A tube connector

Abstract

A tube connector (20) to secure a tube, having a collet (25) with a collet ring (27) at an end to limit the movement of an O-ring (26) and with resilient collet legs (28) with teeth (31). A cap (23) is fitted to the body (21) to retain the collet and to push the teeth (31) into engagement with the tube. Between teeth (31) and ring (27) the collet (25) has one outwardly extending projection (37) to abut the proximal end of the body. The cap has at least one recess (34) for a release tool (40) which can plastically displace one flexible lug (62) extending across the recess (34). Between the teeth (31) and the collet ring (27), the collet (25) has at least one radially extending alignment projection (70) to engage with the inner wall of the body (21) to limit the radial deflection of the collet.

Description

[0001] A TUBE CONNECTOR

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a tube connector to receive and secure and tube. The connector is primarily designed as a plumbing connector, but may be used in any situation where it is desirable to retain a tube, for example, for an air / gas or cable. In particular, the disclosure relates to an adaptation of our known Speedfit (RTM) connector as shown in Figure 1.

[0003] This shows a connector with a hollow body 1 with an axial through bore or passage 2. On at least one proximal end of the body 1 is a cap 3 which is screwed onto the body 1 by complimentary screw thread 4. A collet 5 passes through the end cap 3 so as to be exposed at an open end 6 of the connector. The collet 5 comprises a collet ring 7 which is exposed at the open end 6 and a plurality of resilient legs 8 that extend into the cap 3 where they each terminate at an enlarged head 9, the inner face of which has a gripping tooth 10. A spacer ring 11 is provided distally of the collet 6 to retain the O-ring 12 in place to separate this from the collet 5.

[0004] When a tube is placed into this connector, the end caps 3 are screwed down from the position shown in Figure 1 until they abut or are otherwise adjacent a shoulder 13 on the body 1 . In this position, the cap inhibits axial movement of the collet in at least one direction, such as the axial direction). In this configuration, any attempt to remove the tube from the connector will cause the teeth 10 to bite into the tube and this forces the head 9 of the collet against a cap angle 14 in the cap 3 such that the teeth 10 bite progressively harder into the tube. This helps to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent removal of the tube.

[0005] In order to release the tube, the cap 3 has to be screwed into the position shown in Figure 1 . The user can then hold the collet 5 in an inward position by applying proximal axial pressure to the collet ring 7. This will prevent the teeth 10 from gripping the tube allowing it to be withdrawn from the connector.

[0006] A simpler version of this design is known in which the cap is fixed with respect to the body. In this case, in order to remove the tube, it is simply necessary to hold the collet down as previously described in order to remove the tube. These connectors have been very successful, largely because of the simplicity of engaging, gripping and releasing the tube as described above.

[0007] However, the simplicity of the connector does deter use of the connector in some circumstances as some plumbers or installers do not trust the simple demount operation. Instead, they may prefer a connector which requires a tool in order to disengage the connector. The requirement for a tool also has a security benefit in that it can prevent the connection from being released unless the person doing the releasing has the appropriate tool.

[0008] CN105972359 discloses a connector which uses a split ring ferrule rather than a collet with a collet ring with a plurality of resilient legs to grip the tube. Gripping of the tube is therefore done by a pair of axially spaced split annular teeth.

[0009] FR2590648 discloses a connector with a clamp in which the jaws of the clamp bear against an inclined face on the body to urge them to grip a pipe in the connector. A cap is fitted over the body and has an inclined face which, upon moving the cap into the connector pushes the jaws away from the pipe to release the pipe.

[0010] A product produced by Hepworth as part of their BiTite range uses a collet in an inverted configuration. This has an end cap which is screwed onto a body which keeps the O ring and collet in place. The collet bears directly against the O ring.

[0011] A connector with an inverted collet is shown in EP0863356. This again has a removable end cap which has to be removed to unlock the connector. It has a spacer ring extending into the body to support the O ring. The collet is then received within the spacer ring.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet positioned within the body to limit the movement of the O-ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein between the teeth and ring the collet has at least one outwardly extending projection sized and positioned to abut the proximal end of the body.

