Fluid connection assembly

Abstract

A fluid connection assembly includes a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through bore, a first radially inward facing surface including a first groove and a second groove, and a first radially outward facing surface; the first sealing element is arranged in the first groove; the second sealing piece is arranged in the second groove; and a holder removably connected to the connector body, the retainer includes a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward facing surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] Pursuant to Sections 4 and 8 of the Stockholm Act of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, this application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 63 / 581,722, filed September 11, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 63 / 516,186, filed July 28, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more specifically, to a fluid connection assembly including a retainer that reduces the insertion force required for assembly and allows for quick assembly, disassembly, and repair of components without the need for tools. Background Technology

[0004] Fluid connectors, fluid fittings, or fluid connection assemblies are integral components used in many applications, particularly for refrigerant or cooling systems. Because cooling systems consist of various components such as refrigeration lines, compressors, and heat pumps, fluids must be able to travel not only within each component but also between them. Refrigeration lines can carry refrigerant, a substance or mixture used in heat pumps and refrigeration cycles; this refrigerant is typically a fluid and can be hazardous. Therefore, fluid connectors for refrigeration lines must be properly secured to prevent any refrigerant release.

[0005] Fluids primarily move between components via flexible or rigid hoses, which are connected to each component by fluid connectors. These fluid connectors typically secure the hoses to the fittings via threaded nuts. However, these components are often expensive to manufacture and can have sealing issues. Additionally, for current designs, the force required to secure the threaded nuts to the mounting device is very high. Furthermore, some connection assembly solutions require lengthy fixing times and tooling for the assembly process. Another problem with existing fluid connection assembly designs is their susceptibility to easy disconnection, which could allow hazardous refrigerants or other harmful fluids to be released into the environment.

[0006] Therefore, there has long been a need for a fluid connection assembly that includes a connector body and a retainer, which allows for rapid assembly and disassembly, eliminates the need for post-processing, and reduces the insertion force required to assemble the fluid connector. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure relates to one or more exemplary embodiments of fluid connection components.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly includes: a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially inward surface including a first groove and a second groove, and a first radially outward surface; a first seal disposed in the first groove; a second seal disposed in the second groove; and a retainer removably connected to the connector body, the retainer including a second radially outward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward surface.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further includes a first tube comprising a first shoulder, wherein in the assembled state, the first shoulder is axially disposed between a first flange and a first end portion, and the first tube engages with a first seal. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further includes a second tube comprising a second shoulder, wherein in the assembled state, the second shoulder is axially disposed between a second flange and a second end portion, and the second tube engages with a second seal. In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state, the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange is axially spaced from the first flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flange is disposed at a third end portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange is disposed at a fourth end portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flange includes a first radially inward curved surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange includes a second radially inward curved surface.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion displaceable relative to the first portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion pivotally connected to the first portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the first segment includes a convex engaging member, the second segment includes a concave engaging member, and the convex engaging member is operatively arranged to engage the concave engaging member to secure the second segment to the first segment. In an exemplary embodiment, the convex engaging member includes a protrusion extending radially outward from a surface facing outward from a second radial direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion includes at least one radial surface and a tapered surface extending radially outward in a circumferential direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the concave engaging member includes a hole, and the protrusion is arranged to extend at least partially through the hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the concave engaging member further includes a flange extending radially outward from a second radially outward surface and extending circumferentially relative to the second radially outward surface, the hole being disposed in the flange.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connector further includes a filter disposed in the first through-hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the first radially inwardly facing surface includes a third groove, and the filter engages the third groove. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first flange and the second flange includes a plurality of segments separated by at least one circumferential space.

[0013] This disclosure relates to one or more exemplary embodiments of fluid connection components.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly includes a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through-hole, a first radially inward surface including a first annular groove and a second annular groove, a first seal disposed in the first groove, a second seal disposed in the second groove, and a retainer detachably connected to the connector body including a second radially outward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward surface, a first tube including a first shoulder operably arranged to engage the first seal, and a second tube including a second shoulder operably arranged to engage the second seal, wherein, in an assembled state, the first flange engages the first shoulder to secure the first tube in the connector body, and the second flange engages the second shoulder to secure the second tube in the connector body.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state, the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, a first end portion engages a first inner axial surface of a first shoulder, and a first flange engages a first outer axial surface of the first shoulder; a second end portion engages a second inner axial surface of a second shoulder, and a second flange engages a second outer axial surface of the second shoulder. In an exemplary embodiment, a first flange is disposed at a third end portion, and a second flange is disposed at a fourth end portion. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first flange and the second flange includes a radially inwardly facing curved surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion pivotally connected to the first portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being displaceable relative to the first portion and completely removable from the first portion.

[0016] These and other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the appended claims, after reading the following detailed description of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein by reference as part of the specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the subject matter currently disclosed and demonstrate selected principles and teachings of this disclosure, wherein corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding parts. However, the drawings do not show all possible implementations of the subject matter currently disclosed and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0018] Figure 1A This is a front top perspective view of the fluid connection component.

[0019] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The rear-view perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A The exploded top-front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown.

[0021] Figure 3 It is roughly along Figure 1A A partial sectional view of the fluid connection assembly, taken from line 3-3 in the figure.

[0022] Figure 4 It is roughly along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly is taken from line 4-4.

[0023] Figure 6A This is a front top perspective view of the fluid connection component.

[0024] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A The rear-view perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 6A The exploded top-front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown.

[0026] Figure 8 It is roughly along Figure 6A A partial sectional view of the fluid connection assembly, taken from line 8-8.

[0027] Figure 9 yes Figure 6A Bottom perspective view of a portion of the retainer shown.

