Tire inflation system and connection device

Abstract

A connection device for a tire inflation system. The connection device includes a swivel joint and a hose assembly. A body of the hose assembly is insertable into and removable from a receiver cavity of the swivel joint when in a first rotational position. A locking protrusion of the hose assembly is received in a locking opening of the swivel joint to secure the body to the swivel joint when in a second rotational position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a tire inflation system for a vehicle and a connection device for a tire inflation system. BACKGROUND

[0002] A rotary union for a tire inflation system is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0288590.

[0003] SUMMARY

[0004] In at least one configuration, a connection device for a tire inflation system is provided. The connection device includes a rotary union and at least one hose assembly. The rotary union has a rotatable fitting rotatable about an axis with a hub cover. The rotatable fitting includes a mounting portion and a receptacle. The mounting portion is mountable to the hub cover. The receptacle is fluidly connected to the mounting portion and includes a receptacle wall and a locking opening. The receptacle wall extends away from the mounting portion and about a receptacle axis to define a receptacle cavity. The locking opening is disposed in the receptacle wall. The hose assembly includes a body and a hose. The body is receivable in the receptacle cavity and has a first end, a second end, a main channel, a locking protrusion, and a port. The main channel extends from the first end to the second end. The locking protrusion is disposed opposite the main channel and extends away from the main channel. The port extends along a port axis and is fluidly connected to the main channel. The hose is coupled to the body and is adapted to be fluidly connected to a tire. The body is rotatable between a first rotational position and a second rotational position when the body is received in the receptacle cavity. In the first rotational position, the body is insertable into and removable from the receptacle cavity. When in the second rotational position, the locking protrusion is received in the locking opening to secure the body to the receptacle. In the second rotational position, the port is alignable with the hub cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a wheel end of an axle assembly.

[0006] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 1

[0007] Figure 3 is a side view of a portion of the axle assembly of Figure 1

[0008] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along section line 4-4.

[0009] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a portion of the rotary union and the hose assembly. ​​

[0010] Figure 6 A hose assembly is shown separated and apart from the swivel.

[0011] Figure 7 A hose assembly is shown inserted into the swivel and in a first rotational position.

[0012] Figure 8 A hose assembly is shown in a second rotational position.

[0013] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the second configuration of the hose assembly along section line 4-4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Detailed embodiments of the application are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the application which can be embodied in various forms and alternative forms. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale; some features can be exaggerated or minimized for the sake of clarity. The specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the application.

[0015] SUMMARY Figure 1 A portion of an axle assembly 10 is shown in FIG. 1. The axle assembly 10 can be provided with a vehicle, such as a truck, a bus, farm equipment, mining equipment, a land, air, or marine vessel, a cargo loading device, or a trailer for transporting cargo.

[0016] In general, the axle assembly 10 can be associated with a tire inflation system 20 that can assist in achieving and / or maintaining a desired pressure within one or more tires 22. The tire inflation system 20 can be provided on the vehicle and can be configured to provide pressurized gas or a pressurized gas mixture to the one or more tires 22, to exhaust pressurized gas or a pressurized gas mixture from the one or more tires 22, or both. For clarity, the term "pressurized gas" can refer to a pressurized gas mixture (e.g., air) or a purified pressurized gas or gas mixture (e.g., nitrogen). For ease of reference, the term "air" is used hereinafter as a generic designation and is not intended to limit the particular pressurized gas or gas mixture (e.g., an "air passage" can facilitate the flow of a pressurized gas other than air). Tire inflation or deflation can be desired when the tire pressure is not sufficiently close to a tire pressure specified by the vehicle manufacturer and / or is not appropriate for the type of surface on which the vehicle is traveling. For example, a higher tire pressure can be desired when the vehicle is traveling on a paved road as compared to when the vehicle is traveling off-road.

[0017] The tire inflation system 20 can be fluidly connected to a source of pressurized gas 24. The source of pressurized gas 24 can be configured to supply or store a volume of pressurized gas. For example, the source of pressurized gas 24 can be a tank, a pump such as a compressor, or a combination thereof. The source of pressurized gas 24 can be configured to provide pressurized gas at a pressure greater than or equal to a desired inflation pressure of the tire 22. The source of pressurized gas 24 can be disposed on a vehicle and can be fluidly connected to at least one tire 22 via a passage in various components, such as via a connection device 26, which can include a hose assembly that fluidly connects a swivel to the tire 22, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

[0018] The axle assembly 10 can be configured to support one or more wheels 30. The axle assembly can also be configured to support a brake assembly 32, such as a friction actuator like a disc brake or drum brake. The axle assembly 10 can be provided in a steerable configuration or a non-steerable configuration. In the steerable configuration, the axle assembly 10 can be a steerable structural component, such as a knuckle. In at least one configuration, the axle assembly 10 can include a spindle 40, a hub 42, one or more wheel bearings 44, and a hub seal 46. The axle assembly can also include a spindle plug 50, a hose 52, a swivel 54, a sleeve 56, and one or more hose assemblies 58.

