Fluid connection assembly

Abstract

A retainer for a fluid connection assembly includes a clamping portion including a first end, a second end, a radially outward facing surface, a radially inward facing surface, a first circumferential end, and a second circumferential end displaceable relative to the first circumferential end, and a locking portion, the locking portion includes a first tab connected to the first circumferential end and a second tab connected to the second circumferential end, wherein the first tab is arranged to engage the second tab to lock the first tab to the second tab.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 589,653, filed on October 12, 2023, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more particularly, to fluid connection assemblies including retainers that reduce the insertion force required for assembly and allow for rapid assembly and serviceability without the need for tools. Background Art

[0004] Fluid connectors, fluid connections, and fluid connection assemblies are integral components used in many applications, such as in residential and commercial appliance applications. Household appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and coffee makers require not only a supply of water, but also the ability for water to travel between the components therein. An example of water traveling between components is water traveling from an inlet to a heater and then to a brew basket. Fluids are primarily moved between components via flexible or rigid hoses that are connected to each component by a fluid connector. Such fluid connectors typically include a plastic tube that includes a barb and a hose clamp that clamps the hose to the barbed tube.

[0005] However, there are many disadvantages to the current design. The current fluid connection design is difficult to secure due to the small confinement inside the appliance and the need for tools. In addition, the barbed tube is prone to failure due to its size and brittle material and the distribution of radial forces of the current hose clamp design. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a retainer for a fluid connection assembly.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining member includes a clamping portion and a locking portion, the clamping portion includes a first end, a second end, a radially outwardly facing surface, a radially inwardly facing surface, a first circumferential end, and a second circumferential end that can be displaced relative to the first circumferential end, and the locking portion includes a first protrusion connected to the first circumferential end and a second protrusion connected to the second circumferential end, wherein the first protrusion is arranged to engage the second protrusion to lock the first protrusion to the second protrusion.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of notches are spaced apart in a circumferential direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of notches extend from the first end to the second end.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being axially arranged between the first end and the second end and spaced apart from the first end and the second end. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer also includes a protrusion extending in a circumferential direction from the first circumferential end toward the second circumferential end. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion is connected to the radially inwardly facing surface and is axially arranged adjacent to the rib. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion is operably arranged to maintain axial alignment of the rib when the retainer is locked. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outward from the radially outwardly facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tab includes a tapered surface.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the second tab includes a base and at least one arm extending from the base and pivotally connected to the base, wherein the at least one arm is operably arranged to engage the first tab to lock the first tab to the second tab. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one arm includes a first arm connected to the base and a second arm connected to the first arm. In an exemplary embodiment, the base extends radially outward from a radially outwardly facing surface, the first arm extends from the base in a circumferential direction, and the second arm extends radially inward from the first arm. In an exemplary embodiment, a channel is formed between the base, the first arm, and the second arm, and the first tab is operably arranged to engage the channel to lock the first tab to the second tab. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one arm includes a tapered surface, wherein the tapered surface is operably arranged to engage the first tab to displace the at least one arm.

[0011] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, a fluid connection assembly includes a first tube, a second tube, and a retainer, the first tube including a first end, a second end, a first radially outward-facing surface, and a barb arranged at the second end and extending radially outward from the first radially outward-facing surface, the second tube including a third end, a fourth end, a second radially outward-facing surface, and a first radially inward-facing surface arranged to engage the first radially outward-facing surface, the retainer including a clamping portion and a locking portion, the clamping portion including a fifth end, a sixth end, a third radially outward-facing surface, and a second radially inward-facing surface, the locking portion including a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion can be displaced relative to the second protrusion, and the first protrusion is arranged to engage the second protrusion to lock the first protrusion to the second protrusion.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the third radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom. In an exemplary embodiment, the second radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being axially disposed between and spaced apart from the fifth end and the sixth end. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outwardly from the third radially outwardly facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the second tab forms a radial channel, and the first tab engages the radial channel to lock the first tab to the second tab.