[0028] Figure 10 It is roughly along Figure 6A The cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly is taken from line 10-10.

[0029] Figure 11A This is the front perspective view of the retainer.

[0030] Figure 11B yes Figure 11AThe rear perspective view of the retainer shown.

[0031] Figure 12 yes Figure 11A The rear perspective exploded view of the retainer shown.

[0032] Figure 13 It is roughly along Figure 11A The retainer is a cross-sectional view taken from line 13-13 in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0033] It should be understood that the invention may take various alternative orientations and sequences of steps unless expressly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific components and systems shown in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept defined herein. Therefore, unless expressly stated otherwise, specific dimensions, orientations, or other physical characteristics relating to the disclosed embodiments should not be considered limiting. Moreover, although they may not be, within this part of the application, the same elements in the various embodiments described herein are generally designated by the same reference numerals.

[0034] Furthermore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methods, materials, and modifications described, and therefore variations are naturally possible. It should also 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.

[0035] 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 this disclosure pertains. It should be understood that any methods, apparatus, or materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the exemplary embodiments.

[0036] Unless otherwise stated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., used herein do not necessarily indicate any ordinal, sequential, or priority relationship, but are used only to more clearly distinguish one element or group of elements from another element or group of elements.

[0037] As used herein, the term “about” is intended, when applied to a value, to indicate within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce that value, or in some examples, to indicate an addition or subtraction of 10%, or an addition or subtraction of 5%, or an addition or subtraction of 1%, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0038] It should be understood that the term "substantially" is synonymous with terms such as "almost," "very close," "about," "approximately," "around," "near," "upper and lower," "substantially," "in the vicinity," and "adjacent," and these terms may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. It should be understood that the term "close" is synonymous with terms such as "nearby," "near," "adjacent," "adjacent," "right next to," and "adjacent," and these terms may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. The term "substantially" is intended to indicate a value within ten percent of the specified value.

[0039] When used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of…”, “used as an example”, or “illustrative”, and does not imply any preference or requirement regarding the disclosed aspects or embodiments.

[0040] It should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the use of “or” in this application is in relation to a “non-exclusive” arrangement. For example, when saying “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. In other words, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive” arrangement. For example, an “exclusive” arrangement of the statement “item x is A or B” would require that x can only be one of A and B. Furthermore, as used herein, “and / or” is intended to indicate a syntactic connection that may include or occur one or more of the stated elements or conditions. For example, an apparatus including a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted as any of the following structural arrangements: an apparatus including a first element; an apparatus including a second element; a device including a third element; an apparatus including a first element and a second element; an apparatus including a first element and a third element; an apparatus including a first element, a second element, and a third element; or a device including a second element and a third element.

[0041] Furthermore, as used herein, the phrases “comprising at least one” and “comprising at least one of” combined with a system or element are intended to indicate that the system or element comprises one or more elements listed after the phrase. For example, an apparatus comprising at least one of the following: a first element; a second element; and a third element, is intended to be interpreted as any of the following structural arrangements: an apparatus comprising a first element; an apparatus comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; an apparatus comprising a first element and a second element; an apparatus comprising a first element and a third element; an apparatus comprising a first element, a second element, and a third element; or a device comprising a second element and a third element. A similar interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of” is used herein.

[0042] It should be understood that, as used herein, the term "pipe" is synonymous with hose, pipe, channel, conduit, pipe end fitting, or any other suitable conduit used in hydraulics and fluid mechanics. It should also be understood that the term "pipe" can refer to a rigid or flexible conduit made of any material suitable for containing and allowing the flow of gas or liquid.

[0043] Now take a look at the attached image. Figure 1A This is a front top perspective view of the fluid connection component 10. Figure 1B This is a rear-view perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10. Figure 2 This is a front top perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly 10. The fluid connection assembly 10 includes a connector body 40 and a retainer 70. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 10 also includes at least one tube, such as tube 20A and tube 20B.

[0044] The tube 20A includes an end portion 22A, a section 23A, an edge or shoulder 27A, a section 29A, an end portion 32A, and a through-hole 21A. The through-hole 21A extends through the tube 21A from the end portion 22A to the end portion 32A. The section 23A is disposed between the end portion 22A and the shoulder 27A and includes a radially outward-facing surface 24A. The radially outward-facing surface 24A includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 24A includes a truncated conical or curved surface near the end portion 22A (see [link to example]). Figure 3 ).

[0045] Shoulder 27A is disposed between segment 23A and segment 29A and includes surfaces 26A and 28A. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A is an axial surface at least partially facing the axial direction AD1, and surface 28A is an axial surface at least partially facing the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A is a frustoconical surface extending radially inward along the axial direction AD1 from the radially outward surface of shoulder 27A. For example, surface 26A may be a linear conical shape with a diameter increasing in the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A may include a linear portion and a conical or frustoconical portion. Shoulder 27A includes a radially outward surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward surface of shoulder 27A includes a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward surface of shoulder 27A includes a variable diameter. Segment 29A is disposed between shoulder 27A and end 32A and includes a radially outward surface 30A. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 30A includes a substantially constant diameter.