[0019] The spindle 40 can be disposed along or can extend about an axis 60. The spindle 40 can be fixedly positioned relative to a structural component 62, such as a knuckle or an axle housing. It is contemplated that the spindle 40 can be integrally formed with the structural component 62, rather than being a separate part from the structural component 62. In at least one configuration, the spindle 40 can define a spindle bore 64.

[0020] The spindle bore 64 can be disposed along the axis 60. The spindle bore 64 can be a through-hole that can extend through the spindle 40. The spindle bore 64 can receive various components, such as the spindle plug 50, the hose 52, and the sleeve 56. In a drive axle configuration, the spindle bore 64 can also receive an axle shaft that can operatively connect a source of power or torque, such as an engine or an electric motor, to the hub 42 to help propel a vehicle.

[0021] The hub 42 can rotate relative to the spindle 40 about the axis 60. Further, the hub 42 can facilitate mounting of the at least one wheel 30. In at least one configuration, the hub 42 can include a hub cavity 70, a hub mounting flange 72, and a hub cover 74.

[0022] A hub cavity 70 can be disposed within and can be encircled by the hub 42. As such, the hub cavity 70 can extend about the axis 60. The hub cavity 70 can receive at least a portion of various components of the axle assembly 10, such as the spindle 40, one or more wheel bearings 44, and a hub seal 46.

[0023] A hub mounting flange 72 can facilitate mounting of at least one wheel 30. For example, the hub mounting flange 72 can extend about and away from the axis 60, and the hub mounting flange can include a set of mounting fastener holes, each of which can receive a mounting lug bolt 80. The mounting lug bolts 80 can extend through corresponding holes in the wheel 30. Lug nuts 82 can be threaded onto the mounting lug bolts 80 to secure the wheel 30 to the hub 42. In Figure 1 In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, two wheels 30 are illustrated, each supporting a corresponding tire 22; however, it is contemplated that a single wheel 30 and tire 22 can be provided.

[0024] A hub cover 74 can be disposed proximate an outboard end of the hub 42. The hub cover 74 can help to enclose the hub cavity 70. In at least one configuration, the hub cover 74 defines a hub cover cavity 90, which can receive at least a portion of the rotary joint 54.

[0025] One or more wheel bearings 44 can be disposed on the spindle 40 and can rotatably support the hub 42. In the configuration shown, two wheel bearings 44 are illustrated. The wheel bearings 44 can have any suitable configuration. For example, the wheel bearings 44 can include a plurality of rolling elements (such as balls or rollers) that can be disposed between an inner race and an outer race. The inner race can encircle and can engage the spindle 40. The outer race can engage the hub 42 and can extend about the inner race.

[0026] A hub seal 46 can extend from the spindle 40 to the hub 42. The hub seal 46 can be disposed proximate an inboard end of the hub 42, which can be disposed opposite the hub cover 74. The hub 42, the hub seal 46, and the hub cover 74 can cooperate to inhibit contaminants from entering the hub cavity 70.

[0027] A spindle plug 50 can be disposed in the spindle bore 64. The spindle plug 50 can be fixedly positioned relative to the spindle 40. As such, the spindle plug 50 can not rotate about the axis 60 relative to the spindle 40. The spindle plug 50 can be made of one or more components. In at least one configuration, the spindle plug 50 can include an opening through which the hose 52 and the sleeve 56 can extend.

[0028] The hose 52 can fluidly connect the pressurized gas source 24 to the swivel 54. In at least one configuration, the hose 52, or a portion thereof, can extend along the axis 60. The hose 52 can be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material. The hose 52 can be fluidly coupled to a hose fitting that can be disposed with a through-hole in the axle assembly to facilitate fluid connection to the pressurized gas source 24. As such, one end of the hose 52 can be mounted to a portion of the axle assembly, such as the spindle or axle housing, while the other end can be mounted to or fluidly connected to the swivel 54.

[0029] The swivel 54 can be configured to fluidly connect the hose 52 to one or more hose assemblies 58. The connection device 26 can include the swivel 54 and the one or more hose assemblies 58. In at least one configuration and as referenced herein, the swivel 54 can be a rotary union. Figure 2 As best shown, the swivel 54 can include a torque tube 100, a stator 102, a hose retainer 104, and a rotatable fitting 106.

[0030] The torque tube 100 can be a hollow tube that can be disposed along the axis 60. The torque tube 100 can have a first end and a second end. The first end can be fluidly connected to the hose 52. For example, the first end can engage or contact the hose 52. In Figure 2 In at least one configuration, the torque tube 100 is received inside the hose 52; however, it is contemplated that this arrangement can be reversed. The second end can be disposed opposite the first end. For example, the second end can face and can be received inside the rotatable fitting 106. As such, the torque tube 100 can provide a fluid connection between the hose 52 and the rotatable fitting 106. In at least one configuration, the torque tube 100 can be mounted to the stator 102 such that the torque tube 100 does not rotate relative to the stator 102.

