Garden fluid flow connector

Abstract

A garden fluid flow connector arrangement comprising a first connector portion 1 and a second connector portion 2 arranged to mutually engage with the first connector portion 1 to form a fluid path through the connector arrangement. The first connector part 1 comprises a first body part 1B and a locking part 5 mounted on the first body part 1B for rotation about an axis of the first body part, and the second connector part 2 comprises a second body part 2B carrying an engagement part 6, and wherein the locking portion 5 is rotatable relative to the first body portion 1B and the engagement portion 6 between a first position in which the first connector portion 1 and the second connector portion 2 are engaged and held against axial separation by interaction of the locking portion 5 and the engagement portion 6, and a second position in which the first connector portion 1 and the second connector portion 2 are held against axial separation by interaction of the locking portion 5 and the engagement portion 6. The second position is used for allowing the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 to be axially separated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a garden fluid flow connector, such as a hose fitting, for connecting a hose to a garden spigot, or connecting a hose to another garden product, or even connecting a hose to another length of hose. Background Art

[0002] There are different types of garden fluid flow connectors that are commonly used. One popular type is a push-fit style connector system where a male and female portion are arranged so that the male portion can be push-fit into the female portion and retained for normal use until released.

[0003] One system widely used in Europe and elsewhere is the "quick connect" connector system. Such connector systems made by different manufacturers are sometimes constructed differently from one another, but are largely interchangeable. The two parts of the connector system are usually made of plastic material or a combination of metal and plastic material parts.

[0004] Such push-fit connection systems are particularly convenient for the user, but may have the problem of accidental separation of the two parts, ie accidental disconnection of the connection components, such as accidental disconnection of the hose from the faucet.

[0005] It would therefore be desirable to develop an alternative garden fluid flow connector that is designed to address this problem. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a garden fluid flow connector arrangement comprising a first connector part and a second connector part, the second connector part being arranged to interengage with the first connector part to form a fluid path through the connector arrangement, wherein the first connector part comprises a first body part

[0007] and a locking portion mounted on the first body portion for rotation about an axis of the first body portion, and the second connector portion includes a second body portion carrying the engagement portion, and

[0008] The locking portion is rotatable relative to the first body portion and the engagement portion between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the first connector portion and the second connector portion are engaged and retained by the interaction of the locking portion and the engagement portion to prevent axial separation, and the second position is used to allow axial separation of the first connector portion and the second connector portion.

[0009] This arrangement can help prevent accidental or unwanted separation of the two parts of the connector arrangement. When the connector parts are put together, the arrangement can provide a simple and intuitive "twist-lock" function for the user. This locking system can also be simple to manufacture and is robust.

[0010] In addition to the locking and engaging portions described above, the connector arrangement may comprise further connecting mechanisms for connecting the connector parts together.

[0011] The connector arrangement may comprise a push fit connection mechanism for connecting the first connector part and the second connector part.The push fit connection mechanism may comprise an industry standard hose fitting connection mechanism, such as a system known as a "quick connect" connection system.

[0012] In a quick-connect connection system, one part is a male part and carries at least one O-ring seal, and the other part is a female part and includes a hole, which is arranged to receive the male part, and the O-ring seal is sealed against the wall of the hole. The female part also includes a plurality of engagement fingers, which are arranged to elastically move between an extended position for capturing the male part and a retracted position allowing the male part to be inserted and removed in the receiving hole. The engagement fingers are driven to the retracted position when the male part is introduced into the receiving hole and return to the extended position once the two parts are fully engaged. A release mechanism is provided for releasing the two parts. When operated, this will retract the engagement fingers so that the male part can be removed.

[0013] In use, sometimes the release mechanism may be accidentally operated. In other cases, the retention effect of the engagement fingers may be overcome simply by forcibly pulling the two parts of the connection system apart. In addition, as the connection system wears, the effectiveness of the retention effect may decrease.

[0014] In such a case, the locking portion and the engagement portion of the present invention may enhance the connection between the first connector portion and the second connector portion by increasing resistance to unwanted axial separation of the first connector portion and the second connector portion.

[0015] In other cases, connector arrangements of the type described herein may be used without a quick-connect connection system or other additional connection mechanism.

[0016] In one set of embodiments, the engagement portion is molded as a part of the second body portion. In this case, the engagement portion is carried in the sense of being a part of the second body portion.

[0017] In another group of embodiments, the engaging portion is separated from the second body portion, but is mounted on the second body portion. In this case, the engaging portion can be, for example, fixedly mounted or rotatably mounted on the second body portion.

[0018] The locking portion and the engagement portion may be arranged to latch into the first position such that movement away from the first position towards the second position is prevented.

[0019] One of the locking portion and the engaging portion may include a detent and the other of the locking portion and the engaging portion may include a cam surface over which the detent rides as the locking portion moves into and out of the first position relative to the engaging portion.

[0020] The cam surface may have a shoulder portion against which the detent rides as the locking portion moves away from the first position toward the second position.

[0021] The cam surface may be disposed on the circumferential surface such that when the brake passes over the cam surface, action of the cam surface causes the brake to move in a generally radial direction.

[0022] The locking portion and the engaging portion may include respective stop portions which abut against each other and prevent further rotational movement of the locking portion relative to the engaging portion when the locking portion is fully moved to the first position.

[0023] The locking portion may be locked against rotation relative to the engagement portion when the locking portion is in the first position.

[0024] The rotatable mounting of the locking portion on the first body portion may be such that the first body portion is freely rotatable relative to the locking portion when the locking portion is in the first position while the first and second connector portions are engaged with each other.

[0025] This in turn allows a hose or other item mounted on the first body portion to be able to rotate about the axis of the first body portion while the connector portions engage each other and are held against axial separation by the locking portion and the engagement portion. This in turn means that the hose or other item can be rotated about the axis of the first body portion relative to the second body portion and any hose or other item mounted on the second body portion. Thus, in such an embodiment, the connector arrangement allows for relative rotation of items coupled by the connector arrangement, which in turn can, for example, help reduce the risk of kinking or twisting of a hose connected to another item via the connector arrangement.

[0026] In a preferred set of embodiments, the locking portion and the engagement portion are latched together against relative rotation when the locking portion is in the first position, and the first body portion is free to rotate relative to the second body portion when the locking portion is in the first position.

[0027] The locking portion may be annular. The locking portion may be a locking collar. The locking portion may be a rotational locking collar. That is, a locking collar that can rotate or turn freely relative to the first body portion.

[0028] In some alternatives, the engagement portion may be arranged to rotate or pivot freely relative to the second body portion.

