Fluid connection assembly

Abstract

A fluid connection assembly including a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a first radially inward facing surface including a first groove and a second groove, and a first radially outward facing surface, a first seal arranged in the first groove, a second seal arranged in the second groove, and a retainer removably connectable to the connector body, including a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward facing surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface.

Description

FLUID CONNECTION ASSEMBLYCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under Articles 4 and 8 of the Stockholm Act of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 63 / 581,722, filed on September 11, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 516,186, filed on July 28, 2023, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more particularly, to a fluid connection assembly including a retainer that decreases the insertion force required for assembly and allows for quick assembly, disassembly, and serviceability of components without the need for tools.BACKGROUND

[0003] Fluid connectors, fluid connections, or fluid connection assemblies are integral components for many applications, and especially for refrigerant or cooling systems. Since a cooling system is made up of various components, for example refrigeration lines, compressors, and heat pumps, fluid must be able to travel not only within each component but also between components. Refrigeration lines may carry a refrigerant, which is a substance or mixture, usually a fluid, used in a heat pump and refrigeration cycle, and can be hazardous. As such, it is essential that fluid connectors for refrigeration lines be properly secured so as not to allow the release of any refrigerant.

[0004] Fluid predominantly moves between components via flexible or rigid hoses which connect to each component by fluid connectors. Such fluid connectors typically secure a tube to a fitting via a threaded nut. However, these parts are often expensive to manufacture and may have sealing issues. Additionally, the force required to secure the threaded nut to the fixture is very large with current designs. Furthermore, some connection assembly solutions take a long time to secure and require tools for the assembly process. Other problems with existing fluid connection assemblydesigns is they can be easily disconnected, which may allow for dangerous refrigerant or other harmful fluids to be released into the environment.

[0005] Thus, there has been a long-felt need for a fluid connection assembly including a connector body and a retainer that allows for quick assembly and disassembly, eliminates the need for post-process machining, and reduces the insertion force required to assemble the fluid connector.SUMMARY

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

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a first radially inward facing surface including a first groove and a second groove, and a first radially outward facing surface, a first seal arranged in the first groove, a second seal arranged in the second groove, and a retainer removably connectable to the connector body, including a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward facing surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a first tube including a first shoulder, wherein in an assembled state the first shoulder is arranged axially between the first flange and the first end and the first tube is engaged with the first seal. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a second tube including a second shoulder, wherein in the assembled state the second shoulder is arranged axially between the second flange and the second end and the second tube is engaged with the second seal. In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange is axially spaced apart from first flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flange is arranged at the third end. In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange is arranged at the fourth end. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flange comprises a first curvilinear radially inward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the second flange comprises a second curvilinear radially inward facing surface.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section displaceable with respect to the first section. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section pivotably connected to the first section. In an exemplary embodiment, the first section comprises a male engaging component, the second section comprises a female engaging component, and the male engaging component is operatively arranged to engage the female engaging component to secure the second section the first section. In an exemplary embodiment, the male engaging component comprises a protrusion extending radially outward from the second radially outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion comprises at least one radial surface and a tapered surface extending radially outward in a circumferential direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the female engaging component comprises a hole and the protrusion is arranged to extend at least partially through the hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the female engaging component further comprises a flange extending radially outward from and in a circumferential direction with respect to the second radially outward facing surface, the hole being arranged in the flange.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection further comprises a fdter arranged in the first through-bore. In an exemplary embodiment, the first radially inward facing surface comprises a third groove, and the filter engages the third groove. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first flange and the second flange comprises a plurality of section separated by at least one circumferential space.

[0012] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a first radially inward facing surface including a first annular groove and a second annular groove, and a first radially outward facing surface, a first seal arranged in the first groove, a second seal arranged in the second groove, a retainer removably connectable to the connector body, including a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially inward facing surface, a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface, a first tube including a first shoulder, the first tube operatively arranged to engage the first seal, and a second tube including a second shoulder, the second tube operatively arranged to engage the second seal,wherein in an assembled state the first flange engages first shoulder to secure the first tube in the connector body, and the second flange engages the second shoulder to secure the second tube in the connector body.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, in the assembled state the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, the first end engages a first inner axial surface of the first shoulder and the first flange engages a first outer axial surface of the first shoulder, and the second end engages a second inner axial surface of the second shoulder and the second flange engages a second outer axial surface of the second shoulder. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flange is arranged at the third end and the second flange is arranged at the fourth end. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first flange and the second flange comprises a curvilinear radially inward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section pivotably connected to the first section. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section displaceable with respect to and completely removable from the first section.

