Hose connector

Abstract

A hose connector (200) for a hose (202) comprises a body portion (204) defining an outer threaded section (206). The hose connector (200) further comprises an engagement portion (218) defined with the body portion (204). The engagement portion (218) allows the hose (202) to be pushed on. The hose connector (200) further comprises one or more mating elements (236) defined on at least a portion of the engagement portion (218). The one or more mating elements (236) allow the engagement of the hose (202) with the hose connector (200). The hose connector (200) is characterized in that the one or more mating elements (236) are helical elements (236) defined on a first part (226) of the engagement portion (218). Furthermore, a second part (228) of the engagement portion (218) has a diameter at least equal to an outermost diameter (D6) of the helical elements (236).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hose connector for a hose. BACKGROUND

[0002] Typically, horticulture requires a hose to be connected to a water supply, such as a faucet or a pump, so that water can be delivered through the hose. A hose connector allows for quick coupling of the hose to the water supply. To couple the hose to the hose connector, the hose is pushed through a receptacle so that the hose is received by the body of the hose connector. In some cases, the proper length of the hose is not received within the hose connector, or there is no proper reinforcement. Conventionally, the receptacle of the hose connector includes a plurality of toothed ribs disposed circumferentially thereon.

[0003] Furthermore, the installation of the hose connector to the hose requires a defined force. The diameter of the receptacle is chosen so that the defined force is low and there is a good seal between the hose and the hose connector. Typically, the diameter of the receptacle is different than the diameter of the hose. This difference in diameter can create a flow restriction to the water flowing therethrough. Furthermore, the smaller diameter of the hose receptacle can also result in a reduced flow cross-section defined by the hose connector, which reduces the flow rate of the water therethrough. As such, there is a need for an improved hose connector that provides an improved seal between the hose and the hose connector and also provides for quick and easy coupling of the hose connector to the hose without any constriction or reduction in the flow cross-section.

[0004] U.S. Patent Application 2,399,791 (hereinafter the '791 reference) provides an example. The '791 reference discloses a hose fitting. The hose fitting includes a connector and a clamping sleeve or housing. The connector has a head with external threads on an inner end. The external threads terminate with a smooth transition. The enlarged end of the head has a hexagonal shape. Furthermore, the external threads terminate with a smooth transition. As such, water can leak therefrom and a proper seal cannot be ensured. Therefore, there is a need for an improved hose coupling device. SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the above, it is an object of the present disclosure to address or at least reduce the above-discussed drawbacks. This object is at least partially achieved by a new design of a hose connector for a hose. The hose connector comprises a body portion defining an outer threaded section. The hose connector further comprises an engagement portion defined with the body portion. The engagement portion allows the hose to be pushed on. The hose connector further comprises one or more engagement elements defined on at least a portion of the engagement portion. The one or more engagement elements allow the engagement of the hose with the hose connector. The engagement portion comprises at least a first part and a second part. The first part is defined around an end of the engagement portion opposite to the body portion. The first part of the engagement portion comprises one or more engagement elements in the form of a helical element extending at least partially across the first part. Further, a surface of the second part of the engagement portion does not present any engagement element and has an outer diameter at least equal to an outermost diameter of the helical element. The invention is characterized in that the extension of the helical element on the first part abruptly stops so that the helical element defines a stepped end with a flat end surface towards the second part.