[0029] In some alternatives, the locking portion may be arranged to rotate or pivot freely relative to the first body portion, and the engagement portion may be arranged to rotate or pivot freely relative to the second body portion.

[0030] The cam surface may include a ramp portion for guiding the detent as the locking portion rotates toward the first position.

[0031] The cam surface may have an apex portion at an upper end of the ramp. The cam surface may include a recessed portion on a side of the apex portion opposite to the ramped portion. When the locking portion is in the first position, the brake may be disposed in the recessed portion.

[0032] In one set of embodiments, when the locking portion is in the first position, the detent may abut against a recessed portion of the cam surface and the remainder of the locking portion may abut against at least a portion of the engagement portion outside the recessed portion. When the locking portion is in the first position, the apex portion may abut against a corresponding portion of the locking portion.

[0033] In one set of embodiments the locking portion may comprise at least one arm having and, for example, terminating in a lip, the lip being arranged to interact with the engagement portion to prevent axial separation of the first and second connector parts.

[0034] The locking portion may comprise a pair of arms each having and, for example, terminating in a respective lip.

[0035] The engagement portion may comprise at least one flange portion arranged to interact with the locking portion to prevent axial separation of the first connector portion and the second connector portion.

[0036] The engaging portion may include a pair of flange portions.

[0037] At least one arm may be arranged to interact with the at least one flange portion.

[0038] Providing at least one arm can help the user identify the locked condition and the unlocked condition of the locking portion. For example, the user can easily see that the unlocked condition is reached because one or more arms are not aligned with the operating portion (e.g., flange portion) of the engaging portion, and the locked position is obtained when these portions are aligned.

[0039] This can help connect and disconnect the parts from each other. In another alternative version of the locking portion, a complete collar portion without the protruding arms has been considered with an operable portion for interacting with an engagement portion on the interior of the collar. This gives a neat appearance, but makes it more difficult to identify the unlocked and locked conditions.

[0040] One of the detent and the cam surface may be provided on at least one arm, and the other of the detent and the cam surface may be provided on at least one flange portion.

[0041] In another set of embodiments the locking portion comprises a collar portion. This may not have a protruding arm.

[0042] One of the stopper and the cam surface may be provided on a circumferential side wall of the collar portion, and the other of the stopper and the cam surface may be provided on a circumferential surface of the engagement portion, the circumferential surface facing the circumferential side wall of the collar portion.

[0043] The collar portion may comprise at least one protrusion arranged to act as a brake. The protrusion may protrude from a circumferential sidewall of the collar portion. The protrusion may, for example, protrude radially inwardly from the collar portion.

[0044] In this case, the cam surface may be provided on a circumferential surface of the engaging portion which faces a circumferential side wall of the collar portion from which the protruding portion protrudes.

[0045] In a preferred set of embodiments of the invention at least one of the second connector part and the locking part comprises guide means for guiding the locking part towards the first position when the connector parts are brought axially together.

[0046] This means that when a user brings the connector parts together, simply pushing the connector parts together may serve to move the locking part towards the first position.

[0047] The guide means may be arranged to drive the locking part in rotation towards the first position when the connector parts are brought axially together.

[0048] In other words, the guiding means may be arranged to convert an axial movement of the first connector part relative to the second connector part into a rotational movement of the locking part relative to the engagement part.

[0049] The guiding means may comprise at least one inclined surface provided on one of the locking portion and the second connector portion for guiding the travel of a corresponding follower portion provided on the other of the locking portion and the second connector portion when the two connector portions are moved towards each other by a user.

[0050] Preferably, the second connector part comprises a guide means.Preferably, the locking part comprises a follower part.

[0051] The follower portion may include a protrusion provided on, for example, the locking portion.

[0052] In a preferred group of embodiments of the present invention, the locking part includes a first engaging element, and the engaging part includes a second engaging element. When the locking part and the engaging part are in the first position, the first engaging element engages with the second engaging element, and the engagement between the first engaging element and the second engaging element holds the first connector part and the second connector part to prevent axial separation.

[0053] The guiding means may be arranged for guiding the first engagement element towards engagement with the second engagement element.

[0054] The first engagement element may include a follower portion.

[0055] The locking portion and the engagement portion may be arranged to provide an initial engagement between the first connector part and the second connector part when the locking portion is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

[0056] The intermediate position may be such that when the locking portion is in the intermediate position, the first connector part and the second connector part are held against axial separation. This may be due to interaction between the first engagement element and the second engagement element.

[0057] In this case, the first position may be different from the intermediate position in that the locking portion is held against rotation out of the first position by the interaction of the detent and the cam surface, whereas the locking portion is not so held in the intermediate position.

[0058] The guiding means may be arranged to guide the locking part to the intermediate position. Note that this is still a guide towards the first position, but not necessarily all the way to the first position.

[0059] In case the locking portion comprises a locking collar comprising at least one protruding portion arranged to act as a brake, the at least one protruding portion may also comprise a follower portion and / or a first engagement element.

[0060] Preferably, at least one protruding portion further comprises and / or acts as a follower portion and a first engagement element.

[0061] At least one inclined surface may be arranged transversely or at least in a sense orthogonal to the cam surface in which the two are arranged. Thus, for example, the cam surface may affect movement in a generally radial direction and the at least one inclined surface may affect movement in a generally axial direction.

[0062] In one set of embodiments the connector arrangement comprises a quick connect connection mechanism for connecting the first connector part and the second connector part, wherein

[0063] The second connector part comprises a male portion of a quick-connect connection system, and the first connector part comprises a female portion of the quick-connect connection system, the female portion comprising a plurality of engagement fingers arranged to resiliently move between an extended position for capturing the male portion and a retracted position for allowing insertion and removal of the male portion in a receiving hole in the female portion, and the female portion further comprising a release mechanism for retracting the engagement fingers to remove the male portion, and

[0064] The second connector portion includes a release mechanism operating portion for operating the release mechanism when the locking portion is moved from the first position toward the second position by a user.

[0065] This may provide an arrangement in which the action of unlocking the twist lock connection between the first connector part and the second connector part by the user also serves to release the connection action of the quick connect connection system when the connection action of the quick connect connection system is also present. Note also that this arrangement may still also promote backward compatibility with standard quick connect connectors. That is, the first connector part of such an embodiment may be arranged so as to still be connectable to a standard male quick connect connector, and / or the second connector part of such an embodiment may be arranged so as to still be connectable to a standard female quick connect connector.

[0066] What this arrangement loses in protection against accidental disengagement it may be thought to make up for in ease of use for the user.

