Connector with pressure reducing valve

Abstract

A connector includes an internal fluid channel and an external fluid channel. The connector includes a housing, an internal valve for the internal fluid channel, and an external valve for the external fluid channel. The connector also includes an external pressure-reducing valve for the external valve, comprising: a first sleeve axially movable for sealing against a first seal of the housing; a second sleeve axially movable for sealing against a second seal of the housing; and a third seal sealing between the first and second sleeves. Relative axial movement between the first and second sleeves opens or closes the external pressure-reducing valve in the direction of axial movement, respectively. The first and third seals are arranged at the same radial distance from a common axis of the internal and external fluid channels. The connector may include an internal pressure-reducing valve for the internal valve. The connector may include a locking groove located on an outer portion of the housing, the locking groove circumferentially surrounding the housing and having a combined shape of two intersecting stepped U-shaped grooves.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a quick-connect coupling. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a nipple for the coupling, particularly a nipple and a coaxial nipple having a relief valve, and a method for balancing the relief valve. The present disclosure also relates to a hydraulic tool having such a nipple. Background Art

[0002] Connectors, such as hydraulic connectors, typically have a coupling and a nipple. The nipple can be referred to as the male component, and the coupling can be referred to as the female component. These connectors are used to connect fluids, such as hydraulic fluid. Such a connection can be located between a pump supplying pressurized fluid on one side and a hydraulic tool on the other. For some applications, the connection requires directing the fluid through two tubes, for example, one tube directing the fluid forward and another tube directing the fluid backward, or two tubes supplying fluid forward and backward to either side of a hydraulic tool's piston.

[0003] When a connector and a coupler are disconnected, residual pressurized fluid may remain in the connector and potentially in the system, such as the pipes and pumps or tools connected to the connector. This is because, for example, if the connector is part of a closed system, such as a coupler, pipe, and connector, heat, such as sunlight, may heat the closed system, causing the internal pressure to increase. If the residual internal pressure is too high, the connector and coupler cannot be connected by hand. This is because simply pressing the coupler against the connector by hand will not open the connector valve, which is a problem that needs to be addressed. It is desirable to connect the connector and coupler with only minimal force, regardless of whether the connector has residual pressure. Such a connection is best accomplished using only hand force. The pipe with the connector filled with fluid may be heated by the environment, which may be enough to increase the pressure, making the connector unable to be connected to the coupler by hand force alone. Therefore, there is a need to overcome these problems and improve connectors, especially coaxial connectors.

[0004] It is also desirable to provide a connector that is inexpensive to manufacture, easy to manufacture, simple and quick to assemble, and robust. The connector must be adaptable to existing couplings, i.e., replace old connectors. The connector should contain as few parts as possible to provide good functionality, assembly, and reliability. The connector must also be manufacturable in various sizes. The present disclosure is intended to overcome all of the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a joint for a coupling.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a joint for a coupling is disclosed. The joint includes a fluid channel 200. The joint also includes a housing 10 and a valve 210 for the fluid channel 200. The joint also includes a pressure-reducing valve 220 for the valve 210. The pressure-reducing valve 220 includes a first sleeve 230 that is axially movable for sealing against a first seal 232 of the housing 10; a second sleeve 240 for sealing against a second seal 242 of the housing 10; and a third seal 222 for sealing between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. The joint is configured such that relative axial movement between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 opens or closes the pressure-reducing valve 220, depending on the direction of the axial movement. The first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the central axis 20 of the fluid channel 200.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a joint for a coupling is disclosed. The joint includes an internal fluid passage 100 and an external fluid passage 200, the internal and external fluid passages being coaxial. The joint further includes: a housing 10; an internal valve 110 for the internal fluid passage 100; and an external valve 210 for the external fluid passage 200. The joint further includes an external pressure-reducing valve 220 for the external valve 210. The external pressure-reducing valve 220 includes: a first sleeve 230 axially movable for sealing against a first seal 232 of the housing 10; a second sleeve 240 for sealing against a second seal 242 of the housing 10; and a third seal 222 for sealing between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. The joint is configured such that the relative axial movement between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 opens or closes the external pressure reducing valve 220 depending on the direction of the axial movement, and the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal fluid channel 100 and the external fluid channel 200.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the joint may further include a gap 238 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 for allowing fluid to pass between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240 may also or additionally include one or more recesses 247 for fluid and / or one or more channels 246 for fluid. According to one embodiment, the protrusion 239 may form the gap 238 between the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the second sleeve 240 is axially movable to seal against the second seal 242 of the housing 10 .

[0010] According to one embodiment, the connector may further comprise an internal pressure reducing valve 120 for the internal valve 110 .

[0011] According to one embodiment, the connector may further include a locking groove 300 on the outer side of the housing 10, the locking groove 300 circumferentially surrounding the housing 10 and having a shape that is substantially a combination of two intersecting stepped U-shaped grooves. Preferably, the stepped U-shaped grooves of the locking groove 300 may be arranged and configured so that the ball of the coupler's ball lock has two separate positions in the locking groove 300, preferably so that the coupler with the ball lock must be pressed toward the connector and then the coupler's locking sleeve pushed away from the connector to unlock the coupler from the connector.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the joint may be configured such that the first sleeve 230 seals against the first seal 232 in a position where the external pressure relief valve 220 is open, and axial movement of the first sleeve 230 away from the first seal 232 moves the second sleeve 240 .

[0013] According to one embodiment, the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 may be shaped in a complementary manner such that the first sleeve 230 is connected to the second sleeve 240 when the first sleeve 230 is axially moved into the joint.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the joint may further include a spring 12 that applies a force to close the external pressure relief valve 220 .

[0015] According to one embodiment, the first sleeve 230 may have one or more first sleeve openings 234 , and / or the second sleeve 240 may have one or more second sleeve openings 244 .

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first seal 232 may be held by the housing 10 , and the third seal 222 may be held by the first sleeve 230 .