[0046] The tube 20A is arranged to be inserted into the connector body 40, specifically, first the end 22A. The tube 20A is inserted into the connector body 40 until the segment 23A or the radially outward-facing surface 24A engages the radially inward-facing surface 48 and the shoulder 27A engages the end 44. The retainer 70 is then assembled to secure the tube 20A to the connector body 40. It should be understood that, in the exemplary embodiment, the tube 20B is also inserted into the connector body 40 before the retainer 70 is assembled. The radially outward-facing surface 24A is connected via one or more seals (e.g., seals 60A-6B, see...). Figure 3 The radially inward-facing surface 48 is sealed together. It should be understood that the tube 20A can be any conventional tube or tube end form, including edges, radially outward-extending protrusions or flanges, or ramp profiles extending radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube to secure the tube within the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 20A comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0047] The tube 20B includes an end portion 22B, a section 23B, an edge or shoulder 27B, a section 29B, an end portion 32B, and a through-hole 21B. The through-hole 21B extends through the tube 21B from the end portion 22B to the end portion 32B. The section 23B is disposed between the end portion 22B and the shoulder 27B and includes a radially outward-facing surface 24B. The radially outward-facing surface 24B includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 24B includes a truncated conical or curved surface near the end portion 22B (see [link to example]). Figure 3 ).

[0048] Shoulder 27B is disposed between segment 23B and segment 29B and includes surfaces 26B and 28B. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B is an axial surface at least partially facing the axial direction AD2, and surface 28B is an axial surface at least partially facing the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B is a frustoconical surface extending radially inward along the axial direction AD2 from the radially outward surface of shoulder 27B. For example, surface 26B may be a linear conical shape with a diameter increasing in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B may include a linear portion and a conical or frustoconical portion. Shoulder 27B includes a radially outward surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward surface of shoulder 27B includes a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward surface of shoulder 27B includes a variable diameter. Segment 29B is disposed between shoulder 27B and end portion 32B and includes a radially outward surface 30B. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 30B includes a substantially constant diameter.

[0049] The tube 20B is arranged to be inserted into the connector body 40, specifically, end 22B is inserted first. The tube 20B is inserted into the connector body 40 until section 23B or the radially outward-facing surface 24B engages the radially inward-facing surface 48 and shoulder 27B engages end 42. The retainer 70 is then assembled to secure the tube 20B to the connector body 40. It should be understood that, in the exemplary embodiment, the tube 20A is also inserted into the connector body 40 before the retainer 70 is assembled. The radially outward-facing surface 24B is connected via one or more seals (e.g., seals 60C-60D, see...). Figure 3 The radially inward-facing surface 48 is sealed together. It should be understood that the tube 20B can be any conventional tube or tube end form, including edges, radially outward-extending protrusions or flanges, or ramp profiles extending radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube to secure the tube within the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 20B comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0050] Figure 3 It is roughly along Figure 1A A partial cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 10 taken from line 3-3 in the figure. Figure 4 It is roughly along Figure 1A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 10 taken by line 4-4. The connector body 40 includes an end 42, an end 44, a through-hole 41 extending from end 42 to end 44, a radially outward-facing surface 46, and a radially inward-facing surface 48. The radially outward-facing surface 46 extends from end 42 to end 44. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 46 has a constant diameter. The radially inward-facing surface 48 extends from end 42 to end 44. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 48 has a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 48 is connected to end 44 via a radially inward-facing surface 50. The radially inward-facing surface 50 is a truncated conical surface with an increasing diameter in the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 48 is connected to end 42 via a radially inward-facing surface 52. The radially inward-facing surface 52 is a truncated conical surface with an increasing diameter in the axial direction AD1.

[0051] The radially inward-facing surface 48 includes a plurality of grooves, such as grooves 54A-54D, which are operatively arranged to retain corresponding seals, such as seals 60A-60D. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, grooves 54A-54B and the corresponding seals 60A-60B are aligned with segment 23A. Groove 54A is spaced apart from end 44 in the axial direction AD1. Groove 54B is spaced apart from groove 54A in the axial direction AD1. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, grooves 54C-54D and the corresponding seals 60C-60D are aligned with segment 23B. Groove 54D is spaced apart from end 42 in the axial direction AD2. Groove 54C is spaced apart from groove 54D in the axial direction AD2. The arrangement of grooves 54A-54D allows seals 60A-60D to be received within the connector body 40, resulting in more efficient assembly of the fluid connection assembly 10. In an exemplary embodiment, grooves 54A-54D are annular grooves.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface further includes a groove 56. The groove 56 includes a surface 58A, a radially inward-facing surface 58B, and a surface 58C. Surface 58A is generally an axial surface facing the axial direction AD1. Surface 58C is an axial surface facing the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 58A is arranged parallel to surface 58C. The groove 56 is operatively arranged to engage the filter 100, as will be described in more detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, the groove 56 is axially arranged between and spaced apart from grooves 54B and 54C.

[0053] The connector body 40 is operatively arranged to structurally retain tubes 20A and 20B, provide a sealing connection between tubes 20A and 20B, and hold tubes 20A and 20B at a predetermined distance from each other. Tubes 20A and 20B can be inserted into the connector body 40 at ends 44 and 42, respectively. The connector body 40 removably retains tubes 20A and 20B until the retainer 70 is secured thereto. The connector body 40 keeps tubes 20A and 20B aligned such that tubes 20A and 20B are concentric about an axis or line L (see [reference]). Figure 3 Seals 60A-60B form a sealing engagement between the connector body 40 and the radially outward-facing surface 24A, and seals 60C-60D form a sealing engagement between the connector body 40 and the radially outward-facing surface 24B. Thus, in the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, pipe 20A is sealingly connected to pipe 20B. Figure 3As shown, end 44 is arranged to engage shoulder 27A and specifically engage surface 26A, and end 42 is arranged to engage shoulder 27B and specifically engage surface 26B. Therefore, the connector body 40 partially serves as a spacer. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body 40 comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0054] The retainer 70 includes an end 72, an end 74, a radially outward-facing surface 76, and a radially inward-facing surface 78. The radially outward-facing surface 76 extends from the end 72 to the end 74. The radially inward-facing surface 78 extends between the end 72 and the end 74. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 78 has a constant diameter. The radially inward-facing surface 78 is operatively arranged to engage the radially outward-facing surface 46.