[0015] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent upon a review of the following detailed description of the disclosure, in view of the drawings and appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein as part of the specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter and are illustrative of selected principles and teachings of the present disclosure, in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. However, the drawings do not illustrate all possible implementations of the presently disclosed subject matter and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0017] FIG. 1 A is a front top perspective view of a fluid connection assembly.

[0018] FIG. IB is a rear bottom perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a front top perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 3-3 in FIG. 1A.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 4-4 in FIG. 1 A.

[0022] FIG. 6A is a front top perspective view of a fluid connection assembly.

[0023] FIG. 6B is a rear bottom perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 6A.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a front top perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 6A.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 8-8 in FIG. 6A.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of a section of the retainer shown in FIG. 6A.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 10-10 in FIG. 6A.

[0028] FIG. 11 A is a front perspective view of a retainer.

[0029] FIG. 1 IB is a rear perspective view of the retainer shown in FIG. 11 A.

[0030] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective exploded view of the retainer shown in FIG. 11 A.

[0031] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the retainer taken generally along line 13-13 inFIG. HA.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific assemblies and systems illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. Hence, specific dimensions, directions, or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise. Also, although they may not be, like elements in various embodiments described herein may be commonly referred to with like reference numerals within this section of the application.

[0033] Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0034] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the example embodiments.

[0035] Where used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and so on, do not necessarily denote any ordinal, sequential, or priority relation, but are simply used to more clearly distinguish one element or set of elements from another, unless specified otherwise.

[0036] Where used herein, the term “about” when applied to a value is intended to mean within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce the value, or, in some examples, is intended to mean plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless otherwise expressly specified.

[0037] It should be appreciated that the term “substantially” is synonymous with terms such as “nearly,” “very nearly,” “about,” “approximately,” “around,” “bordering on,” “close to,” “essentially,” “in the neighborhood of,” “in the vicinity of,” etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. It should be appreciated that the term “proximate” is synonymous with terms such as “nearby,” “close,” “adjacent,” “neighboring,” “immediate,” “adjoining,” etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. The term “substantially” is intended to mean values within ten percent of the specified value.

[0038] Where used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of,” “serving as an example,” or “illustrative,” and does not denote any preference or requirement with respect to a disclosed aspect or embodiment.

[0039] It should be understood that use of “or” in the present application is with respect to a “non-exclusive” arrangement, unless stated otherwise. For example, when saying that “item x is A or B,” it is understood that this can mean one of the following: (1) item x is only one or the other of A and B; (2) item x is both A and B. Alternately stated, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive or” arrangement. For example, an “exclusive or” arrangement for the statement “item x is A orB” would require that x can be only one of A and B. Furthermore, as used herein, “and / or” is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the elements or conditions recited may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element and / or a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the followingstructural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or a device comprising a second element and a third element.

[0040] Moreover, as used herein, the phrases “comprises at least one of’ and “comprising at least one of’ in combination with a system or element is intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device comprising at least one of: a first element; a second element; and a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or a device comprising a second element and a third element. A similar interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of” is used herein.

[0041] It should be appreciated that the term “tube” as used herein is synonymous with hose, pipe, channel, conduit, tube end form, or any other suitable pipe flow used in hydraulics and fluid mechanics. It should further be appreciated that the term “tube” can mean a rigid or flexible conduit of any material suitable for containing and allowing the flow of a gas or a liquid.

[0042] Adverting now to the figures, FIG. 1A is a front top perspective view of fluid connection assembly 10. FIG. IB is a rear bottom perspective view of fluid connection assembly 10. FIG. 2 is a front top perspective exploded view of fluid connection assembly 10. Fluid connection assembly 10 comprises connector body 40 and retainer 70. In an exemplary embodiment, fluid connection assembly 10 further comprises at least one tube, for example tube 20 A and tube 20B.

[0043] Tube 20A comprises end 22A, section 23 A, bead or shoulder 27A, section 29A, end 32A, and through-bore 21A. Through-bore 21A extends through tube 21A from end 22A to end 32A. Section 23A is arranged between end 22A and shoulder 27A and comprises radially outward facing surface 24A. Radially outward facing surface 24A includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 24A comprises a frusto- conical taper or curvilinear surface proximate end 22A (see FIG. 3).

[0044] Shoulder 27 A is arranged between section 23A and section 29A and comprises surface 26A and surface 28A. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A is an axial surface facing at least partially in axial direction ADI and surface 28A is an axial surface facing at least partially in axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A is a frusto-conical surface extending from the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27A radially inward in axial direction ADI. For example, surface 26A may be a linear conical shape increasing in diameter in axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A may comprise a linear portion and a conical or frusto-conical portion. Shoulder 27A comprises a radially outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27A comprises a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27A comprises a variable diameter. Section 29A is arranged between shoulder 27A and end 32A and comprises radially outward facing surface 30A. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 30A includes a substantially constant diameter.