[0031] The stator 102 can extend from the torque tube 100 in a direction extending toward the spindle plug 50. The stator 102 can be received inside the hub cover cavity 90 and can be spaced apart from the rotatable fitting 106. The torque tube 100 can engage the hose 52 inside the stator 102. The sleeve 56 can be mounted to the stator 102.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the sleeve 56 can cooperate with the spindle plug 50 to limit rotation of the stator 102 and the hose 52 about the axis 60. The sleeve 56 can receive or encircle the hose 52, and the sleeve can extend from the spindle plug 50 to the stator 102 of the swivel 54.

[0033] Referring to Figure 2The hose retainer 104 can help secure the hose 52 to the stator 102. The hose retainer 104 can encircle the hose 52 and can be at least partially received within an interior of the stator 102.

[0034] Referring primarily to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The rotatable fitting 106, which can also be referred to as a tee joint, can rotate with the wheel hub 42 about the axis 60. In addition, the rotatable fitting 106 can be spaced apart from and rotate relative to the hose 52, the sleeve 56, the torque tube 100, and the stator 102. For example, as shown best in Figure 2 The bearing 110 can extend from the torque tube 100 to the rotatable fitting 106 to facilitate rotation of the rotatable fitting 106 relative to the torque tube 100 and the stator 102, as shown best. One or more seals 112 can also extend from the torque tube 100 to the rotatable fitting 106 to help inhibit leakage of pressurized gas. In the illustrated configuration, the seals 112 encircle the torque tube 100 and are positioned axially on opposite sides of the bearing 110. As such, the rotatable fitting 106 can rotate about the axis 60 relative to the torque tube 100 and the stator 102.

[0035] The rotatable fitting 106 can fluidly connect the torque tube 100 to one or more hose assemblies 58. In at least one configuration, the rotatable fitting 106 can include a mounting portion 120, at least one receiver 122, and a receiver passage 124.

[0036] Referring primarily to Figure 2 and Figure 5 The mounting portion 120 can facilitate mounting of the rotatable fitting 106 to the wheel hub cover 74. The mounting portion 120 can be mounted to the wheel hub cover 74 in any suitable manner. For example, the mounting portion 120 can include a threaded portion 130 that can mate with a corresponding threaded portion of the wheel hub cover 74. The mounting portion 120 can extend about the axis 60 and can encircle the axis, and the mounting portion can define a cavity 132 and a passage 134, as shown best in Figure 2 .

[0037] The cavity 132 can be disposed interior of the mounting portion 120. The cavity 132 can be open in a direction facing the stator 102. The cavity 132 can receive a portion of the torque tube 100, a portion of the stator 102, the bearing 110, and the one or more seals 112.

[0038] The passage 134 can fluidly connect the cavity 132 to the one or more receiver passages 124. The passage 134 can be configured as a through-hole that can extend through an end wall of the mounting portion 120 disposed adjacent to the receiver 122.

[0039] Referring primarily to Figures 3 to 5 The receiver 122 can be fluidly connected to the mounting portion 120. Further, the receiver 122 can facilitate mounting of the hose assembly 58 to the rotatable fitting 106. The receiver 122 can be disposed at an angle relative to the mounting portion 120. For example, the receiver 122 can be disposed substantially perpendicular to the mounting portion 120. The term "substantially perpendicular" is used herein to mean the same as or very close to perpendicular, and includes features that are within ±2.5° of being perpendicular to each other. In at least one configuration and as best shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As best shown, the receiver 122 can include a receiver bottom wall 140 and a receiver wall 142. Optionally, the receiver 122 can include a first alignment feature 146.

[0040] The receiver bottom wall 140 can be disposed proximate an end of the receiver 122 that can be disposed closest to the axis 60. The receiver bottom wall 140 can surround a portion of the receiver passage 124 and a receiver axis 150 along which the receiver passage 124 can extend. The receiver axis 150 can intersect the axis 60, can be disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis 60, or both. In at least one configuration, the receiver bottom wall 140 can include or can define a ring 160, which is best shown in Figure 4 .

[0041] The ring 160 can extend about the receiver axis 150. The ring 160 can be disposed inside the receiver 122 and can project from the receiver bottom wall 140 in a direction extending away from the mounting portion 120 or to the right as viewed from the angle shown. The ring 160 can be partially received inside an end fitting of the hose assembly 58, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Figure 4

[0042] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The receiver wall 142 can extend away from the mounting portion 120. For example, the receiver wall 142 can extend from the receiver bottom wall 140 to a receiver wall end surface 170. The receiver wall end surface 170 can extend away from the mounting portion 120 and can be disposed at an end of the receiver wall 142. Further, the receiver wall 142 can be spaced apart from and can extend about or encircle the receiver axis 150. The receiver wall 142 can cooperate with the receiver bottom wall 140 to define a receiver cavity 172. In at least one configuration, the receiver wall 142 can define at least one groove 180 and at least one locking opening 182. Further, the receiver wall 142 can be provided with one or more inside diameters, such as a first inside portion 184 and a second inside portion 186.

