Multi-Contour Adapter Assembly

Abstract

A multi-profile adapter assembly for connecting a pressurized fluid source to two or more different fittings. The adapter assembly includes an injector connector removably attached to a hose connected to the pressurized fluid source and includes an internal conduit for guiding the flow of pressurized fluid. The inner housing is connected to the injector connector and includes a passage leading to a second opening and a cavity configured to receive a union fitting on an AC system. A one-way valve controls the flow from the conduit in the injector connector to the inner housing. The adapter is connected to the inner housing and includes a first profile configured to engage a first fitting and a second profile configured to engage a second fitting. The inner housing and the adapter are capable of moving relative to each other to change the positions of the first profile and the second profile.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an adapter for a pressurized fluid system, and more particularly to an adapter assembly for connecting two or more different types of union joints, for example, on an air conditioning system, to receive pressurized fluid. Background Art

[0002] Currently, there are two main refrigerants used in the air conditioning market, R-134a and R-1234yf. These refrigerants are not interchangeable. Therefore, to prevent cross-contamination, the union joints of an air conditioning system vary according to the type of refrigerant used. The dimensional differences between these two types of union joints mean that a coupler designed for one fitting will not connect to the other. Therefore, service technicians require two sets of equipment, one for each type of refrigerant.

[0003] Fluorescent dyes are typically added to an air conditioning system to assist in detecting leaks. These dyes are typically introduced into the system through system servicing or union joints. For fluorescent dyes that are compatible with both R-134a and R-1234yf refrigerants, these dyes typically must be provided to the service technician through two hoses, one hose connected to an R-134a type union joint and the other hose connected to an R-1234yf type union joint. This is inconvenient and wasteful for service technicians.

[0004] There is a need for an inexpensive adapter assembly that can connect a pressurized source to different union joints. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A multi-profile adapter assembly for connecting a pressurized fluid source to union joints of different shapes in an air conditioning system. The adapter assembly includes an injector connector having a connector housing with an outer port at one end for removably attaching to a pressurized fluid source and an inner port at the other end. An internal conduit extends between the outer port and the inner port for guiding a flow of pressurized fluid from the outer port to the inner port.

[0006] An inner housing is connected to the injector connector. The inner housing includes a first opening, a main chamber within the housing, the main chamber communicating with the first opening on one side and having a restricted passage extending from the other side. The restricted passage extends to a second opening. The second opening includes a cavity configured to receive a union joint of the air conditioning system.

[0007] A one-way valve is located in the injector and / or the inner housing for allowing a flow of pressurized fluid to flow from the conduit in the injector connector into the inner housing and preventing backflow in the opposite direction.

[0008] An adapter is provided that has two spaced-apart sidewalls and a bottom that connects the sidewalls. An inner housing is located between the sidewalls. The adapter includes a first profile and a second profile, the first profile being configured to engage a portion of a first connection joint of an air-conditioning system, and the second profile being configured to engage a portion of a second connection joint of the air-conditioning system. The first connection joint and the second connection joint have different sizes or shapes.

[0009] The inner housing and the adapter are movable relative to each other to change the position of the first profile and the second profile relative to the cavity of the central section depending on whether the adapter assembly is configured to connect to the first connection joint or the second connection joint.

[0010] The shaft is preferably displaceable within the inner housing and is configured to extend into the cavity of the second opening.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first connection joint is an R-134a connection joint, and the size and shape of the first profile are adapted to engage the R-134a connection joint. The second connection joint is an R-1234yf connection joint, and the size and shape of the second profile are adapted to engage the R-1234yf connection joint.

[0012] In one embodiment, the sidewalls of the adapter are connected to end walls. The first profile and the second profile are stepped profiles located on or within the end walls. The first profile defines a surface profile complementary to a portion of the first connection joint, and the second profile defines a surface profile complementary to a portion of the second connection joint. The first profile is configured to position the first connection joint at a first height relative to the bottom of the adapter. The second profile is configured to position the second connection joint at a second height relative to the bottom of the adapter.

[0013] In one embodiment, the inner housing includes two spaced-apart protrusions formed on opposite sides of the housing and configured to slide within slots formed in the adapter to allow the position of the inner housing above the bottom to change.