[0017] According to one embodiment, a method for balancing the internal pressure acting on a pressure reducing valve of a connector is disclosed. The connector can be any of the embodiments described herein. The internal pressure acting on the pressure reducing valve of the connector is balanced by arranging two seals 232, 222 at substantially the same radial distance from the central axis of the connector, with each of the two seals 232, 222 sealing against the same movable sleeve 230 for closing or opening the pressure reducing valve 220. Preferably, the connector is any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0018] According to one embodiment, one of the two seals 232 may seal between the movable sleeve 230 and the housing 10 of the joint, and the other seal 222 may seal between any internal pressure and an external ambient pressure of, for example, 100 kPa.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the method may further include a safety unlocking method for safely releasing the lock between the connector and the coupling 500. The coupling 500 may include a locking sleeve 510 and a locking ball 520 for establishing a locked connection between the connector and the coupling 500. The method may be used to unlock the connector 500 from the connector only when the coupling 500 and the connector are first pushed toward each other 610 and then the locking sleeve 510 of the coupling 500 is pushed away from the connector 620. Preferably, the locking sleeve 510 is freely rotatable.

[0020] At least one of the above embodiments provides one or more solutions for achieving a connection between a connector and a coupler using only hand force, with a force of no more than 45 Newtons, or even less than 30 Newtons, being sufficient to achieve the connection. At least one of the above embodiments overcomes the aforementioned problems and improves connectors, particularly coaxial connectors.

[0021] At least one of the above embodiments provides a connector that is inexpensive to manufacture, easy to manufacture, simple and quick to assemble, and robust. The connector can also be fitted with existing couplings, replacing older connectors. Connectors according to the embodiments disclosed herein comprise only a few components and offer excellent functionality, assembly, and reliability. The connector can also be manufactured in various sizes.

[0022] At least one of the above-described embodiments provides one or more solutions to the problems and shortcomings of the background technology. Other technical advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description and claims. Each feature of a claim may be an independent feature. Various embodiments of the present application achieve only a subset of the advantages described. No single advantage is essential to each embodiment. Any disclosed embodiment may be technically combined with one or more other disclosed embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings currently illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description of the various embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure by way of example.

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a joint disconnected from a coupler according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a pressure relief vent position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a connection safety position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a connector and a coupler in a disconnected position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a pressure relief vent position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a connection safety position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a connector and a coupler in a disconnected position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a reduced pressure vent position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a connection safety position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 13 is a flow chart of a method for balancing a pressure reducing valve according to all three embodiments;

[0037] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a reduced pressure vent position according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 15is a schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a reduced pressure vent position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 a schematic diagram of a portion of;

[0040] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 a schematic diagram of a portion of ; and

[0041] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of an inner sleeve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Figures 1 to 4 is a schematic diagram of a joint according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 8 is a schematic diagram of a joint according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 9 to 12 The figure is a schematic diagram of a connector according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Identical reference numerals are used for identical features in the three exemplary embodiments. Of the three exemplary embodiments, the first embodiment is the preferred embodiment. The description of the first embodiment corresponds to the other two embodiments. The connector can be used for high pressures, for example, up to 700 bar, 70,000 kPa, or up to 4,000 bar, 400,000 kPa, and can operate above 50,000 kPa, while the external environment can be approximately 100 kPa, such as atmospheric pressure at sea level. To facilitate understanding, the figure also shows the connector and coupler, so that one can understand how the connector and coupler interact and the function of the pressure relief valve. The connector and coupler are shown with cutouts through their cylindrical bodies, and the cutouts are along their central axes. All three exemplary embodiments illustrate the same principle of achieving reduced pressure venting for the external passages of a coaxial connector. All three exemplary embodiments illustrate the same principle of balancing the pressure relief valve with the residual pressure in the connector. The connector itself is not part of the present invention, but how the connector is constructed is, and this allows the connectors to interact for secure connection, disconnection, and venting. The joint corresponds to the male component, and the coupling corresponds to the female component, and the male component and the female component can be coupled together and disconnected. Figures 1 to 12 The connector in the embodiment shown is a coaxial connector. The connector can be a coaxial connector or a connector with only one channel, see Figure 14 , or a connector with more than two channels. The connector can be used for fluids such as air, gas, liquid, hydraulic fluid, etc. The connector can be used for quick-connect couplings. The connector can also be part of a hydraulic tool, such as a torque wrench. This allows a coupling with a coaxial hose to be connected to such a hydraulic tool.

[0043] Turn as Figures 1 to 4 The first exemplary embodiment shown in FIG shows a connector including an inner fluid channel 100 and an outer fluid channel 200, which are coaxial. The outer fluid channel 200 can be formed as a hollow cylindrical member surrounding the inner fluid channel 100, and the inner fluid channel can be formed as a cylindrical member. This connector is a coaxial connector, but the present disclosure and embodiments are also applicable to connectors such as Figure 14 The connector shown in FIG has only one fluid channel. The connector also includes: a housing 10; an internal valve 110 for the internal fluid channel 100; and an external valve 210 for the external fluid channel 200. The internal and external fluid channels 100, 200 are openings through the connector, wherein the internal and external valves 110, 210 are located at one end of the connector. This is the end that can be connected by a coupling. The other end is connected to a tool, a pump or a hose, for example. The housing 10 preferably has a basic cylindrical shape with an axis. The connector housing 10 can be made of a single piece. The housing 100 can be made of, for example, stainless steel, galvanized steel or chemically nickel-plated steel.

[0044] The connector also includes an external pressure-reducing valve 220 for the external valve 210. The external pressure-reducing valve 220 includes a first sleeve 230 that is axially movable for sealing against a first seal 232 of the housing 10; a second sleeve 240 that is preferably axially movable for sealing against a second seal 242 of the housing 10; and a third seal 222 for sealing between the first and second sleeves 230. The first and second sleeves 230, 240 can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Relative axial movement between the first and second sleeves 230, 240 opens or closes the external pressure-reducing valve 220, depending on the direction of axial movement. The first, second, and third seals 232, 242, 222 can be circumferential and resilient, such as O-rings, X-rings, or circumferential seals with lips. The third seal 222 can be positioned substantially at one end of the first sleeve 230. A spring 12 may be arranged inside the joint to urge one of the first sleeve 230 or the second sleeve 240 to close the external pressure relief valve 220. In this way, the external pressure relief valve 220 may be implemented in a joint where it would be technically difficult to arrange a pressure relief valve and where there is not much available space.