[0045] Tube 20A is arranged to be inserted, specifically with end 22A first, into connector body 40. Tube 20A is inserted into connector body 40 until section 23 A, or radially outward facing surface 24A, engages radially inward facing surface 48 and shoulder 27A engages end 44. Retainer 70 is then assembled to secure tube 20A to connector body 40. It should be appreciated that in exemplary embodiments, tube 20B is also inserted into connector body 40 prior to assembly of retainer 70. Radially outward facing surface 24A sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 48 via one or more seals, for example seals 60A-6B (see FIG. 3). It should be appreciated that tube 20A may be any traditional tube or tube end form comprising a bead, radially outward extending protrusion or flange, or ramp profile, which extends radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube, to secure the tube within the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, tube 20A comprises at least one of a metal, a polymer, and a ceramic.

[0046] Tube 20B comprises end 22B, section 23B, bead or shoulder 27B, section 29B, end 32B, and through-bore 21B. Through-bore 21B extends through tube 21B from end 22B to end 32B. Section 23B is arranged between end 22B and shoulder 27B and comprises radially outward facing surface 24B. Radially outward facing surface 24B includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 24B comprises a frusto- conical taper or curvilinear surface proximate end 22B (see FIG. 3).

[0047] Shoulder 27B is arranged between section 23B and section 29B and comprises surface 26B and surface 28B. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B is an axial surface facing at least partially in axial direction AD2 and surface 28B is an axial surface facing at least partially in axial direction ADI. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B is a frusto-conical surface extending from the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27B radially inward in axial direction AD2. For example, surface 26B may be a linear conical shape increasing in diameter in axial direction ADI. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26B may comprise a linear portion and a conical or frusto-conical portion. Shoulder 27B comprises a radially outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27B comprises a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward facing surface of shoulder 27B comprises a variable diameter. Section 29B is arranged between shoulder 27B and end 32B and comprises radially outward facing surface 30B. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 30B includes a substantially constant diameter.

[0048] Tube 20B is arranged to be inserted, specifically with end 22B first, into connector body 40. Tube 20B is inserted into connector body 40 until section 23B, or radially outward facing surface 24B, engages radially inward facing surface 48 and shoulder 27B engages end 42. Retainer 70 is then assembled to secure tube 20B to connector body 40. It should be appreciated that in exemplary embodiments, tube 20A is also inserted into connector body 40 prior to assembly of retainer 70. Radially outward facing surface 24B sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 48 via one or more seals, for example seals 60C-60D (see FIG. 3). It should be appreciated that tube 20B may be any traditional tube or tube end form comprising a bead, radially outward extending protrusion or flange, or ramp profile, which extends radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube, to secure the tube within the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, tube 20B comprises at least one of a metal, a polymer, and a ceramic.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 10 taken generally along line 3-3 in FIG. 1 A. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 10 taken generally along line 4-4 in FIG. 1A. Connector body 40 comprises end 42, end 44, through-bore 41 extending from end 42 to end 44, radially outward facing surface 46, and radially inward facing surface 48. Radially outward facing surface 46 extends from end 42 to end 44. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 46 comprises a constant diameter. Radially inward facing surface 48 extends from end 42 to end 44. In an exemplary embodiment,radially inward facing surface 48 comprises a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 48 is connected to end 44 via radially inward facing surface 50. Radially inward facing surface 50 is a frusto-conical surface increasing in diameter in axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 48 is connected to end 42 via radially inward facing surface 52. Radially inward facing surface 52 is a frusto-conical surface increasing in diameter in axial direction ADI.

[0050] Radially inward facing surface 48 comprises a plurality of grooves, for example grooves 54A-54D, operatively arranged to hold respective seals, for example seals 60A-60D. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, grooves 54A-54B and respective seals 60A- 60B are aligned with section 23 A. Groove 54A is spaced apart from end 44 in axial direction ADI . Groove 54B is spaced apart from groove 54A in axial direction AD 1. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, grooves 54C-54D and respective seals 60C-60D are aligned with section 23B. Groove 54D is spaced apart from end 42 in axial direction AD2. Groove 54C is spaced apart from groove 54D in axial direction AD2. The arrangement of grooves 54A-54D allows seals 60A- 60D to be housed within connector body 40 leading to more efficient assembly of fluid connection assembly 10. In an exemplary embodiment, grooves 54A-54D are annular grooves.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface further comprises groove 56. Groove 56 comprises surface 58A, radially inward facing surface 58B, and surface 58C. Surface 58A is generally an axial surface facing axial direction ADI. Surface 58C is an axial surface facing axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 58A is arranged parallel to surface 58C. Groove 56 is operatively arranged to engage filter 100, as will be described in greater detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, groove 56 is arranged axially between and spaced apart from groove 54B and groove 54C.

