may be part of the device in which it is to be used, for example, a tap or water jet, or the relevant parts may be fitted into the fastening arrangement once they are installed in an opening. Thus, for a tap, the fastening arrangement may be installed, and then the pipes pass through the fastening conduit and a nozzle may be attached to the fastening arrangement. Alternatively, the fastening arrangement may be integral with Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 52 / 66 31 / 32 the tap or water jet, particularly where the water flows through the fixture arrangement, rather than through the pipes that pass through them.

[0070] Although a rack and pinion may be used, a gear and pawl arrangement is preferable due to the smaller nature of the latter. It will be appreciated that the location and size of the gear and pawl can be adjusted according to the size and shape of the tap and the intended purpose.

[0071] Preferably, the expandable section will be on one side of a surface and the top section will be on the other side of the surface. Therefore, the parts interleave the surface between them. It is anticipated that the fastening arrangement could be arranged with the expandable section inside a conduit, so that the expandable section would press against the conduit to create a frictional grip; however, a frictional engagement is less desirable than interleaving the surface with the expandable section having a diameter larger than that of the opening.

[0072] The internal threads on the end element may be teeth that engage with threads on the outer surface of the inner core.

[0073] Where particular formats are referenced in this document, other formats may be equally applicable. For example, circular parts may be Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 53 / 66 32 / 32 oval, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal or hexagonal, as needed. Clearly, additional shapes can also be implemented without considering the device outside the scope of the present invention.

[0074] Unless otherwise prohibited, it will be appreciated that one or more features of an embodiment described in this document may be incorporated into a different embodiment. Thus, the worm gear of one embodiment may replace the ratchet mechanism of another embodiment and vice versa. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 54 / 66

Claims

1 / 3 CLAIMS 1. Fluid conduit connection arrangement having a body section, characterized in that the body section comprises: the inner core section extending from the body section, the inner core section having an axial hole through it; the outer expandable element coaxial with and external to the inner core section, a first end of the expandable element being proximal to the body section and a second end of the expandable element being distal to the body section; and an end element adjacent to the distal end of the expandable element; wherein, a drive mechanism is provided that can pull the end element towards the body section to axially compress the expandable element, resulting in radial expansion of the expandable element.

2. Fluid conduit connection arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the inner core section is rotatable within the body section.

3. Fluid conduit connection arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the inner core section comprises a threaded portion and the end element comprises a corresponding threaded portion, with the respective threaded sections engaged.

4. Fluid conduit connection arrangement, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body section comprises a radially extending flange and the expandable element extends radially under the flange of the body section.

5. Fluid conduit connection arrangement, according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the inner core section is adapted to receive a tool for rotating the inner core section.

6. Fluid conduit connection arrangement, according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the inner core section is provided with radially extending teeth.

7. Fluid conduit connection arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that a worm gear is arranged to engage the teeth of the inner core section.

8. Fluid conduit connection arrangement, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body section is provided with at least one opening through it.

9. Fluid conduit connection arrangement, according to claim 8, characterized in that at least one fluid conduit passes through the Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 56 / 66 3 / 3.

10. Fluid conduit connection arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that a plurality of end elements are provided.

11. Fluid conduit connection arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that a plurality of elongated flexible elements are provided that are connected to the end element.

12. Fluid conduit, characterized in that it comprises a fluid conduit connection arrangement, as defined in any of the preceding claims.

13. Fluid conduit, according to claim 12, characterized in that the fluid conduit is a device selected from a group comprising: a faucet; a water inlet; a whirlpool bath jet; a radiator conduit; a shower water inlet; and a gas pipe. Petition 870250080735, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 57 / 66

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