[0045] The first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal and external fluid passages 100 and 200. By arranging the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 at substantially the same radial distance from the common axis 20 of the internal and external fluid passages 100 and 200, the external pressure relief valve 220 is balanced. This means that changes in the residual pressure in the joint do not alter the force required to open the external pressure relief valve 220. If the residual pressure is low, or if the residual pressure is substantially high, the same, lower force is required to open the external pressure relief valve 220. The force required to open the external pressure relief valve 220 can be substantially equal to the force required to overcome the spring force of the spring 12. To this end, internal friction between the moving parts and between the seals naturally generates minor additional forces, but these are largely negligible as they are easily overcome by manual force. The force required to open the external pressure relief valve 220 does not exceed manual force, i.e., less than 45 Newtons or even less than 30 Newtons.

[0046] As from Figure 1 As can be best seen, the first and third seals 232, 222 are positioned substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal and external fluid passageways 100, 200. The radial distance 400 between the first and second seals 232, 242 represents the circumferential area where internal residual pressure in the joint forces the external valve 210 closed, which is the force required to open the external valve 210 unless an external pressure relief valve is present to relieve this pressure. The radial distance 400 represents the circumferential area where any residual pressure and the spring force from the spring 12 forces the first and second sleeves 230, 240 outward toward the coupling. Because the first and third seals 232, 222 are located at the same radial distance 410 from the central axis 20 of the coaxial joint, there is no radial distance or circumferential area over which any residual pressure could act to force the first sleeve 230 outward toward the coupling. This arrangement of the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 balances the first sleeve 230 so that when there is residual pressure in the joint, no force needs to be overcome to push the first sleeve 230 inward into the joint. If there is a spring 12, only the spring force needs to be overcome, and the friction between the moving parts and the seal can be ignored. This way of balancing the internal pressure allows the external valve 210 to be easily opened by manually opening the external pressure relief valve 220, and Figures 1 to 12 and Figures 14 to 17 All three embodiments are present and shown.

[0047] Figure 2is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a decompression venting position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 500 may have a locking sleeve 510 and a locking ball 520 for establishing a locked connection between the joint and the coupler. Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the coupling 500 has pushed the first sleeve 230 into the joint a short distance, such as less than 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm or 5 mm. When the third seal 222 is moved away from the sealing position of the third seal between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240, the first sleeve 230 is pushed into the joint. Figure 1 The left movement in opens the external pressure relief valve 220. Any remaining internal pressurized fluid can then flow along Figure 2 The pressure is released along the path 250 shown in FIG. The pressure is released along the path 250 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. Thereafter, the fluid can escape between the connector and the coupler and / or be further released into a channel of the coupler, such as a return channel, because the valve opens and the return line can lead to the tank. Once any residual internal pressure is exhausted, the coupler 500 can be pushed further onto the connector. Thus, ventilation and final connection can be achieved using only manual force, because any residual internal pressure in the connector is exhausted.

[0048] Figure 3 FIG2 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the locking ball 520 is located in the lower portion of the locking groove 300, and the locking sleeve 510 prevents the locking ball 520 from moving radially outward. The internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200 are fully connected and open to allow fluid to flow between the joint and the coupler.

[0049] Figure 4 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a connector and a coupler in a connection safety position according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The connector and the coupler are about to be disconnected, but this can only be done by following a safety procedure, i.e., a specific movement. This specific movement is caused by the shape of the locking groove 300. This movement involves first pushing the coupler 500 and the connector toward each other, and then pushing the locking sleeve 510 of the coupler 500 away from the connector. Only in this way can the coupler 500 and the connector be unlocked. This avoids accidental disconnection and ensures safe ventilation during connection and disconnection. The shape of the locking groove can be the same in all three embodiments. Figures 1 to 12 Both describe the same locking groove.

[0050] The locking groove 300 is located on the outside of the housing 10. The locking groove 300 circumferentially surrounds the housing 10. As can be seen from all the drawings, perhaps best seen from Figure 1As can be seen in the figure, the locking groove 300 can have a shape that is essentially a combination of two intersecting, stepped U-shaped grooves. The two U-shaped grooves partially intersect each other and are stepped in depth relative to each other. The depth is measured in the radial direction. The step difference can be half the depth of the U-shape. The deeper portion of the U-shaped groove is located farther from the end of the connector where the valve is located. The locking groove 300 can have an asymmetrical U-shape. The locking groove 300 can be a notch with an asymmetrical curved profile. The locking groove 300 can have a semi-teardrop shape positioned horizontally outside the housing 10. The locking groove can have a combination of one or more of the aforementioned configurations. The deeper portion of the locking groove 300 allows the locking ball 520 to lock the connector and coupler in the fully connected position. The less deep U-shaped portion of the locking groove 300 still allows the locking ball 520 to grip the connector housing 10. This shape of the locking groove 300 prevents accidental disconnection of the connector and coupler. The shape of the locking groove 300 is suitable for any common connector that has a locking ball 520. When the connector and coupler are to be disconnected, the shape of the locking groove 300 still allows the ball to be retained in the locking groove 300, so that the coupler 500 with the ball lock must be pressed toward the connector and then the coupler's locking sleeve 510 must be pushed away from the connector to unlock the coupler from the connector. In other words, the locking groove 300 allows the locking ball 520 to be assembled into each U-shaped piece at two separate locations, and this shape of the locking groove 300 achieves this safety function. The safety function lies in that, in addition to the normal disconnection between the connector and coupler, the shape of the locking groove 300 requires the coupler 500 to be pressed toward the connector and then the locking sleeve 510 of the coupler 500 to be pushed away from the connector to unlock the coupler 500 from the connector. To perform this disconnection, the user needs to use both hands. Therefore, the shape of the locking groove 300 makes accidental disconnection impossible. This allows the connector to safely drain any residual pressure, that is, the connector is safe and has a pressure relief vent for the external fluid channel 200.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the joint comprises a channel 200 , for example only one channel 200 . Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating this embodiment. The connector further includes a housing 10 and a valve 210 for a fluid passage 200. The connector further includes a pressure-reducing valve 220 for the valve 210, and the pressure-reducing valve 220 includes: a first sleeve 230 that is axially movable for sealing against a first seal 232 of the housing 10; a second sleeve 240 for sealing against a second seal 242 of the housing 10; and a third seal 222 for sealing between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. Figure 14The connector is shown when the coupler has opened the pressure relief valve 220, which allows any excess pressure in the fluid passage 200 to escape. The relative axial movement between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 opens or closes the pressure relief valve 220, respectively, depending on the direction of the axial movement. The first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance from the central axis of the fluid passage 200, as also described above with reference to FIG. Figure 1 In this way, the same balance as explained above is achieved. In this embodiment, the connector may include only one fluid channel 200. Other embodiments with three or four fluid channels may also be used. Figures 1 to 4 A connector with two fluid channels, i.e. a coaxial connector, is described. Figure 14 Describes a connector with only one fluid passage. Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 14 The embodiment in FIG. 2 works in the same manner accordingly. The pressure reducing valve 220 works with only one or more valves, that is, works with one or more fluid channels. The pressure reducing valve 220 can be applied to a coupler.