[0014] The central housing may include struts protruding outward from the top and bottom of the housing. The struts on one side of the housing protrude further from the housing than the struts on the opposite side of the housing. Each strut is configured to position the central housing at two different heights relative to the bottom of the adapter, with one position positioning the center of the second cavity at the same height as the first height and the other position positioning the center of the second cavity at the same height as the second height.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sidewall of the adapter is pivotally attached to the inner housing. The end wall is curved and spaced from the second opening of the inner housing. The end wall includes a slot-like opening, and a first profile and a second profile are located on the slot-like opening. The position of the first profile on the slot-like opening is different from the position of the second profile on the slot-like opening. The positions of the first profile and the second profile relative to the cavity center are selected by pivoting the adapter relative to the inner housing. During use, the first profile is configured to engage a feature of the first connection joint, and the second profile is configured to engage a feature of the second connection joint, thereby removably fixing the inner housing to the applicable connection joint.

[0016] In one embodiment, the central housing is pivotally attached to the sidewall of the adapter, so the central housing can rotate relative to the adapter. The adapter preferably includes two end walls, one at each end of the adapter. The end walls are connected to the sidewall. The end walls have openings including a first profile, and the other end wall has an opening including a second profile. In use, when it is necessary to connect the adapter assembly to the first connection joint, the central housing pivots so that the cavity of the central housing is positioned near the first profile, and when it is necessary to connect the adapter assembly to the second connection joint, the central housing pivots so that the cavity of the central housing is positioned near the second profile.

[0017] Preferably, each sidewall includes a hole sized to receive a protrusion formed on the central housing, and the hole allows the protrusion to rotate or slide, thereby allowing the central housing to pivot relative to the adapter.

[0018] Preferably, the second port of the injector connector is connected to the first opening of the central housing by a threaded connection.

[0019] Preferably, the injector connector includes a seal located on the inner port, and the seal is positioned to engage a portion of the inner housing to provide a fluid seal. Preferably, the inner housing includes a seal within the cavity for engaging the connection joint.

[0020] In one embodiment, the one-way valve is a lift valve with a lift piston, and the lift piston includes a central shaft attached to the lift head. The lift head has a plurality of openings extending therethrough. The central shaft is slidably disposed within a restricted passage of the inner housing, and the lift head is located within a chamber. A sealing ball is located between the lift head and the end of the conduit within the inner port. The sealing ball is sized to close the conduit, thereby preventing fluid from flowing between the inner housing and the conduit. The lift head confines the sealing ball between the lift head and the conduit to allow a small amount of movement of the sealing ball.

[0021] Preferably, the second port of the injector connector is threadedly connected to the first opening of the central housing, and by threadedly connecting the injector connector relative to the inner housing, the shaft can be displaced within the cavity of the second opening.

[0022] A method of connecting a pressurized fluid source to a communication joint on an air conditioning system is disclosed. The method includes (i) connecting the pressurized fluid source to an injector connector, (ii) inserting the communication joint on the air conditioning system into the cavity of the second opening, (iii) moving the adapter so that one of the first profile or the second profile on the adapter contacts the communication joint according to the type of the communication joint, (iv) opening the communication joint, and (v) guiding the pressurized fluid from the fluid source through the inner housing and into the communication joint.

[0023] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. As will be appreciated by the reader, the present invention may be modified in various aspects without departing from the present invention. Therefore, the drawings and the description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention, the drawings show a presently preferred form of the present invention. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the exact arrangements and means shown in the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-profile adapter assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 1A is Figure 1 an exploded side view of the adapter assembly shown.

[0027] Figure 2 is for Figure 1 a perspective view of an injector connector of the adapter assembly shown.

[0028] Figure 2A is Figure 2 a front view of the injector connector shown.

[0029] Figure 2B is Figure 2 a side view of the injector connector shown.

[0030] Figure 2C is Figure 2 a rear view of the injector connector shown.

[0031] Figure 2D is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of the injector connector shown along Figure 2B the 2D-2D line.

[0032] Figure 3 is for Figure 1 a perspective view of an inner housing of the adapter assembly shown.

[0033] Figure 3A is Figure 3 the front view of the inner housing shown.

[0034] Figure 3B is Figure 3 the side view of the inner housing shown.

[0035] Figure 3C is Figure 3 the rear view of the inner housing shown.

[0036] Figure 3D is Figure 3 the top view of the inner housing shown.

[0037] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an adapter for a Figure 1 adapter assembly shown.

[0038] Figure 4A is the front view of the adapter shown in Figure 4.

[0039] Figure 4B is the side view of the adapter shown in Figure 4.