[0014] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a retainer for a fluid connection assembly.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining member includes a clamping portion and a locking portion, the clamping portion includes a first end, a second end, a radially outwardly facing surface, a radially inwardly facing surface, a first circumferential end, and a second circumferential end that can be displaced relative to the first circumferential end, and the locking portion includes a first protrusion connected to the first circumferential end and a second protrusion connected to the second circumferential end, wherein the first protrusion is arranged to engage the second protrusion to lock the first protrusion to the second protrusion.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of notches are spaced apart in a circumferential direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of notches extend from the first end to the second end. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being axially disposed between the first end and the second end and spaced apart from the first end and the second end. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outwardly from the radially outwardly facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tab includes at least one side tapered surface.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the second tab includes a base and at least one arm extending from the base and pivotally connected to the base, wherein the at least one arm is operably arranged to engage the first tab to lock the first tab to the second tab. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one arm includes a first arm arranged at an acute angle relative to the base and a second arm arranged at an acute angle relative to the base. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one arm includes a tapered surface, wherein the tapered surface is operably arranged to engage the first tab to displace the at least one arm in an axial direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one arm includes a surface, the surface includes a notch, and the notch is arranged to engage the first tab to lock the first tab to the second tab.

[0018] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, a fluid connection assembly includes a first tube, a second tube, and a retainer, the first tube including a first end, a second end, a first radially outward-facing surface, and a barb arranged at the second end and extending radially outward from the first radially outward-facing surface, the second tube including a third end, a fourth end, a second radially outward-facing surface, and a first radially inward-facing surface arranged to engage the first radially outward-facing surface, the retainer including a clamping portion and a locking portion, the clamping portion including a fifth end, a sixth end, a third radially outward-facing surface, and a second radially inward-facing surface, the locking portion including a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion can be displaced relative to the second protrusion, and the first protrusion is arranged to engage the second protrusion to lock the first protrusion to the second protrusion.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the third radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom. In an exemplary embodiment, the second radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being axially disposed between and spaced apart from the fifth end and the sixth end. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outwardly from the third radially outwardly facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tab includes at least one side tapered surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the second tab includes a base and at least one arm extending from the base and pivotally connected to the base, wherein the at least one arm is operably arranged to engage the first tab to lock the first tab to the second tab.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamping section includes a first curvilinear section and a second curvilinear section pivotably connected to the first curvilinear section. In an exemplary embodiment, the first curvilinear section extends through a hole in the second curvilinear section. In an exemplary embodiment, the second section is completely removable from the first section.

[0022] These and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from a reading of the following detailed description of the disclosure in view of the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein as part of the specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the subject matter currently disclosed, and illustrate selected principles and teachings of the present disclosure, wherein corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. However, the drawings do not illustrate all possible implementations of the subject matter currently disclosed, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a fluid connection assembly.

[0025] Figure 2 It is roughly along Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken along line 2-2 in FIG.

[0026] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a first embodiment of a retainer is shown.

[0027] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A rear perspective view of a first embodiment of a retainer is shown in FIG.

[0028] Figure 4 It is roughly along Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a retaining member taken along line 4-4 in FIG.

[0029] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a second embodiment of a retainer is shown.

[0030] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A rear perspective view of a second embodiment of a retainer is shown.

[0031] Figure 6 It is roughly along Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a retainer taken along line 6-6 in FIG.

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 5A A front exploded perspective view of a second embodiment of a retainer is shown.

[0033] Fig. 8A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a third embodiment of a retainer is shown in FIG.

[0034] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A A rear perspective view of a third embodiment of a retainer is shown.

[0035] Figure 8C yes Fig. 8A A top plan view of a third embodiment of a retaining member is shown.

[0036] Fig. 9 It is roughly along Fig. 8A A cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a retainer taken along line 9-9 in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] It should be understood that the present invention can take various alternative orientations and step sequences, unless otherwise explicitly stated. It should also be understood that the specific components and systems shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are only exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. Therefore, unless otherwise explicitly stated, specific dimensions, directions or other physical characteristics associated with the disclosed embodiments should not be considered restrictive. In addition, although they may not be, the same elements in the various embodiments described herein can generally be represented by the same reference numerals within this part of the application.

[0038] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular methods, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the example embodiments.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated, the terms “first,” “second,” and the like used herein do not necessarily indicate any ordinal, sequential, or priority relationship, but are merely used to more clearly distinguish one element or a group of elements from another element or a group of elements.

[0041] As used herein, the term "about" when applied to a value is intended to mean within the tolerance of the device used to produce the value, or, in some examples, is intended to mean plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0042] It should be understood that the term "substantially" is synonymous with terms such as "almost," "very close," "approximately," "around," "adjacent," "close," "substantially," "near," "nearby," and the like, and that these terms can be used interchangeably as they appear in the specification and claims. It should be understood that the term "adjacent" is synonymous with terms such as "near," "close," "adjacent," "adjacent," "immediately adjacent," "adjacent," and the like, and that these terms can be used interchangeably as they appear in the specification and claims. The term "substantially" is intended to mean a value that is within ten percent of a specified value.