[0052] According to one embodiment, which can be combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein, the connector for one or more fluid channels can further include a gap 238 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 to allow fluid to pass between the first and second sleeves. The gap 238 allows fluid to pass between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. The gap 238 can be the difference in size between the inner diameter of the first sleeve 230 and the outer diameter of the second sleeve 240. The gap 238 can be implemented, for example, by any type of protrusion 239, obstruction, or opening between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240, so that the two sleeves do not contact each other over the entire contact area formed by the outer first sleeve 230 and the inner second sleeve 240. The gap 238, i.e., the distance between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240, can be, for example, 0.1 mm, or 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm, or 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The protrusion 239 may protrude only in the axial direction, or in addition to other protrusions. This prevents the ends of the sleeves 230, 240, such as when the sleeves are substantially L-shaped and / or have flanges at their ends, from completely closing and allowing fluid to pass through, even if axial forces, such as the force of any residual fluid pressure and / or the force of a hand opening the pressure relief valve 220, attempt to close them. These embodiments allow fluid to pass more easily between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 when the pressure relief valve 220 is open because both sleeves 230, 240 have small openings at their ends. Figure 15 The connection is shown when the coupler has opened the pressure relief valve 220, allowing any excess pressure in the fluid passage 200 to vent. Figure 15 The two circled details in are enlarged and shown on a larger scale, as shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown. Figure 16 and Figure 17 It can be seen that the flanges at the ends of the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 are not closed relative to each other. That is, there is a gap 238 and an opening between the two sleeves at the ends, and this allows fluid to pass between the first sleeve and the second sleeve even if the two sleeves are pressed against each other. Figure 17 In the figure, gaps 238 are shown in two places: one is the gap 238 between the inner diameter of the first sleeve 230 and the outer diameter of the second sleeve 240; and the other is the distance between the end of the second sleeve 240 and the inwardly protruding flange at the end of the first sleeve 230. These two gaps 238 can be independent of each other or combined. Without gap 238, the fluid would force the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 slightly apart to form a channel for the fluid. This becomes difficult when the residual pressure is high. With gap 238, the fluid can also be discharged when the residual pressure is high. When any residual fluid pressure in the joint exceeds 300kPa, 30 bar, it is preferable to have a gap 238 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 because it allows the fluid to pass more easily between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. When the pressure in the joint is high, exceeding 3000 kPa, 30 bar, or exceeding 3500 kPa, 35 bar, or between 3000 kPa and 6000 kPa, 30 bar and 60 bar, gap 238 makes it easier to connect the coupler to the joint. When the internal residual pressure in the joint is as high as 12000 kPa, 120 bar, gap 238 allows the joint to be opened with only manual force. Because second sleeve 240 is still engaged with third seal 222, pressure relief valve 220 remains sealed despite gap 238.

[0053] According to one embodiment, whether or not combined with the preceding embodiments, or with any other embodiments disclosed herein, the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240 may include one or more recesses 247 for fluid, and / or one or more channels 246 for fluid. Figure 18Shown is its exemplary embodiment, wherein the second sleeve 240 can include one or more recesses 247 and / or one or more passages 246 on the outside.The first sleeve 230 can include corresponding one or more recesses and / or one or more passages on the inside.One or more recesses 247 and / or one or more passages 246 can be formed by removing material from the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240.One or more recesses 247 in the sleeve can be roughly shaped as a square, a circle or a polygon.One or more recesses 247 can start from the end of the position that the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240 is connected to the joint away from the coupling.One or more recesses 247 and / or one or more passages 246 can lead to the fluid passage 200 of the joint.One or more passages 246 can be passages, conduits or grooves that allow fluid to flow in the passage 246. One or more recesses 247 and / or one or more channels 246 may be located on the inner side of the outer first sleeve 230 and / or on the outer side of the inner second sleeve 240. The depth of the one or more channels 246 and / or recesses 247 may be 0.25 mm, or 0.1 mm to 1 mm, so that the one or more channels 246 and / or recesses 247 do not completely pass through the sleeve in the radial direction. The second sleeve 240 may have two, three or four recesses 247 symmetrically arranged around one or both ends of the second sleeve 240. The one or more recesses 247 may be connected to the one or more channels 246, wherein the one or more recesses 247 are located at one end and the one or more channels 246 extend in the axial direction of the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240. For example, Figure 18 As shown in FIG, the channel 246 may be connected to one recess 247 at one end and / or to another recess 247 at the other end, and the channel 246 extends in the axial direction of the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240 . Figure 18 An exemplary embodiment of a recess 247 and a channel 246 on the outer side of the second inner sleeve 240 is shown. The first outer sleeve 230 may alternatively or in combination have corresponding recesses and channels on the interior. Both the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 may have one or more recesses and / or one or more channels 246, or only one of the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 may have one or more recesses and / or one or more channels 246.

[0054] Turning to the second embodiment, as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the principle of the arrangement structure of the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 for balancing the external pressure relief valve 220 is similar to that of the first embodiment. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, and the reference numerals in the second embodiment correspond to those in the first embodiment.

[0055] The external fluid passage 200 includes an external pressure-reducing valve 220. The external pressure-reducing valve 220 includes a first sleeve 230 that can move axially to seal against a first seal 232 of the housing 10, and a second sleeve 240 that seals against a second seal 242 of the housing 10. The external pressure-reducing valve 220 includes a third seal 222 for sealing between the first and second sleeves 230, 230. Relative axial movement between the first and second sleeves 230, 240 opens or closes the external pressure-reducing valve 220, depending on the direction of the axial movement. The first and third seals 232, 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200. A spring 12 can push the second sleeve 240 toward the valve of the joint, thereby closing the external pressure-reducing valve 220.

