Adapter sleeve, kit comprising the same, and method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing

Abstract

An adapter sleeve (14) is provided for connecting corrugated tubing (46) to a compression fitting (10). The corrugated tubing (46) has at least one corrugation groove (50), whilst the compression fitting (10) includes a compression fitting body (10c) and a connector (10b) complementarily coupleable with the compression fitting body (10c). The adapter sleeve (14) comprises a main body including an axially- extending bore for the corrugated tubing (46) to be received within, and a protrusion. The protrusion extends at least partially in a radial direction for insertion into the or a first corrugation groove such that the diameter of the bore varies axially. The main body further includes a deformable material for enabling further insertion of at least part of the main body into the first corrugation groove (50) or a second corrugation groove (50) by deformation of the main body, wherein the main body further comprises a further material distinct from the deformable material, the further material being provided as a layer radially outwardly of the deformable material.

Description

[0001] Adapter Sleeve, Kit Comprising the Same, and Method of Adapting a Conventional Compression Fitting For Use With a Length of Corrugated Tubing

[0002] The present invention relates to an adapter sleeve for use in a conventional compression fitting. The present invention further relates to a kit which includes an adapter sleeve. The present invention also pertains to a method of adapting a conventional compression fitting to be usable with corrugated tubing.

[0003] Pipes or tubing are used in a range of plumbing scenarios, such as to provide a conduit for gas, water, or other pressurised fluid. A first issue that may arise when connecting pipes is fluid leakage. An existing solution is to connect lengths of tubing using a compression fitting.

[0004] A compression fitting typically includes a compression fitting body and a connector which connects with the compression fitting body, usually by means of complementary screw threads. The connector may also be referred to as a nut. The compression fitting often also includes an olive, also referred to as a ferrule or compression ring. The olive is inserted around the tubing, between the compression fitting body and the connector. To operate a compression fitting, the connector is engaged and rotated relative to the compression fitting body. The compression fitting enters into abutment with and puts the olive under axial compression, thereby creating a first fluid- tight seal between the tubing and olive and a second fluid-tight seal between the olive and the compression fitting.

[0005] However, overtightening of the olive may result in deformation of the tubing.

[0006] In certain situations, corrugated tubing, such as Corrugated Stainless-Steel Tubing or CSST may be preferred. Whilst being generally tubular, corrugated tubing has a series of ridges forming a generally sinusoidal profile in axial cross-section, called corrugations. Each maximum corresponds to a “corrugation peak” or “corrugation crest”. Each minimum corresponds to a “corrugation trough”. The distance between two adjacent corrugation peaks is referred to as the “corrugation pitch”. The corrugated tubing may thus have a plurality of diameters, ranging from an outer diameter, measured at a corrugation peak, to an inner diameter, measured at a corrugation trough. The wall section starting at one corrugation trough and ending at an adjacent corrugation trough is considered to be a “corrugation”.

[0007] The terms “corrugation groove” or “corrugation valley” are used herein and throughout to refer to the volume between two adjacent corrugation peaks and bounded by an external face of the wall of the corrugated tubing.

[0008] A drawback of corrugated tubing is that they are incompatible with standard compression fittings. As such, each manufacturer of corrugated tubing must provide proprietary fittings and manufacture a full range of fittings, such as male, female, union, tee, to enable the use of corrugated tubing. Manufacturing requirements are increased, as are tooling needs and therefore cost. The difficulty in sourcing any particular non-standard part is increased. Retrofitting a part of a compression fitting on a corrugated tubing requires knowledge of the identity of the specific manufacturer.

[0009] The present invention seeks to provide a solution to these problems.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a deformable adapter sleeve for connecting corrugated tubing to a compression fitting, the corrugated tubing having at least one corrugation groove, the compression fitting including a compression fitting body and a connector complementarily coupleable with the compression fitting body, the deformable adapter sleeve comprising: a main body including an axially-extending bore for the corrugated tubing to be received within, and a protrusion extending at least partially in a radial direction for insertion into the or a first corrugation groove such that the diameter of the bore varies axially; wherein the main body includes a deformable material for enabling further insertion of at least part of the main body into the first corrugation groove or a second corrugation groove by deformation of the main body.

[0011] By being insertable into a corrugation groove, the protrusion enables a fluid-tight seal to be formed and / or improved between the corrugated tubing and the adapter sleeve. In turn, the adapter sleeve enables a conventional compression fitting to be used with a corrugated tubing. A second benefit of the protrusion is to provide an engagement with the corrugated tubing to prevent or inhibit accidental displacement of the adapter sleeve along the corrugated tubing. In turn, the risk of the pullout of the tubing from the compression fitting is reduced or eliminated.

[0012] The deformability of the material enables the adapter sleeve to be deformed to match or better match the profile of the corrugated tubing. Additionally, the deformability enables the adapter sleeve to be deformed so that at least one further protrusion may be created.

[0013] Preferably, the deformable material may include a polymeric material. Beneficially, the polymeric material may include plastics or an elastomer. Furthermore, the elastomer may be rubber. Polymers are easy to mould during manufacture. Polymers may also be elastically resilient. In other words, after being deformed, polymers may return to or towards their undeformed condition. The adapter sleeve may thus be reusable. Rubber provides a good fluid-tight seal.

[0014] Advantageously, the main body may further comprise a further material distinct from the deformable material. Two different materials have different properties, such as rigidity or resistance to bending. One material may provide a backbone or rigidifying structure. The other, less rigid material may be more deformable to adapt to the shape of the corrugated tubing. Additionally, the deformable material and / or the further material may include metal. Optionally, the further material may be deformable. One or both materials may be metal. Metal may be plastically deformable, rather than elastically deformable. As such, if the adapter sleeve comprises metal and is deformed so that a protrusion comprising metal enters a corrugation groove, the protrusion comprising metal resists returning to its undeformed condition. The protrusion thereby maintains an engagement with the corrugated tubing.

[0015] Preferably, the further material may extend along at least a major axial extent of the main body. Optionally, the further material may be provided as a layer and defines at least part of an outer surface of the main body. The layer of further material may provide a rigidifying and / or protective structure. The further material may even spread out any forces applied through the adapter sleeve.

[0016] Preferably, the main body may include a compression-fitting-body-abutment portion for abutting against the compression fitting body, and a connector-abutment portion for abutting against the connector. Additionally, the main body may comprise an intermediate portion, provided between the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion. Whilst the adapter sleeve preferably comprises distinct portions for engaging with the compression fitting body and the connector, it may easily be envisioned that the adapter sleeve may be usable in an opposite orientation.

[0017] Preferably, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion may be spaced apart axially by an adapter-sleeve distance, the adapter-sleeve distance being selected to match or substantially match a distance or a multiple of a distance between two corrugation peaks of the corrugated tubing having at least two corrugation grooves for enabling the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion to enter a corrugation groove each upon tightening of the deformable adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve is adapted to be insertable into two, preferably distinct, corrugation grooves simultaneously in- use upon deformation of the adapter sleeve. This is enabled by the distance between the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion along the axial extent of the adapter sleeve matching or substantially matching or being a multiple of the distance between two corrugation peaks, in other words the corrugation pitch of the corrugated tubing. Engagement with two corrugation grooves is beneficial as the fluid-tight sealing may be improved. Additionally, the risk of accidental axial displacement is reduced.

[0018] Furthermore, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and / or connector-abutment portion may only include deformable material. Alternatively or additionally, the compression-fitting-body- abutment portion and / or connector-abutment portion may only include further material. Preferably, at least part of the layer of further material may extend along the compression-fitting- body-abutment portion and / or the connector-abutment portion for abutment of the layer of further material against the mouth of the compression fitting body and / or against the connector, respectively.

[0019] Furthermore, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and / or the connector-abutment portion may comprise a corner in axial cross-section. Optionally, the corner in axial cross-section may be chamfered. Rounded may be an alternative option. Alternatively, the corner in axial crosssection may be a, preferably right, angle. A chamfered corner provides a greater area of contact with the connector, relative to an edge. A corner chamfered in a cross-sectional view may correspond to a frustoconical surface in three dimensions. A greater area of contact may provide an enhanced fluid-tight seal. On the other hand, corner being an angle forms an edge such that the only contact between the connector and the connector-abutment portion is the edge. This may enable the adapter sleeve to be used with a greater range of connectors as, unlike a chamfered corner, a range of angles of the abutment surface of the connector can be accommodated.

[0020] Additionally, the main body may comprise a plurality of protrusions. A plurality of protrusions enables the adapter sleeve to be insertable into a plurality of corrugation grooves, thereby improving the engagement with the length of corrugated tubing.

[0021] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an adapter sleeve for connecting corrugated tubing to a compression fitting, the corrugated tubing having at least one corrugation groove, the compression fitting including a compression fitting body and a connector complementarily coupleable with the compression fitting body, the adapter sleeve comprising: a main body including an axially-extending bore for the corrugated tubing to be received within, and a protrusion extending at least partially in a radial direction for insertion into the or a first corrugation groove such that the diameter of the bore varies axially; wherein the main body includes a first material and a second material distinct from the first material. The adapter sleeve may benefit from the material characteristics of a plurality of different materials. In particular, if one of the materials is less rigid and / or more deformable than the other materials, the more deformable material may be in-use deformed to provide a better engagement with the corrugated tubing. The more rigid material may in-use provide a supporting structure.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts for connecting a conventional compression fitting to a length of corrugated tubing, the kit comprising: the adapter sleeve, preferably in accordance with one or both of the first aspect and the second aspect of the invention; and at least one of: the connector and the compression fitting body. Additionally, the kit of parts may further include a length of corrugated tubing. Furthermore, the connector and the compression fitting body may conform to EN 1254-2.