[0055] The retainer 70 also includes at least one flange, such as flange 80 and flange 82, extending radially inward from a radially inward surface 78. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 80 is disposed at end 72. Flange 80 includes a radially inward surface 81. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 81 is curved. Flange 80 is operatively disposed to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector body 40. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, shoulder 27B is axially disposed between end 42 and flange 80. The diameter of shoulder 27B is larger than the diameters of radially inward surface 48 and radially inward surface 81. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 82 is disposed at end 74. Flange 82 includes a radially inward surface 83. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 83 is curved. Flange 82 is operatively disposed to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector body 40. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, the shoulder 27A is axially arranged between the end 42 and the flange 82. The diameter of the shoulder 27A is larger than the diameter of the radially inward-facing surface 48 and the radially inward-facing surface 83.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 70 includes segments 70A and 70B. Segment 70B is pivotally connected to segment 70A. For example, and as shown, segment 70A includes a convex hinge member or one or more pins 84, and segment 70B includes a concave hinge member or one or more knuckles 86. Knuckles 86 are arranged to engage pins 84 to hingedly connect segments 70A and 70B. In an exemplary embodiment, pins 84 are arranged radially outward from a radially outward-facing surface 76. In an exemplary embodiment, knuckles 86 project radially outward from a radially outward-facing surface 76. Segment 70A includes a radial surface 88A, and segment 70B includes a radial surface 88B. In an exemplary embodiment, in the locked state of the retainer 70, radial surface 88B engages and / or abuts against radial surface 88A.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 70 further includes a locking mechanism operably arranged to secure portion 70B to portion 70A to form a locked state of the retainer 70. Segment 70B may have one or more recessed connector components or holes 94. Holes 94 may be arranged in flange 92. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 92 extends radially outward from radially outward surface 76 and extends in the circumferential direction CD1 relative to radial surface 88B, such that in the locked state of the retainer 70, flange 92 overlaps with portion 70A of radially outward surface 76 (see [link to example]). Figure 1A-1B (and 4). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 92 is elastically deformable. Hole 94 is a through hole extending through flange 92. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 94 is axially spaced from end 72 and end 74. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 94 are further spaced apart from each other.

[0058] Section 70A may include one or more protruding connector components or protrusions 90. The protrusions 90 extend radially outward from the radially outward-facing surface 76. (Example...) Figure 4 As best shown, the protrusion 90 includes a radial surface 90A, a tapered surface 90B, and a radial surface 90C. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial surface 90A is aligned with the radial surface 88A. The radial surface 90C is operatively arranged to engage the flange 92 to prevent displacement of segment 70A relative to segment 70B. Surface 90B is tapered to facilitate engagement of the protrusion 90 with the hole 94. Surface 90B extends radially outward in the circumferential direction CD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 90C is parallel to surface 90A. To form a locked state of the retainer 70, segment 70A is displaced toward segment 70B. The protrusion 90 engages the flange 92, and surface 90B forces the flange 92 radially outward until the protrusion 90 aligns with the hole 94, at which point the flange 92 springs radially inward, thereby securing segment 70B to segment 70A.

[0059] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of filter 100. Filter 100 is operatively arranged to filter fluid flowing through it. Filter 100 is arranged in recess 56, as... Figure 3As best shown in the exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the filter 100 is removably connected to the connector body 40. The filter 100 includes a rim portion 102, a flange 112, and / or a barrier 122. The rim portion 102 includes an end 104, an end 106, a radially outward-facing surface 108, and a radially inward-facing surface 110. The rim portion 102 is arranged to engage a recess 56 of the connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the axial distance between the end 104 and the end 106 is less than the axial distance between surfaces 58A and 58C. In this exemplary embodiment, the filter 100 can be axially displaced within the recess 56.

[0060] Flange 112 extends radially inward from peripheral portion 102. Flange 112 includes a surface 114 generally facing axial direction AD1, a surface 116 generally facing axial direction AD2, a radially outward surface 118 connected to the radially inward surface 110, and a radially inward surface 120. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 112 is securely fixed to peripheral portion 102. A hole through filter 100 is formed via the radially inward surface 120. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 114 is spaced apart from end portion 104, and surface 116 is spaced apart from end portion 106.

[0061] Barrier 122 spans and / or fills the holes formed by the radially inward-facing surface 120. Specifically, barrier 122 is connected to the radially inward-facing surface 120 and functions as a filter element to filter fluid passing through filter 100. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 includes a plate having a plurality of through holes. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is a sieve or filter screen. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is flexible. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is rigid. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is a mesh screen. It should be understood that barrier 122 may include any geometry suitable for filtering fluid flowing through filter 100, such as circular, oval, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0062] For assembling the fluid connection assembly 10, a filter 100 is arranged in a recess 56, and seals 60A-60D are arranged in corresponding recesses 54A-54D within the connector body 40. A tube 20A is inserted into the end 44 of the connector body 40 along the axial direction AD1 until the radially outward-facing surface 24A sealably engages the radially inward-facing surface 48, and the surface 26A of the shoulder 27A engages the end 44. Seals 60A-60B engage the radially outward-facing surface 24A. A tube 20B is inserted into the end 42 of the connector body 40 along the axial direction AD2 until the radially outward-facing surface 24B sealably engages the radially inward-facing surface 48, and the surface 26B of the shoulder 27B engages the end 42. Seals 60C-60D engage the radially outward-facing surface 24B.