[0013] As compared to the above described conventional connector, the present connector has the collet is in the opposite orientation. As a result of this, it is not possible to hold the collet teeth away from the tube by pressing upon an exposed part of the collet as described above.

[0014] By using the collet ring to limit movement of the O ring, the additional bulk and complexity required by the spacer ring in EP0863356 is eliminated.

[0015] By using a collet with a collet ring with a plurality of resilient legs to grip the tube, the connector has a fundamentally different gripping arrangement than CN105972359.

[0016] By providing a cap angle on the cap to push the teeth towards the tube, the connector is fundamentally different from FR2590648 which instead uses the cap to provide a release mechanism.

[0017] The at least one outward projection limits the extent to which the collet can extend into the body. In the Hepworth connector a tube may be inserted into the connector at an angle such that it may press against one side of the collet. This can cause the collet to be skewed slightly in the connector. In the present case, even if the collet is skewed on insertion of the tube, the at least one outward projection means that this action should not be able to dislodge the O-ring as it prevents the collet ring from exerting too much pressure on the O- ring.

[0018] The at least one projection may allow the collet to come into contact with the O-ring. Alternatively, the at least one projection is sized and positioned such that, when it abuts the proximal end of the body, the collet ring is spaced from the O-ring. This provides further protection for the O-ring

[0019] In one example, the connector may be a single use connector for which, once the tube has been inserted, it cannot be released without destroying the connector. In an alternative example in which the connector is reusable, the opening in the cap may have at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

[0020] Thus, in order to release the connector, it is not simply a matter of pushing on the end of the connector. Instead, the separate tool is required to be inserted into the connector. This provides a tamper proof benefit in that a special tool is required to disconnect the connector. It also allows the design of the connector to be simplified. Effectively, the prior art connector requires each connector to be permanently provided with its own release mechanism. In the present example, the release mechanism is not integrated into the connector. Rather, the release mechanism is provided by a separate tool and a single tool can be used to disengage multiple connectors.

[0021] As described above, the prior art locking mechanism firstly requires rotation of the cap in order to allow the collet to be held away from the tube. This provides some protection against accidental release of the tube. However, now that the collet is not configured to be released by external axial pressure, it cannot be accidently dislodged. As such, there is no need for the cap to provide a rotatable locking sleeve. In one example, therefore, the cap is axially fixed with respect to the body. Again, this simplifies the structure of the connector as the screw threaded connection between the cap and body can be eliminated. This allows the connector to have a lower profile design. In other examples, the rotatable cap can be retained, particularly, to allow the present disclosure to be used in conjunction with the existing body.

[0022] When the cap is axially fixed with respect to the body, there is generally less space to allow the teeth to be held away from the tube by the tool. This can be achieved by providing a relatively large radial clearance between the collet and the cap angle. However, this can compromise the ability of the cap angle to fulfil its function. Therefore, the collet may be axially moveable when, in use, the collet receives a tube and is in a fully engaged position. In this case, when the tube is moved proximally, the engagement between the teeth and the tube will pick up the collet and move this proximally in order for the cap angle to come into effect. When the tool is inserted, as well as deflecting the collet legs radially outwardly, this can also urge the collet in a distal direction thereby keeping the legs away from the cap angle and allowing sufficient clearance for radial outward deflection of the collet legs. The collet may extend proximally of the cap. However, if the cap extends proximally beyond the collet the collet may be fully contained within the cap. This provides protection against accidental movement of the collet.

[0023] The collet ring may be a continuous ring. The collet ring may project radially outwardly with respect to the collet legs. The cap may only have a single cap angle. The only teeth may be at the proximal end of the collet. Each collet leg may have an enlarged head which engages, in use, with the cap angle.