[0056] In this second embodiment, the pressure reducing valve 220 includes a third sealing member 222 and a ball 222 that seals an opening 224 in a second sleeve 240. The first sleeve 230 can push the ball 222, causing the pressure reducing valve 220 to open. The ball 222 can be a steel ball. A pin 226 can be positioned in the opening 224, pushing the ball 222 against a sealing surface in the opening 224 of the second sleeve 240. The spring 12 can push the pin 226 and the second sleeve 240. For example, when the ball 222 is pushed to seal the opening 224, the spring 12 indirectly pushes the second sleeve 240 in the same direction toward the valve of the joint. A third sleeve 241 can be positioned between the spring 12, the pin 226, and the second sleeve 240. The spring 12 can engage the third sleeve 241, which first pushes the pin 226, which pushes the ball 222 against the sealing surface in the opening 224 of the second sleeve 240. Thereby, the pressure reducing valve 220 is always closed unless the pressure reducing valve is opened by the first sleeve 230. The first sleeve 230 can easily open the pressure reducing valve 220, i.e. move the ball 222 away from the sealing surface in the opening 224, because the pressure area of ​​the ball 222 is very small compared to the pressure area of ​​the entire second sleeve 240. There is no residual pressure acting on the first sleeve 230, because any residual pressure in the external fluid channel 200 is blocked by the ball 222 and the second sleeve 240. Any residual pressure acting on the first sleeve 230 can escape between the first sleeve 230 and the inner tube of the housing 10. From Figure 5As best seen, the first and third seals 232, 222 are positioned substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the inner and outer fluid passages 100, 200. Any residual pressure and the spring force from the spring 12 urge the first and second sleeves 230, 240 outwardly toward the coupling. This arrangement eliminates the need to overcome any force to push the first sleeve 230 inwardly into the coupling when residual pressure exists within the coupling. If the spring 12 were present, only the spring force would need to be overcome, and friction between the moving parts and the seals would be negligible.

[0057] Figure 6 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a decompression venting position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 500 may have a locking sleeve 510 and a locking ball 520 for establishing a locked connection between the joint and the coupler. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the coupling 500 has pushed the first sleeve 230 into the joint a short distance, for example less than 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm or 5 mm. When the third sealing member 222, the ball 222 is moved away from its sealing position, the first sleeve 230 is pushed into the joint. Figure 6 The left movement in opens the external pressure relief valve 220. Any remaining internal pressure can then be released along Figure 6 Path 250 is shown as escaping from the connector. Pressure is released along path 250 through opening 224 and further between first sleeve 230 and second sleeve 240. Thereafter, fluid can escape between the connector and the coupler and / or be further released into a channel of the coupler, such as a return channel, because the valve opens and the return line can lead to the tank. Once any residual internal pressure is exhausted, coupler 500 can be pushed further onto the connector. Thus, ventilation and final connection can be achieved using only manual force, as any residual internal pressure in the connector is exhausted.

[0058] Figure 7 FIG2 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the locking ball 520 is located in the lower portion of the locking groove 300, and the locking sleeve 510 prevents the locking ball 520 from moving radially outward. The internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200 are fully connected and open to allow fluid flow between the joint and the coupler.

[0059] Figure 8is an exemplary schematic diagram of a connector and a coupler in a safe connection position according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The connector and coupler are about to be disconnected, but this can only be achieved by following a safety procedure, i.e., a specific movement. This specific movement is caused by the shape of the locking groove 300. This movement involves first pushing the coupler 500 and the connector toward each other, and then pushing the locking sleeve 510 of the coupler 500 away from the connector. Only then can the coupler 500 and the connector be unlocked. This prevents accidental disconnection. The shape of the locking groove and the function it creates are the same in all three embodiments. Figures 1 to 12 Both describe the same locking groove.

[0060] Turning to the third embodiment, as Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the principle of the arrangement of the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 for balancing the external pressure relief valve 220 is the same as in the first embodiment. Maintaining the same radial distance from the axis 20 to the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 allows the first sleeve 230 to be balanced. This results in that when there is residual pressure in the joint, there is no force to be overcome to push the first sleeve 230 inward into the joint. This principle is Figures 1 to 12 The third embodiment is similar to the first and second embodiments and reference numerals in the third embodiment correspond to those in the first and second embodiments.

[0061] The external fluid passage 200 includes an external pressure relief valve 220. This valve includes a first sleeve 230 that can move axially to seal against a first seal 232 of the housing 10, and a second sleeve 240 that seals against a second seal 242 of the housing 10. The external pressure relief valve 220 includes a third seal 222 for sealing between the first and second sleeves 230. The third seal 222 may include two seals 222, such as two O-rings. Relative axial movement between the first and second sleeves 230, 240 opens or closes the external pressure relief valve 220, depending on the direction of the axial movement. The first and third seals 232, or the first and two third seals 222, are positioned substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200. The spring 12 can push the first sleeve 230 toward the valve of the joint, thereby closing the external pressure relief valve 220.

[0062] In the third embodiment, the first sleeve 230 includes a first sleeve opening 234 and the second sleeve 240 includes a second sleeve opening 244. The two openings are preferably in a radial direction. The first sleeve 230 can be pushed into the joint by hand because the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the inner fluid passage 100 and the outer fluid passage 200. When the first sleeve is pushed out of the joint, the first seal 232 and the third seal 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the inner fluid passage 100 and the outer fluid passage 200. Figure 9 Move the position shown to the left Figure 10 In the illustrated position, the first sleeve opening 234 has passed the third seal 222 to allow any residual pressure in the external fluid passage 200 to vent from the joint.