[0067] The release mechanism may be arranged to be operated by axial retraction of the sleeve portion of the connection part away from the male portion insertion end of the connection part.The release mechanism operating part may be arranged to drive retraction of the sleeve portion.

[0068] The locking portion may be carried on the sleeve portion and the release mechanism operating portion may be arranged for acting on the sleeve via the locking portion.

[0069] The release mechanism operating portion may be arranged for acting on the locking portion via at least one protrusion provided on the locking portion.

[0070] Where the locking portion comprises a locking collar comprising at least one protruding portion arranged to act as a brake, the at least one protruding portion may also comprise a follower portion and / or a first engagement element and / or be arranged to be acted upon by the release mechanism operating portion.

[0071] The release mechanism operating portion may include at least one inclined surface (or ramp) for driving a retracting movement of the sleeve when the locking portion is moved from the first position toward the second position by a user.

[0072] The inclined surface of the at least one inclined surface provided as a part of the operating portion of the release mechanism may also serve as the inclined surface of the at least one inclined surface of the guide device.

[0073] Therefore, at least a portion of the guide means may also function as a release mechanism operating portion.

[0074] The first body portion may include one of a hose connection portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a garden product coupling portion via which the first body portion is coupled or connectable to a garden product.

[0075] The second body portion may include one of a hose connection portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a garden product coupling portion via which the second body portion is coupled or connectable to a garden product.

[0076] The hose connection portion may include: a sleeve arranged to receive the end of a certain length of hose; and a clamping arrangement including a plurality of deformable claws which surround the sleeve and are arranged to be driven under the action of a locking nut to contact the hose carried on the sleeve so that the carried hose can be clamped between the claws and the sleeve.

[0077] For example, the garden product may be one of: a garden faucet, a hose gun, a hose nozzle, a hose reel, a water spray gun, a controllable valve (such as a water computer), or the like.

[0078] One of the first connector part and the second connector part may be a faucet connector, wherein the respective body part comprises a faucet mounting portion via which the faucet connector is mountable on a garden faucet.

[0079] One of the first connector portion and the second connector portion may be a hose fitting, wherein the respective body portion includes a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose.

[0080] One of the first body portion and the second body portion may include a male connector portion, and the other of the first body portion and the second body portion may include a female connector portion configured to receive the male connector portion.

[0081] The first body portion may have a bore defining a portion of a fluid flow path through the connector arrangement.

[0082] The second body portion may have a bore defining a portion of a fluid flow path through the connector arrangement.

[0083] One of the first body portion and the second body portion may carry a seal for sealing the other of the first body portion and the second body portion. This helps to provide a sealed fluid flow path between the first body portion and the second body portion.

[0084] The first connector portion may be arranged to be backwards compatible with one of male and female industry standard quick connect hose fittings.

[0085] The second connector portion may be arranged to be backwards compatible with one of male and female industry standard quick connect hose fittings.

[0086] Typically, in this case, the respective first connector part or second connector part will mate with a corresponding quick connect fitting, but without providing the locking function of the system.

[0087] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided:

[0088] A first garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement, the connector arrangement comprising a first connector part and a second connector part, the second connector part being arranged to interengage with the first connector part to form a fluid path through the connector arrangement,

[0089] The first connector portion includes a first body portion

[0090] and a locking portion mounted on the first body portion for rotation about the axis of the first body portion and for interacting with the engagement portion of the second connector portion to hold the first and second connector portions together to prevent axial separation.

[0091] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided:

[0092] A second garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement, the connector arrangement comprising a first connector part and a second connector part, the second connector part being arranged to interengage with the first connector part to form a fluid path through the connector arrangement,

[0093] The second connector portion includes a second body portion

[0094] The second body portion carries an engagement portion arranged for interacting with a locking portion of the first connector portion to hold the first and second connector portions together against axial separation.

[0095] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided:

[0096] A first garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement as defined above, wherein the first connector part comprises a first body part and a locking part, wherein the locking part is mounted on the first body part for rotation about an axis of the first body part and the locking part is arranged for interaction with an engagement part of a second connector part.

[0097] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided:

[0098] A second garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement as defined above, wherein the second connector part comprises a second body part carrying an engagement portion arranged for interacting with locking portions of the first and second connector parts.

[0099] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden fluid flow connector assembly comprising a first connector part or a second connector part as defined in one of the second to fifth aspects of the present invention connected to a corresponding quick connect garden accessory.

[0100] As will be understood, this is a combination of one of the parts of the connector arrangement of the present application fitting to a corresponding other part of an industry standard system. For example, a male connector part of the present application fitting to a female quick connect fitting, and vice versa.

[0101] The garden fluid flow connector arrangement may be a garden hose fitting connector arrangement.

[0102] One of the first connector portion and the second connector portion may be a garden hose fitting.

[0103] One of the first connector part and the second connector part may be a garden spigot connector.

[0104] One of the first connector part and the second connector part may be a garden produce connector part arranged for connection with a garden hose fitting.

[0105] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden hose accessory, the garden hose accessory comprising:

[0106] a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; and

[0107] A locking portion is mounted on the body portion for rotation about an axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting to hold the hose fitting and the male connector portion together against axial separation.

[0108] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden hose accessory, the garden hose accessory comprising:

[0109] a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; and

[0110] A locking portion is mounted on the body portion for rotation about an axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting.

[0111] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden hose accessory, the garden hose accessory comprising:

[0112] a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; and

[0113] a locking portion mounted on the body portion for rotation about an axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting, the locking portion comprising at least one protrusion arranged to interact with the engagement portion of the component to be connected to the hose fitting.

[0114] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden hose accessory, the garden hose accessory comprising:

[0115] a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; and

[0116] A locking portion is mounted on the body portion for rotation about an axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting, the locking portion comprising at least one arm having a lip arranged to interact with the engagement portion of the component to be connected to the hose fitting.

[0117] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a garden hose fitting, the garden hose fitting comprising:

[0118] a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; and

[0119] a locking portion mounted on the body portion for rotation about an axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting,

[0120] wherein the locking portion is rotatable relative to the first body portion and the engagement portion between a first position in which the hose fitting and the male connector portion are engaged and retained against axial separation by interaction of the locking portion and the engagement portion, and a second position for allowing axial separation of the hose fitting and the male connector portion.