[0023] Optionally, the kit may further comprise a secondary sleeve. The secondary sleeve or cover may be preferably positioned on the outside of the corrugated tubing. Beneficially, the secondary sleeve may be extruded around the corrugated tubing. Alternatively, the secondary sleeve may include heat shrink plastic sleeve. A secondary sleeve further improves the fluid-tight seal between the adapter sleeve and one or both of: the corrugated tubing and the compression fitting. The secondary sleeve may also beneficially prevent or inhibit entry of foreign contaminants into the corrugation grooves, such as oil, or lubrication. Foreign contaminants may otherwise prevent or inhibit a fluid-tight seal being formed. Additionally or alternatively, foreign contaminants may increase the risk of the corrugated tubing pulling out of the compression fitting and adapter sleeve. The secondary sleeve may provide insulation. Corrosion of the tubing may be reduced or inhibited. The secondary sleeve may also help identify the corrugated tubing.

[0024] Preferably, the secondary sleeve may comprise the said deformable material or a further deformable material. The secondary sleeve can be deformed.

[0025] Preferably, the length of corrugated tubing, that forms part of the kit, may have an outer diameter measured at a corrugation peak thereof, the outer diameter being within the range of one of: between 11 mm and 13 mm, between 14 and 16 mm, between 20 mm and 22 mm, between 24 mm and 25 mm, between 27mm and 28 mm, and between 34mm and 35mm. More preferably, the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing may be within the range of one of: between 11 mm and 12 mm, between 14 and 15 mm, between 19 mm and 20 mm, between 21 mm and 22 mm, between 24 mm and 25 mm, between 27 mm and 28 mm, and between 34 mm and 35 mm. The kit provides the parts to enable a standard or conventional compression fitting to be used with a corrugated tubing.

[0026] Furthermore, the secondary sleeve may have an outer diameter measured from an outer surface of the secondary sleeve, the outer diameter of the secondary sleeve may be within 0 mm and 1 mm less than an inner diameter of a through hole of the connector. In other words, the outer diameter of the cover may be within 0mm to minus 1 mm the inner diameter of the through hole of the nut. More preferably, the outer diameter of the secondary sleeve is within the range of: between 11.5 mm and 12.5 mm, between 14.5 mm and 15.5 mm, between 19.5 mm and 20.5mm, between 21.5 mm and 22.5 mm, between 24.5 mm and 25.5 mm, between 27.5 mm and 28.5 mm, and between 34.5 mm and 35.5 mm. The secondary sleeve is preferably of a similar order of magnitude as the corrugated tubing for enabling the secondary sleeve to be tight-fitting around the corrugated tubing.

[0027] Preferably, the length of corrugated tubing may have at least two corrugation grooves, and wherein the adapter sleeve may be a deformable adapter sleeve having a compression-fitting- body-abutment portion and a connector-abutment portion that may be spaced apart axially by an adapter-sleeve distance, the adapter-sleeve distance being selected to match or substantially match a distance or a multiple of a distance between two corrugation peaks of the corrugated tubing for enabling the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion to enter a corrugation groove each upon tightening of the deformable adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve is selected to be engageable simultaneously with two different corrugation grooves by having the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion being spaced apart by the same or similar distance as the corrugation pitch or a multiple thereof.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing having at least one corrugation groove, the method comprising the steps of: a] placing a connector of a conventional compression fitting around the length of corrugated tubing; b] placing around the corrugated tubing a deformable adapter sleeve having a main body including a bore of axially-varying diameter, and being at least in part formed of a deformable material; c] placing a compression fitting body of a conventional compression fitting around the corrugated tubing, such that the adapter sleeve is within the conventional compression fitting; d] moving the connector relative to the compression fitting body so that the compression fitting enters into abutment with the adapter sleeve and exerts thereupon a force sufficient to deform at least part of the main body into at least partly entering a said corrugation groove for forming or improving a first fluid-tight seal between the main body and the corrugated tubing, and for forming or improving a second fluid-tight seal between the main body and the compression fitting. The adapter sleeve enables a conventional compression fitting to be used on a length of corrugated tubing. This negates the need for proprietary compression fittings.

[0029] Beneficially, the method may comprise a step e] prior to step a] of obtaining a conventional compression fitting such as by acquisition thereof. Optionally, the conventional compression fitting may comprise an olive. Furthermore, the conventional compression fitting may be in an assembled configuration and the method may comprise a further step f] after step e] and before step a] of disassembling the conventional compression fitting and omitting the olive if provided. Preferably, the deformable adapter sleeve may be the deformable adapter sleeve of the first aspect of the invention.

[0030] Optionally, each of the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion may comprise a terminal region, and in step d], following deformation of the main body, each or at least one terminal region may be positioned radially inwardly of an inner surface of the main body. The end or ends of the main body may be curled into the or a said corrugation groove and aid in preventing pullout of the tube.

[0031] Furthermore, a secondary sleeve may be provided around the corrugated length of tubing, and the method may comprise a further step g] prior to step a] of selecting an axial location along the corrugated tubing and cutting the secondary sleeve at the selected axial location such that the secondary sleeve and the main body overlap. The overlap may be radial and / or axial. The secondary sleeve may be pinched by the main body and the corrugated tubing after tightening. Additionally, if the user cuts the secondary sleeve at the correct location, as may be dictated by the manufacturer’s instructions, for example, “cut the cover at the fourth corrugation, to expose four corrugation peaks”, the deformed portion of the adapter sleeve may abut the secondary sleeve and prevent or inhibit further axial displacement in the distal direction along corrugated tubing. Advantageously, this will mean the adapter sleeve will be seated in the correct location. Optionally, the corrugated tubing may be cut by the user to a required length. The length of the corrugated tubing may be adjusted at any point of the assembly.

[0032] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing having at least one corrugation groove and a secondary sleeve provided around the length of corrugated of tubing, the method comprising the steps of: a] selecting an axial location along the corrugated tubing and cutting the secondary sleeve at the selected axial location; b] placing a connector of a conventional compression fitting around the length of corrugated tubing, the secondary sleeve being positioned between the corrugated tubing and the connector; c] placing around the corrugated tubing a deformable adapter sleeve having a main body including a bore of axially-varying diameter, and being at least in part formed of a deformable material, the deformable adapter sleeve overlapping with the secondary sleeve along at least part of the axial extent of the deformable adapter sleeve; d] placing a compression fitting body of a conventional compression fitting around the corrugated tubing, such that the adapter sleeve is within the conventional compression fitting; and e] moving the connector relative to the compression fitting body so that the compression fitting enters into abutment with the adapter sleeve and exerts thereupon a force sufficient to deform at least part of the main body into at least partly entering a said corrugation groove and compressing the secondary sleeve against length of corrugated tubing for forming or improving a first fluid-tight seal between the main body and the corrugated tubing, and for forming or improving a second fluid-tight seal between the main body and the compression fitting.

[0033] Cutting the secondary sleeve at the correct axial location may prevent or inhibit undesirable axial movement of the adapter sleeve along the corrugated tubing. The position of the adapter sleeve can therefore be selected and fixed by virtue of the interaction between the adapter sleeve and the secondary cover. This may be beneficial as the adapter sleeve may be inhibited or prevented from moving when the compression fitting is tightened. In turn, this may improve the engagement between the compression fitting and the corrugated tubing by ensuring an optimal or appropriate length of corrugated tubing is available to receive the compression fitting body therearound. For instance, if the axial extent of corrugated tubing extending beyond the adapter sleeve is longer than the axial extent of the complementary receiving portion of the compression fitting body, the corrugated tubing may prevent the compression fitting body from being abuttable with the adapter sleeve and engageable with the connector. On the other hand, a shorter axial extent of corrugated tubing relative to that of complementary receiving portion of the compression fitting body may result in the adapter sleeve and connector being closer to the free end of the corrugated tubing. The risk of the compression fitting becoming accidentally disengaged from the length of corrugated tubing is increased. The at least partial overlap between the adapter sleeve and the secondary sleeve enables the adapter sleeve to pinch the secondary sleeve. This may further prevent or inhibit displacement of any or any combination of: the adapter sleeve, the secondary sleeve, the compression fitting body, and the connector.

[0034] The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a conventional compression fitting of the prior art, with a length of tubing received within the olive, connector and compression fitting body, in a disassembled condition, and a second connector connected to the compression fitting body; Figure 2 illustrates a perspective representation of a first embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane A indicated in dashed lines;

[0036] Figure 3 shows a cut-away representation of the adapter sleeve of Figure 2 taken along the axial plane A shown in Figure 2, and a central axis;

[0037] Figure 4 is a close-up representation of rectangle B of Figure 3;

[0038] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the adapter sleeve of Figure 1 and the central axis, together with a connector and a compression fitting body as part of a kit in accordance with the third aspect of the invention, in-use, with the compression fitting body, the adapter sleeve and the connector being positioned around a length of corrugated tubing in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0039] Figure 6 shows an axial cut-away perspective representation of the adapter sleeve, connector and compression fitting body and the corrugated tubing of Figure 5, after receipt of the adapter sleeve, connector, and compression fitting body on the corrugated tubing but prior to engagement of the connector with the compression fitting body;

[0040] Figure 7 illustrates a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve, part of the connector, part of the compression fitting body, and part of the corrugated tubing of Figure 6, after engagement of the connector with the compression fitting body but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0041] Figure 8 shows the same close-up of Figure 7, after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0042] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective representation of a second embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane C;

[0043] Figure 10 is a flow diagram of the method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing; Figure 11 shows an axial cut away representation of the adapter sleeve of Figure 10 taken along the axial plane C shown in Figure 10;

[0044] Figure 12 is a close-up representation of rectangle D of Figure 11 ;

[0045] Figure 13 is a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 10 in-use, part of a connector, part of a compression fitting body, part of a secondary sleeve and part of a length of corrugated tubing after engagement of the connector with the compression fitting body but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention; Figure 14 shows the same close-up of Figure 13, after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0046] Figure 15 illustrates a perspective representation of a third embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane E;

[0047] Figure 16 shows a close-up axial cut-away representation of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 15 taken along the axial plane E shown in Figure 15;

[0048] Figure 17 is a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 15, in- use, of part of a compression fitting body, and of part of a length of corrugated tubing after abutment of the adapter sleeve against the compression fitting body but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, the connector being omitted for clarity;

[0049] Figure 18 shows the same close-up of Figure 17, after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, and the connector being included;

[0050] Figure 19 illustrates a perspective representation of a fourth embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane F;