[0024] In the event that the connector requires disconnection, the disclosure also extends to a combination of a tube connector and a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

[0025] The release tool may be a single piece fitted into one side of the connector, or may be made of several parts separately fitted into the connector. In one example, it may have a split ring configuration, with sufficient resilience for the tool to be fitted in a radial direction over the tube before being moved axially into the connector. This allows the tool to be a single piece and to be fitted laterally over the tube extending from the connector and then axially into the connector in a manner in which it extends around a substantial portion of the connector and can therefore engage with multiple parts of the collet.

[0026] The release tool may have a radially extending flange portion providing a bearing surface via which a user can, in use, push the tool axially into the connector and an engagement portion extending axially from the flange to enter the connector. This allows for easy manipulation of the tool. As this flange is not permanently part of the connector it can be much bigger than the exposed part of the collet which needs to be depressed to release the conventional connector.

[0027] The engagement portion may comprise a plurality of engagement elements or features, such as engagement prongs, arranged circumferentially, and wherein the connector requires each of the engagement elements to be inserted in order to allow release of the tube. This provides a connector which cannot simply be released by placing a single blade, or some other suitable item, into one side of the connector. In an unstressed state and at its greatest or outermost circumferential extent, the tool may extend through an angle of at least 270 degrees in one example configuration. In additional or alternative configurations, the angle may be at least 280 degrees, at least 290 degrees, at least 300 degrees, at least 310 degrees, at least 320 degrees, at least 330 degrees. This helps it to surround a significant part of the connector.

[0028] The tool may have a chamfered end face which is complementary with a chamfered end face of the collet legs. This helps it to fit within the collet.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein the opening in the cap has at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a release tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube; wherein the collet extends proximally into the at least one recess.

[0030] By extending the collet into the at least one recess, the ability of dirt and debris to enter the recess is reduced. This will also improve the appearance of the connector and remove / reduce any perception amongst users that the presence of open recesses may compromise the performance of the connector.

[0031] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein the opening in the cap has at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a release tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube; wherein the cap has at least one flexible lug extending across the at least one recess configured such that the lug is displaceable by the release tool to allow the insertion of the release tool into the cap.

[0032] By providing at least one flexible lug extending across the at least one recess the ability of dirt and debris to enter the recess is reduced. This will also improve the appearance of the connector and remove / reduce any perception amongst users that the presence of open recesses may compromise the performance of the connector.

[0033] The flexible lugs may be resiliently deformable or may be designed to shear. However, optionally, at least one flexible lug is configured to be plastically deformed when deflected towards the cap.

[0034] In this case, the application of the release tool or other object into the cap will cause plastic deformation of at least one flexible lug. This provides a lasting visual indication that the connector has been released, or at least that an attempt to release the connector has been made. Such a visual indication is useful in a number of circumstances. For example, if an installer has been on site and installed a number of connectors, and then returns at a later date to complete the installation, they have a clear visual indication of whether any of the connectors that they have previously installed have subsequently been disconnected, For example a subsequent worker may wish to undo a pipe connection in order for them to instal items such as electrical wiring or panelling. In this case, the original installer is alerted to the fact that the connector has been interfered with and can, if necessary, take appropriate remedial action.

[0035] Alternatively, in the event of a fault occurring in the connector, it is best practice for the installer to cut the pipework adjacent to the connector and return the pipework and connector to the manufacturer for further diagnosis of the fault condition. With the plastically deformable tabs, the manufacturer is provided with a clear visual indication of whether the connection has been disconnected which is useful diagnostic information.

[0036] Preferably the interface between the cap and at least one flexible lug is arcuate. When the lug is plastically deformed, it essentially hinges about the interface between the cap and lug. Making this hinge arcuate increases the resistance to the lug tending to return to its undeformed condition thereby maintaining a more striking visual indication that the tab has been deformed.

[0037] The undeformed tabs optionally extend at an angle of 25 to 65 degrees and optionally 35 to 55 degrees with respect to the adjacent wall of the cap. Optionally, the tabs are between 0.2 and 0.8mm thick and optionally between 0.3 and 0.6mm thick.