[0052] Connector body 40 is operatively arranged to structurally hold tubes 20A and 20B, provide sealing connection between tubes 20A and 20B, and maintain tubes 20A and 20B at a set distance from each other. Tubes 20A and 20B can be inserted into connector body 40 at ends 44 and 42, respectively. Connector body 40 will removably hold tubes 20A and 20B until retainer 70 is secured thereover. Connector body 40 maintains tubes 20A and 20B in alignment such that tubes 20A and 20B are concentric about axis or line L (see FIG. 3). Seals 60A-60B form sealing engagement between connector body 40 and radially outward facing surface 24A and seals 60C- 60D form sealing engagement between connector body 40 and radially outward facing surface24B. As such, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10 tube 20A is sealingly connected to tube 20B. As shown in FIG. 3, end 44 is arranged to engage shoulder 27A and specifically surface 26A, and end 42 is arranged to engage shoulder 27B and specifically surface 26B. Thus, connector body 40 functions in part as a spacer. In an exemplary embodiment, connector body 40 comprises at least one of a metal, a polymer, and a ceramic.

[0053] Retainer 70 comprises end 72, end 74, radially outward facing surface 76, and radially inward facing surface 78. Radially outward facing surface 76 extends from end 72 to end 74. Radially inward facing surface 78 extends between end 72 and end 74. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 78 comprises a constant diameter. Radially inward facing surface 78 is operatively arranged to engage radially outward facing surface 46.

[0054] Retainer 70 further comprises at least one flange extending radially inward from radially inward facing surface 78, for example, flange 80 and flange 82. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 80 is arranged at end 72. Flange 80 comprises radially inward facing surface 81. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 81 is curvilinear. Flange 80 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector body 40. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, shoulder 27B is arranged axially between end 42 and flange 80. Shoulder 27B comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 48 and radially inward facing surface 81. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 82 is arranged at end 74. Flange 82 comprises radially inward facing surface 83. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 83 is curvilinear. Flange 82 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector body 40. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, shoulder 27A is arranged axially between end 42 and flange 82. Shoulder 27A comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 48 and radially inward facing surface 83.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 70 comprises section 70A and section 70B. Section 70B is pivotably connected to section 70A. For example, and as shown, section 70A comprises male hinge component or one or more pins 84 and section 70B comprises female hinge component or one or more knuckles 86. Knuckle 86 is arranged to engage pin 84 to hingedly connect section 70A and section 70B. In an exemplary embodiment, pin 84 is arranged radially outward from radially outward facing surface 76. In an exemplary embodiment, knuckle 86 protrudes radially outward from radially outward facing surface 76. Section 70A comprises radialsurface 88A and section 70B comprises radial surface 88B. In an exemplary embodiment, in the locked state of retainer 70, radial surface 88B engages and / or abuts against radial surface 88A.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 70 further comprises a locking mechanism operatively arranged to secure section 70B to section 70A to form the locked state of the retainer 70. Section 70B may have one or more female connector components or holes 94. Holes 94 may be arranged in flange 92. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 92 extends radially outward from radially outward facing surface 76 and in circumferential direction CD1 with respect to radial surface 88B such that, in the locked state of retainer 70, flange 92 overlaps radially outward facing surface 76 of section 70A (see FIGS. 1A-1B and 4). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 92 is elastically deformable. Holes 94 are through-holes that extend through flange 92. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 94 are axially spaced apart from end 72 and end 74. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 94 are further spaced apart from each other.

[0057] Section 70A may comprise one or more male connector components or protrusions 90. Protrusion 90 extends radially outward from radially outward facing surface 76. As best shown in FIG. 4, protrusion 90 comprises radial surface 90 A, tapered surface 90B, and radial surface 90C. In an exemplary embodiment, radial surface 90A is aligned with radial surface 88A. Radial surface 90C is operatively arranged to engage flange 92 to prevent displacement of section 70A with respect to section 70B. Surface 90B is tapered to facilitate engagement of protrusions 90 with holes 94. Surface 90B extends radially outward in circumferential direction CD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 90C is parallel to surface 90A. To form the locked state of retainer 70, section 70A is displaced toward section 70B. Protrusion 90 engages flange 92 and surface 90B forces flange 92 radially outward until protrusion 90 aligns with hole 94, at which point flange 92 snaps back radially inward thereby securing section 70B to section 70A.