[0121] Note that, in general and with any necessary modifications in wording, all additional features that follow the above definition of any aspect of the present invention may be used as additional features of all other aspects of the present invention defined above. These additional features are not reiterated after each aspect of the present invention just for the sake of brevity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0122] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0123] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A garden hose, garden tap and garden fluid flow connector arrangement are schematically shown, wherein Figure 1A The hose is shown disconnected from the faucet and Figure 1B A hose connected to a faucet via a garden fluid flow connector arrangement is shown;

[0124] Figure 2A It is in unlocked state Figure 1A and Figure 1B A partial view of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement;

[0125] Figure 2B It is in locked state Figure 1A and Figure 1B A partial view of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement;

[0126] Figure 3 yes Figures 1A to 2B A cross-sectional view of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement shown in;

[0127] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Schematically shown separately Figures 1A to 3 A first connector portion of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement shown in;

[0128] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Schematically shown separately Figures 1A to 3 a second connector portion of the garden fluid flow connector arrangement shown in;

[0129] Fig. 6A is a partial view of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement in an unlocked state;

[0130] Figure 6B Is in connected state Fig. 6A A partial view of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement;

[0131] Figure 6C It is in locked state Fig. 6A A partial view of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement;

[0132] Figure 7 yes FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C A cross-sectional view of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement is shown in;

[0133] Figure 8 Schematically shown separately FIG. 6A to FIG. 7 A first connector portion of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement as shown in; and

[0134] Fig. 9 Schematically shown separately FIG. 6A to FIG. 7 The second connector portion of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement is shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0135] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is shown, which comprises a first connector part 1 and a second connector part 2. In this embodiment, the first connector part 1 is in the form of a hose fitting and the second connector part 2 is in the form of a tap connector. However, it should be noted that the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 may also take other forms when implementing the present invention.

[0136] The hose fitting 1 is arranged to be mounted on the end of a length of hose and Figure 1A and 1B The tap connector 2 is arranged to be mounted on a garden tap and is shown mounted on a hose H. Figure 1A and Figure 1B It is shown installed on a faucet T.

[0137] exist Figure 1B , a hose H is shown connected to a tap T via a first portion 1 and a second portion 2 of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement A (i.e. via a hose fitting 1 and a tap connector 2). In this state, the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A places the outlet of the tap T in fluid communication with the interior of the hose H so that water can be fed into the hose H. There is a fluid flow path through the connector arrangement A.

[0138] exist Figure 1A In FIG. 5 , the hose H is shown detached from the faucet T due to the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 being detached or axially separated from each other.

[0139] As will be described in more detail below with reference to the remaining drawings, the garden fluid flow connector arrangement comprises a conventional connection system and a “twist-lock” arrangement for preventing accidental disengagement of the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 .

[0140] Figure 2A A portion of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is shown in an unlocked state and Figure 2B A portion of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is shown in a locked state. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a garden fluid flow connector arrangement A in a locked state.

[0141] On the other hand, for the sake of clarity, the first connector part 1 is Figure 4A and Figure 4B The second connector part 2 is shown separately in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Shown separately in.

[0142] Main references Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B , and also Figure 2A and Figure 2B , a hose fitting as a first connector part 1 comprises a body 1B comprising a hose connection part 3 and a connector receiving part 4. The first connector part 1 further comprises a locking collar 5 mounted for rotation on the body 1B around the axis of the body 1B. The body 1B has a main bore B through which a fluid can flow when the first connector part 1 is connected to the second connector part 2 and in use.

[0143] The hose connection part 3 may include: a sleeve 31 arranged to receive the end of a certain length of hose; and a clamping arrangement 32, which includes a plurality of deformable claws 32a surrounding the sleeve 31 and arranged to be driven into contact with the end of the hose carried on the sleeve 31 under the action of a locking nut 32b, so that when the locking nut 32b is screwed onto a threaded rod 32c on the hose connection part, the carried hose can be clamped between the claws 32a and the sleeve 31. The hose H is Figure 1A and Figure 1B It is shown installed in the hose connecting part 3.

[0144] When the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 are connected together (e.g. Figure 1B As shown), the connector receiving portion 4 is arranged to receive a portion of the second connector portion 2.

[0145] In the present embodiment, the first connector part 1 is arranged as a female connector and the second connector part 2 is arranged as a male connector.

[0146] In the present embodiment, the first connector part 1, in particular the connector receiving part 4, comprises the female component of a quick-connect type connection system.

[0147] Accordingly, as will be described in more detail below, the second connector part 2 in this embodiment comprises a male portion 21 of a quick-connect type connection system (see Figure 3 and Figure 5A ).

[0148] It should be noted that in other embodiments of the present invention, the first connector part and the second connector part may not include such a quick connect component.

[0149] Returning now to the connector receiving part 4, this comprises a hole 41 for receiving the male portion 21 of the second connector part. In the region of this hole 41 a plurality of engagement fingers 42 are provided which are arranged in an extended position (e.g. Figure 3 The second connector part 2 is resiliently movable between a retracted position (shown) and a retracted position that allows insertion and removal of the second connector part 2. The engagement finger 42 is driven to the retracted position when the second connector part 2 is introduced into the connector receiving part 4 and returns to the extended position once the two parts are fully engaged. A release mechanism in the form of a spring-loaded sleeve 43 is provided for releasing the two parts. When the sleeve 43 is operated by pulling it away from the insertion end of the connector receiving part 4, this retracts the engagement finger 42 so that the male part 21 of the second connector part 2 is released and the second connector part can be removed.

[0150] The hose connecting part 3 and the connector receiving part 4 of the first connector part 1 are of the type found in existing hose fittings. As mentioned in the introduction, with such a connection system there may sometimes be an accidental disengagement or separation of the connector parts 1 , 2 .

[0151] The purpose of providing the locking collar 5 is to alleviate such problems.

[0152] The locking collar 5 comprises an annular portion 51 which is mounted on the body 1B of the first connector part 1 so as to be freely rotatable about the axis of the body 1B and in this case also about the axis of the bore 41 of the connector receiving part 4. Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the annular portion 51 has an inwardly projecting rib 52 which runs in a peripheral channel 44 provided in the connector receiving part 4. This serves to hold the annular portion 51 axially in position on the first connector part 1 whilst allowing the annular portion to rotate about the first connector part 1.

[0153] The locking collar 5 comprises a pair of arms 53 extending axially from the annular portion 51. Each arm 53 comprises a lip portion 54 and in this embodiment terminates in the lip portion. Each lip portion 54 extends radially inwardly from the respective arm 53. This provides a projection or shoulder 55. A protrusion is provided on the lip portion 54 which is arranged to act as a detent 56. In the present case, this protrudes rearwardly from the shoulder 55 towards the body B of the first connector part 1.