[0038] The cap and collet may be the same colour. However, optionally they are different colours. When the tabs have been plastically deformed, the contrasting colour of the adjacent part of the collet makes the fact that the lugs have been deformed more visually striking.

[0039] The third aspect of the disclosure extends to a combination of the above tube connector and a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube. In this case, at least one flexible lug is optionally configured to be plastically deformed by insertion of the release tool.

[0040] According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet positioned within the body to limit the movement of the O-ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein between the teeth and the collet ring, the collet has at least one radially extending alignment projection sized and positioned to engage with the inner wall of the body to limit the radial deflection of the collet within the body.

[0041] With the collet in the configuration in which it is inverted as compared to a conventional collet it is limited from moving radially at its distal end by the presence of the collet ring. However, it is possible that the collet could be skewed in the assembly process at the proximal end of the collet such that the collet is not central within the connector. This can cause problems for the insertion of the tube which can further displace the collet. In order to prevent this, the radially extending alignment projections engage with the inner diameter of the body to limit the range of deflection of the collet within the body. This helps to ensure that the collet is centred within the connector thereby facilitating the insertion of the tube. Optionally the collet ring extends radially outwardly beyond the collet legs. Optionally the alignment projections and collet ring are positioned in a part of the body with the same inner diameter

[0042] The connectors of the second to fourth aspects may have the optional features of the first aspect. The connectors of the second to fourth aspects may be provided in combination with a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

[0043] Examples of connectors and a tool in accordance with the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Fig.1 is a cross-section through a prior art connector;

[0045] Fig.2 is an exploded perspective view of a first connector;

[0046] Fig .3 is an assembled cross sectioned perspective view of the first connector;

[0047] Fig.4 is an exploded cross sectioned perspective view of the first connector and the tool; Fig.5 is a partial cross-section through the first connector and also showing the tube;

[0048] Fig.6 is a view similar to Fig.5 with the tube inserted into the connector;

[0049] Fig.7 is a perspective view of the first connector with the tube inserted and showing the tool in the pre-engaging position;

[0050] Fig.8 is a view similar to Fig.7 showing the tool partially engaged;

[0051] Fig.9 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in Fig.8;

[0052] Fig .10 is a view similar to Fig.9 with the tool showing fully inserted into the connector;

[0053] Fig .11 is a view similar to Fig .10 with the tube partially removed from the connector;

[0054] Fig .12 is a view similar to Fig .3 of a second connector in accordance with the first and second aspects;

[0055] Fig.13 is a view similar to Fig.6 of the second connector;

[0056] Fig.14 is a view similar to Fig.10 of the second connector;

[0057] Fig .15 is a view similar to Fig.3 of a third connector in accordance with the first and third aspects;

[0058] Fig .16 is a cross section of the third connector; Fig .17 is a view similar to Fig.3 of a fourth connector;

[0059] Fig .18 is a cross section of the fourth connector;

[0060] Fig .19 is an end view of a fifth connector prior to insertion of a tube;

[0061] Fig.20 a cross-sectional view of the fifth connector with the tube fully inserted;

[0062] Fig.21 is a view similar to Fig .19 with the tube inserted;

[0063] Fig.22 is a view similar to Fig.20 showing the release tool prior to insertion;

[0064] Fig.23 is a view similar to Fig.22 showing the release tool fully inserted into the connector; Fig.24 is a view similar to Fig.23 after the tube has been removed with the release tool still in place; and

[0065] Figs.25 to 27 are views similar to Figs.19 to 21 showing the connector after the release tool has been removed.

[0066] A first example of a connector will now be described with reference to Figs. 2 to 11 .

[0067] The specification references proximal and distal ends and directions. The proximal end is the open end of the connector and the distal end is the end furthest from the open end. The proximal direction is the direction from the distal end towards the proximal end, i.e. out of the connector. The distal direction is the direction from the proximal end towards the distal end, i.e. into the connector.