[0058] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of filter 100. Filter 100 is operatively arranged to filter fluid flowing therethrough. Filter 100 is arranged in groove 56, as best shown in FIG. 3. In an exemplary embodiment, filter 100 is removably connected to connector body 40. Filter 100 comprises rim portion 102, flange 112, and / or barrier 122. Rim portion 102 comprises end 104, end 106, radially outward facing surface 108, and radially inward facing surface 110. Rim portion 102 is arranged to engage groove 56 of connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the axial distance between end 104 and end 106 is less than the axial distance between surface 58A and 58C. In such exemplary embodiment, fdter 100 may be axially displaceable within groove 56.

[0059] Flange 1 12 extends radially inward from rim portion 102. Flange 1 12 comprises surface 114 facing generally in axial direction ADI, surface 116 facing generally in axial direction AD2, radially outward facing surface 118 connected to radially inward facing surface 110, and radially inward facing surface 120. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 112 is fixedly secured to rim portion 102. A hole is formed through filter 100 via radially inward facing surface 120. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 114 is spaced apart from end 104 and surface 116 is spaced apart from end 106.

[0060] Barrier 122 spans and / or fills the hole formed by radially inward facing surface 120. Specifically, barrier 122 is connected to radially inward facing surface 120 and acts as the filtering component to filter fluid passing through filter 100. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 comprises a plate with a plurality of through-holes. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is a sieve or strainer. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is flexible. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is rigid. In an exemplary embodiment, barrier 122 is a mesh screen. It should be appreciated that barrier 122 may comprise any geometry suitable for filtering fluid flowing through filter 100, for example, circular, ovular, ellipsoidal, square, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0061] To assemble fluid connection assembly 10, filter 100 is arranged in groove 56 and seals 60A-60D are arranged in respective grooves 54A-54D within connector body 40. Tube 20A is inserted into end 44 of connector body 40 in axial direction ADI until radially outward facing surface 24A sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 48 and surface 26A of shoulder 27A engages end 44. Seals 60A-60B engage radially outward facing surface 24A. Tube 20B is inserted into end 42 of connector body 40 in axial direction AD2 until radially outward facing surface 24B sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 48 and surface 26B of shoulder 27B engages end 42. Seals 60C-60D engage radially outward facing surface 24B.

[0062] Retainer 70 is arranged over connector body 40 such that section 70A is separated from section 70B, radially inward facing surface 78 is aligned with radially outward facing surface 46, and flanges 80 and 82 are aligned with sections 29B and 29A, respectively. Section 70A is displaced toward section 70B until protrusion 90 engages hole 94 to form the locked state of retainer 70. Flange 80 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction ADI and end 42 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction AD2. Flange 82 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial direction AD2 and end 44 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial directionADI . In an exemplary embodiment, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, tube 20A, tube 20B, and connector body 40 are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, tube 20A, tube 20B, connector body 40, and retainer 70 are concentrically aligned. In such exemplary embodiments, fluid connection assembly 10 is a dual tube in-line fluid connection assembly.

[0063] FIG. 6A is a front top perspective view of fluid connection assembly 210. FIG. 6B is a rear bottom perspective view of fluid connection assembly 210. FIG. 7 is a front top perspective exploded view of fluid connection assembly 210. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 210 taken generally along line 8-8 in FIG. 6A. FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of section 270A, 270B of retainer 270. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 210 taken generally along line 10-10 in FIG. 6A. Fluid connection assembly 210 comprises connector body 240 and retainer 270. In an exemplary embodiment, fluid connection assembly 210 further comprises at least one tube, for example tube 20A and tube 20B.

[0064] Connector body 240 comprises end 242, end 244, through-bore 241 extending from end 242 to end 244, radially outward facing surface 246, and radially inward facing surface 248. Radially outward facing surface 246 extends from end 242 to end 244. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 246 comprises a constant diameter. Radially inward facing surface 248 extends from end 242 to end 244. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 248 comprises a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 248 is connected to end 244 via radially inward facing surface 250. Radially inward facing surface 250 is a frusto-conical surface increasing in diameter in axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 248 is connected to end 242 via radially inward facing surface 252. Radially inward facing surface 252 is a frusto-conical surface increasing in diameter in axial direction ADI.