[0051] Figure 20 shows a close-up axial cut-away representation of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 19 taken along the axial plane F shown in Figure 19;

[0052] Figure 21 is a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 19, in- use, of part of a connector, part of a compression fitting body, part of a secondary sleeve and part of a length of corrugated tubing after engagement of the connector with the compression fitting body but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0053] Figure 22 shows the same close-up of Figure 21 , after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0054] Figure 23 illustrates a perspective representation of a fifth embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane G;

[0055] Figure 24 shows a close-up axial cut-away representation of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 23 taken along the axial plane G shown in Figure 23; Figure 25 is a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 23, in- use, of part of a compression fitting body, and of part of a length of corrugated tubing after the compression fitting body has entered into abutment with the adapter sleeve but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, with the connector omitted for clarity;

[0056] Figure 26 shows the same close-up of Figure 25, after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, and the connector being included;

[0057] Figure 27 illustrates a perspective representation of a sixth embodiment of an adapter sleeve in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention and an axial plane H;

[0058] Figure 28 shows a close-up axial cut-away representation of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 27 taken along the axial plane H shown in Figure 27;

[0059] Figure 29 is a close-up of an axial cut-away view of part of the adapter sleeve of Figure 27, in- use, of part of a compression fitting body, and of part of a length of corrugated tubing after engagement of the connector with the compression fitting body but prior to deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention; and

[0060] Figure 30 shows the same close-up of Figure 29, after deformation of the adapter sleeve in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0061] Referring firstly to Figure 1 , there is shown a compression fitting 10 of the prior art received around a length of tubing 12. The length of tubing 12 is a standard, length of rigid tubing 12, such as a copper tube or PEX tubing. The length of tubing 12 preferably has no corrugations. The compression fitting 10 has an olive 10a, a connector 10b and a compression fitting body 10c. The compression fitting 10 is shown in a disassembled condition in Figure 1. A further connector 10b is also shown, engaged with the opposite end of the compression fitting body 10c. The compression fitting 10 of the prior art may optionally conform with the European standard EN 1254 or EN 1354. More preferably, the connector 10b, also referred to as a standard compression fitting nut, may conform to European standard EN1254. The compression fitting body 10c, also referred to as a standard compression fitting body, may conform to European standard EN1524. The compression fitting 10 of the prior art may be referred to as a standard or conventional compression fitting 10. Conventional compression fittings 10 are interchangeable and standardized. This is to ensure they match standard tubing dimensions, such as the dimensions of copper or PEX tubing. Standards may optionally vary per jurisdiction. For example, in the UK, the outer diameter of a standard copper tubing 12 is typically one of: 15 millimetres (mm), 22mm, 28mm and 35mm. In Germany, the outer diameter is typically one of 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 25mm.

[0062] Referring now to Figure 2, there is a shown a first embodiment of an adapter sleeve 14 indicated generally at 14. The outline of an axial plane A extending through the adapter sleeve 14 is also illustrated in Figure 2 in dashed lines. Figure 3 shows the adapter sleeve 14 of Figure 2 after part of adapter sleeve 14 has been cut-away along the axial plane A. A central axis 16 of the adapter sleeve 14 is also illustrated in Figure 3 in dotted lines. Figure 4 shows a close-up of rectangle B in Figure 3.

[0063] The central axis 16 is preferably the axis of symmetry of the adapter sleeve 14. When the adapter sleeve 14 is received around tubing, the central axis 16 is preferably colinear or at least parallel with the axis of the tubing.

[0064] For clarity, any plane which contains or is parallel to the central axis 16 is considered to be an “axial plane”. Any distance, length, direction, or cross-section measured along or parallel to the central axis may be referred to as an “axial distance, length, distance or cross-section”.

[0065] Any plane extending perpendicular to the central axis 16 is considered to be a “radial plane” or a “transverse plane”. Any distance, length, direction, or cross-section in a transverse plane may be referred to as a transverse distance, length, direction, or cross-section. If the distance, direction, or length extends along a radius, the distance, length, or direction may be referred to as a radial extent.

[0066] For clarity, herein and throughout, any face or surface that faces at least in part towards the central axis 16 may be referred to as an inner surface or inner face. Conversely, any face or surface that faces at least in part away from the central axis 16 may be referred to as an external surface or face, or an outer surface or face.

[0067] The adapter sleeve 14 in-use replaces a conventional olive to enable a conventional compression fitting 10 to be used with corrugated tubing. The adapter sleeve 14 comprises a main body 18. The main body 18 has a bore 20 and a protrusion 22, but the protrusion may be omitted and / or a plurality of protrusions may be provided. The main body 18 may also be considered to be divided into a plurality of portions 24.

[0068] The bore 20 extends axially through the main body 18. Thus, the main body 18 is hollow. The bore 20 in-use enables a length of tubing to be received through the main body 18. The main body 18 has an outer surface 18a and an inner surface 18b. The inner surface 18b defines the bore 20. The bore 20 is preferably circular in radial cross-section and as such has a bore diameter 26. The bore diameter 26 is indicated as a dash dotted double headed arrow in Figure 3. However, the bore diameter 26 is non-constant along the axial extent of the bore 20, preferably due to the protrusion 22. As such, the bore diameter 26 of the main body 18 varies axially. This is best shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0069] The or each protrusion 22 may be referred to as a tooth, a finger, a sealing element, a locking element. The or each protrusion 22 in-use extends at least partially in a radial direction, and more preferably radially inwardly, towards the central axis 16. The or each protrusion 22 is in-use inserted or insertable into a corrugation groove of the corrugated tubing. The or each protrusion 22 in-use engages with the corrugation so as to form or improve a fluid-tight seal between the corrugated tubing and the main body 18. A further function of the or each protrusion 22 may be to prevent or inhibit displacement of the main body 18 axially along the corrugated tubing. In other words, the or each protrusion 22 may be considered to be an axial-locking element or an axial- displacement inhibitor. The or each protrusion 22 is preferably at least partly flexible which allows the or each protrusion 22 in-use to be “clicked” over one or more corrugation peaks until the or each protrusion 22 is in a suitable corrugation groove.

[0070] The main body 18 may have a plurality of protrusions 22 but in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the main body 18 only comprises one protrusion 22, or at least comprises one protrusion 22 prior to deformation of the main body 18 during use. Following deformation of the main body 18, the main body 18 may comprise a plurality of protrusions 22. It may be envisioned that the or each protrusion may only be formed after deformation of the main body.

[0071] As previously mentioned, the main body 18 may be sub-divided into a plurality of portions 24. There are at least two portions 24.

[0072] A first said portion 24 in-use is abutted or abuttable against the compression fitting body 10c, and more preferably, the mouth thereof. The mouth is typically an angled surface in axial crosssection. As such, the first portion 24 may be referred to as compression-fitting-body-abutment portion or a tongue 24a.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a includes the or a said protrusion 22. The compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a further includes at least one, and here first and second adapter abutment surfaces 28, 29 for abutting against the mouth of the compression fitting body 10c. However, it could easily be envisioned that the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion includes a corner or edge abuttable against the compression fitting body instead of one or more surfaces. The first adapter abutment surface 28 is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the central axis 16, whereas the second adapter abutment surface 29 forms a frusto-conical surface which is designed to mate with existing compression fittings within the art.

[0074] A second said portion 24 in-use is abutted or abuttable against the connector 10b of the compression fitting 10. As such, the second portion 24 may be referred to as a connectorabutment portion 24b.

[0075] The connector-abutment portion 24b includes an abutment region 30. The abutment region 30 may include an abutment surface, abutment-corner, or abutment-edge 32 in axial cross-section. The abutment-corner 32 includes at least one, and preferably a plurality of corner surfaces. The corner surfaces may be angled relative to each other. In the shown embodiment of Figure 4, the abutment-corner 32 is chamfered such that the abutment-corner 32 includes a chamfered surface 34. The abutment-corner 32, and more preferably, the chamfered surface 34 thereof, is in-use abuttable against the connector 10b, and more preferably the connector-abutment-surface thereof.

[0076] The chamfered surface 34 is angled relative to an adjacent corner surface and / or relative to the outer surface 18a of the main body 18 by an angle. Preferably, the angle of the chamfered surface 34 matches the angle of the connector-abutment-surface of the connector 10b against which the chamfered surface 34 is intended to abut in use. This enables the chamfered surface 34 and the connector-abutment-surface to be at least parallel and, when abutted, in contact over a greater surface area relative to a line of contact in the case of differing angles and / or an edge. The angle may be in the range of 10 degrees (°) to 90°, more preferably in the range of 30° to 60° and most preferably is 45°. Any alternative to a chamfered corner may be considered, such as a corner having a sharp edge, or a rounded edge. In the case of a sharp edge, the corner may form a right angle by way of example only.

[0077] Optionally, if the connector-abutment portion 24b includes two materials and one of which forms a layer radially outwardly of the other as is the case here, the layer may form a wall or walls 36. The outer face of the wall or walls 36 may correspond to the corner surfaces. The layer may even provide a chamfered wall 36 having the said chamfered surface 34.

[0078] Each of the connector-abutment portion 24b and the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a comprises a terminal region 38. The terminal region 38 is the outermost surface or a part thereof or outermost edge along the axial extent of the main body 18.

[0079] In the first embodiment, the main body 18 is preferably asymmetric about a radial plane. In other words, the connector-abutment portion 24b has a different profile in axial cross-section relative to the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a. This may result in the main body 18 being positionable around the corrugation tubing only in one orientation.

[0080] However, it may easily be envisioned that the main body may be usable in either direction around a length of corrugated tubing, whether or not the profile of the connector-abutment portion is symmetric to the profile of the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion.

[0081] For clarity, the terms “connector-abutment portion 24b” and “compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a” will be used herein and through to refer to the parts of the main body that in-use enter into abutment with or faces the connector 10b and the compression fitting body 10c, respectively, in the orientation illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[0082] Thus, if the main body 18 is used in the opposite orientation, the connector-abutment portion 24b will in-use enter into abutment with the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a and the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a will in-use enter into abutment with the connector 10b.