[0043] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of,” “serving as an example,” or “illustrative,” and does not imply any preference or requirement with respect to the disclosed aspects or embodiments.

[0044] It should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the use of "or" in this application is with respect to a "non-exclusive" arrangement. For example, when it is said that "item x is A or B", it should be understood that this can mean one of the following: (1) item x is only one or the other of A and B; (2) item x is both A and B. Alternatively, the word "or" is not used to define an "exclusive or" arrangement. For example, an "exclusive or" arrangement used to state "item x is A or B" would require that x can be only one of A and B. In addition, as used herein, "and / or" is intended to represent a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the elements or conditions may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted as any of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element, and a third element; or a device comprising a second element and a third element.

[0045] In addition, as used herein, the phrases "at least one of" and "comprising at least one of" in combination with a system or element are intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device comprising at least one of: a first element; a second element; and a third element is intended to be interpreted as any of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising the first element; a device comprising the second element; a device comprising the third element; a device comprising the first element and the second element; a device comprising the first element and the third element; a device comprising the first element, the second element, and the third element; or an apparatus comprising the second element and the third element. When the phrase "at least one of" is used herein, a similar interpretation is intended.

[0046] It should be understood that the term "tube" as used herein is synonymous with hoses, pipes, channels, conduits, tube end forms, or any other suitable conduit flow used in hydraulics and fluid mechanics. It should also be understood that the term "tube" may refer to a rigid or flexible conduit of any material suitable for containing a gas or liquid and allowing the gas or liquid to flow.

[0047] Turning now to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 is a perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10 . Figure 2 It is roughly along Figure 1 2-2 in FIG. 1. The fluid connection assembly 10 generally includes a tube 20, a tube or connector body 30, and a retainer 50, 150, 250.

[0048] The tube 20 includes an end 22, an end 24, a radially outwardly facing surface 26, and a through hole 21. The through hole 21 extends through the tube 20 from the end 22 to the end 24. The tube 20 is operably arranged to be fluidically connected to the tube 30 through a retainer 50, 150, 250. The radially outwardly facing surface 26 includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 20 is a flexible conduit operably arranged to engage the tube 30. In such an exemplary embodiment, the barbs of the tube 30 create a protrusion 28 when arranged in the through hole 21. Specifically, the tube 20 is arranged to slide onto the tube 30 in the axial direction AD1 so that the end 22 is aligned with the radially outwardly facing surface 36 (see Figure 2 ). The retainers 50, 150, 250 may be arranged about the radially outwardly facing surface 26 to secure the tube 20 to the tube 30, as will be described in more detail below.

[0049] The tube 30 includes an end 32, an end 34, at least one radially outwardly facing surface (e.g., a radially outwardly facing surface 36), a through hole 31, and a barb 38. The through hole 31 extends from the end 32 through the tube 30 to the end 34. The radially outwardly facing surface 36 is axially arranged between the end 32 and the barb 38. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outwardly facing surface 36 includes a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outwardly facing surface 36 includes a variable diameter. The barb 38 is arranged at the end 34 and includes a radially outwardly facing surface 40 and a surface 42. The radially outwardly facing surface 40 extends from the end 34 to the radially outwardly facing surface 36. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown in the figure, the radially outwardly facing surface 40 is a frustoconical surface with a diameter increasing along the axial direction AD1. The radially outwardly facing surface 40 is connected to the radially outwardly facing surface 36 via the surface 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 42 is a substantially axial surface facing the axial direction AD1.

[0050] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of the holder 50 . Figure 3B is a rear perspective view of the holder 50 . Figure 4 It is roughly along Figure 3B 4-4 in FIG. 4 . The retainer 50 includes an end 52, an end 54, a radially outwardly facing surface 56, a radially inwardly facing surface 60, and a through hole 51. The through hole 51 extends through the retainer 50 from the end 52 to the end 54. The retainer 50 is operably arranged to secure the tube 20 to the tube 30.

[0051] Radially outwardly facing surface 56 includes a plurality of notches 58 extending radially inwardly therefrom. Notches 58 allow retainer 50 to flex and provide a tighter fixation of tube 20 to tube 30. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more notches 58 extend completely from end 52 to end 54. Radially inwardly facing surface 60 includes ribs 62 axially disposed between and spaced apart from end 52 and end 54. In the exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As best shown in FIG. 6 , rib 62 includes a first surface extending radially inward from radially inward facing surface 60 and facing in axial direction AD1 , a second surface extending radially inward from radially inward facing surface 60 and facing in axial direction AD2 , and a third curvilinear convex surface connecting the first and second surfaces.