[0040] Figure 4C is the rear view of the adapter shown in Figure 4.

[0041] Figure 4D is the top view of the adapter shown in Figure 4.

[0042] Figure 4E is an enlarged view of a portion of the adapter shown in Figure 4D.

[0043] Figure 4F is another enlarged view of a portion of the adapter shown in Figure 4D.

[0044] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a lift spool for a Figure 1 adapter assembly shown.

[0045] Figure 5A is Figure 5 the side view of the lift valve shown.

[0046] Figure 5B is Figure 5 the bottom view of the lift valve shown.

[0047] Figure 5C is Figure 5 the top view of the lift valve shown.

[0048] Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the lift valve shown taken along the Figure 5A 5D-5D line in Figure 5 shown.

[0049] Figure 6A is a top perspective view of a multi-profile adapter assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 6B The Figure 6A rear perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown.

[0051] Figure 6C The Figure 6A rear view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown.

[0052] Figure 6D The Figure 6A side view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown.

[0053] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of a multi-profile adapter assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 7A is a side view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in Figure 7.

[0055] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in Figure 7, with its central housing positioned for use with an R-1234yf connection joint.

[0056] Figure 8A is a top view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 8.

[0057] Figure 8B is a side view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 8.

[0058] Figure 8C is a front view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 8.

[0059] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in Figure 7, with its central housing positioned for use with an R-134a connection joint.

[0060] Figure 9A is a top view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 9.

[0061] Figure 9B is a side view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 9.

[0062] Figure 9C is a front view of the adapter assembly shown in Figure 9.

[0063] Figure 10A is a top perspective view of a multi-profile adapter assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, which is arranged to connect a fluid source to an R-134a connection joint.

[0064] Figure 10B is a top perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in Figure 10A, with the injector connector loosened.

[0065] Figure 10C The

[0066] Figures 10D - 10F top perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in Figure 10A, with the central housing shown sliding laterally within the adapter.

[0067] Figure 10G A top perspective view of the multi-profile adapter assembly shown in FIG. 10A, showing an injector connector tightened onto the adapter, and the adapter assembly arranged to connect a fluid source to an R-1234yf union joint. Detailed Description

[0068] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the present invention relates to an adapter assembly 10 connectable to a standard hose, injector, or other fluid source (not shown), including components that allow the adapter assembly to be attached to different union joints such as R-134a and R-1234yf profiles on an HVAC system. The R-134a and R1234yf union joints have profiles (e.g., shape and size) defined by SAE J639 standard, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For non-automotive HVAC applications, the union joints are governed by SAE J512 and SAE J513 standards, the entire texts of which are incorporated herein by reference. The assembly 10 includes an injector connector 12 attached to a hose, injector, or other fluid source (not shown). In one embodiment, the fluid source supplies a fluorescent dye, such as a dye injector or a pressurized dye injection system. The present invention can also be connected to other fluid sources for injecting into an HVAC or automotive A / C system, such as refrigerant, sealant, or oil. The injector connector 12 is attached to an inner or central housing 14, which includes a check valve, such as a poppet valve or a poppet valve presser 16. The inner housing 14 is connected to an adapter 18 configured to engage different union joints, as discussed in more detail below.

[0069] The injector connector 12 is used to direct fluid (such as fluorescent dye) from a hose or injector into the inner housing 14. The injector connector 12 includes a connector housing 20, an outer port 22, and an inner port 24. An internal conduit 26 extends between the outer port 22 and the inner port 24. The outer port 22 may include threads 28 or barbs to assist in securing the outer port 22 to a hose or injector. Threads 30 may be formed on the outside of the inner port 24 for connection with mating threads formed in the inner housing 14, as discussed below. The inner port 24 includes a recessed annular portion 32 on which an annular seal 34 is located.

[0070] Refer to Figure 3 、 Figures 3A - 3D, the inner housing 14 includes a first opening 38, and the first opening 38 preferably includes an internal thread 40 that mates with the thread 30 on the inner port 24. The inner housing 14 includes a main chamber 42 that communicates with the first opening 38 to receive a fluid flow from the hose through the injector connector during use. Opposite ends of the chamber 42 include a restricted passage 44 that extends from the chamber 42 to a second opening 44. The second opening includes a cavity 46. A rubber or elastomeric seal 70 ( Figure 1 and 1A ) is press-fitted within the cavity 46. The inner housing includes two spaced-apart protrusions or lumps 48 formed on opposite sides of the housing 14 that project outwardly from the housing side.