[0063] Figure 10 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a decompression venting position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 500 may have a locking sleeve 510 and a locking ball 520 for establishing a locked connection between the joint and the coupler. Figure 10 In the embodiment, the coupler 500 has pushed the first sleeve 230 into the joint a short distance. Figure 10 The leftward movement in the opening opens the external pressure relief valve 220, as a portion of the first sleeve opening 234 of the first sleeve 230 moves past the third seal 222 to allow any residual internal pressure to flow along the Figure 10 The path 250 shown escapes the connector. Thereafter, the fluid may escape between the connector and the coupler, or / and further be released into a channel of the coupler, such as a return channel, because the valve is open and the return line may lead to the tank. Figure 10 As can be seen, any internal pressure in the joint can be vented between the joint and the coupler, and / or, if the coupler permits, into the coupler and back to the canister. Pressure is released along path 250 between first sleeve 230 and second sleeve 240. Once any residual internal pressure is vented, coupler 500 can be pushed further onto the joint. Thus, venting and final connection can be achieved using only manual force, as any residual internal pressure in the joint is vented.

[0064] Figure 11 FIG3 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a joint and a coupler in a locked position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the locking ball 520 is located in the lower portion of the locking groove 300, and the locking sleeve 510 prevents the locking ball 520 from moving radially outward. The internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200 are fully connected and open to allow fluid to flow between the joint and the coupler.

[0065] Figure 12is an exemplary schematic diagram of a connector and a coupler in a safe connection position according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The connector and coupler are about to disconnect, but this is only possible by following a safety procedure, i.e., a specific movement. This specific movement is caused by the shape of the locking groove 300. This movement involves first pushing the coupler 500 and the connector toward each other, and then pushing the locking sleeve 510 of the coupler 500 away from the connector. Only then can the coupler 500 and the connector be unlocked. This prevents accidental disconnection. The shape of the locking groove and the function it creates are the same in all three embodiments. Figures 1 to 12 Both describe the same locking groove.

[0066] As from all Figures 1 to 12 As can be seen, the arrangement principles of the first and third seals 232, 222, used to balance the external pressure relief valve 220 are identical. Maintaining the same radial distance from the axis 20 to the first and third seals 222 allows the first sleeve 230 to be balanced, meaning that no internal pressure from the connector forces the first sleeve 230 outward. The first seal 232 seals between the first sleeve 230 and the housing 10 at the outer end of the connector, where the valve resides. The third seal 222 seals the pressure relief valve 220 between the first and second sleeves 230, 240. By configuring the connector to have the same radial distance from the axis 20 to the first and third seals 222 in all three embodiments, there is no force to overcome to push the first sleeve 230 inward into the connector when residual pressure exists within the connector. This principle also applies to connectors with one or more fluid channels.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the second sleeve 240 can move axially to seal against the second seal 242 of the housing 10. The second seal 242 can be arranged on the housing 10 between the two coaxial inner and outer fluid channels 100, 200. The first seal 232 and the second seal 242 can be arranged at the end of the joint, at the valve, and seal the outer valve 210. They can be coaxial, and the first seal 232 can be an outer seal and the second seal 242 can be an inner seal, and the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240 can be sealed between these seals.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the joint may further comprise an internal pressure reducing valve 120 for the internal valve 110. The internal pressure reducing valve 120 may be coaxial with the common axis 20 and with the internal valve 110. There may be a seal sealing the internal pressure reducing valve 120 against the internal valve 110.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the connector further comprises a locking groove 300 located on the outer side of the housing 10. The locking groove may circumferentially surround the housing 10 and have a shape that is substantially a combination of two intersecting stepped U-shaped grooves, as described above. The stepped U-shaped groove of the locking groove 300 may be arranged and configured so that the ball of the coupling's ball lock has two separate positions within the locking groove 300, preferably so that the coupling with the ball lock is pressed toward the connector and then the coupling's locking sleeve is pushed away from the connector to unlock the connector from the connector. The ball fits within each U-shaped member, allowing the ball to adopt two different positions, and the shape of this U-shaped groove allows for a safety function and ensures safe ventilation during connection and disconnection.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the joint can be configured such that the first sleeve 230 seals the first seal 232 in a position where the external pressure relief valve 220 is open. Figure 2 The axial movement of the first sleeve 230 away from the first seal 232 moves the second sleeve 240. For example, Figure 1 It can be seen that the first sleeve 230 can have a shape that extends vertically at the end, where the first sleeve captures the second sleeve 240. According to one embodiment, the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240 can be of complementary shapes so that the first sleeve 230 is connected to the second sleeve 240 when the first sleeve 230 is axially moved into the joint. This connection can be achieved by vertical extension at the end, for example, as Figure 1 In the second embodiment, the end of the first sleeve 230 is shaped to move the second sleeve 240, such as from Figures 5 to 7 It can be seen.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the connector may further include a spring 12 that applies force to close the external pressure relief valve 220. The spring 12 may be a coil spring, such as Figures 1 to 12As shown in . The spring 12 and any internal pressure within the connector, as well as any equipment connected to the connector, are closing the external pressure-reducing valve 220 and the external valve 210. The second sleeve 240 and / or the first sleeve 230 are pushed toward the coupler by any internal pressure and / or the spring 12. The spring 12 can directly or indirectly apply spring force to the first sleeve 230 and / or the second sleeve 240. The first sleeve 230 can be pushed in by the coupler, for example, when the connector and coupler are connected by hand force, which opens the external pressure-reducing valve 220 to relieve any residual internal pressure in the connector. Therefore, even if there is a significant residual internal pressure of hundreds of bar within the connector, a complete connection between the connector and coupler can be achieved using hand force. According to the disclosed embodiment, hand force alone, for example, no more than 45 Newtons, or less than 30 Newtons, or less than 15 Newtons, is sufficient to connect the connector and coupler, as the only force that needs to be overcome is the spring force. Any internal friction between the moving parts is negligible.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first sleeve 230 may have one or more first sleeve openings 234, and / or the second sleeve 240 may have one or more second sleeve openings 244, see e.g. Figure 5 and Figure 9 These openings may allow fluid to pass through the openings. These openings may be perpendicular to the common axis 20 and may be through holes.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the first seal 232 can be held by the housing 10, and the third seal 222 can be held by the first sleeve 230. The first seal 232 can be positioned or arranged in the housing 10 at the end facing the valve. The third seal 222 can be positioned or arranged in the first sleeve 230 at the end facing away from the valve.