[0052] The retainer 50 includes a generally cylindrical ring or clamping portion 64. The ring portion 64 includes a circumferential end 66 and a circumferential end 68. The circumferential end 68 can be displaced relative to the circumferential end 66. The retainer 50 also includes a locking device. For example, as shown in the figure, the retainer 50 includes a male connector portion or lug 70 and a female connector portion or lug 80. The lug 70 is connected to and extends from the end 66, and the lug 80 is connected to and extends from the end 68. In an exemplary embodiment, the lug 70 and / or the lug 80 extend radially outward from the radially outwardly facing surface 56.

[0053] Tab 70 includes tapered surface 72, tapered surface 74, top surface 76, and bottom surface 78. Tapered surfaces 72 and 74 reduce the width of tab 70 in a direction from top surface 76 to bottom surface 78. Tapered surfaces 72 and 74 help facilitate connection of tab 70 with female connector portion 80 (i.e., arms 84 and 92). Tab 80 includes base 82 and at least one arm operably arranged to engage tab 70 to lock tab 70 to tab 80, such as arms 84 and 92.

[0054] The arm 84 is pivotally connected to the base 82 and extends from the base 82 toward the tab 70. In an exemplary embodiment, the arm 84 is arranged at an acute angle (e.g., 45°) relative to the base 82. The arm 84 extends toward the tab 70 along the axial direction AD2. The arm 84 includes a tapered surface 86, which is operably arranged to engage the tapered surface 72. Specifically, when the tab 70 is locked into the female connector part 80, the tapered surface 72 engages the tapered surface 86 and applies force to the arm 84 along the axial direction AD1. Once the tab 70 leaves the arm 84, the arm 84 rebounds to its initial position and locks the tab 70 to the tab 80. The arm 84 also includes a surface 88, which is arranged to engage the top surface 76 to lock the tab 70 to the tab 80. In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 88 includes a notch 90, which is operably arranged to engage the top surface 76 to lock the tab 70 to the tab 80.

[0055] The arm 92 is pivotally connected to the base 82 and extends from the base 82 toward the tab 70. In an exemplary embodiment, the arm 92 is arranged at an acute angle (e.g., 45°) relative to the base 82. The arm 92 extends toward the tab 70 in the axial direction AD1. The arm 92 includes a tapered surface 94 operably arranged to engage the tapered surface 74. Specifically, when the tab 70 is locked into the female connector part 80, the tapered surface 74 engages the tapered surface 94 and applies force to the arm 92 in the axial direction AD2. Once the tab 70 leaves the arm 92, the arm 92 snaps back to its original position and locks the tab 70 to the tab 80. The arm 92 also includes a surface 96, which is arranged to engage the top surface 76 to lock the tab 70 to the tab 80. In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 96 includes a notch 98, which is operably arranged to engage the top surface 76 to lock the tab 70 to the tab 80.

[0056] It should be appreciated that base 82 and arms 84 and 92 generally form a groove into which tab 70 may be disposed to lock tab 70 to tab 80. In this locked state, the diameter of ring portion 64 (i.e., radially inwardly facing surface 60) is reduced, thereby squeezing tube 20 around tube 30 and securing the two together.

[0057] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 10, the tube 20 is slid onto the tube 30 so that the end 22 is axially disposed between the barb 40 and the end 32. The retainer 50 is radially disposed around the tubes 20 and 30 with the tabs 70 not connected to the tabs 80. The tabs 70 are then displaced toward the tabs 80 until the arms 84 and 92 snap onto the tabs 70 and engage the top surface 76, thereby locking the tabs 70 to the tabs 80. The ring portion 64 squeezes the tube 20 around the tube 30. Specifically, the ribs 62 provide a sharp radial force on the tube 20 to facilitate a sealed connection between the tubes 20 and 30.

[0058] Figure 5A is a front perspective view of the holder 150 . Figure 5B is a rear perspective view of the holder 150 . Figure 6 It is roughly along Figure 5A 6-6 in FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining member 150. Figure 7 1 is a front exploded perspective view of the holder 150. The holder 150 includes a curved section 160, a curved section 180, and a through hole 151.