[0065] Radially inward facing surface 248 comprises a plurality of grooves, for example grooves 254A-254D, operatively arranged to hold respective seals, for example seals 260A-260D. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, grooves 254A-254B and respective seals 260A-260B are aligned with section 23 A. Groove 254A is spaced apart from end 244 in axial direction ADI. Groove 254B is spaced apart from groove 254A in axial direction ADI. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, grooves 254C-254D and respective seals 260C- 260D are aligned with section 23B. Groove 254D is spaced apart from end 242 in axial directionAD2. Groove 254C is spaced apart from groove 254D in axial direction AD2. The arrangement of grooves 254A-254D allows seals 260A-260D to be housed within connector body 240 leading to more efficient assembly of fluid connection assembly 210. In an exemplary embodiment, grooves 254A-254D are annular grooves.

[0066] Connector body 240 is operatively arranged to structurally hold tubes 20A and 20B, provide sealing connection between tubes 20A and 20B, and maintain tubes 20A and 20B at a set distance from each other. Tubes 20A and 20B can be inserted into connector body 240 at ends 244 and 242, respectively. Connector body 240 will removably hold tubes 20A and 20B until retainer 270 is secured thereover. Connector body 240 maintains tubes 20A and 20B in alignment such that tubes 20A and 20B are concentric about axis or line L (see FIG. 8). Seals 260A-260B form sealing engagement between connector body 240 and radially outward facing surface 24A and seals 260C- 260D form sealing engagement between connector body 240 and radially outward facing surface 24B. As such, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210 tube 20A is sealingly connected to tube 20B. As shown in FIG. 8, end 244 is arranged to engage shoulder 27A and specifically surface 26A, and end 242 is arranged to engage shoulder 27B and specifically surface 26B. Thus, connector body 240 functions in part as a spacer. It should be appreciated that connector body 240 may comprise a filter such as that described above with respect to FIGS. 1 A- 5. In an exemplary embodiment, connector body 40 comprises at least one of a metal, a polymer, and a ceramic.

[0067] Retainer 270 comprises end 272, end 274, radially outward facing surface 276, and radially inward facing surface 278. Radially outward facing surface 276 extends from end 272 to end 274. Radially inward facing surface 278 extends between end 272 and end 274. In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 270 forms a polygonal shape, that is, radially outward facing surface 276 and / or radially inward facing surface 278 comprises a plurality of planar sections (e.g., plates) interconnected. The plates may be connected, for example, at obtuse angles with respect to each other (see FIG. 10). In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 278 is operatively arranged to engage radially outward facing surface 246.

[0068] Retainer 270 further comprises at least one flange extending radially inward from radially inward facing surface 278, for example, flange 280 and flange 282. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 280 is arranged at end 272. Flange 280 comprises radially inward facing surface 281. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 281 is curvilinear. Flange 280 is operativelyarranged to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector body 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 280 comprises a plurality of sections separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 284. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, shoulder 27B is arranged axially between end 242 and flange 280. Shoulder 27B comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 248 and radially inward facing surface 281. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 282 is arranged at end 274. Flange 282 comprises radially inward facing surface 283. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 283 is curvilinear. Flange 282 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector body 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 282 comprises a plurality of sections separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 286. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, shoulder 27A is arranged axially between end 242 and flange 282. Shoulder 27A comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 248 and radially inward facing surface 283.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 270 comprises section 270A and section 270B. Section 270B is removably connectable to section 270A. In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 270 comprises a locking mechanism operatively arranged to secure section 270B to section 270A to form the locked state of the retainer 270. Each of section 270A and section 270B comprises one or more female connector components or holes 294. Holes 294 may be arranged in flange 288A. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 288A generally extends in circumferential direction CD1 with respect to radially outward facing surface 276 such that, in the locked state of retainer 270, flange 288A of section 270B overlaps radially outward facing surface 276 of section 270A, and vice versa (see FIGS. 6A-6B and 10). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 288A is elastically deformable. Holes 294 are through-holes that extend through flange 288A. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 294 are axially spaced apart from end 272 and end 274. In an exemplary embodiment, holes 294 are further spaced apart from each other. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 280 and flange 282 do not extend circumferentially on flange 288A (i.e., flange 288A does not have flanges at respective axial ends thereof).

[0070] Each of section 270A and section 270B comprises one or more male connector components or protrusions 290. Protrusion 290 extends radially outward from radially outward facing surface 276, and namely, section 288B of radially outward facing surface 276. In an exemplary embodiment, section 288B is arranged parallel to flange 288A. In an exemplaryembodiment, section 288B is not arranged parallel to flange 288 A. As best shown in FIGS. 9-10, protrusion 290 comprises tapered surface 290B and radial surface 290C. In an exemplary embodiment, radial surface 290C is operatively arranged to engage flange 288A to prevent displacement of section 270A with respect to section 270B. Surface 290B is tapered to facilitate engagement of protrusions 290 with holes 294. Surface 290B extends radially outward in circumferential direction CD1. In an exemplary embodiment, each of section 270A and section 270B comprises hole 292 arranged immediately adjacent to protrusion 290. In such exemplary embodiments, hole 292 may be formed by punching protrusion 290 radially outward in section 288B. To form the locked state of retainer 270, section 270A is displaced toward section 270B. Protrusion 290 engages flange 288A and surface 290B forces flange 288A radially outward until protrusion 290 aligns with hole 292, at which point flange 288A snaps back radially inward thereby securing section 270B to section 270A.