[0074] According to one embodiment, a method for balancing the internal pressure acting on a pressure reducing valve of a connector is disclosed. Preferably, the connector can be any embodiment of the connector disclosed herein. Figures 1 to 13A method for balancing the internal pressure acting on the pressure relief valve of a joint includes arranging two seals 232, 222 at the same radial distance from the central axis of the joint. Each of the two seals 232, 222 seals the same movable sleeve 230 to close or open the pressure relief valve 220. As explained above with reference to the third embodiment, the two seals, namely the first seal 232 and the third seal 222, or the first seal 232 and the two third seals 222, are arranged at substantially the same radial distance 410 from the common axis 20 of the internal fluid passage 100 and the external fluid passage 200. By arranging them at substantially the same radial distance 410, there is no radial difference or area where residual internal pressure can act and must be overcome when venting such residual internal pressure, as has been explained above. Because first seal 232 and third seal 222 are located at the same radial distance from the central axis of the coaxial joint, there is no residual pressure that could force first sleeve 230 outward toward areas of the coupling, such as the annular region. This arrangement of first seal 232 and third seal 222 balances first sleeve 230 and results in no force to be overcome to push first sleeve 230 inward into the joint. If spring 12 is present, only the spring force needs to be overcome, and the small amount of friction between the moving parts and the seal can be ignored.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the two seals can have the following functions. A first seal 232 of the two seals seals between the movable sleeve 230 and the housing 10 of the connector. A third seal 222, the other of the two seals, seals between any internal pressure and the movable sleeve 230. Third seal 222, the other of the two seals, can seal between any internal pressure and the pressure of the external environment, 100 kPa, such as atmospheric pressure at sea level. Third seal 222 can seal between the movable sleeve 230 and the housing 10 of the connector.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the method may further include providing a gap 238 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. The gap 238 may provide a possibility for the fluid to pass more easily between the sleeves, such as Figure 2 The gap 238 may be achieved by providing one or more protrusions 239, such as Figure 16As shown. The gap 238 can be supplemented by or replaced by one or more recesses 247 and / or one or more channels 246 between the first sleeve 230 and the second sleeve 240. The provision of the gap 238 and / or one or more recesses 247 and / or one or more channels 246 ensures that the two sleeves do not seal relative to each other at the ends, and this allows any residual pressure to escape more easily. This means that changes in the residual pressure in the joint do not change the force required to open the external pressure relief valve 220. Residual pressures up to 300 kPa, 30 bar can be achieved without any gaps or channels, but for residual pressures exceeding 300 kPa, 30 bar, it is preferred to provide the gap 238 and / or one or more recesses 247 and / or one or more channels 246. Regardless of whether the residual fluid pressure is low, e.g., less than 300 kPa, 30 bar, or high, e.g., 1200 kPa, 120 bar, a substantially identical, relatively low force is required to open the external pressure-reducing valve 220. The force required to open the external pressure-reducing valve 220 can be substantially equal to the force required to overcome the spring force of the spring 12. To this end, internal friction between the moving parts and between the seals naturally generates a small additional force, but this additional force is largely negligible as it can be easily overcome by hand force. The force required to open the external pressure-reducing valve 220 does not exceed hand force, being less than 45 Newtons, or even less than 30 Newtons.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the connector is a connector according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.The method for balancing the internal pressure acting on a pressure reducing valve may be according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the method for balancing the internal pressure acting on the joint pressure relief valve may also include a method for safely venting the joint when disconnecting or connecting. The method may also include or independently include a method for safely unlocking the lock between the joint and the coupler 500 according to the embodiment of the locking groove 300 disclosed herein. The coupler 500 may include a locking sleeve 510 and a locking ball 520 for establishing a locked connection between the joint and the coupler 500. Reference Figure 13 , the method includes only unlocking the coupling 500 and the joint when first 610 the coupling 500 and the joint are pushed toward each other and second 620 the locking sleeve 510 of the coupling 500 is pushed away from the joint. The previous method step 630 of ensuring that the two seals 232, 222 are arranged at substantially the same radial distance from the central axis 20 of the joint can be performed before or after step 610 or 620, or does not have to be combined with step 610 or 620. This ensures safe ventilation.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the locking sleeve 510 can rotate freely. This prevents a person holding the connected joint and coupling from accidentally disconnecting the joint and connector during work.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first sleeve 230 seals against the first seal 232 at a position where the external pressure relief valve 220 is initially opened, and further axial movement of the first sleeve 230 causes the second sleeve 240 to move together with the first sleeve 230, and the first sleeve 230 no longer seals against the first seal 232. According to the first and third embodiments, the second sleeve 240 can move axially to seal against the second seal 242 of the housing 10.

[0081] All embodiments illustrate how an external pressure relief valve 220 for a coaxial connector can be balanced so that, regardless of any residual pressure in the connector, the valve can be opened by hand alone. This is particularly true when there is no fluid connection between the internal fluid channel 100 and the external fluid channel 200. If there is a fluid connection between the fluid channels, a single external pressure relief valve 220 can handle pressure relief for both channels.

[0082] According to all three embodiments, the joint can be suitable for high pressure fluids. High pressure fluids can be 70MPa, 100MPa or higher, or 150MPa or higher, or 200MPa or higher, or 300MPa or higher, or 400MPa or higher. The joint can be used for fluids such as air, gas, liquid, hydraulic fluid, etc. The joint can be used for high pressure quick-fit couplings. Adjustments can be made by selecting appropriate metals, sizes, and machining. In one embodiment, the joint can be made of steel and chemically treated and / or heated to become harder.

[0083] According to one embodiment, any residual pressurized fluid can be prevented from escaping into the environment or escaping between the joint and the coupler via path 250. This preventive function can be achieved by arranging the seals and valves axially in the following manner: when the valves of the joint and the coupler are opened, the joint and the coupler seal and prevent the fluid from escaping to the environment outside the joint and the coupler. This arrangement, for example, can be done without planar joints and / or couplers. As another example, the fluid pressure in the pipe to be connected to the coupler can have a pressure lower than the residual pressure in the joint. For such a preventive function, the above-mentioned release function and principle operate in the same manner, and then any residual fluid can be directed back to the tank of the pump or a similar device that can accommodate the fluid.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a hydraulic tool includes a connector having two fluid passages 100, 200 according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The connector of the hydraulic tool can be connected to a coupler via coaxial hoses. Preferably, the hydraulic tool is a torque wrench. This allows the torque wrench to receive pressurized fluid via coaxial hoses rather than via twin hoses. The above-described connector embodiments and corresponding couplers with corresponding pressure relief valves can be used with twin hoses—two separate hoses placed adjacent to each other—or with coaxial hoses—one hose within the other. This allows the hydraulic tool to use the same connector and coupler, but interchangeably use twin or coaxial hoses. Many hydraulic tools use twin hoses, but embodiments of the present disclosure allow the use of coaxial hoses. This prevents hose twisting that occurs with twin hoses. This, in turn, results in a faster and more ergonomic way to use such a hydraulic tool. The connector can be part of a hydraulic tool, such as a torque wrench. This allows a coupler with coaxial hoses to be connected to such a hydraulic tool.