[0083] Any description relating to the abutment of the connector-abutment portion 24b against the connector 10b is adapted when the orientation of the adapter sleeve 14 is reversed such that the connector-abutment portion 24b in-use faces or abuts against the compression fitting body 10c. For example, when the adapter sleeve 14 of the first embodiment is used in the opposite orientation, the chamfered surface 34 of the connector-abutment portion 24b faces or abuts against the mouth of the compression fitting body 10c.

[0084] The main body 18 comprises a third portion 24 in the present embodiment, but the third portion may be omitted entirely. The third portion 24, also referred to as an intermediate portion 24c, is axially intermediate or between the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a and the connector-abutment portion 24b. The intermediate portion 24c spaces-apart the compression- fitting-body-abutment portion 24a and the connector-abutment portion 24b. The intermediate portion 24c in-use preferably does not enter into contact with the compression fitting body 10c. Similarly, the intermediate portion 24c in-use preferably does not enter into contact with the connector 10b, although this alternative may be envisioned. The intermediate portion 24c is preferably not or not substantially deformed during compression by the compression fitting 10.

[0085] In Figure 4, the intermediate portion 24c is or is substantially a rectangle in axial cross-section. However, the exact shape of the intermediate portion 24c is not critical, and alternative shapes in axial cross-section may be envisioned.

[0086] Each of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 24a, of the connector-abutment portion 24b, and if provided, of the intermediate portion 24c has an inner face 18b and an outer face 18a. The inner faces 18b of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 24a, of the connectorabutment portion 24b, and if provided, of the intermediate portion 24c form at least part of the inner surface 18b of the adapter sleeve 14.

[0087] Similarly, the outer faces 18a of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 24a and the connector-abutment portion 24b, and if provided, of the intermediate portion 24c form at least part of the outer surface 18a of the adapter sleeve 14.

[0088] As previously mentioned, the main body 18 or any part thereof comprises at least one material. Preferably, the at least one material is deformable. The deformability of the at least one material may have a plurality of functions.

[0089] In no particular order, a first function of the deformability is to enable insertion or further insertion of part of the main body 18 into a corrugation groove. For example, the or at least one protrusion 22 may be moved further into a corrugation groove upon deformation of the main body 18. Alternatively or additionally, upon deformation of the main body 18, a further protrusion 22 may be formed and inserted into the same or a different corrugation groove. In particular, application of a force from the compression fitting 10 against the frusto-conical surface 29 urges the protrusion 22 into a corrugation groove on tightening.

[0090] A second function of the deformability of the material is to enable the main body 18 or part thereof to deform so that the profile of the main body 18 or part thereof in axial cross-section matches at least in part the profile of one or more corrugations when the main body 18 is received around the corrugated tubing. Matching profiles may provide or improve a fluid-tight seal between the main body 18 and the corrugated tubing. This deformation occurs at the distal end of the main body 18 with respect to the protrusion 22, thereby creating a clamping effect on the corrugated tubing.

[0091] The main body 18 may comprise a polymeric material, a metal, any other suitable material, or any combination thereof.

[0092] More preferably, the main body 18 comprises a plurality of materials. Preferably, the main body 18 comprises a first material and a second material distinct from the first material. If the main body 18 comprises any additional, distinct materials, similar incremental numbering may be used for clarity. In one exemplary embodiment, for instance, the first material may be an elastomeric material, and the second material may be a metallic material, typically brass.

[0093] Optionally, the first material may be considered to form a first sub-body 40a. Similarly, the second material may optionally be considered to form a second sub-body 40b.

[0094] If the main body 18 includes any further material or materials, the or each further material may be considered to form a further sub-body, incrementally numbered.

[0095] The combination of sub-bodies together forms the main body 18. As shown in Figure 4, the first sub-body 40a provides the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a, parts of the intermediate portion 24c and the connector-abutment portion 24b. The second sub-body 40b provides part of the intermediate portion 24c and the connector-abutment portion 24b. However, any of the sub-bodies may overlap or form at least part of any of the compression-fitting-body- abutment portion, the intermediate portion if present, the connector-abutment portion, and any combination thereof.

[0096] One or both of the first material and the second material may be deformable. Preferably, both materials are deformable. Beneficially, the second material may have a greater rigidity than the first material, but this is optional. In the first embodiment, the first material is preferably a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include plastics and / or an elastomer. If plastics, the plastics is preferably flexible. An example of suitable elastomer is rubber. The first material may comprise a combination of a plastics material and an elastomer. The second material preferably includes a material having a greater rigidity than the first material. More preferably, the second material may comprise a hard or rigid plastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and / or metal. The metal may include brass and / or copper by way of examples only. The term “metal” used herein and throughout is intended to include metal alloys.

[0097] The first material preferably extends along all of or at least a major part of the axial and / or radial extent of the main body 18, but a minor part of either or both the axial and / or radial extent may be envisioned. Similarly, the second material preferably extends along at least a major part or all of the axial and / or radial extent of the main body 18, but a minor part of either or both the axial and / or radial extent may be envisioned.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a preferably only comprises one material, which is preferably the first material. The intermediate portion 24c preferably includes at least two distinct materials, more preferably the first material and the second material. The connector-abutment portion 24b also preferably includes at least two distinct materials, which are the first material and the second material. However, any or any combination of the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion, the intermediate portion and the connectorabutment portion may comprise only one material. Said material may be either of the first material and the second material. Alternatively, any or any combination of the compression-fitting-body- abutment portion, the intermediate portion and the connector-abutment portion may comprise both first material and second material.

[0099] The second material is preferably provided as a layer, but any alternative to a layer maybe be envisioned. Furthermore, the second material is provided radially outwardly of at least part of the first material. In other words, an inner face of the second sub-body 40b may face or contact an outer face of the first sub-body 40a along at least part of the axial extent of the main body 18. The outer face of the second material defines at least part of the outer surface 18a of the main body 18.

[0100] As the second material preferably has a greater rigidity relative to the first material, the second sub-body 40b may in-use act as a rigidifying element, a structural element, or a backbone. The second sub-body 40b may even help maintain or bias a protrusion 22 into being received in and / or engaging with a corrugation groove. In other words, the second material may help to “click” the or each protrusion 22 into place in a corrugation groove.

[0101] Preferably, the first sub-body 40a includes at least one and preferably two ridges or lips 42. The second material may have a first end surface 44a and a second end surface 44b opposite the first end surface 44a. The first end surface 44a and the second end surface 44b may be facing or, as shown, abutted against the lips 42. This arrangement may prevent or inhibit accidental disengagement of the second sub-body 40b from the first sub-body 40a.

[0102] In other words, there may be provided a two-material adapter sleeve, that includes an inner elastomeric layer and outer shell metallic layer, such as a brass layer. An elastomeric inner layer with a proximal face and / or a distal face that broadly matches the frusto conical surface of widely available, standard compression fittings. The elastomeric inner or first layer, may protrude further into a corrugation valley on tightening, due to being pushed into the corrugation valley by the frusto conical surface of the widely available, standard compression fitting. The exterior metal casing or 2ndlayer, which under compressive force from tightening a widely available, standard compression fitting and nut, may cause the metal casing to deform at the distal end, grab the tube and hold the adapter sleeve in place.

[0103] Optionally, the adapter sleeve 14 may be provided as part of a kit of parts for connecting a conventional compression fitting 10 to a length of corrugated tubing. The kit may comprise the adapter sleeve 14, the connector 10b, the compression fitting body 10c, and the length of corrugated tubing, but any or any combination of the above may be omitted from the kit and / or a plurality of any of the above may be provided. Further features may be added, as required. The corrugated tubing may optionally be Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing.

[0104] The outer diameter of the corrugated tubing may be any value within the range of 10 mm to 40 mm, although outside of these values may be an option. More preferably, the outer diameter may be within the range of 14 mm to 35 mm. Preferably, the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing is within 1 mm, and even more preferably within 0.5 mm of the external diameter of a standard non-corrugated tubing, such as copper tubing. The outer diameter of the corrugated tubing is preferably within the range of one of: between 11 mm and 13mm, between 14 mm and 16 mm, between 20 mm and 22 mm, between 24 mm and 25 mm, between 27 mm and 28 mm, and between 34 mm and 35 mm, although other ranges outside of these ranges may be available. More preferably, the outer diameter of the length of corrugated tubing is within one of the following ranges: 11 mm to 12 mm, 14 mm to 15 mm, 15mm, 19 mm to 20 mm, 21 mm to 22mm, 24 mm to 25 mm, 27 mm to 28 mm, and 34 mm to 35 mm.

[0105] In other words, there may be provided a kit of parts including one or more tubes of specific diameters, one or more standard compression nuts and fittings. The kit of parts may, for example, include a standard compression fitting nut (EN1254), a standard compression fitting body (EN1524), a two material adapter meant to combine with CSST and allow it to seal with the standard components above and a Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) within a specific diameter range, but any of the above may be omitted and / or a plurality of any of the above may be provided.

[0106] The kit of the first embodiment further includes an optional secondary sleeve, also referred to as a cover. The secondary sleeve is not shown in the Figures of the first embodiment. It may be envisioned that the secondary sleeve may even be provided in any embodiment. For instance, a secondary sleeve 160 is illustrated in the Figures 13 and 14, corresponding to the second embodiment.

[0107] The secondary sleeve may have one or a plurality of functions, although any of the following functions may be omitted. In no particular order, the secondary sleeve may further aid in providing a fluid-tight seal between the corrugated tubing, and compression fitting and / or the main body 18. A second function of the secondary sleeve is to provide insulation, for example, to help maintain heat of a fluid within the corrugated tubing 46. Thirdly, the secondary sleeve may facilitate movement of the main body 18 axially along the corrugated tubing 46 by preventing or inhibiting entry of the, each or at least one protrusion 22 into a corrugation groove 50. Thus, the or each protrusion 22 does not function as a ratchet or functions as a weaker ratchet, at least until under compression. Fourthly, the secondary sleeve may comprise a material having greater friction than any or all of the corrugated tubing 46, the main body 18 and the compression fitting 10, such as an elastomer, like rubber. As such, the secondary sleeve may prevent or inhibit accidental axial and / or radial movement between corrugated tubing 46, and at least one of: the main body 18 and the compression fitting 10. Thus, the secondary sleeve may aid in positioning the main body along the corrugated tubing. A fifth function of the secondary sleeve is to provide an identification element, display surface or identification of the length of corrugated tubing 46. For example, the secondary sleeve may indicate a particular string of symbols, numbers, letter and / or one or more colours. This may be useful to indicate the size of the corrugated tubing and / or the fluid within. Yellow may be used to indicate that the corrugated tubing 46 is for gas, blue for cold water or red for hot water. A sixth function of the secondary sleeve may be to prevent or inhibit corrosion of the corrugated tubing 46.