[0154] Reference now FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C as well as Figure 3 The second connector part 2 has a body 2B with a main bore B' and includes an engagement portion 6 for interacting with a locking collar 5, as will be described in further detail below. In use, the main bore B' provides a fluid flow path through the second connector part 2.

[0155] The second connector part 2 of this embodiment also comprises the male part 21 of the quick-connect connection system as mentioned above. Thus, the second connector part 2 comprises a connector sleeve 22 carrying a seal, in this case two O-ring seals 23, and a retaining shoulder 24. When the male part 21 is received in the connector receiving part 4 of the second connector part 2, the engagement finger 42 acts against this retaining shoulder 24 to keep the parts engaged. At the same time, the seal, in this case two O-rings 23, seals the wall of the hole 41 of the connector receiving part 4 in the second connection part. The use of two O-rings 23 gives additional security against leaks, especially when the O-rings 23 age.

[0156] like Figure 2A and Figure 2BAs best seen, the second connector part 2 (in this embodiment a tap connector) comprises a connector for threaded engagement with a garden tap (e.g. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The internal threaded portion 25 on the upper surface of the housing 20 is shown.

[0157] The second connector part 2 includes a flange 26. In the present embodiment, this is disposed axially at a position between the internally threaded portion 25 and the male portion 21. Ribs 26a are disposed on the peripheral edge of the flange 26, partially around its extent. Ribs 25a are also disposed on the outer surface of the internally threaded portion 25. In the present embodiment, two sets of ribs 25a, 26a extend axially. The two sets of ribs 25a, 26a assist a user in gripping the faucet connector 2 when it is mounted on a faucet.

[0158] The engaging portion 6 includes two flange portions 26b of the flange 26. The flange portions 26b are provided at the peripheral edge of the flange 26.

[0159] Each flange portion 26b includes a ramp portion 61, an apex portion 62, and a recessed portion 63. One of the flange portions 26b is arranged to interact with a first arm of the arms 53 on the locking collar 5, and the other of the flange portions 26b is arranged to interact with a second arm of the arms 53 on the locking collar 5. In each flange portion 26b, the ramp portion 61, the apex portion 62, and the recessed portion 63 together act as a cam surface. Figure 2A The unlocked position shown is the same as Figure 2B When moving the locking collar 5 between the locking positions shown, the corresponding detent 56 of the locking collar 5 rides over the cam surface.

[0160] The engaging portion 6 further comprises a stop portion 64 for preventing the rotational movement of the locking collar 5 past a desired point relative to the second connector portion 2. When reaching the stop position, the stop portion 64 abuts against the edge of the corresponding arm 53. In the present embodiment, in the region of the ramp portion 61, the apex portion 62 and the recessed portion 63, the stop portion 64 extends radially further outward than the engaging portion 6. In the present embodiment, the stop portion 64 is provided at each flange portion 26 b of the engaging portion 6.

[0161] To connect the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2, the male portion 21 of the second connector part 2 is inserted into the connector receiving portion 4 of the first connector part 1. At this point there is a normal connection between the connector parts 1, 2 provided by the quick connect component.

[0162] In order to facilitate such connection of the connector parts 1 , 2 together, the connector parts 1 , 2 need to be provided with the locking collar 5 in an unlocked position relative to the second connector part 2 , in particular relative to the engagement portion 6 .

[0163] In the practice of the invention this means aligning the arms 53 away from the flange portions 26b as the connector parts 1, 2 are brought together.

[0164] Once the connector parts 1 , 2 are connected, they can be locked together by twisting the locking collar 5 relative to the body 1B and engagement portion 6 of the first connector part 1 .

[0165] As this twisting is carried out, the brake 56 rides up the ramp 61, over the apex 62 and into the recess 63, contacting the respective surfaces 61a, 62a, 63a. The brake 56 then acts on the surface 63a of the recessed portion, while the surface 62a of the apex 62 acts on the surface of the underside of the lip (i.e., the projection 55), and this serves to prevent axial separation of the connector parts 1, 2, and thus prevents accidental disengagement. There is a positive abutment between the locking part 5 and the engaging part 6 that prevents axial separation.

[0166] When disengagement is desired, the locking collar 5 is twisted in the opposite direction to unlock the connector parts 1 , 2 while the detent 56 rides over the cam surface in the opposite direction.

[0167] Where the recessed portion 63 meets the apex portion 62 there is a shoulder 65 for resisting (modestly) unlocking of the connector parts 1, 2. Thus, the locking collar 5 is latched into the first or locked position.

[0168] Further, it can be noted that the movement of the locking collar 5 between the locked and unlocked positions when connecting or disconnecting these connectors is transverse, i.e., perpendicular to the direction of movement of the connector in this case. This movement is also transverse to the direction of movement of the spring-loaded sleeve 43 required to release the quick-connect fingers 42. These facts together and individually help to further prevent accidental disconnection of the connector.

[0169] In this embodiment, when the locking collar 5 is in the locked position, the interaction between the locking collar 5 and the engagement portion 6 actually prevents the spring-loaded sleeve 43 from moving in the release direction. Since the collar 5 is mounted on the sleeve 43, when the locking collar 5 is in the locked position and its interaction with the engagement portion 6 holds it against axial movement, then the axial movement of the sleeve 43, especially in the release direction, is also prevented. This further reduces the risk of accidental disengagement of the connectors 1, 2.

[0170] In an alternative, a resilient element (not shown), such as a flat ring, may be included in the connector arrangement - for example on the face of the flange 26 facing the first connector part 1, the purpose of which is to help keep the detent 56 pressed into the recess 63 when locked and whose compression may help lock and unlock the locking collar 5. However, it is not essential to provide such a resilient element.

[0171] It should be noted that the body B1 of the first connector part 1 can rotate relative to the locking collar 5 and therefore also relative to the second connector part 2. Therefore, although the locking collar 5 and the engagement part 6 are axially locked together and prevented from rotating (until the shoulder 65 is overcome), this does not prevent the connected parts from rotating relative to each other. Figure 1B In the case shown in FIG. 1 , the hose H can rotate freely relative to the faucet - this can help prevent the hose H from twisting and / or kinking.

[0172] It should be noted that the engagement portion 6 may be made rotatable relative to the body B2 of the second connector part 2 if desired. For example, the flange 26 may be rotatable relative to the body B2 of the second connector part 2.

[0173] Further, the connector arrangement may be reversed, with the male portion and / or engagement portion on the hose fitting and the female portion and / or locking ring on the faucet connector.

[0174] Further, the engaging portion 6 or the locking ring 5 may be provided on other garden products / components, also on, for example, a hose gun, a garden sprinkler, a water spray gun, a water computer, etc.