[0063] A retainer 70 is disposed on the connector body 40 such that segment 70A is separated from segment 70B, the radially inward-facing surface 78 is aligned with the radially outward-facing surface 46, and flanges 80 and 82 are aligned with segments 29B and 29A, respectively. Segment 70A is displaced toward segment 70B until the protrusion 90 engages the hole 94 to form a locked state of the retainer 70. Flange 80 prevents tube 20B from displacing in the axial direction AD1, and end 42 prevents tube 20B from displacing in the axial direction AD2. Flange 82 prevents tube 20A from displacing in the axial direction AD2, and end 44 prevents tube 20A from displacing in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, tubes 20A, 20B, and the connector body 40 are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 10, tubes 20A, 20B, the connector body 40, and the retainer 70 are concentrically aligned. In such an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 10 is a dual-pipe in-line fluid connection assembly.

[0064] Figure 6A This is a front top perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 210. Figure 6B This is a rear-view perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 210. Figure 7 This is an exploded front top perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 210. Figure 8 It is roughly along Figure 6A A partial sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 210 taken from line 8-8 in the figure. Figure 9 This is a bottom perspective view of sections 270A and 270B of retainer 270. Figure 10 It is roughly along Figure 6A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 210 taken by line 10-10. The fluid connection assembly 210 includes a connector body 240 and a retainer 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 210 also includes at least one tube, such as tube 20A and tube 20B.

[0065] The connector body 240 includes an end 242, an end 244, a through-hole 241 extending from the end 242 to the end 244, a radially outward-facing surface 246, and a radially inward-facing surface 248. The radially outward-facing surface 246 extends from the end 242 to the end 244. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward-facing surface 246 has a constant diameter. The radially inward-facing surface 248 extends from the end 242 to the end 244. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 248 has a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 248 is connected to the end 244 via a radially inward-facing surface 250. The radially inward-facing surface 250 is a truncated conical surface with a diameter increasing in the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 248 is connected to the end 242 via a radially inward-facing surface 252. The radially inward-facing surface 252 is a truncated conical surface with a diameter increasing in the axial direction AD1.

[0066] The radially inward-facing surface 248 includes a plurality of grooves, such as grooves 254A-254D, which are operatively arranged to retain corresponding seals, such as seals 260A-260D. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 210, grooves 254A-254B and corresponding seals 260A-260B are aligned with segment 23A. Groove 254A is spaced apart from end 244 in the axial direction AD1. Groove 254B is spaced apart from groove 254A in the axial direction AD1. In the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 210, grooves 254C-254D and corresponding seals 260C-260D are aligned with segment 23B. Groove 254D is spaced apart from end 242 in the axial direction AD2. Groove 254C is spaced apart from groove 254D in the axial direction AD2. The arrangement of the recesses 254A-254D allows the seals 260A-260D to be received within the connector body 240, resulting in more efficient assembly of the fluid connection assembly 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the recesses 254A-254D are annular recesses.

[0067] The connector body 240 is operatively arranged to structurally retain tubes 20A and 20B, provide a sealing connection between tubes 20A and 20B, and hold tubes 20A and 20B at a predetermined distance from each other. Tubes 20A and 20B can be inserted into the connector body 240 at ends 244 and 242, respectively. The connector body 240 removably retains tubes 20A and 20B until a retainer 270 is secured thereto. The connector body 240 maintains alignment of tubes 20A and 20B such that tubes 20A and 20B are concentric about an axis or line L (see [reference]). Figure 8Seals 260A-260B form a sealing engagement between the connector body 240 and the radially outward-facing surface 24A, and seals 260C-260D form a sealing engagement between the connector body 240 and the radially outward-facing surface 24B. Thus, in the assembled state of the fluid connection assembly 210, pipe 20A is sealingly connected to pipe 20B. Figure 8 As shown, end 244 is arranged to engage shoulder 27A and specifically engage surface 26A, and end 242 is arranged to engage shoulder 27B and specifically engage surface 26B. Therefore, connector body 240 partially serves as a spacer. It should be understood that connector body 240 may include filters, such as those described above. Figures 1A to 5 The filter described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body 40 includes at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0068] The retainer 270 includes an end 272, an end 274, a radially outward-facing surface 276, and a radially inward-facing surface 278. The radially outward-facing surface 276 extends from the end 272 to the end 274. The radially inward-facing surface 278 extends between the end 272 and the end 274. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 270 is formed in a polygonal shape, i.e., the radially outward-facing surface 276 and / or the radially inward-facing surface 278 include a plurality of interconnected planar portions (e.g., plates). The plates may be connected, for example, at an obtuse angle relative to each other (see...). Figure 10 In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 278 is operatively arranged to engage the radially outward-facing surface 246.

[0069] The retainer 270 also includes at least one flange, such as flange 280 and flange 282, extending radially inward from a radially inward surface 278. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 280 is disposed at end 272. Flange 280 includes a radially inward surface 281. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 281 is curved. Flange 280 is operatively disposed to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector body 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 280 includes a plurality of portions separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 284. In the assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, shoulder 27B is axially disposed between end 242 and flange 280. The diameter of shoulder 27B is larger than the diameters of radially inward surfaces 248 and 281. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 282 is disposed at end 274. Flange 282 includes a radially inward surface 283. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 283 is curved. Flange 282 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector body 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 282 includes a plurality of portions separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 286. In the assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, shoulder 27A is axially arranged between end 242 and flange 282. The diameter of shoulder 27A is larger than the diameters of radially inward-facing surfaces 248 and 283.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 270 includes segments 270A and 270B. Segment 270B is removably connected to segment 270A. In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 270 includes a locking mechanism operably arranged to secure segment 270B to segment 270A to form a locked state of retainer 270. Each of segments 270A and 270B includes one or more recessed connector parts or holes 294. Holes 294 may be arranged in flange 288A. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 288A generally extends in the circumferential direction CD1 relative to a radially outward surface 276, such that in the locked state of retainer 270, flange 288A of segment 270B overlaps with the radially outward surface 276 of segment 270A, and vice versa (see See [link]). Figures 6A-6B (and 10). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 288A is elastically deformable. Hole 294 is a through hole extending through flange 288A. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 294 is axially spaced from end 272 and end 274. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 294 are further spaced apart from each other. In an exemplary embodiment, flanges 280 and 282 do not extend circumferentially through flange 288A (i.e., flange 288A does not have flanges at its respective axial ends).