[0108] Preferably, the secondary sleeve comprises a deformable material. The deformable material may be the same or a different deformable material relative to the deformable material of the main body 18. The secondary sleeve may comprise first material and / or second material. The secondary sleeve may comprise a plastics material, an elastomer, such as rubber, a metal, a compressible material, an insulating material, or any combination thereof. More preferably, the secondary sleeve includes at least one of: rubber, polyethylene (PE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0109] The secondary sleeve has a sleeve wall and at least one sleeve dimension. The dimension is preferably a diameter, which may be an outer diameter or inner diameter.

[0110] Preferably, the inner diameter of the secondary sleeve matches or substantially matches the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing 46.

[0111] Preferably, the sleeve outer diameter is within 1 mm, and more preferably within 0.5 mm of the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing 46 and / or of an inner diameter of the connector 10b, although the sleeve outer diameter may be outside of these ranges. More preferably yet, the sleeve outer diameter may be up to 1 mm smaller than, up to 0.5mm smaller, up to 0.1 mm smaller than, or may match the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing 46 and / or the inner diameter of the connector 10b.

[0112] Preferably, the secondary sleeve has an outer diameter between 11.5 mm and 12.5 mm, between

[0113] 14.5 mm and 15.5 mm, between 19.5 mm and 20.5mm, between 21.5 mm and 22.5 mm, between

[0114] 24.5 mm and 25.5 mm, between 27.5 mm and 28.5 mm, and between 34.5 mm and 35.5 mm. Even more preferably, the sleeve outer diameter is one of: 15mm, 20mm, 22mm, 25mm, 28mm and 35mm, exactly. The measurements are preferable as the connector 10b is more likely to fit over the secondary sleeve. In other words, if the sleeve diameter of the secondary sleeve is too big relative to the connector inner diameter, such as by 0.1mm, the standard connector may not be able to fit around the secondary sleeve.

[0115] The thickness of the sleeve wall is preferably 1 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less, and most preferably 0.1 mm or less.

[0116] Preferably, the secondary sleeve is located around the corrugated tubing 46. The secondary sleeve is preferably non-movable axially along the corrugated tubing 46, although this alternative may be envisioned. Beneficially, the secondary sleeve is formed by extrusion. Once the corrugated tubing 46 has been in-use inserted into the main body 18, the secondary sleeve is located between the main body 18 and the corrugated tubing 46.

[0117] In-use, referring now to Figures 5 to 9, a user may want to connect a length of corrugated tubing 46 to a conventional or standard compression fitting 10.

[0118] The user obtains the adapter sleeve 14. If only part of or even no conventional compression fitting 10 is provided, the user may obtain a kit of parts including the adapter sleeve 14 and one or both of the connector 10b and the compression fitting body 10c. This is indicated as step S100 in Figure 9.

[0119] If in an assembled configuration, the user may need to disassemble the compression fitting 10 first, as per step S110 in Figure 9.

[0120] If the conventional compression fitting 10 includes an olive, the user can omit or discard the olive in step S120.

[0121] The length of corrugated tubing 46 and / or the secondary sleeve may need to be cut to a required length in step S130. Step S130 may occur at any point of adapting the compression fitting to the corrugated tubing. The user selects an axial location along the corrugated tubing 46 to cut. The axial location is selected where the user wants it, for example to create a desired length of tube, i.e. , the corrugated tubing 46 has reached a desired location: tap, boiler, shower, etc. When the user cuts the tubing 46, the secondary sleeve, if provided, will also be cut at that same axial location as the cover is fixed relative to, and more preferably extruded over the corrugated tubing 46.

[0122] Optionally, the user may then cut the secondary sleeve at a second selected axial location, spaced apart from the free end of the corrugated tubing 46. The second selected axial location may be dictated by the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, the manufacturer’s instructions might say something like “cut and remove the secondary sleeve at the 4thcorrugation valley” starting from the free end of the length of corrugated tubing, or “cut and remove exactly 2cm of secondary sleeve”. Preferably, the second axial location is chosen such that only a set number of corrugations are exposed following removal of the cut secondary sleeve. For example, the user may select the second axial location so as to expose four corrugations peaks. The second axial location enables the main body 18 to abut against and / or at least partially axially overlap with the secondary sleeve. The engagement between the main body 18 and the secondary sleeve prevents or inhibits further axial movement. The main body 18 therefore seats at the desired location. Furthermore, after assembly of the main body 18 over the end of the secondary sleeve, the connector-abutment-portion 10b, when tightened, will pinch the secondary sleeve.

[0123] If the user removes too much of the cover, then the main body 18 could seat further up the tubing 46 in the incorrect location, and / or the connector-abutment-portion 10b would not pinch the secondary sleeve as desired.

[0124] If not already in position, any, or any combination of the connector 10b, the compression fitting body 10c, and the main body 18 are moved into position around the corrugated tubing 46.

[0125] To make use of the conventional compression fitting 10 on a corrugated tubing 46, the user starts by placing the connector 10b of the conventional compression fitting 10 around the corrugated tubing 46 in step S140.

[0126] If the adapter sleeve 14 or more preferably the main body 18 thereof is non-reversibly usable, the corrugated tubing 46 is inserted into the bore 20 starting with the connector-abutment portion 24b. If the main body 18 is symmetric and / or usable in either orientation, the corrugated tubing 46 may be inserted into the bore 20 starting at either end of the main body 18. The adapter sleeve 14 or main body 18 thereof is thus placed around the corrugated tubing 46 in step S150.

[0127] The user places the compression fitting body 10c of the conventional compression fitting 10 around the corrugated tubing 46 after the adapter sleeve 14 and / or main body 18 thereof in step S160. As such the adapter sleeve 14 is located between the compression fitting body 10c and the connector 10b. In other words, the adapter sleeve 14 is within the conventional compression fitting 10, as shown in Figure 5. The central axis 16 is also shown in Figure 5. Figure 6 illustrates a cut-away view of the kit after the corrugated tubing 46 has been inserted into the components but prior to compression of the adapter sleeve 14 by the compression fitting 10. Figure 6 also illustrates the outer diameter 48 as a dashed double headed arrow.

[0128] The user may need to adjust the axial location of the main body 18 along the corrugated tubing 46. For example, the length of compression fitting body 10c may determine the required axial location of the main body 18.

[0129] If the or each protrusion 22 is biased into a corrugation groove 50, such as by the second material, the or each protrusion 22 may act like a ratchet. The ratchet may prevent or inhibit displacement in a first axial direction along the corrugated tubing 46. Advantageously, the secondary sleeve prevents or inhibits the main body 18 from advancing further up the corrugated tubing 46. If the user cuts the secondary sleeve or cover at the right location, then the user will only be able to “click over” the main body 18 a set number of times, such as twice, before resistance from the cover prevents further “clicking”. The deformed portion and / or protrusion 22 is therefore seated at the correct location, for example in the second corrugation groove 50 from the free end of the corrugated tubing 46. This assumes in the secondary sleeve is fixed relative to, and more preferably extruded around, the corrugated tubing so is not axially movable.

[0130] If the user had clicked over more corrugation peaks, the extent of the corrugated tubing 46 between the main body 18 and the free end would be too long to properly enter the compression fitting body 10c.

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, the first axial direction is toward the free end 46a of the corrugated tubing 46 and / or toward the compression fitting body 10c. The first axial direction may also be referred to as a proximal direction. As the main body 18 may be sufficiently deformable to enable the or each protrusion 22 to be displaced radially outwardly by a corrugation peak 52a, the adapter sleeve 14 is movable along the second axial direction, also referred to as the distal direction, away from the free end 46a of the corrugated tubing 46. In the embodiments disclosed herein, the at least one protrusion 22 forces the main body 18 to only be translatable “in one direction”, which is here distally. If the user had clicked over “too far”, the user would then have to cut the corrugated tubing 46 to remove the main body 18, and try again. In order to move the main body 18 in the first axial direction, the user may need to displace the or each protrusion 22 radially outwardly simultaneously, for instance to avoid interaction between the or each protrusion 22 and the corrugation grooves 50. The user may potentially do this manually and / or by use of a tool, by way of examples only.

[0132] If there are a plurality of protrusions 22 oriented in opposite directions, the protrusions 22 may inhibit movement of the adapter sleeve 14 in either axial direction. This may occur before deformation and / or after deformation of the main body 18.

[0133] To form a fluid-tight connection between the compression fitting 10 and the corrugated tubing 46, the connector 10b is moved relative to the compression fitting body 10c. The connector 10b and the compression fitting body 10c are engaged with each other in step S170. The compression fitting 10 enters into abutment with the adapter sleeve 14. In particular, the connector-abutment portion 24b is made to abut against the connector 10b. The compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a is made to abut against the compression fitting body 10c, as shown in Figure 7. Engagement of the connector 10b and the compression fitting body 10c result in a closed cavity being formed, within which the adapter sleeve 14 is located. Preferably as shown in Figure 7, the intermediate portion 24c is radially spaced-apart from the connector 10b such that there is a gap 54. However, it may easily be envisioned that the intermediate portion or part thereof may abut radially against the connector. An absent or small gap 54 may beneficially prevent, inhibit or limit radially outward buckling of the main body 18 when the main body 18 is being deformed. To apply a force to the adapter sleeve 14, the compression fitting 10 is tightened. In the first embodiment, the connector 10b and the compression fitting body 10c comprise complementary screw threads. As such, tightening the compression fitting 10 involves engaging the complementary screw threads together and rotating the connector 10b and compression fitting body 10c relative to each other.