[0175] That is, in order to cooperate with existing connection systems, it may be preferred that the female portion is provided in the hose fitting and it may be preferred that the rotatable locking portion is mounted on the hose fitting.

[0176] Note that nothing is said about the detent (if provided) needing to be on the locking portion, nor about the cam surface (if provided) needing to be on the engaging portion - these can be reversed. In this specification, the expression "locking portion" is used in conjunction with the concept of rotating relative to its corresponding connector portion - i.e., what makes it a locking portion is that it can rotate relative to its connector portion, whereas an engaging portion may or may not be able to rotate relative to its connector portion. The precise features present on the locking portion and the engaging portion are a matter of choice.

[0177] The present hose fitting 1 and the present faucet connector 2 can each be used with a more conventional corresponding faucet connector (or other component) and a more conventional hose fitting, respectively. That is, a component that does not carry a locking portion or engaging portion of the present type. In this case, a connection can still exist between the components that rely on a quick-connect connection system, but without the added twist-lock functionality. This makes the present connector backwards compatible with existing connectors.

[0178] The present connector may be described as a garden hose connector. Of course, the fluid typically carried will be water. The connector may be described as a garden watering connector.

[0179] The present connector can provide an improved connection. It is advantageous to use rotational movement rather than translational movement or rather than only translational movement to lock or capture the connector together. Thus, the locking and unlocking movements are orthogonal to the direction in which the connector is moved for connection and disconnection, and to the forces that may be generated by pulling, water pressure, etc. on the connected components.

[0180] As described above, the present connector may be arranged to allow backward compatibility, to allow use of existing "quick connect" connections and twist lock connections, and to allow, for example, a connected hose and hose gun to be rotated relative to each other at the connection to avoid twisting / kinking.

[0181] FIG. 6A to FIG. 9 Involving similar to Figures 1 to Figure 5C An alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' to the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A shown in FIG. In the following description, the same reference numerals as used above are used to indicate FIG. 6A to FIG. 9 An alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' corresponds to Figures 1 to Figure 5C Those parts that are the same components as those in the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A shown in .

[0182] Alternatively the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' also comprises a first connector part 1 and a second connector part 2. Again, in this embodiment, the first connector part 1 is in the form of a hose fitting and the second connector part 2 is in the form of a tap connector. However, as has been noted, the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 may also take other forms when implementing the present invention.

[0183] The alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement again comprises a conventional connection system and a “twist-lock” arrangement for preventing accidental disengagement of the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 .

[0184] Fig. 6A A portion of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is shown in an unlocked state, Figure 6Bshows a portion of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' in a connected state, and Figure 6C A portion of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is shown in a locked state.

[0185] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' in a locked state.

[0186] On the other hand, for the sake of clarity, the first connector part 1 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is Figure 8 , and the second connector part 2 is shown separately in Fig. 9 Shown separately in.

[0187] refer to FIG. 6A to FIG. 8 , the first connector part 1 is again provided in the form of a hose fitting comprising a body 1B comprising a hose connection part 3 and a connector receiving part 4. The first connector part 1 further comprises a locking collar 105 mounted for rotation on the body 1B about the axis of the body 1B. The body 1B has a main bore B through which a fluid can flow when the first connector part 1 is connected to the second connector part 2 and in use.

[0188] The hose connection portion 3 in the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is similar to that of FIGS. 1 to 4. Figure 5C The hose connecting portion 3 of the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is the same, and therefore a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0189] The connector receiving portion 4 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is similar in most respects to that of Figures 1 to 2. Figure 5C The connector receiving portion 4 of the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is the same, and therefore a detailed description of those parts common to each other is omitted. Those parts in which there are some differences will be further described below.

[0190] The locking collar 105 in the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' has the same configuration as in FIGS. 1 to 4. Figure 5C The locking collar 5 in the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A has some of the same functions and operations, but it has a different arrangement. This will be further described below.

[0191] refer to FIG. 6A to FIG. 7 and Fig. 9 , in the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A', the second connector part 2 is again provided as a tap connector.

[0192] The second connector part 2 is similar in most respects to that of FIGS. 1 to 2. Figure 5CThe second connector part of the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A is identical. It has a body 2B with a main hole B', which comprises a male part 21 of a quick-connect system, arranged to be connected to the first connector part, and comprises an engagement part 106 for interacting with a locking collar 105.

[0193] However, the engagement portion 106 in the connector portion 2 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is different from that of FIGS. 1 to 3. Figure 5C The joining portion of the garden fluid flow connector arrangement A.

[0194] The following is a more detailed description of the locking collar 105 and the engagement portion 106 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' and their interaction with one another.

[0195] Figure 1 to Figure 5C Unlike the locking collar 5 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A, the locking collar 105 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' does not include a pair of arms. Instead, the locking collar 105 of the alternative garden fluid flow connector arrangement A' is arranged as an uninterrupted annular portion 1051. This may serve to make it less clear how the ring 1051 should be arranged to allow connection of the connector, but the alternative connector arrangement A' includes features for alleviating this, as will be described below.

[0196] like Figure 7 As can be seen in the figure, the annular portion 1051 also has an inwardly protruding rib 1052 which runs in a peripheral channel 44 provided in the connector receiving part 4. This serves to hold the annular portion 1051 axially in position on the first connector part 1 while allowing the annular portion 1051 to rotate around the first connector part 1.

[0197] In the present arrangement, the locking collar 1051 comprises at least one, in this case four, protrusions 1053. Each protrusion 1053 protrudes inwardly from an inwardly facing circumferential side wall of the annular portion 1051. As will be described in more detail below, these protrusions 1053 are arranged to interact with the engagement portion 106 of the second connector part 2.

[0198] The engagement portion 106 includes at least one locking area 1061 including a locking position 1061a for receiving a corresponding protrusion 1053 of the locking collar 1051 to hold the connector parts 1, 2 together. In this embodiment, there are two locking positions 1061a provided by the engagement portion 106. These locking positions are diametrically opposed to each other, and one of these locking positions can be Fig. 9Intermediate between each of these locking positions 1061a is a protrusion receiving area 1062, each of which includes a protrusion receiving recess 1062a - one of which can be Fig. 9 Seen in.

[0199] As mentioned above, in this arrangement, there are four protrusions 1053 on the locking collar 105. Figure 6C When locked together as shown, a pair of protrusions 1053 are received in corresponding locking positions 1061a, and a pair of protrusions 1053 are received in corresponding protrusion receiving recesses 1062a.