[0068] The illustrated connector 20 has only one connection. A similar arrangement may be provided at the opposite end of the connector. Alternatively, the connector may include an elbow, tee, end stop or end, manifold with branches or any other suitable shape or fitting configuration. In other cases, the connector 20 may be provided for one joint and a different type of connector may be used for other joints. As a further alternative, the connector 20 may be part of a larger component and provide a means to connect the larger component to a tube, such as a valve or other plumbing installation or apparatus.

[0069] The connector 20 comprises a body 21 with an axial through bore 22. A cap 23 is threaded onto the body 21 via a complementary screw thread 24. It may alternatively be a snap fit. A collet 25 is retained within the body 21 and cap 23 and an O-ring 26 is provided to seal with the outer wall of a tube T inserted into the connector. The collet 25 comprises a collet ring 27 from which a plurality of flexible collet legs 28 extend towards an open end 29 of the connector. Each collet leg 28 has an enlarged head 30 which is provided with an inwardly facing angled tooth 31 .

[0070] The O-ring 26 is captive between the collet ring 27 and a shoulder 32 formed as part of the through bore 22.

[0071] As compared to the conventional connector shown in Fig .1 , it will be appreciated that the collet 25 is positioned the opposite way round with the collet ring 27 innermost. This allows the O-ring 26 to be supported by the collet ring without requiring a separate spacer ring.

[0072] The cap 23 extends proximally beyond the collet head 30 so as to fully surround it. The inner face of the cap 23 is provided with a cap angle 33 as described below.

[0073] The inner face of the cap 23 at the open end 29 is provided with a number of circumferentially arranged recess 34 around a central opening 35 for insertion of a release tool 40 as described below.

[0074] The manner in which the connector 20 is connected to a tube T will now be described with reference to Figs.5 and 6.

[0075] The connector 20, can be operated with the cap 23 in the ‘locked’ position. In other words, there is no need to actuate or move the cap 23 between different positions in order to either insert or release the tube T.

[0076] Even though the cap 23 is fully screwed onto the body 21 , the cap angle 33 is relatively long such that there is still enough clearance between the cap angle 33 and the collet heads 30 for the collet legs 28 to be deflected radially outwardly to allow the insertion of the tube.

[0077] In an alternative design the cap angle may be shorter such that it is necessary to unscrew the cap to an unlocked position to allow sufficient clearance for the tube T to be inserted. The tube T then enters the collet 25 thereby deflecting the legs 28 outwardly to allow the tube T to be inserted past the O-ring 26 until it reaches an end stop 36. This position is shown in Fig. 6.

[0078] In this configuration, any attempt to remove the tube T by pulling it proximally will cause the angled teeth 31 to grip the wall of the tube. Outward deflection of the collet legs 28 is prevented by engagement of the heads 30 with the cap angle 33 which ensures that the greater the force that is applied to the tube T, the greater the extent to which the teeth 31 grip the tube.

[0079] In order to limit the extent to which the collet 25 can enter the body 21 , the collet has a outwardly extending flanges 37 extending radially outwardly from the legs 28. As shown, for example, in Fig 5, these flanges 37 abut on an axial end face 38 of the body 21 . This creates a gap 39 between the O-ring 26 and the collet ring 27.

[0080] During the above described insertion process for the tube T, if the tube is inserted at an angle, it may push against the heads 30 on only one side of the collet. As the extent to which the collet 25 can enter the body 21 is limited by the flanges 37, this abnormal loading will not allow the collet to press against one side of the O-ring which might otherwise dislodge it. The exact arrangement of the flanges 37 is not important, provided that they can prevent this inadvertent movement of the collet particularly when loaded asymmetrically.

[0081] Before describing the release of the tube T, the release tool 40 will be described with reference to Figs. 4, 7 and 8.