[0134] Optionally, upon being tightened, the compression fitting 10 may exert a force on the adapter sleeve 14, typically via abutment surface 29, sufficient to move the main body 18 axially until a protrusion 22 and / or terminal region 38 enters into abutment with the wall of a corrugation and prevents or inhibits further axial movement of the main body 18.

[0135] Further tightening the compression fitting 10 in step S180 results in the compression fitting 10 exerting a force on the adapter sleeve 14 sufficient to deform at least part of the main body 18. The deformation of the main body 18 preferably forms a said protrusion 22 and causes the protrusion 22 to at least partly enter or further enter a said corrugation groove 50. Additionally or alternatively, an existing protrusion 22 may be made to at least partly enter or enter further into a corrugation groove 50. In either case, a first fluid-tight seal between the main body 18 and the corrugated tubing 46 is formed or improved. Furthermore, a second fluid-tight seal is formed or improved between the main body 18 and the compression fitting 10.

[0136] At least one of the connector-abutment portion 24b and the compression-fitting-abutment portion 24a is deformed by the compression fitting 10. As shown in Figure 8, the connector-abutment portion 24b and / or the chamfered surface 34 may become at least partly curved. Any alternative profile to becoming curved may be envisioned for the deformed portion. By way of examples only, the angle between the chamfered surface and an adjacent surface may simply change. Alternatively or additionally, one or more further edges may be formed in the chamfered wall.

[0137] Part of the deformed portion 24, which is in the first embodiment, the connector-abutment portion 24b, enters a corrugation groove 50. The deformed portion 24 forms a further said protrusion which prevents or inhibits pullout of the corrugated tubing 46 from the adapter sleeve 14. This occurs at a distal end of the main body 18 with respect to the protrusion 22.

[0138] The corrugation groove 50 in which the deformed portion 24 is received may be the same as the notionally first corrugation groove 50 in which the protrusion 22 is received. Preferably however, the deformed portion 24 is received in a separate or second corrugation groove 50. The second corrugation groove 50 is here spaced apart from the first groove 50 by an intermediate corrugation groove 50 but any number of intermediate corrugation grooves, includes none or at least two may be envisioned.

[0139] Advantageously, the distance between the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a and the connector-abutment portion 24b, referred to as an adapter-sleeve distance, is designed or selected such that it matches the distance between one or more corrugation peaks, such that upon tightening, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 24a enters into one corrugation groove 50, and the adapter sleeve 14 is dimensioned such that the connector-abutment portion 24b enters into another corrugation valley 50. In the illustrated case, there is one empty corrugation groove 50, the intermediate corrugation groove 50, in-between the two corrugation grooves 50 which received part of the adapter sleeve 14. For example, if the adapter-sleeve distance differed from the corrugation pitch or a multiple thereof, only one of: the compression- fitting-body-abutment portion and the connector-abutment portion, but not both, would enter a corrugation groove.

[0140] Upon deformation of the main body 18 so as to form the or a further said protrusion 22, the deformed portion of the main body 18 may deform the secondary sleeve, if provided. The compression-fitting-body abutment portion 24a and / or the connector-abutment portion 24b is deformed by the connector 10b upon tightening of the compression fitting 10. The deformed portion 24a, which is here the connector-abutment portion 24b, pushes at least part of the secondary sleeve into a corrugation groove 50. In other words, upon deformation of the main body 18, the deformed portion 24a enters into a corrugation groove 50, and pinches a portion of the secondary sleeve or cover in with it.

[0141] Optionally, the terminal region 38 of the deformed portion 24a may be moved so as to be at least partially radially inwards of the main body 18 and / or of the inner surface 18b thereof. In other words, the terminal region 38 may be curled at least in part around and inwardly. The cover is “tucked in” under the connector 10b and / or the main body 18 and is pinched by the main body 18. This all gives it a neat appearance.

[0142] Thus, there is disclosed a method of adapting a conventional compression fitting 10 for use with a length of corrugated tubing 46 having at least one corrugation groove 50.

[0143] In other words, there may be provided a method of taking a standard compression fitting for an, optionally copper, tube. The method may further comprise disposing of the, optionally brass, olive inside for sealing against the, optionally copper, tube, and replacing with a CSST “two material” adapter. Thus, the method may utilise a standard nut and fitting body and the two material adapter.

[0144] Referring now to Figures 10 to 14, there is shown a perspective view of a second embodiment of an adapter sleeve 114, and an axial plane C. Features of the second embodiment which are the same or similar to the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “1” added. The second embodiment of the adapter sleeve 114 is similar to the first embodiment of the adapter sleeve 14, having same or similar bore 120, bore diameter 126 varying along the axial extent of the adapter sleeve 114, compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 124a, intermediate portion 124c, connector-abutment portion 124b, the connector-abutment portion 124b having an abutment region 130, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 124a having at least one and preferably a plurality of abutment surfaces 128, 129, at least one, preferably deformable, material and more preferably first material and second material distinct from the first material, the first material preferably comprising a polymeric material which may be plastics or an elastomer, such as rubber; the second material preferably including metal and / or a rigid plastics, at least one lip 142 and at least one protrusion 122. The kit of the second embodiment is similar to the kit of the first embodiment and includes a said secondary sleeve 160, Detailed description of the common features and of the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0145] In the second embodiment, the connector-abutment portion 124b comprises an abutment-corner 132 which is preferably not chamfered, unlike the first embodiment. More preferably, the abutment-corner 132 includes a sharp edge. Said sharp edge is abuttable against the connector 10b.

[0146] Optionally, the connector-abutment portion 124b is variable or discontinuous around a circumference of the adapter sleeve 14. As most clearly shown in Figures 10 and 11 , the connector-abutment portion 124b includes a plurality of bracing elements, portions or parts 156. Each bracing element 156 includes at least one and more preferably a plurality of walls 136. These walls 136 may correspond to the walls 36 of the first embodiment. The plurality of walls 136 are angled relative to each other, as per the first embodiment. Preferably, the angle is a right angle in the second embodiment. As such, an L-shape in axial cross-section is created, as shown in Figure 12.

[0147] However, the walls may not necessarily be at a right angle relative to each other. For example, one or more walls may be angled relative to each other and / or relative to the outer surface 18a by an angle within 0° and 90°, more preferably within 25° and 75°, even more preferably within 30° and 60°. The angle may even be 45°.

[0148] The bracing element 156 are preferably spaced part from each other along the circumference of the adapter sleeve 114. The spacing between bracing element 156 is preferably constant but variable spacing may be an option. In other words, the outer surface 118a of the main body 118 of the adapter sleeve 114 may have crenellation.

[0149] The plurality of bracing element 156 and, if provided, the spacing between bracing element 156, may beneficially enable the bracing element 156 to deform radially inwardly whilst preventing or minimising interference with each other.

[0150] Preferably, the bracing element 156 comprise the second material, but this is optional. The bracing element 156 may be part of the second sub-body 140b.

[0151] Preferably, the bracing element 156 extend beyond the first sub-body 140a. In other words, an end wall 136 of each bracing element 156 is axially spaced apart from an end surface 159 of the first sub-body 140a. The end wall 136 of the, each or at least one bracing element 156 corresponds to the terminal region 138. The uses of the second embodiment are similar to the uses of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the common features and caveats is omitted for brevity. The differences are described hereinafter.

[0152] Referring now to Figure 15, there is shown a third embodiment of an adapter sleeve 214 and an axial plane E. Figure 16 illustrates a close-up of a cut-away of part of the main body 218, taken along axial plane E. The third embodiment of the adapter sleeve 214 is similar the first embodiment of the adapter sleeve 14. Features of the third embodiment which are the same or similar to the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “2” added.

[0153] The third embodiment of the adapter sleeve 214 is similar to the first embodiment of the adapter sleeve 14, having same or similar bore 220, axially varying diameter, compression-fitting-body- abutment portion 224a, intermediate portion 224c, connector-abutment portion 224b, the connector-abutment portion 224b having an abutment region 230, the compression-fitting-body- abutment portion 224a having at least one and preferably a plurality of abutment surfaces 228, 229, one or more walls 236, terminal regions 238, at least one, preferably deformable, material and more preferably first material and second material distinct from the first material, the first material preferably comprising a polymeric material which may be plastics or an elastomer, such as rubber; the second material preferably including metal and / or a rigid plastics, at least one lip 242, and at least one protrusion 222. Detailed description of the common features and of the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0154] In the third embodiment, the main body 218 includes a plurality of protrusions 222. More preferably, at least one and even more preferably, at least two protrusions 222 are part of the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 224a, at least prior to deformation of the main body 218. The protrusions 222 may form between them an inter-protrusion groove 262, also referred to as an inter-protrusion valley. Preferably, the protrusions 222 are spaced-apart from each other such that each protrusion 222 is insertable into a different corrugation groove 50. However, it may easily be envisioned that the protrusions may be insertable into the same corrugation groove. Optionally, the or each volume of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 224a between the pair or adjacent pairs of protrusions 222 may be referred to as a bridging part 264.

[0155] Preferably, a profile of the inter-protrusion groove 262 matches or substantially matches the profile of the corrugations or at least the profile at or adjacent to a corrugation peak 52a. More preferably, the inter-protrusion groove 262 may have a curvature which may match a curvature at or adjacent to a corrugation peak 52a.

[0156] The uses of the third embodiment are the same or similar to those of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the common features and caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0157] A plurality of protrusions 222 may further improve the engagement between the main body 218 and the corrugated tubing 46. Furthermore, if provided, the matching or substantially matching profiles may further improve the fluid-tight seal provided between the main body 218 and the corrugated tubing 46. This is illustrated in Figure 17.

[0158] Upon compression by the compression fitting 10, each or at least one of the protrusions 222 may be pushed further into the, each or at least one corrugation groove 50. The bridging part 264 may be compressed. As shown in Figure 18, the compression fitting body 10c abuts against and compresses the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 224a. This forms a first fluid-tight seal between the main body 218 and the compression fitting body 10c. A second fluid-tight seal is formed between the main body 218 and the corrugated tubing 46.