[0006] The present disclosure provides an improved hose connector with a helical element. The helical element facilitates the turning of the hose onto the hose connector. In addition, the helical element and the pressure generated between the hose and the hose connector together allow a firm coupling between the hose and the hose connector. Further, the inner diameter of the engagement portion and the diameter of the hose are almost equal to each other. This feature ensures that the flow cross-section is not constricted, which leads to a constant flow rate of water through the hose connector and the hose. Further, the outer diameter of the second part of the engagement portion is substantially equal to or greater than the outermost diameter of the helical element. Further, due to the abrupt stop of the extension of the helical element on the first part, this feature ensures a radial water-tight seal, whereby any water of the engaged hose that still flows along the helical element will stop at the latest at this seal. This is contrary to the creation and application of a helical structure with elements, such as windings with screws, as known from the prior art forming the knowledge of the person skilled in the art. In this case, the transition of the helical structure will smoothly taper into the flat end surface of the element and will not abruptly stop at all, which is a difficult task in terms of manufacturing. The arrangement of the first part around the end of the engagement portion reduces the coupling force during the coupling of the hose with the hose connector.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the total length of the first part and the second part defines a complete engagement portion. This arrangement provides an easy and firm coupling of the hose by turning the hose onto the hose connector.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inner diameter of the engagement portion is about the inner diameter of the hose to be pushed on. This dimension of the inner diameter is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the hose, which ensures a constant flow rate of water supply through the hose connector and the hose. In one exemplary embodiment, this can be 8.5 mm.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the externally threaded section allows for threaded connection of the hose connector with the clamping nut. The clamping nut provides a secure and robust connection of the hose connector with the hose.

[0010] Other features and aspects of the present invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The present disclosure will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 a perspective view of a hose connector according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0013] Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of a hose connector according to the present disclosure coupled with a hose is shown; Figure 1

[0014] Fig. 3A shows a perspective view of a joint portion of a hose connector known in the prior art; and

[0015] Figure 3B a perspective view of a joint portion of a hose connector according to the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the present disclosure incorporating one or more aspects of the present disclosure are shown. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the present disclosure can be used in other embodiments and even other types of structures and / or methods. In the drawings, the same reference numbers in different drawings refer to the same elements.

[0017] ​Certain terminology is used in this document for convenience only and should not be taken as a limitation on the present disclosure. For example, “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “transverse,” “upward,” “downward,” “forward,” “backward,” “laterally,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upwardly,” “inwardly,” “outwardly,” “top,” “bottom,” “higher,” “above,” “below,” “center,” “middle,” “intermediate,” “between,” “end,” “proximate,” “near,” “away from,” “remote,” “radial,” “circumferential,” and the like merely describe the configuration shown in the Figures. Components can be oriented in any direction and the terminology should not be limited to the orientations described herein, unless stated otherwise.

[0018] Figure 1 A hose connector 200 for a hose 202 is shown. The hose 202 can be connected to a fluid supply (not shown), such as a pump, faucet, pipe, or the like. Further, the fluid can be water or any other fluid of interest, as desired. Figure 1 A perspective view of the hose connector 200 is shown. The hose connector 200 includes a body portion 204 defining an outer threaded section 206. The body portion 204 defines a first section 208 and a second section 210 disposed adjacent the first section 208. The second section 210 defines the outer threaded section 206. The outer threaded section 206 includes a plurality of threads 207 disposed circumferentially on the second section 210 of the body portion 204.

[0019] The second section 210 of the body portion 204 defines a first outer diameter “D1.” Specifically, the first outer diameter “D1” is defined by the outer threaded section 206. The body portion 204 is a hollow piece typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic. The body portion 204 can be made of other materials, such as steel, brass, stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, or the like, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Further, combinations of materials can also be used to manufacture the body portion 204 of the hose connector 200.

[0020] Reference is made to Figure 2The body portion 204 also includes a first cylindrical bore 212. The first cylindrical bore 212 defines a first inner diameter "D2". Fluid, such as water, flows through the first cylindrical bore 212 of the body portion 204. The first cylindrical bore 212 includes a first end portion 214 and a second end portion 216. The first end portion 214 has a diverging cross-sectional area, while the second end portion 216 has a converging cross-sectional area. The first end portion 214 and the second end portion 216 are arranged such that water flows from the first end portion 214 of the first cylindrical bore 212 toward the second end portion 216 of the first cylindrical bore 212.