[0071] Each of segments 270A and 270B includes one or more protruding connector components or projections 290. The projections 290 extend radially outward from a radially outward-facing surface 276 (i.e., segment 288B of the radially outward-facing surface 276). In an exemplary embodiment, segment 288B is arranged parallel to flange 288A. In an exemplary embodiment, segment 288B is not arranged parallel to flange 288A. Figure 9-10 As best shown, protrusion 290 includes a tapered surface 290B and a radial surface 290C. In an exemplary embodiment, radial surface 290C is operatively arranged to engage flange 288A to prevent segment 270A from shifting relative to segment 270B. Surface 290B is tapered to facilitate engagement of protrusion 290 with hole 294. Surface 290B extends radially outward in the circumferential direction CD1. In an exemplary embodiment, each of segments 270A and 270B includes a hole 292 arranged adjacent to protrusion 290. In such an exemplary embodiment, hole 292 can be formed by radially outwardly punching protrusion 290 in segment 288B. To form a locked state of retainer 270, segment 270A is shifted toward segment 270B. The protrusion 290 engages the flange 288A, and the surface 290B forces the flange 288A radially outward until the protrusion 290 aligns with the hole 292. At this point, the flange 288A springs back radially inward, thereby securing the segment 270B to the segment 270A.

[0072] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 210, tube 20A is inserted into end 244 of connector body 240 in the axial direction AD1 until the radially outward surface 24A sealably engages the radially inward surface 248 and the surface 26A of shoulder 27A engages end 244. Seals 260A-260B engage the radially outward surface 24A. Tube 20B is inserted into end 242 of connector body 240 in the axial direction AD2 until the radially outward surface 24B sealably engages the radially inward surface 248 and the surface 26B of shoulder 27B engages end 242. Seals 260C-260D engage the radially outward surface 24B.

[0073] A retainer 270 is disposed on the connector body 240 such that segment 270A is separated from segment 270B, the radially inward-facing surface 278 is aligned with the radially outward-facing surface 246, and flanges 280 and 282 are aligned with segments 29B and 29A, respectively. Segment 270A is displaced toward segment 270B until protrusion 290 engages hole 294 to form a locked state of retainer 270. Flange 280 prevents tube 20B from displacing in the axial direction AD1, and end 242 prevents tube 20B from displacing in the axial direction AD2. Flange 282 prevents tube 20A from displacing in the axial direction AD2, and end 244 prevents tube 20A from displacing in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, tubes 20A, tubes 20B, and connector body 240 are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, with the fluid connection assembly 210 assembled, tubes 20A and 20B, connector body 240, and retainer 270 are concentrically aligned. In this exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 210 is a dual-tube in-line fluid connection assembly.

[0074] Figure 11A This is the front perspective view of retainer 370. Figure 11B This is a rear perspective view of retainer 370. Figure 12 This is an exploded rear perspective view of retainer 370. Figure 13 It is roughly along Figure 11A The retainer 370 is a cross-sectional view taken by line 13-13. The retainer 370 can be used in fluid connection assembly 10 and / or fluid connection assembly 210.

[0075] The retainer 370 includes an end 372, an end 374, a radially outward-facing surface 376, and a radially inward-facing surface 378. The radially outward-facing surface 376 extends from the end 372 to the end 374. The radially inward-facing surface 378 extends between the end 372 and the end 374. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 370 is formed in a polygonal shape, i.e., the radially outward-facing surface 376 and / or the radially inward-facing surface 378 include a plurality of interconnected planar portions (e.g., plates). The plates may be connected relative to each other at an obtuse angle, for example (see...). Figure 13 In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 378 is operatively arranged to engage the radially outward-facing surfaces 46, 246.