[0043] ​The receiver channel 124 can fluidly connect the mounting portion 120 to the receiver cavity 172. Further, the receiver channel 124 can have a smaller diameter than the receiver cavity 172.

[0044] Referring primarily to Figure 5 and Figure 6 One or more recesses 180 can be formed in the receiver wall 142. In the illustrated configuration, four recesses 180 are provided; however, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of recesses can be provided. The recesses 180 can be disposed interior to the receiver 122 such that the recesses 180 can extend from an interior side of the receiver wall 142 away from the receiver axis 150 and toward an opposite exterior side of the receiver wall 142. The recesses 180 can extend from the receiver wall end surface 170 toward the mounting portion 120 and the receiver bottom wall 140. More particularly, the recesses 180 can extend from the receiver wall end surface 170 to a corresponding locking opening 182. As the recesses 180 extend away from the receiver wall end surface 170, the recesses can be helical or twisted relative to the receiver axis 150. The recesses 180 can be tapered such that the recesses 180 become narrower as they extend from the receiver wall end surface 170 to or toward the locking openings 182.

[0045] The locking openings 182 can be disposed in the receiver wall 142. The locking openings 182 can be disposed at an end of the recesses 180. Further, the locking openings 182 can be configured as through-holes that can extend from an interior side to an exterior side of the receiver wall 142. The locking openings 182 can receive locking protrusions of the hose assembly 58 to secure the hose assembly 58 to the receiver 122, as will be discussed in greater detail below. In at least one configuration, the locking openings 182 can be generally D-shaped. For example, the locking openings 182 can have a linear or substantially linear edge that can be disposed proximate the recesses 180.

[0046] Referring primarily to Figure 4 The first interior side portion 184 can extend about the receiver axis 150, and the first interior side portion can be an inner diameter or inner circumference of at least a portion of the receiver 122. In at least one configuration, the first interior side portion 184 can extend from the receiver bottom wall 140 in a direction that extends away from the mounting portion 120.

[0047] The second interior side portion 186 can also extend about the receiver axis 150, and the second interior side portion can also be an inner diameter or inner circumference of a portion of the receiver 122. The second interior side portion 186 can extend between the first interior side portion 184 and the receiver wall end surface 170. The second interior side portion 186 can extend farther from the receiver axis 150 or have a greater diameter than the first interior side portion 184.

[0048] Reference is made primarily to Figures 6 to 8 The first alignment feature 146 can cooperate with the hose assembly 58 to provide a visual indication of the rotational position of the hose assembly 58 relative to the receiver 122, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The first alignment feature 146 can have any suitable configuration. For example, the first alignment feature 146 can protrude from the receiver 122, be recessed into the receiver 122, can be flush with the receiver 122, or combinations thereof. In the illustrated configuration, the first alignment feature 146 is configured as a protrusion that extends from an outer side of the receiver wall 142 in a direction that extends away from the receiver axis 150. Further, the first alignment feature 146 is illustrated as extending substantially parallel to the receiver axis 150. As used herein, the term “substantially parallel” means the same as parallel or very close to parallel, and includes features or axes that are parallel to each other within ±2.5°. The first alignment feature 146 can be disposed proximate to the locking opening 182. For example, in one or more configurations, the first alignment feature 146 can be disposed along a generally linear or straight edge of the locking opening 182.

[0049] Reference is made primarily to Figure 1 The one or more hose assemblies 58 can fluidly connect the rotatable fitting 106 to a corresponding tire 22. In the illustrated configuration, two hose assemblies 58 are depicted, with each hose assembly 58 fluidly connected to a different tire 22. A single hose assembly 58 can be provided in configurations having one tire 22 or when the rotatable fitting 106 is provided with a single receiver 122. In at least one configuration and as referenced above, the one or more hose assemblies 58 can be configured to fluidly connect the rotatable fitting 106 to a corresponding tire 22 when the rotatable fitting 106 is coupled to the receiver 122. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As best shown, the hose assembly 58 can include a body 200, a cover 202, an end fitting 204, a valve assembly 206, a port valve assembly 208, and a hose subassembly 210.

[0050] The body 200 can be selectively coupled to the receiver 122. For example, the body 200 can be inserted into the receiver cavity 172 and can be rotated about the receiver axis 150 to couple or decouple the hose assembly 58 to the rotatable fitting 106, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The body 200 can be a one-piece unit that can be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material. In at least one configuration, the body 200 can include a first end 220, a second end 222, a main channel 224, one or more locking protrusions 226, and a port 228. Optionally and as will be discussed in greater detail below, the body 200 can include a first outer portion 230, a second outer portion 232, one or more ribs 234, or combinations thereof. Figure 5 As best shown, the body 200 can include a first outer portion 230, a second outer portion 232, one or more ribs 234, or combinations thereof.

[0051] Reference is made primarily to Figure 4 and Figure 5A first end portion 220 can be provided at a distal end of the body 200. The first end portion 220 can be insertable into the receiver cavity 172.