[0059] Segment 160 includes end 162, end 164, radially outwardly facing surface 166, and radially inwardly facing surface 168. Radially inwardly facing surface 168 includes at least one rib, such as ribs 170A and 170B, which are axially disposed between and spaced apart from end 162 and end 164. In the exemplary embodiment, ribs 170A and 170B are also axially spaced apart from each other. In the exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As best shown in FIG. 1 , at least one of the ribs 170A and 170B includes a first surface extending radially inward from the radially inward facing surface 168 and facing in the axial direction AD1, a second surface extending radially inward from the radially inward facing surface 168 and facing in the axial direction AD2, and a third curvilinear convex surface connecting the first surface and the second surface. The segment 160 also includes a hinge portion or hook 172 that generally extends radially outward from the radially outward facing surface 166. In the exemplary embodiment, the hook 172 includes a radially inward facing surface that faces in the opposite direction of the radially inward facing surface 168 (i.e., the segment 160 resembles an "s" shape).

[0060] Segment 180 includes end 182, end 184, radially outwardly facing surface 186, and radially inwardly facing surface 188. Radially inwardly facing surface 188 includes at least one rib, such as ribs 190A and 190B, axially disposed between and spaced apart from end 182 and end 184. In the exemplary embodiment, ribs 190A and 190B are also axially spaced apart from one another. In the exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIG. Figure 6As best shown in , at least one of the ribs 190A and 190B includes a first surface extending radially inward from the radially inwardly facing surface 188 and facing the axial direction AD1, a second surface extending radially inward from the radially inwardly facing surface 188 and facing the axial direction AD2, and a third curvilinear convex surface connecting the first surface and the second surface. Segment 180 also includes a hole 192. Hook 172 is operably arranged to engage hole 192 to form a hinged or pivotable connection between segment 160 and segment 180. In an exemplary embodiment, hook 172 extends radially outward through hole 192 and is capable of engaging radially outwardly facing surface 186. In an exemplary embodiment, segment 180 also includes one or more tapered surfaces 194 disposed proximate hole 192.

[0061] The retainer 150 also includes a locking device. For example, as shown, the retainer 150 includes a male connector portion or tab 200 and a female connector portion or tab 210. Tab 200 is connected to and extends from the curvilinear segment 160, and tab 210 is connected to and extends from the curvilinear segment 180. In an exemplary embodiment, tab 200 extends radially outward from the radially outwardly facing surface 166. In an exemplary embodiment, protrusion 210 extends radially outward from the radially outwardly facing surface 186.

[0062] Tab 200 includes side 202, side 204, top surface 206, and bottom surface 208. In the exemplary embodiment, tab 200 is linear. Tab 210 includes side 212, side 214, top surface 216, bottom surface 218, and at least one arm operably arranged to engage tab 200 to lock tab 200 to tab 210, such as arms 224 and 228.

[0063] The arm 224 is pivotally connected to the top surface 216 and extends therefrom toward the tab 200. The arm 224 includes a protrusion 226 that is operably arranged to engage the top surface 206 to lock the tab 200 to the tab 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 226 includes a tapered surface 232 that is operably arranged to engage the bottom surface 208 and / or the side 202. Specifically, when the tab 200 is locked into the female connector part 210, the side 202 engages the tapered surface 232 and applies a force to the arm 224 in the axial direction AD1. Once the tab 200 passes over the protrusion 226, the arm 224 rebounds to its initial position and locks the tab 200 to the tab 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab 210 also includes a hole 220 arranged proximate to the arm 224. The arrangement of the hole 220 allows the arm 224 to better pivot relative to the top surface 216. In the exemplary embodiment, aperture 220 extends at least partially from top surface 216 to bottom surface 218 .

[0064] The arm 228 is pivotally connected to the top surface 216 and extends therefrom toward the tab 200. The arm 228 includes a protrusion 230 that is operably arranged to engage the top surface 206 to lock the tab 200 to the tab 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 230 includes a tapered surface 234 that is operably arranged to engage the bottom surface 208 and / or the side 204. Specifically, when the tab 200 is locked into the female connector part 210, the side 204 engages the tapered surface 234 and applies a force to the arm 228 in the axial direction AD2. Once the tab 200 passes over the protrusion 230, the arm 228 rebounds to its original position and locks the tab 200 to the tab 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab 210 also includes a hole 222 arranged proximate to the arm 228. The arrangement of the hole 222 allows the arm 228 to better pivot relative to the top surface 216. In the exemplary embodiment, aperture 222 extends at least partially from top surface 216 to bottom surface 218 .

[0065] It should be appreciated that top surface 216, arms 224 and 228, and protrusions 226 and 230 generally form a recess into which tab 200 may be disposed to lock tab 200 to tab 210. In this locked state, the diameter formed between radially inwardly facing surface 168 and radially inwardly facing surface 188 is reduced, thereby squeezing tube 20 around tube 30 and securing the two together.