[0082] The release tool 40 is a single injection moulded component. It comprises a flange 41 having a generally annular configuration and a plurality of engagement portions 42 which extend axially from the inner edge of the flange 41 . Each engagement portion 42 has a generally arcuate cross-section and is complementary with the recesses 34 on the opening 35 in the cap 23. An open gap 45 is provided through both the flange 41 and engagement portions 42 to give the tool 40 a split-ring configuration.

[0083] The manner in which the release tool 40 is used to release the connector will now be described with reference to Figs. 7 to 11. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the release tool 40 is presented to the connector 20 by being moved in a radial direction towards the tube T in the vicinity of the connector 20. The gap 45 is pushed against the tube T and this spreads the ring. Upon further pushing, the resilience of the release tool 40 causes the tool to move back into its unstressed position as shown in Figs. 8 and 9 in which it surrounds the tube T. If necessary, the release tool 40 can then be rotated such that the engagement portions 42 are in alignment with the recesses 34 in the cap 23.

[0084] Once both components are in the correct position, the user presses on the flange 41 causing the engagement portions 42 to enter the recesses 34. The ends of the engagement portions 42 are provided with a chamfer 46 which enters the collet 25 pushing the heads 30 radially outwardly, thereby disengaging the teeth 31 from the tube T as shown in Fig.10. The flanges 37 have a slight radial clearance with the cap 23 allowing the legs 28 to be deflected out to the required extent. Alternatively, there may be no clearance outside of the flanges 37, but the legs 28 would need to be longer and / or more flexible to allow the required deflection. With the tool in this position, the tube T can now be pulled proximally out of the connector 20 as shown in Fig.11 . While this happens, the tool 40 keeps the teeth 31 away from the tube T. Once the tube T is removed, the release tool 40 can simply be pulled distally out of the connector 20.

[0085] A second connector is shown in Figs 12 to 14 and the same reference numerals designate the same components. The second connector essentially operates in the same manner as the first. The only modification is that the collet legs 28 have an axial extension 50 each of which extends into a respective recess 34. This means that there is not such a large gap apparent at the proximal end of the connector surrounding the tube T. As shown in Fig 14, the tool 40 is shaped to fit inside the extensions 50 to deflect the collet legs 28 outwardly. The tool end face has a stop surface 51 which abuts against the proximal end of the extensions to prevent over insertion of the tool.

[0086] Although this example shows the collet extensions 50 in combination with the flanges 37, the extensions 50 could equally be used on a collet which does not have flanges 37.

[0087] A third connector is shown in Figs 15 and 16 and the same reference numerals designate the same components. The third connector essentially operates in the same manner as the first. The only modification is that the cap has a flexible lug 60 in each recess 34. As shown in Fig. 16, the lugs extend distally and inwardly from the proximal end of the cap 23. The lugs 60 have a similar function to the extensions 50 in that they fill a significant portion of the recesses 34. The connector operates in the same manner as described above except that the tool T deflects the lugs 60 radially outwardly as it is inserted into the connector.

[0088] A fourth connector is shown in Figs 17 and 18. This is the same as the third design but has two flexible lugs 61 in each recess 34.

[0089] Although these example show the flexible lugs 60 and 61 in combination with the flanges 37, the flexible lugs 60 and 61 could equally be used on a connector which does not have flanges 37 on the collet.

[0090] A fifth connector is shown in Figs.19 to 27. This is generally the same as the third and fourth connectors and the differences will be described below.

[0091] In the fifth connector, three flexible lugs 62 are provided in each recess 34. As can be seen in Fig.19, recesses 34 are separated by the radially extending bosses 63 which have arcuate inner surfaces 64 which maintain the tube T in a central position despite the presence of the recesses 34.

[0092] Fig.20 shows the fifth connector in its operational position in which it retains and seals the tube T. Fig.22 shows the release tool 40 in the same position as Fig.9, and Fig.23 shows the release tool fully inserted in a manner corresponding to Fig.10. In this position, the collet heads 30 and teeth 31 are held away from the tube T allowing removal of the tube T as shown in Fig.24.