[0085] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the joints and methods disclosed herein. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art through consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed joints. The description and examples are to be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope being indicated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0086] Component List

[0087] 10 Housing

[0088] 12 Spring

[0089] 20 Common axis

[0090] 100 Internal fluid channels

[0091] 110 Internal valve

[0092] 200 Internal fluid channels

[0093] 210 External valve

[0094] 220 External pressure reducing valve

[0095] 222 Third seal

[0096] 226 pins

[0097] 230 First Sleeve

[0098] 232 First seal

[0099] 234 First sleeve opening

[0100] 238 Gap

[0101] 239 Protrusion

[0102] 240 Second Sleeve

[0103] 241 Third Sleeve

[0104] 242 Second seal

[0105] 244 Second sleeve opening

[0106] 246 sleeve channel

[0107] 247 Concave

[0108] 250 ventilation paths

[0109] 300 Locking slot

[0110] 400 Radial distance between the first seal and the second seal

[0111] 410 radial distance

[0112] 500 connector

[0113] 510 Locking Sleeve

[0114] 520 Locking Ball

[0115] 610 First Method Step

[0116] 620 Second method step

[0117] 630 Final or initial method step.

Claims

1. A connector comprising a fluid channel, further comprising: Housing (10); as well as a valve for the fluid passage; A pressure reducing valve for the valve, characterized in that the pressure reducing valve comprises: a first sleeve (230) capable of axial movement for sealing against a first seal (232) of the housing (10); a second sleeve (240) for sealing against a second seal (242) of the housing (10); and A third seal (222) is used to seal between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240), wherein relative axial movement between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240) opens or closes the pressure reducing valve according to the direction of the axial movement, and the first seal (232) and the third seal (222) are arranged to be substantially at the same radial distance (410) from the central axis (20) of the fluid channel.

2. A connector, comprising an internal fluid channel (100) and an external fluid channel (200), wherein the internal fluid channel and the external fluid channel are coaxial, and further comprising: Housing (10); an internal valve (110) for the internal fluid passage (100); as well as an external valve (210) for the external fluid passage (200); It is characterized by: An external pressure reducing valve (220) for the external valve (210), the external pressure reducing valve (220) comprising: a first sleeve (230) capable of axial movement for sealing against a first seal (232) of the housing (10); a second sleeve (240) for sealing against a second seal (242) of the housing (10); and a third seal (222) for sealing between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240), wherein relative axial movement between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240) opens or closes the external pressure relief valve (220) according to the direction of the axial movement, and the first seal (232) and the third seal (222) are arranged to be substantially at the same radial distance (410) from a common central axis (20) of the internal fluid channel (100) and the external fluid channel (200).

3. The joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The joint further includes a gap (238) between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240), wherein the gap (238) is configured to allow fluid to pass between the first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240).

4. The joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first sleeve (230) and / or the second sleeve (240) comprises one or more recesses (247) for a fluid and / or one or more channels (246) for a fluid.

5. The joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The second sleeve (240) is axially movable for sealing against the second seal (242) of the housing (10).

6. The joint according to claim 2, wherein The connector also includes an internal pressure relief valve (120) for the internal valve (110).

7. The joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The joint further comprises a locking groove (300) located on the outer side of the housing (10), the locking groove circumferentially surrounding the housing (10) and having a shape substantially as a combination of two intersecting stepped U-shaped grooves.

8. The joint according to claim 7, wherein The stepped U-shaped groove of the locking groove (300) is arranged and configured so that the ball of the coupling's ball lock has two separate positions in the locking groove (300).

9. The joint according to claim 7, wherein The stepped U-shaped groove of the locking groove (300) is arranged and configured so that a coupler with a ball lock must be pressed toward the joint and then the locking sleeve of the coupler is pushed away from the joint to unlock the coupler from the joint.

10. The connector according to claim 2, wherein The joint is configured such that the first sleeve (230) seals against the first seal (232) in a position where the external pressure relief valve (220) is open, and axial movement of the first sleeve (230) away from the first seal (232) moves the second sleeve (240).

11. The joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first sleeve (230) and the second sleeve (240) are shaped in a complementary manner such that the first sleeve (230) is connected to the second sleeve (240) when the first sleeve (230) is moved axially into the joint.

12. The connector according to claim 2, wherein The connector further comprises: a spring (12) applying a force to close the external pressure relief valve (220); and / or wherein the first sleeve (230) has one or more first sleeve openings (234), and / or the second sleeve (240) has one or more second sleeve openings (244); and / or The first seal (232) is held by the housing (10), and the third seal (222) is held by the first sleeve (230).

13. A method of balancing the internal pressure acting on a pressure relief valve of a joint according to any one of claims 1 to 12 by arranging two seals at substantially the same radial distance from the central axis of the joint, each of the two seals sealing against the same movable sleeve to close or open the pressure relief valve.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein One of the two seals seals between the movable sleeve and the housing (10) of the joint, and the other of the two seals seals between any internal pressure and the pressure of the external environment.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein The method also includes a safe unlocking method for safely releasing the lock between the connector (500) and the joint according to claim 4, wherein the connector (500) includes a locking sleeve (510) and a locking ball (520) for establishing a locked connection between the joint and the connector (500), and the method only unlocks the connector (500) from the joint when the connector (500) and the joint are first pushed toward each other and secondly the locking sleeve (510) of the connector (500) is pushed away from the joint.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein The locking sleeve (510) is able to rotate freely.

17. A hydraulic tool comprising a connector according to any one of claims 2 to 12, the connector being connectable to a coupling having a coaxial hose.

18. The hydraulic tool according to claim 17, wherein: The hydraulic tool is a torque wrench.

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