[0021] By way of introduction Figure 1 And Figure 2 The hose connector 200 also includes an engagement portion 218 defined with the body portion 204. The engagement portion 218 allows the hose 202 to be pushed on. By turning and pushing the hose 202 onto the engagement portion 218, the engagement portion 218 is inserted into the hose 202. In the illustrated example, the body portion 204 and the engagement portion 218 are embodied as a single piece unit. Alternatively, the body portion 204 and the engagement portion 218 can be embodied as separate components that are joined together using techniques such as welding, brazing, soldering, etc. The engagement portion 218 is manufactured using the same material as the body portion 204.

[0022] The engagement portion 218 is in fluid communication with the body portion 204 of the hose connector 200 and is arranged downstream of the body portion 204 along a flow direction "Fl" of the water. The flow direction "Fl" as depicted is merely exemplary and it should be readily understood that the present application while well understood that the flow direction can also be in the opposite direction depending on the application. The engagement portion 218 is embodied as a generally cylindrical element. The engagement portion 218 includes a first end 220 proximate the body portion 204 and a second end 222 opposite the first end 220. The second end 222 of the engagement portion 218 includes a tapered portion 224.

[0023] The engagement portion 218 includes at least a first component 226 and a second component 228. More specifically, the engagement portion 218 includes a first component 226 proximate the tapered portion 224 (which is opposite the body portion 204) and a second component 228 proximate the body portion 204. Further, the first component 226 is defined about the end 222 of the engagement portion 218 opposite the body portion 204. In the illustrated example, the first component 226 is defined about the second end 222 of the engagement portion 218. Further, in some embodiments, the first component 226 can also be defined about the first end 220, or anywhere on the engagement portion 218.

[0024] The first component 226 of the junction portion 218 defines a length “LI”. Further, the second component 228 of the junction portion 218 defines a diameter “D3” and a length “L2”. Further, the diameter “D3” is less than the first outer diameter “D1”. The total length “L3” of the first component 226 and the second component 228 defines the complete junction portion 218. Specifically, the length “LI” and the length “L2” in combination define the full length “L3” of the junction portion 218.

[0025] Further, the junction portion 218 defines an inner diameter “D4”. Specifically, the junction portion 218 includes a second cylindrical bore 230 defining the inner diameter “D4”. The second cylindrical bore 230 is in fluid communication with the first cylindrical bore 212. Fluid, such as water, flows through the second cylindrical bore 230 of the junction portion 218. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner diameter “D4” of the junction portion 218 is approximately 8.5 mm. However, the inner diameter “D4” can vary as needed depending on the application. Further, as shown in the drawings, the inner diameter “D4” is almost equal to the inner diameter “D5” of the hose 202 when the hose 202 is connected to the hose connector 200. This feature ensures that there is no flow constriction of water passing therethrough. The second cylindrical bore 230 includes a first end portion 232 and a second end portion 234. The first end portion 232 and the second end portion 234 are arranged such that water flows from the first end portion 232 of the second cylindrical bore 230 towards the second end portion 234 of the second cylindrical bore 230.

[0026] The hose connector 200 further includes one or more engagement elements 236 defined on at least a portion of the junction portion 218. The one or more engagement elements 236 allow for the engagement of the hose 202 with the hose connector 200. The engagement elements 236 are arranged circumferentially on the junction portion 218 proximate to the tapered portion 224. More specifically, the engagement elements 236 are defined on the outer surface of the junction portion 218.

[0027] The present disclosure illustrates the engagement elements 236 defined on the length “LI” of the first component 226 of the junction portion 218. In some embodiments, the length “LI” of the first component 226 (i.e., the engagement elements 236) of the junction portion 218 can cover the total length “L3” of the complete junction portion 218. Further, the proportion of the length “LI” of the engagement elements 236 with respect to the total length “L3” of the complete junction portion 218 can depend on various factors involved with the hose 202 and the hose connector 200, as well as other implementation factors. In some embodiments, the engagement elements 236 can not be defined continuously on the junction portion 218. Additionally, or alternatively, the engagement elements 236 can be provided with any other engagement features known or used in the relevant art, such as ramps, pins.