[0076] The retainer 370 also includes at least one flange, such as flange 380 and flange 382, ​​extending radially inward from a radially inward surface 378. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 380 is disposed at end 372. Flange 380 includes a radially inward surface 381. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 381 is curved. Flange 380 is operatively disposed to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector bodies 40, 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 380 includes multiple portions separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 384. In the assembled state of fluid connection assemblies 10, 210, shoulder 27B is axially disposed between end 42, 242 and flange 380. The diameter of shoulder 27B is larger than the diameter of radially inward surfaces 48, 248 and radially inward surface 381. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 382 is disposed at end 374. Flange 382 includes a radially inward-facing surface 383. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 383 is curved. Flange 382 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector bodies 40, 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 382 includes multiple segments separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 386. In the assembled state of fluid connection assemblies 10, 210, shoulder 27A is axially arranged between ends 42, 242 and flange 382. The diameter of shoulder 27A is larger than the diameters of radially inward-facing surfaces 48, 248 and radially inward-facing surface 383.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 370 includes segments 370A and 370B. Segment 370B is removably connected to segment 370A. In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 370 includes a hinged connection mechanism operably arranged to hingedly connect segment 370B to segment 370A. One of segments 370A and 370B includes a convex connector component, and the other of segments 370A and 370B includes a concave connector component. For example, segment 370B includes a convex connector component or hook 398. The convex connector component 398 extends radially outward from a radially outward-facing surface 376 and extends generally in the circumferential direction CD2 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 13 In an exemplary embodiment, segment 370B includes a hole 400 adjacent to a male connector member 398. In such an exemplary embodiment, the hole 400 may be formed by radially outwardly punching the male connector member 398 in segment 370B. Segment 370A includes a female connector member or hole 396 disposed in flange 388A. The male connector member 398 is operatively arranged to engage the female connector member 396 to hingedly connect segment 370A to segment 370B. In an exemplary embodiment, and as... Figure 13As shown in the best embodiment, hook 398 is at least partially wrapped around the distal end of flange 388A.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 370 includes a locking mechanism operably arranged to secure portion 370B to portion 370A to form a locked state of the retainer 370. One of segments 370A and 370B includes a convex connector component, and the other of segments 370A and 370B includes a concave connector component. For example, segment 370B includes one or more concave connector components or holes 394. Holes 394 may be arranged in flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 388A generally extends in the circumferential direction CD2 relative to the radially outward surface 376, such that in the locked state of the retainer 370, flange 388A of segment 370B overlaps with the radially outward surface 376 of segment 370A, and vice versa (see [link]). Figure 11A-11B (and 13). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 388A is elastically deformable. Hole 394 is a through-hole extending through flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 394 is axially spaced from end 372 and end 374. In an exemplary embodiment, flanges 380 and 382 do not extend circumferentially from flange 388A (i.e., flange 388A does not have flanges at its respective axial ends). Segment 370A includes one or more convex connector components or protrusions 390. Protrusions 390 extend radially outward from radially outward surface 376 (i.e., segment 388B of radially outward surface 376). In an exemplary embodiment, segment 388B is arranged parallel to flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, segment 388B is not arranged parallel to flange 388A. Figure 13 As best shown, protrusion 390 includes a tapered surface 390B and a radial surface 390C. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial surface 390C is operatively arranged to engage flange 388A to prevent segment 370A from shifting relative to segment 370B. Surface 390B is tapered to facilitate engagement of protrusion 390 with hole 394. Surface 390B extends radially outward in the circumferential direction CD2. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 392 is arranged adjacent to protrusion 390. In such an exemplary embodiment, hole 392 can be formed by radially outwardly punching protrusion 390 in segment 388B. To form a locked state of retainer 370, segment 370A is shifted toward segment 370B. The protrusion 390 engages the flange 388A, and the surface 390B forces the flange 388A radially outward until the protrusion 390 aligns with the hole 394. At this point, the flange 388A springs back radially inward, thereby securing the segment 370B to the segment 370A.

[0079] For assembling fluid connection assemblies 10 and 210, retainers 370 are arranged on connector bodies 40 and 240 such that portion 370A is separated from portion 370B, the radially inward-facing surface 378 is aligned with the radially outward-facing surfaces 46 and 246, and flanges 380 and 382 are aligned with portions 29B and 29A, respectively. Portion 370A is displaced toward portion 370B until protrusion 390 engages with hole 394 to form a locked state of retainer 370. Flange 380 prevents tube 20B from displaced in the axial direction AD1, and ends 42 and 242 prevent tube 20B from displaced in the axial direction AD2. Flange 382 prevents tube 20A from displaced in the axial direction AD2, and ends 44 and 244 prevent tube 20A from displaced in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, with the fluid connection assemblies 10 and 210 assembled, tubes 20A and 20B, connector bodies 40 and 240, and retainer 370 are concentrically aligned. In this exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assemblies 10 and 210 are dual-tube in-line fluid connection assemblies.

[0080] It should be understood that the various aspects disclosed above, as well as other features and functions or alternatives thereof, can be expected to be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements that are not currently foreseen or anticipated can then be made by those skilled in the art, and these are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

[0081] Figure Labels

[0082] 10. Fluid connection components

[0083] 20A pipe

[0084] 20B tube

[0085] 21A Through Hole

[0086] 21B Through Hole

[0087] 22A end

[0088] 22B end

[0089] Section 23A

[0090] Section 23B

[0091] 24A Radial outward-facing surface

[0092] 24B Radial outward-facing surface

[0093] 26A surface

[0094] 26B surface

[0095] 27A Shoulder or edge

[0096] 27B Shoulder or edge

[0097] 28A surface

[0098] 28B surface

[0099] Section 29A

[0100] Section 29B

[0101] 30A Radial outward-facing surface

[0102] 30B Radial outward-facing surface

[0103] 32A end

[0104] 32B end

[0105] 40 connector body

[0106] 41 through hole

[0107] 42 end

[0108] 44 end

[0109] 46 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0110] 48 radially inward-facing surfaces

[0111] 50 radially inward-facing surface

[0112] 52 radially inward-facing surfaces

[0113] 54A Groove

[0114] 54B Groove

[0115] 54C Groove

[0116] 54D Groove

[0117] 56 grooves

[0118] 58A surface

[0119] 58B surface

[0120] 58C surface

[0121] 60A seal

[0122] 60B seal

[0123] 60C seal

[0124] 60D seal

[0125] 70 retainer

[0126] Section 70A

[0127] 70B section

[0128] 72 end

[0129] 74 end

[0130] 76 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0131] 78 radially inward-facing surfaces

[0132] 80 flange

[0133] 81 surface

[0134] 82 flange

[0135] 83 surface

[0136] 84 Convex hinge components or pins

[0137] 86 concave hinge component joint

[0138] 88A radial surface

[0139] 88B radial surface

[0140] 90° protrusion connector or protrusion (one or more)

[0141] 90A surface

[0142] 90B surface

[0143] 90C surface

[0144] 92 flange

[0145] 94-shaped connector or hole (one or more)