[0159] Alternatively or additionally, the connector 10b abuts against the connector-abutment portion 224b. As the main body 218 preferably includes at least one deformable material, the abutment of the connector 10b results in the connector-abutment portion 224b being deformed, similarly to the previous embodiments. As illustrated in Figure 18, at least part of the connector-abutment portion 224b is moved into or further into a corrugation groove 50.

[0160] Referring now to Figures 19 to 22, there is shown in Figure 19 a fourth embodiment of an adapter sleeve 314 and an axial plane F. The fourth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 314 is similar the third embodiment of the adapter sleeve 214. Figure 20 illustrates a close-up of a cut-away of part of the main body 318, taken along axial plane F.

[0161] Features of the fourth embodiment which are the same or similar to the third embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “3” replacing the previous prefix. The fourth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 314 is similar to the third embodiment of the adapter sleeve 214, having same or similar bore 320, axially varying diameter, compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 324a, intermediate portion 324c, connector-abutment portion 324b, the connector-abutment portion 324b having an abutment region 330, one or more walls 336, the compression-fitting- body-abutment portion 324a having at least one and preferably a plurality of abutment surfaces 328, 329, one or more walls 336, terminal regions 338, at least one, preferably deformable, material and more preferably first material and second material distinct from the first material, the first material preferably comprising a polymeric material which may be plastics or an elastomer, such as rubber; the second material preferably including metal and / or a rigid plastics, at least one lip 342 and at least one, and more preferably, a plurality of protrusions 322. Detailed description of the common features and of the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0162] The kit of the fourth embodiment further comprises a secondary sleeve 360 the same as or similar to the secondary sleeve of the first embodiment. The secondary sleeve 360 is preferably provided, and more preferably extruded around the corrugated tubing. Detailed description of the common features and caveats of the secondary sleeve 360 is omitted for brevity.

[0163] A difference between the third and the fourth embodiments is that the abutment-corner 332 is preferably not chamfered in the fourth embodiment. More preferably, the abutment-corner 332 includes a sharp edge. Said sharp edge is abuttable against the connector 10b. In other words, the abutment-corner 332 includes at least two corner surfaces which are angled relative to each other. Preferably, the angle is a right angle.

[0164] Preferably, the sharp edge is continuous around the circumference of the adapter sleeve 314. However, discontinuous may be an option.

[0165] Furthermore, all of an inner face of the second sub-body 340b preferably contacts an outer face of the first sub-body 340a along all or at least a major extent of one or both faces. In other words, the fourth embodiment does not comprise one or more bracing elements extending axially beyond the first sub-body, unlike the second embodiment. However, this alternative may easily be envisioned.

[0166] The uses of the fourth embodiment are similar to those of the third embodiment. Detailed description of the common features and caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0167] If the secondary sleeve 360 is provided, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, the uses and caveats in relation to the secondary sleeve are the same or similar to those of the second embodiment. Detailed description of the common steps and the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0168] Referring now to Figures 23 to 26, there is shown in Figure 23 a fifth embodiment of an adapter sleeve 414 and an axial plane G. The fifth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 414 is similar to the fourth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 314. Figure 24 illustrates a close-up of a cut-away of part of the main body 418, taken along axial plane G.

[0169] Features of the fifth embodiment which are the same or similar to the fourth embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “4” replacing the previous prefix. The fifth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 414 is similar to the fourth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 314, having same or similar bore 420, axially varying diameter, compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 424a, intermediate portion 424c, connector-abutment portion 424b, the connector-abutment portion 424b having an abutment region 430, one or more walls 436, terminal regions 438, at least one, preferably deformable, material and more preferably first material and second material distinct from the first material, the first material preferably comprising a polymeric material which may be plastics or an elastomer, such as rubber; the second material preferably including metal and / or a rigid plastics. Detailed description of the common features and of the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0170] Preferably, in the fifth embodiment, there is only one protrusion 422, at least prior to any deformation, but any number including none, or a plurality of protrusions could be envisioned.

[0171] The intermediate portion 424c is preferably non-rectangular in axial cross-section. The intermediate portion 424c may have curvature, and more preferably curvature along the inner surface in axial cross-section. Preferably, the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 424a has only one abutment surface 429 which in-use faces, abuts or is abuttable against the compression fitting body 40c.

[0172] Once again, the second material preferably forms a layer, and more preferably a layer radially outwardly of the first material. The second sub-body 440b has a first end surface 444a and a second end surface 444b. Said layer preferably extends along at least one of and preferably all of: the connector-abutment portion 424b, the intermediate portion 424c, and the compression- fitting-body abutment portion 424a.

[0173] Furthermore, the main body 418 is preferably devoid any lips, however, one or more lips may be envisioned. The second end surface 444b of the second material preferably extends towards, and more preferably is flush with the inner surface 418b of the adapter sleeve 414 and / or of the connector-abutment portion 424b.

[0174] By extending along at least part of the outer surface 418a of the compression-fitting-body, the layer of second material provides a metal-on-second material abutment, instead of a metal-on- first material abutment. If the second material is metal, the fifth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 414 provides a metal-on-metal abutment between the compression fitting body 10c and the adapter sleeve 414.

[0175] In other words, the second material provides all or a major portion of the outer surface 418a of the adapter sleeve 414. The second material may or may not extend over one or both terminal regions 438.

[0176] The uses of the fifth embodiment are the same or similar to those of the fourth embodiment. Detailed description of the common steps and caveats is omitted for brevity. As illustrated most clearly in comparing Figure 25 and Figure 26, the connector-abutment portion 424b is deformed to such an extent that the second end surface 444b curves at least partly radially inwardly. Optionally, the second end surface 444b may face, or even enter into abutment with the corrugated tubing 46. The abutment may be direct or indirect, for example, if a secondary sleeve 460 is received around the corrugated tubing 46 between the corrugated tubing 46 and the main body 418.

[0177] If a secondary sleeve is provided, the uses and caveats in relation to the secondary sleeve are the same or similar to those of the second embodiment. Detailed description of the common steps and the caveats in relation to the secondary sleeve is, once again, omitted for brevity.

[0178] Referring now to Figures 27 to 30, there is shown in Figure 27 a sixth embodiment of an adapter sleeve 514 and an axial plane H. The sixth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 514 is similar to the first embodiment of the adapter sleeve 54. Figure 28 illustrates a close-up of a cut-away of part of the main body 518, taken along axial plane H.

[0179] Features of the sixth embodiment which are the same or similar to the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “5” added. The sixth embodiment of the adapter sleeve 514 is similar to the first embodiment of the adapter sleeve 14, having same or similar bore 520, axially varying diameter, compression-fitting-body-abutment portion 524a, intermediate portion 524c, connector-abutment portion 524b, the connector-abutment portion 524b having an abutment region 530, one or more walls 536, terminal regions 538, at least one, preferably deformable, material and more preferably first material and second material distinct from the first material, the first material preferably comprising a polymeric material which may be plastics or an elastomer, such as rubber; the second material preferably including a hard plastics and / or metal, and at least one protrusion 522. A frusto-conical abutment surface 529 is also present. Detailed description of the common features and of the caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0180] Preferably, in the sixth embodiment, the intermediate portion 524c is preferably non-rectangular in axial cross-section. The outer surface 518a and / or the inner surface 518b of the intermediate portion 524c may have curvature. As shown, the intermediate portion 524c has a generally circular shape in axial cross-section. The first sub-body 540a is circular in cross-section, although non-circular may be an option.

[0181] There is only one protrusion 522, at least prior to any deformation, but any number including none, or a plurality of protrusions could be envisioned. Preferably, if a protrusion 522 is provided, the protrusion 522 is preferably part of the intermediate portion 524c. Here, the protrusion 522 is formed by a sector of the circular first sub-body 540a. Preferably, the protrusion 522 has an axial dimension such that when the corrugated tubing 46 is received within the adapter sleeve 514 and the protrusion 522 is seated within a corrugation groove 50, the protrusion 522 contacts the walls of two different corrugations, as shown.

[0182] Preferably, no lips are provided in the sixth embodiment.

[0183] The sixth embodiment is preferably a symmetric adapter sleeve 514.

[0184] The second material preferably, once again, forms a layer having a first end surface 544a and a second end surface 544b. Said layer preferably extends along at least one of and preferably all of: the connector-abutment portion 524b, the intermediate portion 524c, and the compression- fitting-body abutment portion 524a. Preferably, the first end surface 544a and one of the terminal regions 538 are one and the same in the sixth embodiment. Similarly, the second end surface 544b and the other of the terminal regions 538 are preferably also one and the same in the sixth embodiment.

[0185] Beneficially, the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b may only include one material. More preferably yet, the material is the second material. In other words, the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b are preferably devoid of first material.

[0186] Unlike previous embodiments, the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b only comprise one wall 536. The compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b taper with increasing distance from the intermediate portion 524c. The compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b taper towards their respective terminal regions 538. The inner faces 518b of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and of the connectorabutment portion 524b may be parallel or colinear with each other in axial cross-section, as shown in Figure 28, but non-parallel and non-colinear may be an option. The outer face 518a of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and the connector-abutment portion 524b are preferably non-parallel and non-colinear in axial cross-section, but parallel or colinear with each other may be an option.

[0187] As one or both the compression-fitting-body portion 524a and the connector-abutment portion 524b are preferably formed only of second material, the abutment between the adapter sleeve 514 and at least one of: the corrugated tubing 46, the connector 10b, and the compression fitting body 10c is a metal-on-second material abutment. If the second material is metal, the abutment is therefore a metal-on-metal abutment.

[0188] The uses of the sixth embodiment are the same or similar to those of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the common steps and caveats is omitted for brevity.

[0189] In the sixth embodiment, the protrusion 522, which is part of the intermediate body 524c, is inserted into a corrugation groove 50. Prior to deformation, as illustrated in Figure 29, the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and / or the connector-abutment portion 524b do not extend into any corrugation groove 50, unlike the first embodiment.