[0071] To assemble fluid connection assembly 210, tube 20A is inserted into end 244 of connector body 240 in axial direction ADI until radially outward facing surface 24A sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 248 and surface 26A of shoulder 27A engages end 244. Seals 260A-260B engage radially outward facing surface 24A. Tube 20B is inserted into end 242 of connector body 240 in axial direction AD2 until radially outward facing surface 24B sealingly engages radially inward facing surface 248 and surface 26B of shoulder 27B engages end 242. Seals 260C-260D engage radially outward facing surface 24B.

[0072] Retainer 270 is arranged over connector body 240 such that section 270A is separated from section 270B, radially inward facing surface 278 is aligned with radially outward facing surface 246, and flanges 280 and 282 are aligned with sections 29B and 29A, respectively. Section 270A is displaced toward section 270B until protrusions 290 engage holes 294 to form the locked state of retainer 270. Flange 280 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction ADI and end 242 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction AD2. Flange 282 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial direction AD2 and end 244 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial direction ADI. In an exemplary embodiment, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, tube 20A, tube 20B, and connector body 240 are concentrically aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 210, tube 20A, tube 20B, connector body 240, and retainer 270 are concentrically aligned. In such exemplary embodiments, fluid connection assembly 210 is a dual tube in-line fluid connection assembly.

[0073] FIG. 11 A is a front perspective view of retainer 370. FIG. 1 IB is a rear perspective view of retainer 370. FIG. 12 is a rear perspective exploded view of retainer 370. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of retainer 370 taken generally along line 13-13 in FIG. 11A. Retainer 370 may be used in fluid connection assembly 10 and / or fluid connection assembly 210.

[0074] Retainer 370 comprises end 372, end 374, radially outward facing surface 376, and radially inward facing surface 378. Radially outward facing surface 376 extends from end 372 to end 374. Radially inward facing surface 378 extends between end 372 and end 374. In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 370 forms a polygonal shape, that is, radially outward facing surface 376 and / or radially inward facing surface 378 comprises a plurality of planar sections (e.g., plates) interconnected. The plates may be connected, for example, at obtuse angles with respect to each other (see FIG. 13). In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 378 is operatively arranged to engage radially outward facing surface 46, 246.