[0066] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 10, the tube 20 is slid onto the tube 30 such that the end 22 is axially disposed between the barb 40 and the end 32. The retainer 150 is radially disposed around the tubes 20 and 30 with the tabs 200 and 210 not connected. In the connected state of the fluid connection assembly 10, the hooks 172 are pivotally engaged with the holes 192, and the segments 160 are radially displaced toward and secured to the segments 180. For example, the tabs 200 are then displaced toward the tabs 210 until the protrusions 226 and 230 snap onto the tabs 200 and engage the top surface 206, thereby locking the tabs 200 to the tabs 210. The radially inwardly facing surfaces 168 and 188 engage the radially outwardly facing surface 26 and squeeze the tube 20 around the tube 30. Specifically, ribs 170A- 170B and 190A- 190B provide sharp radial forces to tube 20 at multiple axial locations to facilitate a sealed connection between tube 20 and tube 30 .

[0067] Fig. 8A is a front perspective view of the holder 250 . Figure 8B is a rear perspective view of the holder 250 . Figure 8C is a top plan view of the holder 250 . Fig. 9 It is roughly along Fig. 8A9. The retainer 250 includes an end 252, an end 254, a radially outwardly facing surface 256, a radially inwardly facing surface 260, and a through hole 251. The through hole 251 extends through the retainer 250 from the end 252 to the end 254. The retainer 250 is operably arranged to secure the tube 20 to the tube 30.

[0068] Radially outwardly facing surface 256 includes a plurality of notches 258 extending radially inwardly therefrom. Notches 258 allow retainer 250 to flex and provide a tighter fixation of tube 20 to tube 30. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more notches 258 extend completely from end 252 to end 254. Radially inwardly facing surface 260 includes ribs 262 axially disposed between and spaced apart from end 252 and end 254. In the exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the rib 262 includes a first surface 263A extending radially inward from the radially inwardly facing surface 260 and facing the axial direction AD1, a second surface 263B extending radially inward from the radially inwardly facing surface 260 and facing the axial direction AD2, and a third curvilinear convex surface 263C connecting the first surface 263A and the second surface 263B. The rib 262 also includes a first circumferential end 300 and a second circumferential end 302.

[0069] The retainer 250 includes a generally cylindrical ring or clamping portion 264. The ring portion 264 includes a circumferential end 266 and a circumferential end 268. The circumferential end 268 can be displaced relative to the circumferential end 266. In an exemplary embodiment, the circumferential end 300 is aligned with the circumferential end 266 and / or the circumferential end 302 is aligned with the circumferential end 268. The retainer 250 also includes a locking device. For example, as shown in the figure, the retainer 250 includes a male connector portion or lug 270 and a female connector portion or lug 280. The lug 270 is connected to and extends from the end 266, and the lug 280 is connected to and extends from the end 268. In an exemplary embodiment, the lug 270 and / or the lug 280 extend radially outward from the radially outwardly facing surface 256.

[0070] The tab 270 includes a tapered surface 272, a top surface 276, and a bottom surface 278. The tapered surface 272 helps facilitate the connection of the tab 270 to the female connector portion 280 (i.e., the arm 286). In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 272 is a curved surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the tapered surface 272 is a planar surface (e.g., a chamfered edge). In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the ring portion 264 is greater than the width of the tab 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab 270 is axially disposed between the end 252 and the end 254 and is spaced apart from the end 252 and the end 254.

[0071] Tab 280 includes a base 282 and at least one arm, such as arm 284 and arm 286, and is operably arranged to engage tab 270 to lock tab 270 to tab 280. Arm 284 is connected to base 282 and extends from it toward tab 270. In an exemplary embodiment, arm 284 is pivotally connected to base 282. In an exemplary embodiment, arm 284 is arranged substantially perpendicular to base 282. Arm 286 is connected to arm 284 and extends generally radially inwardly therefrom. In an exemplary embodiment, arm 286 is pivotally connected to arm 284. In an exemplary embodiment, arm 286 is arranged parallel to base 282. Arm 286 includes a tapered surface 288 to help facilitate connection of tab 270 to female connector portion 280. Base includes surface 292, and arm 286 includes surface 294. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 294 is arranged parallel to surface 292.