[0028] Further, the one or more mating elements 236 are helical elements 236 defined on the first component 226 of the engagement portion 218. The mating elements 236 can hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as helical elements 236 without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In the illustrated example, the helical elements 236 comprise continuous helixes. Although the helical elements 236 are provided on the first component 226, it is envisaged that the second component 228 can also comprise helical elements 236 without any limitation. When the hose 202 is coupled with the hose connector 200, the helical elements 236 squeeze the hose 202 thereby providing a firm coupling and an effective seal between the hose 202 and the hose connector 200.

[0029] The helical elements 236 define an outermost diameter “D6”. Further, the second component 228 of the engagement portion 218 has a diameter “D3” which is at least equal to the outermost diameter “D6” of the helical elements 236. This feature ensures that the widened end of the hose 202 is pressed against the second component 228 which results in a radial watertight seal.

[0030] The hose connector 200 further comprises a collar 238 disposed proximate to the body portion 204. The collar 238 has a circular shape. The collar 238 can comprise any other shape such as square, triangular, elliptical, and the like. The hose connector 200 further comprises a clamping nut 242. The clamping nut 242 is tightened on the second section 210 of the body portion 204 after the hose connector 200 is connected with the hose 202. The clamping nut 242 engages with the body portion 204. Further, the clamping nut 242 retains the engaged portion of the hose 202 on the engagement portion 218. The clamping nut 242 comprises a first element 244 and a second element 246. The first element 244 defines an inner threaded section (not shown) which engages with the outer threaded section 206 of the body portion 204. Thereby, the outer threaded section 206 allows a threaded connection of the hose connector 200 with the clamping nut 242.

[0031] Further, the first element 244 of the clamping nut 242 has a circular shape. Alternatively, the first element 244 can comprise any cross-section such as triangular, hexagonal, square, and the like. Further, the second element 246 is a protruding cylindrical component having an inner diameter which is same as the outer diameter “D7” of the hose 202. When the hose 202 is coupled with the hose connector 200, a portion of the hose 202 is radially disposed between the second element 246 of the clamping nut 242 and the engagement portion 218.

[0032] The present disclosure provides an improved hose connector 200 for a hose 202. The hose connector 200 includes a helical element 236 that facilitates the turning of the hose 202 onto the hose connector 200. Further, the hose 202 widens as it is twisted onto the hose connector 200. Additionally, the helical element 236 and the pressure created between the hose 202 and the hose connector 200 securely hold the hose 202. Further, the helical element 236 engages with the hose 202 such that accidental release of the hose 202 from the hose connector 200 can be prevented. Further, the diameter "D3" of the second component 228 of the engagement portion 218 is at least equal to the outermost diameter "D6" of the helical element 236, which results in a radial water tight seal.

[0033] The hose connector 200 defined herein does not include any sharp changes in cross section across the hose connector 200, thereby eliminating any flow constriction through the hose connector 200. Further, since the inner diameter "D4" of the engagement portion 218 and the inner diameter "D5" of the hose 202 are nearly equal, the flow cross section does not constrict, which results in a constant flow rate of water towards the hose 202.

[0034] FIG. 3A and Figure 3B The engagement portion 218 is shown in more detail. In particular, FIG. 3A shows an engagement portion 218' known in the prior art. The engagement portion 218' includes a tapered portion 224'. The engagement portion 218' includes a first component 226' and a second component 228'. The first component 226' is defined about an end of the engagement portion 218' opposite the body portion. The first component 226 includes one or more mating elements 236' in the form of a helical element 236' that extends at least partially across the first component 226'. As shown, the helical element 236' is in the form of a thread on a surface 248' that allows for the installation of the hose connector with the hose. The thread terminates on the surface 248' in a manner that the surface 248' is provided with a smooth termination transition. Typically, threads are provided in this manner in any such coupling mechanism. This results in an improper seal or flow profile when water flows through the hose.