[0052] A second end portion 222 can be provided opposite the first end portion 220. The second end portion 222 can be provided external to the receiver cavity 172 and can be provided adjacent to the cap 202 and the hose subassembly 210.

[0053] Referring to Figure 5 The main passage 224 can be configured as a through-hole extending from the first end portion 220 to the second end portion 222. The main passage 224 can extend along the receiver axis 150 when the hose assembly 58 is coupled to the rotatable fitting 106 or when the body 200 is disposed in the receiver cavity 172. In at least one configuration and as best shown, the main passage 224 can be at least partially defined by a first interior portion 240 and a second interior portion 242. Figure 5

[0054] The first interior portion 240 can be provided internal to the body 200 and can partially define the main passage 224. The first interior portion 240 can extend from the first end portion 220 toward the second end portion 222. The first interior portion 240 can receive a portion of the end fitting 204. The first interior portion 240 can have a greater diameter than the second interior portion 242.

[0055] The second interior portion 242 can also be provided internal to the body 200 and can partially define the main passage 224. The second interior portion 242 can extend from the second end portion 222 toward or to the first interior portion 240. The second interior portion 242 can receive a portion of the hose subassembly 210.

[0056] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 One or more locking protrusions 226 can extend from the body 200. In the illustrated configuration, four locking protrusions 226 are provided; however, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of locking protrusions can be provided. The locking protrusions 226 can be provided external to the body 200 such that the locking protrusions 226 can be provided opposite and can extend away from the main passage 224. The locking protrusions 226 can be spaced apart from one another. Each of the locking protrusions 226 can be configured to be received in a corresponding groove 180 of the receiver 122 during installation of the hose assembly 58, and each of the locking protrusions can be configured to be received in a corresponding locking opening 182 of the receiver 122 to inhibit rotation of the hose assembly 58, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

[0057] ​Port 228 can be positioned axially between first end 220 and second end 222 of body 200. Port 228 can be disposed externally of receiver 122 and can be configured to receive port valve assembly 208. Port 228 can have any suitable configuration. In the illustrated configuration, port 228 has a generally cylindrical configuration that extends from an exterior side of body 200 in a direction that extends away from receiver axis 150 and main channel 224. Port 228 can extend along a port axis 250. Port axis 250 can intersect receiver axis 150 and can be disposed substantially perpendicular thereto.

[0058] Referring to Figure 4 Port 228 can be fluidly connected to main channel 224. For example, port 228 can be fluidly connected to main channel 224 via a port channel 252 that can be provided with body 200. Port channel 252 can be configured as a recess that can be disposed proximate a bottom of port 228 and that extends toward receiver axis 150, a recess that can be disposed in second interior portion 242 that can extend away from receiver axis 150 toward port 228, or a combination thereof. Port channel 252 can extend axially from port 228 toward first end 220.

[0059] Referring primarily to Figure 4 First exterior portion 230 can extend from first end 220 toward second end 222. First exterior portion 230 can be directed toward and can be at least partially surrounded by or received in first interior portion 184 of receiver wall 142. First exterior portion 230 can have a smaller outer diameter than second exterior portion 232.

[0060] Second exterior portion 232 can extend between first exterior portion 230 and second end 222. For example, second exterior portion 232 can extend from first exterior portion 232 or toward port 228. Second exterior portion 232 can be directed toward and can be at least partially surrounded by or received in second interior portion 186 of receiver wall 142.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5 One or more ribs 234 can be provided to help secure or inhibit rotation of cap 202 relative to body 200. Ribs 234 can be disposed on an exterior of body 200 and can extend between second end 222 and first end 220. For example, one or more ribs 234 can extend axially from second end 222 toward first end 220. It is also contemplated that one or more ribs 234' can extend circumferentially about body 200 and that ribs 234' can intersect port 228.

[0062] Referring primarily to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cover 202 can extend around a portion of the body 200 and can conceal that portion. For example, the cover 202 can extend from the second end 222 of the body 200 toward the first end 220 of the body 200. The cover 202 can be disposed outside of the receiver cavity 172 when the hose assembly 58 is installed to the swivel fitting 54. The cover 202 can include one or more recesses that can receive corresponding ribs 234, 234'. In addition, the cover 202 can include a plurality of openings. For example, the cover 202 can include a first opening that can face the receiver 122 and can surround the second interior portion 242; a second opening that can surround the hose subassembly 210; and a third opening that can surround the port 228. The cover 202 can be made of any suitable material, such as a polymeric material or rubber, and the cover can be textured to facilitate gripping.

[0063] Referring to Figure 6 The cover 202 can include various indicia. For example, the cover 202 can include one or more rotational indicia 260 and a second alignment feature 262.

[0064] The rotational indicia 260 can be disposed on a visible exterior side of the cover 202. The rotational indicia 260 can include information regarding a direction in which the body 200 should be rotated to couple the hose assembly 58 to the rotatable fitting 106 and / or decouple the hose assembly from the rotatable fitting. It is also contemplated that, if the cover 202 is omitted, the rotational indicia 260 can be provided with the body 200.