[0072] The base 282, the arm 284, and the arm 286 form a channel 290 in which the tab 270 engages to lock the tab to the portion 280. Specifically, when the tab 270 is locked into the female connector portion 280, the tapered surface 272 engages the tapered surface 288 and pushes the arm 286 and / or the arm 284 in a radially outward direction (e.g., radial direction RD1). Once the tab 270 passes over the arm 286, the arm 286 springs back to its initial position and locks the tab 270 to the tab 280. The arm 286 includes a surface 294 that is arranged to engage the top surface 276 to lock the tab 270 to the tab 280. It should be understood that the base 282 and the arms 284 and 286 generally form a channel 290 in which the tab 270 can be arranged to lock the tab 270 to the tab 280. In this locked state, the diameter of ring portion 264 (ie, radially inwardly facing surface 260) is reduced, thereby squeezing tube 20 around tube 30 and securing the two together.

[0073] The retainer 250 also includes an alignment protrusion 310. The protrusion 310 is connected to one of the end 300 and the end 302 and extends circumferentially therefrom. For example, the protrusion 310 is connected to the rib 262 at the end 300 and extends from the rib 262 toward the end 302 in the circumferential direction CD1. The protrusion 310 is arranged on one side of the rib 262 so that when the retainer 250 is closed or locked, the protrusion 310 keeps the rib 262 aligned completely around the radially inwardly facing surface 260 in the axial direction. For example, and as Fig. 92, the projection 310 is disposed axially adjacent to the rib 262 and connected to the surface 263A. The projection 310 extends circumferentially past the end 300 toward the end 302, and when the retainer 250 is closed, the projection 310 will engage the surface 263A near the end 302. This maintains the axial alignment of the rib 262. In the exemplary embodiment, the projection 310 includes a tapered surface 312 that facilitates easy closure of the retainer 250, for example, so that the projection 310 does not catch on the radially inwardly facing surface 260. The projection 310 also provides additional surface area to ensure that the clamping load is 360 when the retainer 250 is closed / locked.

[0074] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 10, the tube 20 is slid onto the tube 30 so that the end 22 is axially disposed between the barb 40 and the end 32. The retainer 250 is radially disposed around the tubes 20 and 30 with the tabs 270 not connected to the tabs 280. The tabs 270 are then displaced toward the tabs 280 until the arms 286 snap onto the tabs 270 and engage the top surface 276, thereby locking the tabs 270 to the tabs 280. The ring portion 264 squeezes the tube 20 around the tube 30. Specifically, the ribs 262 provide a sharp radial force on the tube 20 to facilitate a sealed connection between the tubes 20 and 30.

[0075] It should be understood that the above-mentioned various aspects of the present disclosure and other features and functions or their alternatives may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Those skilled in the art may subsequently make various currently unforeseen or unanticipated substitutions, modifications, changes or improvements, which are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