[0200] Each locking area 1061 comprises a first inclined surface 1063 and a second inclined surface 1064. The first inclined surface 1063 and the second inclined surface 1064 are arranged around the outwardly facing circumferential side wall 102 of the second connector part 2 and are inclined relative to a plane normal to the axis of the second connector part 2. This inclination enables the component following the inclined surface to move axially relative to the second connector part 2.

[0201] The first inclined surface 1063 guides toward the corresponding locking position 1061 a . The second inclined surface 1064 guides toward the first inclined surface 1063 .

[0202] Each protrusion receiving area 1062 includes a third inclined surface 1065 and a fourth inclined surface 1066. The third inclined surface 1065 and the fourth inclined surface 1066 are arranged around the outwardly facing circumferential side wall 102 of the second connector part 2 and are inclined relative to a plane normal to the axis of the second connector part 2. This inclination in turn allows the component following the inclined surface to move axially relative to the second connector part 2.

[0203] A portion of the outwardly facing circumferential side wall 102 of the second connector part 2 acts as a cam surface 1021 and includes a ramp portion 1021a and a shoulder portion 1021b, wherein an apex portion 1021c is disposed between the ramp portion 1021a and the shoulder portion 1021b. The locking position 1061a is disposed between the apex portion 1021c and the stop portion 1021d.

[0204] When the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 are introduced together by the user, the protrusions 1053 on the locking collar 5 will tend to intersect and be guided by the inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066. The inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 act as guides and the protrusions 1053 act as followers.

[0205] If the protrusion 1053 falls on the first inclined surface 1063, this will tend to guide the protrusion 1053 toward the locking position 1061a. If the protrusion 1053 falls on the second inclined surface 1064, this will tend to guide the protrusion 1053 toward the first inclined surface 1063, from where it can be guided toward the locking position 1061a.

[0206] The protruding portion 1053 that falls on the third inclined surface 1065 and the fourth inclined surface 1066 may be guided accordingly, although these inclined surfaces may be omitted if selected.

[0207] like Figure 8 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the protruding portion 1053 has tapered surfaces 1053a which follow along corresponding inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 when the connector parts 1 , 2 are brought together.

[0208] It will be recalled that the locking collar 105 is mounted for rotation relative to the remainder of the first connector part 1. Thus, when the user brings the connector parts 1, 2 axially toward each other to connect the parts together, the interaction between the leading and following portions - i.e. the interaction between the inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 and the projection 1053 - will tend to cause the locking collar 105 to rotate relative to the body 1B of the first connector part 1 and also relative to the engagement portion 106 of the second connector part 2. This in turn serves to direct the locking collar 105 to a first position in which the locking collar 105 interacts with the engagement portion 106 to hold the first and second connector parts against axial separation, and in this embodiment in which the locking collar 105 is locked against movement out of the first position by the interaction of the projection 1053 and the shoulder 1021b of the cam surface 1021. In this way, the projection 1053 acts as a brake for preventing the locking collar 105 from moving out of the first position - the locking collar 105 is latched into the first position.

[0209] In this embodiment, the above described rotation causes the locking collar 105 to pass through an intermediate position before reaching the first position. This intermediate position is an intermediate position in which the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 are connected and thus held against axial separation, but the locking collar 105 has not yet fully reached its first locking position.

[0210] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the position corresponding to the current intermediate position may represent a "first position" as defined in the appended claims.

[0211] Further, as from Figure 7 and Figure 8As can be seen from the consideration of FIG. 1 , the locking collar 105 is arranged to snap fit over the remainder of the first connector part 1 during assembly. Figure 8 As noted in Figure 1 , the protruding portion 1053 protrudes radially inwardly from the outermost diameter of the retractable sleeve 43. To facilitate the snap fit of the locking collar 105, a corresponding recess 43a is provided in the retractable sleeve 43 through which the protruding portion 1053 can pass during assembly. Further, the leading edge 1052a of the rib 1052 provided on the locking collar 105 is chamfered, and a corresponding chamfered retaining ring portion 43b is provided on the retractable sleeve 43 so that when the locking collar 105 is mated, the rib 1052 can be pushed over the chamfered retaining ring portion 43b into the retaining recess 44.

[0212] Fig. 6A The connector parts 1, 2 are shown with the locking collar 105 in an unlocked position, which corresponds to the "second position" defined in the appended claims. In this state, the connector parts can be axially moved apart, and if the connector parts are further axially moved together, the protrusion 1053 will tend to be guided by the inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 towards the first position, at least until the intermediate position is reached.

[0213] Thus, the user can achieve connection of the connector parts 1, 2 simply by pushing the connector parts together. This results in an "automatic" movement of the locking collar 105 and at least an initial locking to prevent axial separation. If necessary, the user can make a final rotation of the locking collar 105 to reach the first position. Thus, the connection is simplified and an initial rotational alignment of the connector is not necessary.

[0214] If the connector parts 1 , 2 are provided in a completely wrong relative rotational position, the guiding may not work immediately, but some minor relative wiggling of the connector parts 1 , 2 (which may occur instinctively) usually quickly resolves the problem.

[0215] Figure 6B The connector parts 1, 2 are shown with the locking collar 105 in an intermediate position. As mentioned above, in this state, the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 are held against axial separation by the interaction of the locking collar 105 and the engagement portion 106, and thus this state can be described as connected.

[0216] Figure 6CThe connector parts 1, 2 are shown with the locking collar 105 in the locked position, which in this embodiment are considered to be the "first position" as defined in the appended claims. As mentioned above, in this state, the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 are held against axial separation by the interaction of the locking collar 105 and the engagement portion 106, and the locking collar 105 is locked against movement from the first position back toward the second position.

[0217] When the connector parts 1, 2 are connected and the locking collar 105 is in Figure 6B or Figure 6C 102a, the connector parts 1, 2 are held against axial separation by the interaction of the engagement elements provided on the locking collar 105 and the engagement part 106, respectively, as described above. The projection 1053 provides the engagement element on the locking collar 105 and has an engagement surface 1053b. The engagement element provided on the engagement part 106 includes an engagement projection 1067 provided in the region of the cam surface 1021 and protruding away from the cam surface and has an engagement surface 1067a. When the connector parts 1, 2 are in the state shown in FIG. Figure 6B and Figure 6C In the state shown in FIG. 1 , the engagement surfaces 1053 b , 1067 a abut against each other, thereby preventing axial separation of the connector parts 1 , 2 .