[0071] The lift valve presser 16 includes a lift piston 50 whose central axis 52 is attached to a lift head 54. A plurality of openings 56 extend through the lift head 54. Preferably, there are six equally spaced openings 56, although any suitable number can be used. The central axis 52 is slidably disposed within the center of the restricted passage 44 in the inner housing 14, and the lift head 54 is located within the chamber 42. The size or shape of the restricted passage 44 is adapted to provide a passage greater than the central axis 52. In the illustrated embodiment, when the central axis 52 is located within the restricted passage 44, a number of passages 44A are radially located on the sides of the central axis 52. The configuration of the restricted passage 44 and the central axis 52 allows fluid to pass through the openings 56 and through portions of the restricted passage 44 around the central axis 52 (e.g., Figure 3A and 3C four of the passages 44A).

[0072] A sealing ball 58 is located between the lift head 54 and a hemispherical seat 26A formed at the end of a conduit 26 within the inner port 24 (see Figure 2D ). The sealing ball 58 is sized to close or seal the conduit 26 when it is located within the seat 26A, thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the conduit 26 into the inner housing. The lift head 54 is preferably installed within the inner port 24 by an interference fit. In this way, the lift head 54 confines the sealing ball 58 between the lift head 54 and the seat 26A, allowing only a small amount of movement of the sealing ball. It is conceivable that the sealing ball 58 can be snapped into the seat 26A so that when pressurized fluid is supplied along the conduit 26, the sealing ball 58 remains on the injector connector 12 with a small displacement. Alternatively, a spring can be included between the lift valve presser 16 and the central housing 14 to bias the lift head 54 against the sealing ball 58, thereby maintaining the seal of the conduit 26 until an injection pressure is applied.

[0073] In addition to allowing and preventing fluid from flowing from the fluid source into the inner housing 14, one function of the lift valve is to actuate the union joint. For example, when the knob 20 on the injector connector 12 is rotated to screw the injector connector 12 into the inner housing 14, this causes the lift valve to move further into the inner housing. More specifically, rotation of the knob causes the central shaft 52 of the lift valve 16 to extend through the restricted passage 44 until it contacts and presses the valve core in the union joint. This causes the union joint to open, potentially allowing flow into and out of the union joint. However, at this point the lift valve is not actuated. When pressurized fluid is allowed to flow into the injector connector 12 (e.g., by opening a valve or actuating an injector on the fluid source), the pressurized fluid overcomes the pressure acting on the rear side of the lift head 54 (from the union joint), causing the sealing ball 58 and the lift head 54 to move away from the hemispherical seat 26A, thereby opening the check valve and allowing pressurized fluid to flow into the union joint. As mentioned above, other check valves can be used in the injector connector 12 to control fluid flow into the central housing 14, as long as the feature for opening the union joint (i.e., pressing the core valve) is incorporated during use. For example, the injector connector 12 can have a shaft formed thereon that extends through the restricted passage 44 in the inner housing. Thus, twisting the knob will cause the shaft to extend into the core valve.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 4A - 4F, an embodiment of the adapter 18 is shown. (The dimensions shown are in millimeters.) The adapter 18 includes two spaced-apart side walls 60. The spacing between the side walls is sized to fit onto the side of the inner housing 14 such that the adapter 18 can slide laterally relative to the inner housing 14. Each side wall 60 includes two slots 62 that are sized to receive the protrusions 48 on the inner housing 14. The slots 62 serve as guides to control the lateral movement of the adapter 18 relative to the inner housing 14, which will be discussed in more detail below. The spacing between the side walls 60 narrows at one end of the adapter 18 and includes a first profile 61 and a second profile 63, each profile being designed to mate or engage with a corresponding union joint (e.g., an R - 134a fitting and an R - 1234yf fitting). In one embodiment, the first profile 61 and the second profile 63 define a stepped profile 64 formed on the inner surfaces of the two side walls 60 (see FIGS. 4E and 4F). The stepped profile is designed to engage with the corresponding profiles of the R - 134a and R - 1234yf union joints.

[0075] Alternatively, or as part of a stepped profile, the adapter 18 can include an end wall 67 having a generally U-shaped slotted opening with a wider upper portion 67A and a narrower lower portion 67B. The width of the lower portion 67B is sufficient to receive one of the union connectors but not the other, such that the upper portion 67A defines a first profile 61 (or a portion of the first profile that is part of the stepped profile 64), and the lower portion 67B defines a second profile 63 (or a portion of the second profile that is part of the stepped profile 64).