[0093] In this fifth example, the lugs 62 are configured such that, when the release tool 40 is inserted in the position shown in Fig.23, this deflects the lugs 62 radially outwardly to the extent that the lugs 62 hinge about their interface with the cap. They are deflected beyond their elastic limit and plastically deform at least at the interface with the cap 23. Upon the removal of the release tool 40, as depicted in Figs.25 to 27, the lugs 62 remain deflected radially outwardly such that there is a clear visual difference in the open end 29 of the connector. This is apparent from a comparison of Figs.19 and 25, Figs.20 and 26 and Figs.21 and 27. If the collet 25 is made of a different colour material from the cap 23, this makes this difference even more visually striking. For example, if the cap 23 is made of a white or black plastic, collet 25 may be grey. Alternatively, if the cap 23 is grey the collet 25 may be black or white. Any contrasting colour pair will serve to enhance this difference.

[0094] As will be appreciated from Fig.25, the join between each lug 62 and the cap 23 follows an arcuate path. The lugs 62 are essentially hinged at this interface. Because this fold line is non-linear, this limits the extent to which the deformed tabs 62 return to their original position thereby ensuring the gap remains easily visible.

[0095] As shown in Fig.27, the bosses 63 maintain contact with the tube T thereby ensuring that the tube T is centred within the connector even when the tabs 62 are deflected outwardly.

[0096] It will be apparent from the description of the third to fifth examples, that the number and form of the deformable tabs is variable. Additionally, the number of recesses 34 and hence the number and form of the radial bosses 63 are also variable.

[0097] The cap 23 and hence the tabs 62 may be made from filled Nylons such as PA6, or PA66, with mineral or glass fibre fillers. Other grades of Nylon, Polysulfone (PSU) or Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) can also be used. The thickness of the tabs is determined by the material of the connector and is chosen to ensure reliable plastic deformation of the tabs upon insertion of the release tool 40. The thickness of the tabs is chosen to ensure reliable plastic deformation of the tabs upon insertion of the release tool 40. The tabs may be between 0.2 and 0.6mm thick and may be approximately 0.3mm thick.

[0098] In Figs. 20 and 22, the tabs 62 are shown extending at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the inner wall of the cap 23 to which they are mounted. They may, however, be mounted between 25 to 65 degrees.

[0099] In most installations, the installer will install the cap and pipe in the manner as described. In a few cases, it is necessary to apply the release tool 40 in order to release the connector. Usually, an installer will make up multiple connections in the course of a site visit without using the release tool 40 and without undoing any of the connectors. In any subsequent inspection, for example if the installer returns to the site at a later date, it will be immediately apparent from the position of the tabs 62 that an attempt has been made to release the connector. If this is the case, the installer can investigate further whether the connection has been compromised in any way.

[0100] It should be noted that tabs 62 have no part in the sealing and gripping of the tube T so that, even if the tabs 62 have been plastically deformed, the connector will still continue to function. It is simply that the deformation of the tabs 62 provides an external indication of an earlier application of the release tool 40.

[0101] A further modification in the fifth example is the presence of radial centring flanges 70 projecting radially outwardly from the collet in an axial location between the ring 27 and flange 37. A radially outwardly extending centring flange 70 is provided on each of the collet legs 28. The centring flanges 70 have an outer diameter which is equal to or just short of the inner diameter of the adjacent part of the connector 71 .

[0102] As will be apparent from Fig.24, without the tube T in place, the collet 25 is otherwise centred just by the collet ring 27. This is at the distal end of the collet 25. It is therefore possible for the collet 25 to be slightly skewed within the body 21 such that its proximal end is not fully aligned with the cap 23. The presence of the centring flanges 70 reduces the possibility for skewing of the collet 25 within the body 21 .

[0103] The centring flanges 70 may be used on the previous examples.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet positioned within the body to limit the movement of the O-ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein between the teeth and ring the collet has at least one outwardly extending projection sized and positioned to abut the proximal end of the body.