[0065] The second alignment feature 262 can cooperate with the first alignment feature 146 of the receiver 122 to provide a visual indication of a rotational position of the hose assembly 58, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The second alignment feature 262 is illustrated as being provided with the cover 202; however, it is contemplated that the second alignment feature 262 can be provided partially or entirely with the body 200.

[0066] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5An end fitting 204 can be disposed at an end of the hose assembly 58. For example, a portion of the end fitting 204 can be encircled by the body 200 and can be received inside the main passage 224 of the body 200, while another portion of the end fitting 204 can protrude from the body 200 beyond the first end 220 of the body 200. The end fitting 204 can be inserted into the receiver 122, such as into the receiver cavity 172 and the receiver passage 124. A free end of the end fitting 204 can be received in the passage 134 of the rotatable fitting 106 when the hose assembly 58 is installed to the rotatable fitting 106. In at least one configuration, the end fitting 204 can include a central portion 270 and a flange 272.

[0067] The central portion 270 can be inserted into the receiver passage 124 and optionally into the passage 134. The central portion 270 can encircle the receiver axis 150. In at least one configuration and as best shown, the central portion 270 can include a first seal groove 280, a threaded portion 282, or both. Figure 4

[0068] The first seal groove 280 can extend from an outer side of the central portion 270 toward the receiver axis 150. The first seal groove 280 can receive a first seal 284, such as an O-ring, that can encircle the central portion 270. The first seal 284 can be received inside the receiver passage 124 and can extend from the central portion 270 to the receiver 122 to inhibit leakage between the end fitting 204 and the receiver 122. The first seal 284 can be disposed proximate the ring 160 of the receiver 122.

[0069] The threaded portion 282, if provided, can be disposed inside the central portion 270 and can encircle the receiver axis 150. The threaded portion 282 can facilitate installation of the valve assembly 206 and one or more configurations, such as Figure 9 the configuration shown.

[0070] The flange 272 can extend radially outward from the central portion 270. As such, the flange 272 can have a greater outer diameter than the central portion 270. The flange 272 can be inserted into the receiver cavity 172 but not into the receiver passage 124. In at least one configuration, the flange 272 can include a second seal groove 290, an end fitting recess 292, or both.

[0071] ​A second seal groove 290 can extend from an outer side of the flange 272 toward the receiver axis 150. The second seal groove 290 can receive a second seal 294, such as an O-ring, that can encircle the flange 272. The second seal 294 can be received inside the main passage 224 of the body 200 and can extend from the flange 272 to the first interior portion 240 of the body 200 to inhibit leakage between the end fitting 204 and the body 200. As such, the first interior portion 240 of the body 200 can encircle the second seal 294. The second seal 294 can be spaced apart from the receiver 122 and can not engage the receiver.

[0072] An end fitting recess 292 can be provided in the flange 272. The end fitting recess 292 can encircle the central portion 270 and can be open in a direction facing the free end of the end fitting 204. The end fitting recess 292 can be axially positioned between the first seal groove 280 and the second seal groove 290, and thus the end fitting recess can be axially positioned between the first seal 284 and the second seal 294. The end fitting recess 292 can receive a portion of the ring 160 that extends from the receiver bottom wall 140.

[0073] Referring to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 9 , the valve assembly 206 can help control the flow of pressurized gas. For example, when the supply pressure or air pressure provided to the swivel 54 is sufficient to open the valve or keep the valve in an open position, the valve of the valve assembly 206 can be configured to allow pressurized gas to flow through the swivel 54 and the hose assembly 58 into the tire 22. Conversely, when the air pressure in the tire 22 exceeds the supply pressure, the valve can be configured to close. The valve assembly 206 can be at least partially disposed in the main passage 224. In Figure 4 , a majority of the valve assembly 206 is axially positioned between the end fitting 204 and the hose sub-assembly 210. In Figure 9 , a majority of the valve assembly 206 is disposed in the end fitting 204 and can have threads that cooperate with the threaded portion 282 of the end fitting 204. In either configuration, the valve assembly 206 can be partially disposed in the end fitting 204.

[0074] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the port valve assembly 208 can be at least partially received in the port 228. The port valve assembly 208 can have any suitable configuration. For example, in Figure 4In some embodiments, the port valve assembly 208 can include a stem 300 that is mounted to the port 228 and can receive a valve 302, such as a Schrader valve. The port valve assembly 208 can be disposed downstream of the valve assembly 206 and thus can be in fluid communication with the tire 22. As such, the port valve assembly 208 can be used to check the inflation pressure of the tire 22 and optionally adjust the pressure of the tire 22. For example, a tire pressure gauge can be engaged with the distal end of the port valve assembly 208 to open the valve 302 and check the tire pressure. Similarly, an external supply hose can be engaged with the distal end of the port valve assembly 208 to open the valve 302 and inflate the tire 22. It is also contemplated that the valve 302 can be opened to vent pressurized gas.