[0218] In the present embodiment, the inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 also serve as a release mechanism operating portion for operating a release mechanism of a quick-connect connection system provided in the first connector part 1 when the locking collar 105 moves away from the first position (or the intermediate position in the present embodiment) toward the second position. In particular, the inclined surfaces 1063 to 1066 are generally used to act on the spring-loaded sleeve 43 via the protruding portion 1053 and the locking collar 105 when the locking collar 105 is rotated by a user to disengage the connector parts 1, 2 from each other.

[0219] This eases the process of disconnecting the connector parts without removing the benefits of better interconnection and reduced risk of accidental disconnection provided by providing a twist lock arrangement.

[0220] It should be noted that in this connector arrangement A', even when the locking collar 105 is engaged with the engagement portion 106, rotation of the first body portion of the first connector part 1 relative to the locking collar 105 and the second connector part 2 is possible, since these parts are held against relative rotation. Therefore, in this case too, there is a reduced risk of twisting or tangling of the hose connected to the connector arrangement A'.

[0221] Further, in this connector arrangement A', both the first connector part 1 and the second connector part 2 may also be and are backwards compatible with existing standard quick connect connectors.

Claims

1. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement comprising a first connector part and a second connector part, the second connector part being arranged to interengage with the first connector part to form a fluid path through the connector arrangement, wherein The first connector part comprises a first body part and a locking part mounted on the first body part for rotation about an axis of the first body part, and the second connector part comprises a second body part carrying an engagement part, and Wherein, the locking part is capable of rotating between a first position and a second position relative to the first body part and the engaging part, wherein at the first position, the first connector part and the second connector part are engaged and retained by the interaction between the locking part and the engaging part to prevent axial separation, and the second position is used to allow the first connector part and the second connector part to be axially separated.

2. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 1, wherein: In addition to the locking portion and the engagement portion, the connector arrangement further comprises a push-fit connection mechanism for connecting the connector parts together.

3. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The locking portion and the engagement portion are arranged to latch into the first position thereby preventing movement from the first position toward the second position.

4. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: One of the locking portion and the engaging portion includes a detent and the other of the locking portion and the engaging portion includes a cam surface over which the detent rides as the locking portion moves into and out of the first position relative to the engaging portion.

5. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 4, wherein: The cam surface has a shoulder portion against which the brake rides when the locking portion moves from the first position toward the second position.

6. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The locking portion and the engaging portion include respective stop portions which abut against each other and prevent further rotational movement of the locking portion relative to the engaging portion when the locking portion is fully moved into the first position.

7. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rotatable mounting of the locking portion on the first body portion enables the first body portion to rotate freely relative to the locking portion when the locking portion is in the first position while the first and second connector portions are engaged with each other.

8. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The locking portion is arranged as a locking collar.

9. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 4 or any one of claims 5 to 8 when dependent on claim 4, wherein The cam surface includes a ramp portion for guiding the brake when the locking part rotates toward the first position, an apex portion at an upper end of the ramp, and a recessed portion on a side of the apex portion opposite to the ramp portion, wherein the brake is disposed in the recessed portion when the locking part is in the first position.

10. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The locking portion comprises at least one arm terminating in a lip arranged to interact with the engagement portion to prevent axial separation of the first and second connector parts.

11. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 10, wherein: The locking portion includes a pair of arms each terminating in a respective lip.

12. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: The engagement portion comprises at least one flange portion arranged to interact with the locking portion to prevent axial separation of the first and second connector portions.

13. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: At least one of the second connector part and the locking part comprises guiding means for guiding the locking part towards the first position when the connector parts are axially brought together.

14. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 13, wherein: The guiding means comprises at least one inclined surface provided on one of the locking part and the second connector part for guiding the travel of a corresponding follower portion provided on the other of the locking part and the second connector part when the two connector parts are moved towards each other by a user.

15. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: The connector arrangement comprises a quick-connect connection mechanism for connecting the first connector part and the second connector part, wherein The second connector portion comprises a male portion of the quick-connect connection system, and the first connector portion comprises a female portion of the quick-connect connection system, the female portion comprising a plurality of engagement fingers arranged to resiliently move between an extended position for capturing the male portion and a retracted position for allowing the male portion to be inserted and removed from a receiving hole in the female portion, and the female portion further comprising a release mechanism for retracting the engagement fingers to remove the male portion, and The second connector portion includes a release mechanism operating portion for operating the release mechanism when the locking portion is moved from the first position toward the second position by a user.

16. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 15, wherein: The release mechanism is arranged to be operated by axial retraction of a sleeve portion of the connection part away from the male portion insertion end of the connection part, and the release mechanism operating portion is arranged for driving retraction of the sleeve portion.

17. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to claim 16, wherein: The locking portion is carried on the sleeve portion, and the release mechanism operating portion is arranged for acting on the sleeve via the locking portion.

18. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: One of the first and second connector parts is a tap connector, wherein the corresponding body part comprises a tap mounting portion, the tap connector being mountable on a garden tap via the tap mounting portion.

19. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: One of the first and second connector portions is a hose fitting wherein the corresponding body portion includes a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose.

20. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: One of the first connector portion and the second connector portion is arranged to be backward compatible with one of male and female industry standard quick connect hose fittings.

21. A garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: One of the first connector part and the second connector part includes a male connector part, and the other of the first connector part and the second connector part includes a female connector part, which is arranged to receive the male connector part, wherein the male connector part carries two O-ring seals for sealing the body part of the female connector part.

22. A first garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first connector part comprises a first body part and a locking part mounted on the first body part for rotation about an axis of the first body part and arranged for interaction with an engagement part of the second connector part.

23. A second garden fluid flow connector part for use in a garden fluid flow connector arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein: The second connector part comprises a second body part carrying an engagement portion arranged for interacting with the locking portions of the first and second connector parts.

24. A garden hose accessory comprising: a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; as well as A locking portion is mounted on the body portion for rotation about the axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting to hold the hose fitting and the male connector portion together to prevent axial separation.

25. A garden hose accessory comprising: a body portion including a hose connector portion for receiving an end of a garden hose and a connector receiving portion for receiving a male connector portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting; as well as a locking portion mounted on the body portion for rotation about the axis of the body portion and for interacting with an engagement portion of a component to be connected to the hose fitting, wherein the locking portion is rotatable relative to the first body portion and the engagement portion between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the hose fitting and the male connector portion are engaged and retained by interaction between the locking portion and the engagement portion to prevent axial separation, and the second position is for allowing the hose fitting and the male connector portion to be axially separated.

26. A male garden connector portion arranged to be received in a body portion of a garden hose fitting, wherein: The male connector portion carries two O-ring seals for sealing to the body portion of the garden hose fitting.

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