2. A tube connector according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one outwardly extending projection is sized and positioned such that, when it abuts the proximal end of the body, the collet ring is spaced from the O-ring.

3. A tube connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the opening in the cap has at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a release tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

4. A tube connector according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cap is axially fixed with respect to the body.

5. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the collet is axially movable when, in use, the connector receives a tube and is in a fully engaged position.

6. A tube connector according to any preceding claim wherein the cap extends proximally beyond the collet.

7. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the collet ring is a continuous ring.

8. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the collet ring projects radially outwardly with respect to the collet legs.

9. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein each collet leg has an enlarged head which engages, in use, with the cap angle.

10. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the cap only has a single cap angle11. A tube connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the only teeth are at the proximal end of the collet.

12. A combination of a tube connector according to claim 3 and a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

13. A combination according to claim 12, wherein the release tool has a split ring configuration, with sufficient resilience for the tool to be fitted in a radial direction over the tube before being moved axially into the connector.

14. A combination according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the release tool has a radially extending flange portion providing a bearing surface via which a user can, in use, push the tool axially into the connector and an engagement portion extending axially from the flange to enter the connector.

15. A combination according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the engagement portion comprises a plurality of engagement elements arranged circumferentially, and wherein the connector requires each of the engagement elements to be inserted in order to allow release of the tube.

16. A combination according to any of claims 12 to 15, wherein, in an unstressed state and at its greatest circumferential extent, the tool extends through an angle of at least 270 degrees.

17. A combination according to any of claims 12 to 16, wherein the tool has a chamfered end face which is complementary with a chamfered end face of the collet legs.

18. A tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein the opening in the cap has at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a release tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube; wherein the collet extends proximally into the at least one recess.

19. A combination of a tube connector according to claim 18 and a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

20. A tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; and a cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein the opening in the cap has at least one recess to allow insertion, in use, of a release tool in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube;wherein the cap has at least one flexible lug extending across the at least one recess configured such that the lug is displaceable by the release tool to allow the insertion of the release tool into the cap.21 . A tube connector according to claim 20, wherein the at least one flexible lug is configured to be plastically deformed when deflected towards the cap.

22. A tube connector according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein the interface between the cap and at least one flexible lug is arcuate.

23. A tube connector according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the undeformed tabs extend at an angle of 25 to 65 degrees, and optionally 35 to 55 degrees with respect to the adjacent wall of the cap.

24. A tube connector according to any of claims 20 to 23, wherein the undeformed tabs are between 0.2 and 0.8 mm thick and optionally between 0.3 and 0.6 mm thick.

25. A tube connector according to any of claims 20 to 24, wherein the cap and collet are different colours.

26. A combination of a tube connector according to any of claims 20 to 25 and a release tool, the release tool being insertable into the connector in a distal direction between the tube and cap to deflect the collet legs away from the tube.

27. A combination according to claim 26 when dependent on claim 21 , wherein the at least one flexible lug is configured to be plastically deformed by insertion of the release tool.

28. A tube connector to receive and secure a tube, the connector comprising: a body with a throughway with an open proximal end to receive a tube; an O-ring within the throughway to seal on the wall of the tube; a collet comprising a collet ring at a distal end of the collet positioned within the body to limit the movement of the O-ring and a plurality of resilient collet legs extending proximally from the ring, the legs having teeth to grip, in use, a tube in the connector; anda cap fitted to the body to retain the collet, the cap having an opening at the open end to allow entry of the tube and having a cap angle configured to cooperate with the collet legs to push the teeth into engagement with the tube, in use, when the tube is moved proximally; wherein between the teeth and the collet ring, the collet has at least one radially extending alignment projection sized and positioned to engage with the inner wall of the body to limit the radial deflection of the collet within the body.

29. A tube connector according to claim 28, wherein that the collet ring extends radially outwardly beyond the collet legs.

30. A tube connector according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the alignment projections and collet ring are positioned in a part of the body with the same inner diameter.

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