[0076] Reference numerals list

[0077] 10 Fluid connection components

[0078] 20 tubes

[0079] 21 through holes

[0080] 22 end

[0081] 24 end

[0082] 26 radially outwardly facing surface

[0083] 28 bulge

[0084] 30 Tube or connector body

[0085] 31 through holes

[0086] 32 end

[0087] 34 end

[0088] 36 radially outward facing surface

[0089] 38 Barb

[0090] 40 radially outwardly facing surface

[0091] 42 Surface

[0092] 50 retaining parts

[0093] 51 through holes

[0094] 52 end

[0095] 54 end

[0096] 56 radially outwardly facing surface

[0097] 58 notch

[0098] 60 radially inward facing surface

[0099] 62 ribs

[0100] 64 ring part

[0101] 66 end

[0102] 68 end

[0103] 70 male connector part or tab

[0104] 72 Conical surface

[0105] 74 Conical surface

[0106] 76 Top surface

[0107] 78 bottom surface

[0108] 80 female connector part or tab

[0109] 82 base

[0110] 84 arms

[0111] 86 Conical surface

[0112] 88 Surface

[0113] 90 notch

[0114] 92 arms

[0115] 94 Conical surface

[0116] 96 Surface

[0117] 98 Notch

[0118] 150 Retaining parts

[0119] 151 Through Hole

[0120] 160 Segment

[0121] 162 end

[0122] 164 end

[0123] 166 Radially outward facing surface

[0124] 168 radially inward facing surface

[0125] 170A Rib

[0126] 170B Rib

[0127] 180 Segment

[0128] 182 end

[0129] 184 end

[0130] 186 Radially outward facing surface

[0131] 188 Radially inward facing surface

[0132] 190A Rib

[0133] 190B Rib

[0134] 200 Male connector part or tab

[0135] 202 end

[0136] 204 end

[0137] 206 Top surface

[0138] 208 bottom surface

[0139] 210 Female connector part or tab

[0140] 212 end

[0141] 214 end

[0142] 216 Top surface

[0143] 218 bottom surface

[0144] 220 holes

[0145] 222 holes

[0146] 224 Arm

[0147] 226 Protrusion

[0148] 228 Arm

[0149] 230 Protrusion

[0150] 232 Conical surface

[0151] 234 Conical surface

[0152] 250 Retaining Parts

[0153] 251 Through Hole

[0154] 252 end

[0155] 254 end

[0156] 256 Radially outward facing surface

[0157] 258 Notch

[0158] 260 Radially inward facing surface

[0159] 262 Rib

[0160] 263A Surface

[0161] 263B Surface

[0162] 263C Surface

[0163] 264 Ring Section

[0164] 266 end

[0165] 268 end

[0166] 270 Male connector part or tab

[0167] 272 Conical surface

[0168] 276 Top surface

[0169] 278 bottom surface

[0170] 280 Female connector part or tab

[0171] 282 base

[0172] 284 Arm

[0173] 286 Arm

[0174] 288 Conical surface

[0175] 290 channels

[0176] 292 Surface

[0177] 294 Surface

[0178] 300 end

[0179] 302 end

[0180] 310 protrusion

[0181] 312 Conical surface

[0182] AD1 Axial direction

[0183] AD2 Axial direction

[0184] CD1 Circumferential direction

[0185] CD2 Circumferential direction

[0186] RD1 Radial direction

[0187] RD2 Radial direction

Claims

1. A retainer for a fluid connection assembly, comprising: The clamping part comprises: a first end portion; a second end portion; a radially outwardly facing surface; a radially inwardly facing surface; a first circumferential end portion; and a second circumferential end portion displaceable relative to said first circumferential end portion; and Locking parts, including: a first tab connected to the first circumferential end; and A second tab is connected to the second circumferential end, wherein the first tab is arranged to engage the second tab to lock the first tab to the second tab. 2 . The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom. The retainer according to claim 2 , wherein the plurality of notches are spaced apart in a circumferential direction. The retainer of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of notches extend from the first end to the second end. 5 . The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib disposed axially between and spaced apart from the first end and the second end. 6 . The retainer according to claim 5 , further comprising a protrusion extending in a circumferential direction from the first circumferential end toward the second circumferential end.

7. The retainer of claim 6, wherein the protrusion is connected to the radially inwardly facing surface and is disposed axially adjacent to the rib.

8. The retainer of claim 6, wherein the protrusion is operably arranged to maintain axial alignment of the rib when the retainer is locked.

9. The retainer of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outward from the radially outward facing surface.

10. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the first tab comprises a tapered surface.

11. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the second tab comprises a base and at least one arm extending from the base and pivotably connected to the base, wherein the at least one arm is operably arranged to engage the first tab to lock the first tab to the second tab.

12. The holder of claim 11, wherein the at least one arm comprises: a first arm connected to the base; and A second arm is connected to the first arm.

13. The holder according to claim 12, wherein: said base extending radially outwardly from said radially outwardly facing surface; The first arm extends from the base in a circumferential direction; and The second arm extends radially inwardly from the first arm.

14. The holder according to claim 13, wherein: a channel formed between the base, the first arm, and the second arm; and The first tab is operably arranged to engage the channel to lock the first tab to the second tab.

15. The retainer of claim 11, wherein the at least one arm includes a tapered surface, wherein the tapered surface is operably arranged to engage the first tab to displace the at least one arm.

16. A fluid connection assembly, comprising: The first tube includes: a first end portion; a second end portion; a first radially outward facing surface; and a barb disposed at the second end and extending radially outward from the first radially outwardly facing surface; a second tube comprising a third end, a fourth end, a second radially outwardly facing surface, and a first radially inwardly facing surface, the first radially inwardly facing surface being arranged to engage the first radially outwardly facing surface; and Retaining parts, including: a clamping portion including a fifth end, a sixth end, a third radially outwardly facing surface, and a second radially inwardly facing surface; and A locking portion includes a first tab and a second tab, wherein the first tab is displaceable relative to the second tab, and the first tab is arranged to engage the second tab to lock the first tab to the second tab.

17. The fluid connection assembly of claim 16, wherein the third radially outwardly facing surface includes a plurality of notches extending radially inwardly therefrom.

18. The fluid connection assembly of claim 16, wherein the second radially inwardly facing surface includes at least one rib disposed axially between and spaced apart from the fifth and sixth ends.

19. The fluid connection assembly of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first tab and the second tab extends radially outward from the third radially outward facing surface.

20. The fluid connection assembly of claim 16, wherein: The second tab forms a radial channel; and The first tab engages the radial channel to lock the first tab to the second tab.

Images