[0075] Referring to Figure 1 , the hose subassembly 210 can be adapted to be fluidly connected to the tire 22. More specifically, when the hose subassembly 210 is coupled to the body 200 and the tire 22, the hose subassembly 210 can fluidly connect the body 200 and the tire 22. The hose subassembly 210 can be provided in various configurations. In each configuration, the hose subassembly 210 can have a first end 310 (best shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) and a second end 312. At least one hose section 314 can be disposed between the first end 310 and the second end 312.

[0076] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the first end 310 can be coupled to the body 200. For example, the first end 310 can include a fitting 316 that can be attached to the hose section 314 and can be received inside the body 200. The first end 310 can be disposed opposite the second end 312.

[0077] Referring to Figure 1 , the second end 312 can be connected to the tire 22. For example, the second end can be mounted to a tire valve 320 that can extend through an aperture in the wheel 30 and that can allow gas to enter or exit the tire 22 when the tire valve 320 is open. When secured to the tire valve 320, the hose assembly 58 can be configured to hold the tire valve 320 in an open position. Further, when the hose assembly 58 is disengaged from the tire valve 320, the tire valve 320 can close to prevent the tire 22 from deflating.

[0078] Referring to Figures 6 to 8Installation and removal of the hose assembly 58 will now be described. For clarity, a single hose assembly 58 is depicted in these figures. Installation can include coupling the hose assembly 58 to the rotatable fitting 106. Removal can include decoupling the hose assembly 58 from the rotatable fitting 106. Generally, the body 200 can be rotated between a first rotational position and a second rotational position while the body 200 is at least partially received in the receiver cavity 172.

[0079] In Figure 6 which the hose assembly 58 is separated from and decoupled from the rotatable fitting 106. The hose assembly 58 can be installed by orienting the end fitting 204 toward the receiver 122 such that the end fitting 204 is generally centered about the receiver axis 150 and such that each locking protrusion 226 is generally rotationally aligned with a corresponding groove 180 in the receiver 122 such that the locking protrusion 226 can be inserted into the groove 180. The rotational alignment of the locking protrusion 226 with the corresponding groove 180 can occur before or after the body 200 is engaged with the receiver 122.

[0080] In Figure 7 which the hose assembly 58 is shown in the first rotational position with the body 200 at least partially inserted into the receiver cavity 172 of the receiver 122. Each locking protrusion 226 can be received in a corresponding groove 180. Depending on the configuration of the grooves 180, the body 200 can be inserted further into the receiver 122 than shown. For example, the body 200 can be advanced further without rotating the body 200 about the receiver axis 150 in a configuration in which the grooves have an L-shaped configuration rather than a tapered configuration as shown.

[0081] In Figure 8 which the hose assembly 58 is shown in the second rotational position. The hose assembly can be moved from the first rotational position to the second rotational position by rotating the body 200 about the receiver axis 150 in a first rotational direction (depicted as a clockwise direction from the angle shown). Rotating the body 200 in the first rotational direction can cause the locking protrusions 226 to cooperate with the grooves 180 to allow the body 200 to be advanced along the receiver axis 150 toward the axis 60 as the grooves 180 spiral or twist along their length. The body 200 can be rotated in the first direction until the locking protrusions 226 enter the locking openings 182 and the locking protrusions 226 contact an end of the grooves 180 or the locking openings 182. As such, the locking protrusions 226 can be received in the locking openings 182 to secure the body 200 to the receiver 122 in the second rotational position.

[0082] It is contemplated that the locking protrusion 226 can be compressed by the receiver wall 142 toward the receiver axis 150 when in the recess 180, and that the locking protrusion can move away from the receiver axis 150 as the locking protrusion 226 enters the locking opening 182. This configuration can inhibit rotation of the body 200 in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction unless sufficient force is applied to compress the locking protrusion 226 toward the receiver axis 150, or both.

[0083] When the body 200 is in the second rotational position, the second alignment feature 262 of the hose assembly 58 can align with the first alignment feature 146 of the rotatable fitting 106 to provide a visual indication that the body 200 is in the second rotational position.

[0084] The second rotational position can be configured to place the hose assembly 58 in a predetermined position or in alignment with other components of the axle assembly 10. For example, the port 228 can be aligned with the hubcap 74 such that the port 228 is accessible for use and is not positioned in an orientation in which the port 228 can be more easily damaged, such as oriented generally parallel to the axis 60. As Figure 3 Best shown, the port 228 can be aligned with the hubcap 74 and oriented in a substantially vertical orientation when aligned with the hubcap in the second rotational position (e.g., within ±5° of a vertical line when the axis 60 is in a horizontal plane). For example, the port axis 250 can be substantially perpendicular to the axis 60 and can not intersect the axis 60 when the body 200 is in the second rotational position. Further, the hose assembly 58 can be completely spaced apart from the hubcap 74 in the second rotational position to inhibit wear or potential damage to the hose assembly.