[0076] The adapter assembly 10 can be more clearly understood by discussing its operation during use. The outer port 22 of the injector connector 12 is attached to a hose or injector that is connected to a source of fluorescent dye, sealant, oil, or other fluid. The second opening 44 of the inner housing 14 and the seal 70 are placed against a suitable union connector. The adapter 18 slides laterally relative to the housing 14 (upward toward the inner housing in the illustrated embodiment) such that the appropriate first profile 61 and second profile 63 engage corresponding features of the applicable union connector, thereby firmly attaching the adapter assembly 10 to the union connector. When fluorescent dye, sealant, oil, or other fluid is injected (under pressure) into the injector connector 12, it flows along the conduit 26 to the opening 26A. The pressurized fluid forces the seal ball 58 away from the hemispherical seat 26A and against the lift head 54. This causes the fluorescent dye, sealant, oil, or other fluid to flow around the seal ball 58 and enter the chamber 42 through the opening 56 in the lift head 54. Once in the chamber 42, the fluid passes through the passage 44A in the restriction passage 44 and into the union connector.

[0077] Reference Figures 6A - 6D FIG. shows an alternative embodiment of the adapter assembly 100. In this embodiment, most of the components are the same. However, in this embodiment, the adapter 118 is pivotally attached to the inner housing 14 rather than slidably attached to the inner housing. The adapter 118 includes two spaced-apart side walls 120 that are interconnected via a bottom 121. Each side wall 120 is pivotally attached to a pin 123 extending out of the inner housing 14. A curved end wall 122 is attached to each side wall 120 and is spaced apart from the inner housing 14. The end wall 122 includes a U-shaped slotted opening 125 similar to the slotted opening in FIG. 4, which is wider near its upper portion and narrower at its lower portion, such that the width of the lower portion is sufficient to receive one of the union connectors but not the other. The upper portion defines a first profile and the lower portion defines a second profile.

[0078] When the second opening 44 on the inner housing 14 and the seal 70 are placed against the communication joint, the adapter pivots, causing the slotted opening 125 of the end wall 122 to slide around the communication joint, thereby fixing the communication joint into engagement with the seal 70. The curvature of the end wall 122 and the pivot of the side wall 120 are configured to cause the slotted opening to engage different communication joints depending on the pivot of the adapter 118.

[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 7A, 8, 8A - 8C, 9 and 9A - 9C, alternative embodiments of the adapter assembly 200 are shown. In this embodiment, the orientation of the central housing 14 relative to the adapter 18 determines the connection between the adapter assembly 200 and the communication joint. The injector connector 12, central housing 14, and adapter 18 are similar to those of the first embodiment discussed above and will not be discussed in detail. In this embodiment, the central housing 14 includes struts or legs 202 that project outwardly from the top and bottom of the housing 14. More specifically, the (one or more) struts 202 on one side of the housing 14 project further from the housing 14 than the (one or more) struts 202 on the opposite side of the housing 14. This results in the second cavity 46 and the seal 70 being positioned at an appropriate height relative to the adapter 18 to mate with a corresponding communication joint.

[0080] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 8 and 8A - 8C, one side of the housing 14 may include a mark or other indicia, such as "R - 1234yf side up", to indicate to the user its orientation and that it is configured to engage an R - 1234yf communication joint. This side of the housing 14 includes a short strut 202A that faces upward and a taller strut 202B at the bottom. The housing 14 is snapped into the adapter 18 such that its projection 48 is located in the slot 62. This results in the center of the second cavity 46 being at a first height H1 relative to the bottom of the adapter 18. This height is configured such that the second cavity is positioned to engage an R - 1234yf communication joint.

[0081] Turning now to FIGS. 9 and 9A - 9C, the housing 14 is shown with its opposite side facing up. This side of the housing 14 may include a mark or other indicia, such as "R - 134a side up", to indicate to the user that it is oriented and configured to engage an R - 134a communication joint. This side of the housing includes a tall strut 202B that faces upward and a short strut 202A at the bottom. Thus, when the housing 14 is snapped into the adapter 18 and its projection 48 is located in the slot 62, the result is that the center of the second cavity 46 is at a second height H2 relative to the bottom of the adapter 18, which second height is less than the first height H1. This height is configured such that the second cavity is positioned to engage an R - 134a communication joint.