[0146] 100 filters

[0147] 102 circumference section

[0148] 104 end

[0149] 106 end

[0150] 108 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0151] 110 radially inward-facing surface

[0152] 112 surface

[0153] 114 surface

[0154] 118 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0155] 120 radially inward-facing surface

[0156] 122 Barrier Section

[0157] 210 fluid connection assembly

[0158] 240 connector body

[0159] 241 through hole

[0160] 242 end

[0161] 244 end

[0162] 246 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0163] 248 radially inward-facing surfaces

[0164] 250 radially inward-facing surface

[0165] 252 radially inward-facing surface

[0166] 254A Groove

[0167] 254B Groove

[0168] 254C Groove

[0169] 254D Groove

[0170] 260A seal

[0171] 260B seal

[0172] 260C seal

[0173] 260D seal

[0174] 270 retainer

[0175] Section 270A

[0176] Section 270B

[0177] 272 end

[0178] 274 end

[0179] 276 radially outward-facing surfaces

[0180] 278 radially inward-facing surface

[0181] 280 flange

[0182] 281 surface

[0183] 282 flange

[0184] 283 surface

[0185] 284 slits (one or more)

[0186] 286 slits (one or more)

[0187] 288A Radial Flange

[0188] Section 288B

[0189] 290 convex connector or protrusion (one or more)

[0190] 290B surface

[0191] 290C surface

[0192] 292 holes

[0193] 294 Recessed connector or hole (one or more)

[0194] 370 retainer

[0195] Section 370A

[0196] 370B section

[0197] 372 end

[0198] 374 end

[0199] 376 radially outward-facing surface

[0200] 378 radially inward-facing surface

[0201] 380 flange

[0202] 381 surface

[0203] 382 flange

[0204] 383 surface

[0205] 384 slits (one or more)

[0206] 386 slits (one or more)

[0207] 388A Radial Flange

[0208] 388B Radial Flange

[0209] 390-shaped connector or protrusion (one or more)

[0210] 392 holes

[0211] 394 concave connector or hole (one or more)

[0212] 396 Concave hinge component or hole

[0213] 398 Convex hinge component or hook

[0214] 400 holes

[0215] AD1 Axial Direction

[0216] AD2 Axial Direction

[0217] CD1 circumferential direction

[0218] CD2 circumferential direction

[0219] L-axis or line

[0220] RD1 radial direction

[0221] RD2 radial direction

Claims

1. A fluid connection assembly, comprising: Connector body, including: First end; Second end; First through hole; A first radially inward-facing surface, the first radially inward-facing surface including a first groove and a second groove; and The first radially outward-facing surface; A first seal is disposed in the first groove. A second seal, the second seal being disposed in the second groove and A retainer, removably connectable to the connector body, comprising: The second radially outward-facing surface forms the third end and the fourth end; The second radially inward-facing surface; A first flange extends radially inward from the surface of the second radial face facing inward; and The second flange extends radially inward from the surface of the second radial face.

2. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first tube including a first shoulder, wherein in the assembled state, the first shoulder is axially disposed between the first flange and the first end, and the first tube engages with the first seal.

3. The fluid connection assembly of claim 2 further includes a second tube, the second tube including a second shoulder, wherein in the assembled state, the second shoulder is axially disposed between the second flange and the second end, and the second tube engages with the second seal.

4. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 3, wherein, In the assembled state, the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned.

5. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The second flange is axially spaced from the first flange.

6. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The first flange is located at the third end.

7. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The second flange is located at the fourth end.

8. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first flange includes a first radially inward curved surface.

9. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The second flange includes a curved surface with a second radial orientation inward.

10. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion that is displaceable relative to the first portion.

11. The fluid connection assembly of claim 10, wherein: The first section includes a convex engagement component; The second part includes a concave engagement component; and The convex engagement member is operatively arranged to engage the concave engagement member to secure the second part to the first part.

12. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The convex engagement member includes a protrusion extending radially outward from the surface facing outward from the second radial direction.

13. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The protrusion includes at least one radial surface and a tapered surface extending radially outward in the circumferential direction.

14. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1, further comprising a filter disposed in the first through-hole.

15. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 14, wherein: The first radially inward-facing surface includes a third groove; and The filter engages with the third groove.

16. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first flange and the second flange includes a plurality of segments separated by at least one circumferential space.

17. A fluid connection assembly, comprising: Connector body, including: First end; Second end; First through hole; A first radially inward-facing surface, the first radially inward-facing surface including a first annular groove and a second annular groove; and The first radially outward-facing surface; A first seal is disposed in the first groove. A second seal is disposed in the second groove. A retainer, removably connectable to the connector body, comprising: The second radially outward-facing surface forms the third end and the fourth end; The second radially inward-facing surface; A first flange extends radially inward from the surface of the second radial face facing inward; and The second flange extends radially inward from the surface of the second radial face that faces inward; A first tube, the first tube including a first shoulder, the first tube being operably arranged to engage the first seal; and The second tube includes a second shoulder and is operatively arranged to engage the second seal. In the assembled state: The first flange engages the first shoulder to secure the first tube within the connector body; and The second flange engages the second shoulder to secure the second tube within the connector body.

18. The fluid connection assembly of claim 17, wherein, In the assembled state, the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned.

19. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 17, wherein: The first end portion engages with the first inner axial surface of the first shoulder portion, and the first flange engages with the first outer axial surface of the first shoulder portion; and The second end engages with the second inner axial surface of the second shoulder, and the second flange engages with the second outer axial surface of the second shoulder.

20. The fluid connection assembly of claim 16, wherein, The retainer further includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being displaceable relative to the first portion and being completely removable from the first portion.

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