[0190] Upon compression by the compression fitting 10, one or, preferably both, the compression-fitting- body abutment portion 524a and the connector-abutment portion 524b are deformed. Upon deformation, one or both of the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and the connector-abutment portion 524b enter at least in part into a corrugation groove 50, as shown in Figure 30. There is preferably no interplay between the main body and the secondary sleeve in the sixth embodiment, although this alternative may be envisioned. Advantageously, the axial length of the main body 518 is “matched” to the corrugation pitch, such that upon tightening the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and the connector-abutment portion 524b enter corresponding corrugation grooves 50. If the axial length of the main body 518 were slightly longer or shorter, then either the compression-fitting-body abutment portion 524a and the connectorabutment portion 524b, or both would start to deform around a corrugation peak.

[0191] Although the second material in all embodiments is provided radially outwardly of the first material, in an alternative embodiment, the second material may extend through the first material, or even may be radially inwardly relative to the first material in any of the above embodiments. Although the secondary sleeve is preferably part of the kit and provided with the corrugated tubing, it may easily be envisioned that a secondary sleeve or cover may be provided as part of the adapter sleeve. Corrugated tubing may be inserted, such as slidably inserted, into the secondary sleeve. The secondary sleeve may therefore be movable relative to the corrugated tubing in alternative embodiments.

[0192] Any of the features and caveats that apply to one of the embodiments may easily be provided or applicable to any of the other embodiments.

[0193] Whilst a preferred shape may have been specified for any of the above-described features, any alternative shape may be envisioned in any of transverse or lateral cross-section, longitudinal cross-section, in side view, or in plan view. The shape may be any or any combination of: curved, part curved, non-curved, linear, part linear, non-linear, a broken line, any polygon, whether regular or irregular, having one or more chamfered and / or rounded corners, a triangle, a quadrilateral, such as a square, a rectangle, a trapezium, a trapezoid, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, or any other polygon, a cross, an ellipse, a circle, part circular, an oval, or any abstract shape.

[0194] It is therefore possible to provide an adapter sleeve which conforms to corrugations of a corrugated tube by virtue of being deformable to provide or improve a fluid-tight seal when used in a compression fitting. The adapter sleeve may further prevent or inhibit pull-out of the corrugated tube by being at least in part insertable into a corrugation groove. If the adapter sleeve includes two different materials, one of which having a greater rigidity than the other, the material with greater rigidity may function as a backbone or shaping element. It is therefore also possible to provide a kit comprising the adapter sleeve and at least part of a conventional compression fitting. It is further possible to provide a method of adapting a conventional compression fitting to be usable with length of corrugated tubing. This is achieved by replacing a conventional olive with an adapter sleeve that is preferably deformable.

[0195] The words ‘comprises / comprising’ and the words ‘having / including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0196] The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.

Claims

Claims1. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) for connecting corrugated tubing (46) to a compression fitting (10), the corrugated tubing (46) having at least one corrugation groove, the compression fitting including a compression fitting body (10c) and a connector (10b) complementarily coupleable with the compression fitting body (10c), the deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) comprising: a main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) including an axially-extending bore (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) for the corrugated tubing (46) to be received within, and a protrusion (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522) extending at least partially in a radial direction for insertion into the or a first corrugation groove such that the diameter of the bore (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) varies axially; wherein the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) includes a deformable material for enabling further insertion of at least part of the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) into the first corrugation groove or a second corrugation groove by deformation of the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) and the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) further comprises a further material distinct from the deformable material, the further material being provided as a layer radially outwardly of the deformable material (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518).

2. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the deformable material includes a polymeric material.

3. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the polymeric material includes plastics or an elastomer, and optionally, the elastomer is rubber.

4. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the further material extends along at least a major axial extent of the main body.

5. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deformable material and / or the further material includes metal.

6. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the further material includes brass.

7. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) includes a compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) for abutting against the compression fitting body (10c), and a connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) for abutting against the connector (10b), and optionally, an intermediate portion (24c; 124c; 224c; 324c; 424c; 524c), provided between the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and the connectorabutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b).

8. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and the connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) are spaced apart axially by an adapter-sleeve distance, the adapter-sleeve distance being selected to match or substantially match a distance or a multiple of a distance between two corrugation peaks of the corrugated tubing (46) having at least two corrugation grooves for enabling the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and the connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) to enter a corrugation groove each upon tightening of the deformable adapter sleeve.

9. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein at least part of the layer of further material extends along the compression-fitting-body- abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and / or the connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) for abutment of the layer of further material against the mouth of the compression fitting body (10c) and / or against the connector (10b), respectively.

10. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 314) as claimed in any one of the claims 7 to 9, wherein the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 324a) and / or the connectorabutment portion (24b; 124b; 324b) comprises a corner (32; 132; 332) in axial cross-section.

11. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the corner (32; 132; 332) in axial cross-section is chamfered.

12. A deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) comprises a plurality of protrusions (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522).

13. A kit of parts for connecting a conventional compression fitting to a length of corrugated tubing, the kit comprising: the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) as claimed in any of the preceding claims; and at least one of: the connector (10b) and the compression fitting body (10c).

14. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 13, further including a length of corrugated tubing (46).

15. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14, further comprising a secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460).

16. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15 when depending on claim 14, wherein the corrugated tubing (46) has an outer diameter measured at a corrugation peak thereof, the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing (46) being within the range of one of: between 11 mm and 12 mm, between 14 and 15 mm, between 19 mm and 20 mm, between 21 mm and 22mm, between 24 mm and 25 mm, between 27mm and 28 mm, and between 34 mm and 35 mm.

17. A kit as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16 when depending on claim 15, where the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) has an outer diameter measured from an outer surface of the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460), the outer diameter of the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) is within the range of: between 11.5 mm and 12.5 mm, between 14.5 mm and 15.5 mm, between 19.5 mm and 20.5 mm, between 21.5 mm and 22.5 mm, between 24.5 mm and 25.5 mm, between 27.5 mm and 28.5 mm, and between 34.5 mm and 35.5 mm.

18. A kit as claimed in claim 14 or any one of claims 15 to 17 when depending on claim 14, wherein the length of corrugated tubing (12) has at least two corrugation grooves, and wherein the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) is a deformable adapter sleeve having a compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and a connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) that are spaced apart axially by an adapter-sleeve distance, the adapter-sleeve distance being selected to match or substantially match a distance or a multiple of a distance between two corrugation peaks of the corrugated tubing (12) for enabling the compression-fitting-body-abutment portion (24a; 124a; 224a; 324a; 424a; 524a) and the connector-abutment portion (24b; 124b; 224b; 324b; 424b; 524b) to enter a corrugation groove each upon tightening of the deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514).

19. A method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing having at least one corrugation groove, the method comprising the steps of: a] placing a connector (10b) of a conventional compression fitting (10) around the length of corrugated tubing (12); b] placing around the corrugated tubing (12) a deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) having a main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) including a bore (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) of axially-varying diameter, and being at least in part formed of a deformable material and of a further material distinct from the deformable material, the further material being provided as a layer radially outwardly of the deformable material; c] placing a compression fitting body (10c) of a conventional compression fitting (10) around the corrugated tubing (12), such that the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) is within the conventional compression fitting (10); d] moving the connector (10b) relative to the compression fitting body (10c) so that the compression fitting (10) enters into abutment with the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) and exerts thereupon a force sufficient to deform at least part of the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) into at least partly entering a said corrugation groove for forming or improving a first fluid-tight seal between the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) and thecorrugated tubing (12), and for forming or improving a second fluid-tight seal between the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) and the compression fitting (10).

20. A method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising a step e] prior to step a] of obtaining a conventional compression fitting (10), optionally comprising an olive (10a).

21. A method as claimed in claim 20, wherein the conventional compression fitting (10) is in an assembled configuration and the method comprises a further step f] after step e] and before step a] of disassembling the conventional compression fitting (10) and omitting the olive (10a) if provided.

22. A method as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 , wherein the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) comprises a main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) having a compression- fitting-body-abutment portion and a connector-abutment portion, at least one of the portions comprising a terminal region, and in step d], following deformation of the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518), each or at least one terminal region is positioned radially inwardly of an inner surface of the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518).

23. A method as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein a secondary sleeve is provided around the length of corrugated tubing (12), and the method comprises a further step g] prior to step a] of selecting an axial location along the corrugated tubing (12) and cutting the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) at the selected axial location such that the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) and the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) overlap.

24. A method of adapting a conventional compression fitting for use with a length of corrugated tubing (12) having at least one corrugation groove and a secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) provided around the length of corrugated of tubing (12), the method comprising the steps of: a] selecting an axial location along the corrugated tubing (12) and cutting the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) at the selected axial location; b] placing a connector (10b) of a conventional compression fitting (10) around the length of corrugated tubing (12), the secondary sleeve being positioned between the corrugated tubing (12) and the connector (10b); c] placing around the corrugated tubing (12) a deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514)having a main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) including a bore (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) of axially-varying diameter, and being at least in part formed of a deformable material and of a further material distinct from the deformable material, the further material being provided as a layer radially outwardly of the deformable material, the deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) overlapping with the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) along at least part of the axial extent of the deformable adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514);d] placing a compression fitting body (10c) of a conventional compression fitting around the corrugated tubing (12), such that the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) is within the conventional compression fitting (10); and e] moving the connector (10b) relative to the compression fitting body (10c) so that the compression fitting (10) enters into abutment with the adapter sleeve (14; 114; 214; 314; 414;514) and exerts thereupon a force sufficient to deform at least part of the main body into at least partly entering a said corrugation groove and compressing the secondary sleeve (160; 360; 460) against length of corrugated tubing (12) for forming or improving a first fluid-tight seal between the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518) and the corrugated tubing (12), and for forming or improving a second fluid-tight seal between the main body (18; 118; 218; 318; 418;518) and the compression fitting (10).

25. A method as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the corrugated tubing (12) has an outer diameter measured at a corrugation peak thereof, the outer diameter of the corrugated tubing being within the range of one of: between 11 mm and 12 mm, between 14 and 15 mm, between 19 mm and 20 mm, between 21 mm and 22 mm, between 24 mm and 25 mm, between 27mm and 28 mm, and between 34 mm and 35 mm.

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