[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10G, another embodiment of the adapter assembly 300 is shown. The adapter assembly 300 includes an adapter 318 with two spaced-apart sidewalls 318A, 318B. The spacing between the sidewalls is sized to receive a center housing 314 such that the center housing 314 can rotate (pivot) relative to the adapter 318, as discussed below. Each sidewall 318A, 318B includes a slot or aperture 350 sized to receive a projection 352 formed on the center housing 314. The slot 350 serves as a guide to control the lateral movement of the center housing 314 and to allow the center housing 314 to rotate (pivot) relative to the adapter 318. The adapter 318 includes a first stepped profile 318C and a second stepped profile 318D located on the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 318A, 318B and / or as part of end walls 320A, 320B on the adapter 318. One of the stepped profiles (e.g., 318C) is configured to engage a corresponding profile of an R-1234yf connection joint, and the other stepped profile (e.g., 318D) is configured to engage a corresponding profile of an R-134a connection joint.

[0083] The injector connector 312 is similar to the injector connector discussed above and includes an outer port 312A configured to connect a hose or an injector (not shown). A threaded end 312C is provided on the opposite side of the injector connector 312 and is configured to be threadedly connected to a first opening 314A in the center housing 314 and to translate a shaft 322 extending through the center housing 314, as discussed in the above embodiments, for actuating (opening) the connection joint during use. The injector connector 312 also includes a knob 312B to facilitate screwing the threaded end 312C into and out of the first opening in the center housing 314, thereby translating the shaft 322. The opposite end of the center housing 314 includes a second opening 314B configured to engage a suitable connection joint, as discussed below. When it is desired to actuate (open) the connection joint, the shaft 322 extends into the cavity of the second opening 314B (see FIG. 10A).

[0084] The adapter assembly 300 can be more clearly understood by discussing its operation during use. The adapter 318 is designed to allow a user to rotate (pivot) the center housing 314 relative to the adapter 318 depending on the type of refrigerant being used. As shown in FIG. 10A, the adapter assembly 300 is arranged to receive R-134a refrigerant, as depicted based on the orientation of the center housing 314. The side of the housing 314 may include a logo or other marking, such as "R-134a side up", to indicate to the user that it is oriented and configured to engage an R-134a connection joint. Figure 10GThe central housing 314 is shown with its opposite side facing upward. This side of the housing 314 may include a logo or other marking, such as "R-1234yf side up", to indicate to the user that it is oriented and configured to engage with the R-1234yf connection joint.

[0085] Assume that the user is using R-134a refrigerant and the adapter assembly is arranged as shown in FIG. 10A. The user connects the outer port 312A to a hose or injector on the fluid supply source. In this arrangement, the second stepped profile (e.g., 318D) is positioned adjacent to the second opening 314B and is configured to engage with the corresponding profile of the R-134a connection joint. Thus, the second stepped profile allows the second opening 314B to engage with the R-134a connection joint. When the injector connector 312 is fully twisted into the central housing 314, the shaft 322 will open the connection joint. Then fluid can be supplied by opening the pressurized supply source or by injecting fluid using an injector.

[0086] In the case where R-1234yf refrigerant needs to be supplied, the user turns the knob 312B to loosen the central housing 314 (FIG. 10B) (closing the connection joint if the assembly is attached to the connection joint). Then, the user slides the central housing 314 laterally away from the adapter 318 ( Figure 10C )(i.e., the protrusion 352 slides within the slot 350). Then, the housing 314 can be rotated relative to the adapter 318 (i.e., the protrusion 352 rotates within the slot 350)( Figure 10D 、 10E ) until the side of the housing 314 that includes the marking "R-1234yf side up" faces upward ( Figure 10F ). The user slides the housing 314 downward in the slot 350. The user connects the adapter 318 and the second opening 314B to the R-1234yf connection joint and then tightens the knob 312B such that the threaded end 312C is threadedly connected into the central housing 314 and the inner shaft 322 to open the connection joint. Once the knob 312B contacts the end of the adapter 318, it locks the injector connector 312 and the central housing 314 within the adapter 318. It will be apparent that other mechanisms can be used to lock the injector connector 312 and the central housing 314 within the adapter 318.

[0087] At this stage, the user can connect the outer port 312A to a hose or injector. In this arrangement, the first stepped profile (e.g., 318C) is positioned adjacent to the second opening 314B and is configured to engage with the corresponding profile of the R-1234yf connection joint. Thus, the first stepped profile allows the second opening 314B to engage with the R-1234yf connection joint. Then fluid can be supplied as discussed above.