[0085] The hose assembly 58 can be removed or disengaged from the swivel joint 54 by rotating the body 200 to the first rotational position in the second rotational direction and then moving the body 200 along the receiver axis 150 out of the receiver 122. As such, the body 200 can be inserted into and removed from the receiver cavity 172 when in the first rotational position.

[0086] The above configuration can allow the hose assembly to be quickly and reliably attached to the swivel fitting without the use of threaded fittings or connections between the hose assembly and the swivel fitting. Such threaded connections can be misaligned or over-tightened, which can damage the hose assembly, the rotatable fitting, or both. Further, threaded fittings or connections are susceptible to being under-tightened, which can result in leaks. The present invention allows for the rotational orientation of the port to be controlled in a reliable and repeatable manner to facilitate port access and avoid potential port damage by positioning the port in a predetermined or predefined orientation when in the second rotational position. In contrast, the port can be oriented in any rotational position by a threaded connection. Controlling the orientation of the port can also help prevent the hose assembly from contacting the hubcap or associated wheel end components, which can help reduce noise and wear that can occur when the hose assembly rubs or vibrates against such components.

[0087] While the foregoing description describes exemplary embodiments, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, features of various implemented embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A connection apparatus for a tire inflation system, the connection apparatus comprising: - a rotary joint having a rotatable fitting rotatable about an axis with a hub cover, and the rotatable fitting comprising: -- a mounting portion mountable to the hub cover; and -- a receiver fluidly connected to the mounting portion, the receiver comprising: --- a receiver wall extending away from the mounting portion and extending about a receiver axis to define a receiver cavity; and --- a locking opening disposed in the receiver wall; - a hose assembly comprising: -- a body receivable in the receiver cavity, wherein the body has a first end, a second end, a main passage extending from the first end to the second end, a locking protrusion disposed opposite and extending away from the main passage, and a port extending along a port axis and fluidly connected to the main passage; and -- a hose coupled to the body and adapted to be fluidly connected to a tire; and - a cover extending about the body, encircling the port, and extending from the second end toward the first end; wherein, when the body is received in the receiver cavity, the body is rotatable between a first rotational position in which the body is insertable into and removable from the receiver cavity, and a second rotational position in which the locking protrusion is received in the locking opening to secure the body to the receiver, and wherein the receiver has a first alignment feature disposed proximate the locking opening, and the cover has a second alignment feature aligned with the first alignment feature when the body is in the second rotational position.

2. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, The port is oriented in a substantially vertical orientation when aligned with the hub cover in the second rotational position.

3. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, In the second rotational position, the hose assembly is entirely spaced apart from the hub cover.

4. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, When the body is in the second rotational position, the port axis is disposed substantially perpendicular to and intersecting the receiver axis, and the receiver axis and the port axis are disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis.

5. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, The receiver wall extends away from the mounting portion to a receiver wall end surface and defines a groove extending from the receiver wall end surface to the locking opening.

6. The connection device of claim 5, wherein, The groove is tapered such that the groove becomes narrower as the groove extends from the receiver wall end surface to the locking opening.

7. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, The locking opening is generally D-shaped.

8. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, The rotatable fitting has a receiver passage fluidly connecting the mounting portion to the receiver cavity, wherein the hose assembly further comprises an end fitting partially received inside the main passage and protruding from the first end of the body into the receiver passage.

9. The connection device of claim 8, wherein, A valve assembly is disposed in the main passageway and is positioned axially between the end fitting and the hose.

10. The connection device of claim 9, wherein, The valve assembly is disposed partially in the end fitting.

11. The connection device of claim 8, wherein, A valve assembly is disposed in the end fitting and is mounted to the end fitting.

12. The connection device of claim 8, wherein, The receiver has a receiver bottom wall extending from the receiver wall toward the receiver axis and a ring extending around the receiver axis and projecting from the receiver bottom wall toward the second end portion, wherein the ring is partially received in the end fitting.

13. The connection device of claim 12, wherein, A first seal encircles the end fitting and extends from the end fitting to the receiver proximate the ring.

14. The connection device of claim 13, wherein, A second seal encircles the end fitting and extends from the end fitting to the main body such that the main body encircles the second seal.

15. The connection device of claim 14, wherein, The end fitting has an end fitting recess that receives the ring and that is positioned axially between the first seal and the second seal.

16. The connection device of claim 12, wherein, The receiver wall extends away from the mounting portion to a receiver wall end surface and defines a first inner side portion extending from the receiver bottom wall and a second inner side portion extending between the first inner side portion and the receiver wall end surface, and the main body has a first outer side portion extending from the first end portion and at least partially received in the first inner side portion and a second outer side portion extending between the first outer side portion and the second end portion and at least partially received in the second inner side portion.

17. The connection device of claim 16, wherein, The second outer side portion extends between the first outer side portion and the port.

18. The connection device of claim 1, wherein, The main body has a port passageway extending axially from the port toward the first end portion, and the port passageway is a recess extending toward the receiver axis.

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