[0035] Figure 3BThe joint portion 218 according to the present disclosure is shown in further detail. The joint portion 218 comprises a first component 226 and a second component 228. The first component 226 is defined about the end 222 of the joint portion 218 opposite the body portion 204. The first component 226 comprises one or more mating elements 236 in the form of a helical element 236 extending at least partially across the first component 226. Further, the extension of the helical element 236 across the first component 226 is abruptly stopped such that the helical element 236 defines a stepped end with a flat end surface 248 towards the second component 228. The flat end surface 248 is shown to have a triangular cross-sectional shape. It will be appreciated that the flat end surface 248 can also have any other cross-sectional shape based on the structural profile of the thread.

[0036] The stepped end and thus the abrupt termination provides an effective seal to water flowing inside the hose 202. Water flowing inside the hose 202 can flow radially along the thread and can also tend to flow further beyond the thread. However, due to the flat end surface 248 and the abrupt termination of the thread, proper sealing of the hose 202 is ensured and no water leaks therefrom.

[0037] In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed preferred embodiments and examples of the disclosure, and although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the disclosure being set forth in the following claims.

[0038] Element List

[0039] 200 Hose connector

[0040] 202 Hose

[0041] 204 Body portion

[0042] 206 External thread section

[0043] 207 Thread

[0044] 208 First section

[0045] 210 Second section

[0046] 212 First cylindrical bore

[0047] 214 First end portion

[0048] 216 Second end portion

[0049] 218 Joint portion

[0050] 220 First end

[0051] 222 second end portion

[0052] 224 tapering portion

[0053] 226 first part

[0054] 228 second part

[0055] 230 second cylindrical bore

[0056] 232 first end portion

[0057] 234 second end portion

[0058] 236 cooperating element / screw element

[0059] 238 collar

[0060] 242 clamping nut

[0061] 244 first element

[0062] 246 second element

[0063] 248 end surface

[0064] 218' engagement portion

[0065] 224' tapering portion

[0066] 226' first part

[0067] 228' second part

[0068] 236' cooperating element / screw element

[0069] 248' surface

[0070] L1 length of first part

[0071] L2 length of second part

[0072] L3 total length

[0073] F1 flow direction of water

[0074] D1 first outer diameter

[0075] D2 first inner diameter

[0076] D3 diameter of second part

[0077] D4 inner diameter of second cylindrical bore

[0078] D5 inner diameter of hose

[0079] D6 outermost diameter of screw element

[0080] D7 outer diameter of the hose

Claims

1. A hose connector (200) for a hose (202), comprising: - a body portion (204) defining an outer threaded section (206); - an engagement portion (218) defined with the body portion (204), wherein the engagement portion (218) is adapted to allow the hose (202) to be pushed on; - one or more cooperating elements (236) defined on at least a portion of the engagement portion (218), wherein the one or more cooperating elements (236) are adapted to allow the engagement of the hose (202) with the hose connector (200); - the engagement portion (218) comprising at least a first part (226) and a second part (228), - wherein the first part (226) is defined around an end (222) of the engagement portion (218) opposite the body portion (204) and comprises the one or more cooperating elements (236) in the form of helical elements (236) extending at least partially across the first part (226), - and wherein the second part (228) of the engagement portion (218) presents no cooperating elements on its surface and has an outer diameter at least equal to the outermost diameter (D6) of the helical elements (236); characterized in that: - the extension of the helical elements (236) on the first part (226) is abruptly stopped so that the helical elements (236) define a stepped end with a flat end surface towards the second part (228).

2. The hose connector (200) according to claim 1, wherein - the total length (L3) of the first part (226) and of the second part (228) defines the entire engagement portion (218).

3. The hose connector (200) of claim 1, wherein, - the engagement portion (218) is configured so that the inner diameter (D4) of the engagement portion (218) is the inner diameter of the hose to be pushed on.

4. The hose connector (200) of claim 3, wherein, - the inner diameter (D4) of the engagement portion (218) is 8.5 mm.

5. The hose connector (200) of claim 1, wherein, - the outer threaded section (206) is configured to allow the threaded connection of the hose connector (200) with a clamping nut (242).

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