[0088] Although the connector and the inner housing are shown as two separate components, it is contemplated that they could form a single unit, and the check valve could be placed at either end.

[0089] The foregoing discussion describes the use of the present invention for attaching R-134a and R-1234yf communication joints. However, it is obvious that the present invention can be used to attach different types of communication joints. For example, in an automotive system, different communication joints can be used for different refrigerant sources, such as R-152a refrigerant. The first profile and the second profile would be changed to fit different communication joints or include complementary shapes for engaging different communication joints.

[0090] It is further contemplated that if the communication joint has a threaded end, such as a threaded end for a residential or commercial air conditioning system, the adapter could include mating threads (or more preferably half-threads) instead of the profile surfaces on the adapter for engaging the communication joint. For example, referring to FIG. 10A, the adapter 318 could include a first set of half-threads on surface 318C and a second set of half-threads on surface 318D, where the first set and the second set have different diameters or thread sizes.

[0091] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference has been made to the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings and these embodiments have been described using specific language. However, this specific language is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, and the present invention should be construed as including all embodiments that would normally occur to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0092] The specific embodiments shown and described herein are illustrative examples of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is merely for the purpose of better illustrating the present invention and is not a limitation on the scope of the present invention, unless otherwise stated. Many modifications and adaptations will be obvious to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0093] In the context of describing the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims), the use of the terms "a", "an", and "the" should be understood to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or the context clearly contradicts. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "comprising", "having", "including", and "containing" should be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to"). The term "connected" should be construed as being partly or wholly incorporated in, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening.

[0094] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the recitation of numerical ranges herein is merely intended to be a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate numerical value falling within the range, and each separate numerical value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[0095] Terms such as "about" or "approximately" shall be understood to mean a variation of plus or minus 5%-10% of the numerical term or quantity defined, unless otherwise defined or limited in the specification.

[0096] All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise stated herein or the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is merely for the purpose of better illustrating embodiments of the invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise stated. Various embodiments and elements may be interchanged or combined in any suitable manner as needed.

[0097] The use of directions such as forward, backward, top and bottom, upper and lower is with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings and should not, therefore, be regarded as limiting. Reversing or flipping the embodiments in the drawings would of course result in a consistent reversal or flipping of the terms.

[0098] No language in the specification should be construed as indicating that any non-claimed element is essential to the practice of the invention.

[0099] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is not intended to limit the invention to the one or more specific forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, the invention is intended to cover various modifications and variations of the invention as long as they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-profile adapter assembly for connecting a pressurized fluid source to communication joints of different shapes in an air conditioning system, the adapter assembly comprising: An injector connector, the injector connector including a connector housing having an outer port at one end for removably attaching to a pressurized fluid source, an inner port at the other end, and an inner conduit extending between the outer port and the inner port for guiding a pressurized fluid flow from the outer port to the inner port; An inner housing connected to the injector connector, the inner housing including a first opening, a main chamber communicating with the first opening on one side and a restricted passage on the other side, the restricted passage extending from the main chamber to a second opening, the second opening including a cavity configured to receive a communication joint on the air conditioning system; A one-way valve located in the injector connector and / or the inner housing for allowing pressurized fluid to flow from the inner conduit in the injector connector into the inner housing; And An adapter having two spaced-apart side walls and a bottom connecting the side walls, the inner housing being located between the side walls, the adapter including a first outer shape and a second outer shape, the first outer shape being configured to engage a portion of a first communication joint of the air conditioning system, the second outer shape being configured to engage a portion of a second communication joint on the air conditioning system, wherein the first communication joint and the second communication joint have different sizes or shapes; and Wherein the inner housing and the adapter are movable or pivotable relative to each other to change the positions of the first outer shape and the second outer shape relative to the cavity of the inner housing depending on whether the adapter assembly is configured to be connected to the first communication joint or the second communication joint.

2. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a shaft that is displaceable within the inner housing and is configured to extend into the cavity of the second opening.

3. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The first communication joint is an R-134a communication joint, and the size and shape of the first outer shape are adapted to engage the R-134a communication joint, the second communication joint is an R-1234yf communication joint, and the size and shape of the second outer shape are adapted to engage the R-1234yf communication joint.

4. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The side walls are connected to end walls, wherein the first outer shape and the second outer shape are stepped profiles located on or inside the end walls, the first outer shape defining a surface profile complementary to the portion of the first communication joint, the second outer shape defining a surface profile complementary to the portion of the second communication joint, wherein the first outer shape is configured to position the first communication joint at a first height relative to the bottom of the adapter, and the second outer shape is configured to position the second communication joint at a second height relative to the bottom of the adapter.

5. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The inner housing includes two spaced-apart protrusions formed on opposite sides of the inner housing, the protrusions being configured to slide within slots formed in the adapter, thereby allowing the position of the inner housing above the bottom to change.

6. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The inner housing includes struts protruding outward from the top and bottom of the inner housing, with the struts on one side of the inner housing protruding farther from the inner housing than the struts on the opposite side of the inner housing. Each strut is configured to position the inner housing at two different heights relative to the bottom of the adapter, one position positioning the center of the cavity of the second opening at the same height as a first height, and the other position positioning the center of the cavity of the second opening at the same height as a second height.

7. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The side wall of the adapter is pivotally attached to the inner housing, wherein the end wall is curved and spaced from the second opening of the inner housing. The end wall includes a slot-shaped opening, and the first profile and the second profile are located on the slot-shaped opening. The first profile is located at a position on the slot-shaped opening different from the second profile. The positions of the first profile and the second profile relative to the center of the cavity are selected by pivoting the adapter relative to the inner housing. During use, the first profile is configured to engage a feature of a first connection joint, and the second profile is configured to engage a feature of a second connection joint, thereby removably fixing the inner housing to a suitable connection joint.

8. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 2, wherein The inner housing is pivotally attached to the side wall such that the inner housing can rotate relative to the adapter; wherein the adapter includes two end walls, one end wall at each end of the adapter, each end wall connected to the side wall. One end wall has an opening including the first profile, and the other end wall has an opening including the second profile; and wherein when it is necessary to connect the adapter assembly to a first connection joint, the inner housing pivots to position the cavity of the inner housing near the first profile, and wherein when it is necessary to connect the adapter assembly to a second connection joint, the inner housing pivots to position the cavity of the inner housing near the second profile.

9. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, 4, and 6, wherein Each side wall includes a hole sized to receive a protrusion formed on the inner housing. The hole allows the protrusion to rotate or slide, thereby allowing the inner housing to pivot relative to the adapter.

10. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The inner port of the injector connector is threadedly connected to the first opening of the inner housing.

11. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The inner port of the injector connector is threadedly connected to the first opening of the inner housing.

12. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The injector connector includes a seal located on the inner port and positioned to engage a portion of the inner housing to provide a fluid seal; and wherein the inner housing includes a seal within the cavity.

13. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The injector connector includes a seal located on the inner port and positioned to engage a portion of the inner housing to provide a fluid seal; and wherein the inner housing includes a seal within the cavity.

14. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The injector connector includes a seal located on the inner port and positioned to engage a portion of the inner housing to provide a fluid seal; and wherein the inner housing includes a seal within the cavity.

15. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, wherein, The one-way valve is a lift valve having a lift piston, the lift piston including: a central shaft attached to a lift head, the lift head having a plurality of openings extending therethrough, the central shaft being slidably disposed within a restricted passage in the inner housing, the lift head being located within the main chamber; and a sealing ball located between the lift head and an end of the inner conduit within the inner port, the sealing ball being sized to close the inner conduit to prevent fluid flow through the inner conduit and into the inner housing, the lift head confining the sealing ball between the lift head and the inner conduit to allow a small amount of movement of the sealing ball.

16. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8, wherein, The inner port of the injector connector is threadedly connected into a first opening in the inner housing, and by threadedly connecting the injector connector relative to the inner housing, the shaft is capable of moving within the cavity of a second opening.

17. The multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The inner port of the injector connector is threadedly connected into a first opening in the inner housing, and by threadedly connecting the injector connector relative to the inner housing, the shaft is capable of moving within the cavity of a second opening.

18. A method of connecting a pressurized fluid source to a union joint on an air conditioning system, the method comprising the steps of: Providing a multi-profile adapter assembly according to claim 1; Connecting the pressurized fluid source to the injector connector; Inserting the union joint on the air conditioning system into the cavity of the second opening; Moving the adapter such that one of the first profile or the second profile on the adapter contacts the union joint, depending on the type of union joint; Opening the union joint; And Guiding pressurized fluid from the fluid source through the inner housing and into the union joint.

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