[0075] Retainer 370 further comprises at least one flange extending radially inward from radially inward facing surface 378, for example, flange 380 and flange 382. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 380 is arranged at end 372. Flange 380 comprises radially inward facing surface 381. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 381 is curvilinear. Flange 380 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27B to secure tube 20B to connector body 40, 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 380 comprises a plurality of sections separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 384. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, 210, shoulder 27B is arranged axially between end 42, 242 and flange 380. Shoulder 27B comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 48, 248 and radially inward facing surface 381. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 382 is arranged at end 374. Flange 382 comprises radially inward facing surface 383. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 383 is curvilinear. Flange 382 is operatively arranged to engage shoulder 27A to secure tube 20A to connector body 40, 240. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, flange 382 comprises a plurality of sections separated by one or more circumferential slits or spaces 386. In an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, 210, shoulder 27A is arranged axially between end 42, 242 and flange 382. Shoulder 27A comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 48, 248 and radially inward facing surface 383.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 370 comprises section 370A and section 370B. Section 370B is removably connectable to section 370A. In an exemplary embodiment,retainer 370 comprises a hinged connection mechanism operatively arranged to hingedly connect section 370B to section 370A. One of section 370A and section 370B comprises a male connector component and the other of section 370A and section 370B comprises a female connector component. For example, section 370B comprises male connector component or hook 398. Male connector component 398 extends radially outward from radially outward facing surface 376 and generally extends in circumferential direction CD2 (see FIG. 13). In an exemplary embodiment, section 370B comprises hole 400 immediately adjacent to male connector component 398. In such exemplary embodiments, hole 400 may be formed by punching male connector component 398 radially outward in section 388B. Section 370A comprises female connector component or hole 396 arranged in flange 388A. Male connector component 398 is operatively arranged to engage female connector component 396 to hingedly connect section 370A to section 370B. In an exemplary embodiment, and as best shown in FIG. 13, hook 398 wraps at least partially around a distal end of flange 388A.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, retainer 370 comprises a locking mechanism operatively arranged to secure section 370B to section 370A to form the locked state of retainer 370. One of section 370A and section 370B comprises a male connector component and the other of section 370A and section 370B comprises a female connector component. For example, section 370B comprises one or more female connector components or holes 394. Hole 394 may be arranged in flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 388A generally extends in circumferential direction CD2 with respect to radially outward facing surface 376 such that, in the locked state of retainer 370, flange 388A of section 370B overlaps radially outward facing surface 376 of section 370A, and vice versa (see FIGS. 11A-11B and 13). In an exemplary embodiment, flange 388A is elastically deformable. Hole 394 is a through-hole that extends through flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 394 is axially spaced apart from end 372 and end 374. In an exemplary embodiment, flange 380 and flange 382 do not extend circumferentially on flange 388A (i.e., flange 388A does not have flanges at respective axial ends thereof). Section 370A comprises one or more male connector components or protrusions 390. Protrusion 390 extends radially outward from radially outward facing surface 376, and namely, section 388B of radially outward facing surface 376. In an exemplary embodiment, section 388B is arranged parallel to flange 388A. In an exemplary embodiment, section 388B is not arranged parallel to flange 388A. As best shown in FIG. 13, protrusion 390 comprises tapered surface 390B and radial surface 390C.In an exemplary embodiment, radial surface 390C is operatively arranged to engage flange 388A to prevent displacement of section 370A with respect to section 370B. Surface 390B is tapered to facilitate engagement of protrusions 390 with hole 394. Surface 390B extends radially outward in circumferential direction CD2. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 392 is arranged immediately adjacent to protrusion 390. In such exemplary embodiments, hole 392 may be formed by punching protrusion 390 radially outward in section 388B. To form the locked state of retainer 370, section 370A is displaced toward section 370B. Protrusion 390 engages flange 388A and surface 390B forces flange 388A radially outward until protrusion 390 aligns with hole 394, at which point flange 388A snaps back radially inward thereby securing section 370B to section 370A.

[0078] To assemble fluid connection assembly 10, 210, retainer 370 is arranged over connector body 40, 240 such that section 370A is separated from section 370B, radially inward facing surface 378 is aligned with radially outward facing surface 46, 246, and flanges 380 and 382 are aligned with sections 29B and 29A, respectively. Section 370A is displaced toward section 370B until protrusions 390 engage holes 394 to form the locked state of retainer 370. Flange 380 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction ADI and end 42, 242 prevents displacement of tube 20B in axial direction AD2. Flange 382 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial direction AD2 and end 44, 244 prevents displacement of tube 20A in axial direction ADI. In an exemplary embodiment, in an assembled state of fluid connection assembly 10, 210, tube 20A, tube 20B, connector body 40, 240, and retainer 370 are concentrically aligned. In such exemplary embodiments, fluid connection assembly 10, 210 is a dual tube in-line fluid connection assembly.

[0079] It will be appreciated that various aspects of the disclosure above and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.REFERENCE NUMERALS 0 Fluid connection assembly 50 Radially inward facing surface0A Tube 52 Radially inward facing surface0B Tube 54 A Groove 1 A Through-b ore 54B Groove 1 B Through-b ore 54C Groove 2A End 54D Groove 2B End 56 Groove 3 A Section 58 A Surface 3B Section 58B Surface 4A Radially outward facing surface 58C Surface 4B Radially outward facing surface 60A Seal 6A Surface 60B Seal 6B Surface 60C Seal 7A Shoulder or bead 60D Seal 7B Shoulder or bead 70 Retainer 8A Surface 70 A Section 8B Surface 70B Section 9A Section 72 End 9B Section 74 End 0A Radially outward facing surface 76 Radially outward facing surface OB Radially outward facing surface 78 Radially inward facing surface2A End 80 Flange 2B End 81 Surface 0 Connector body 82 Flange 1 Through-bore 83 Surface 2 End 84 Male hinge component or pin4 End 86 Female hinge component6 Radially outward facing surface knuckle 8 Radially inward facing surface 88 A Radial surfaceB Radial surface 260A Seal Male connector or protrusion(s) 260B Seal A Surface 260C Seal B Surface 260D Seal C Surface 270 Retainer Flange 270A Section Female connector or hole(s) 270B Section 0 Filter 272 End 2 Rim portion 274 End 4 End 276 Radially outward facing surface6 End 278 Radially inward facing surface8 Radially outward facing surface 280 Flange 0 Radially inward facing surface 281 Surface 2 Surface 282 Flange 4 Surface 283 Surface 8 Radially outward facing surface 284 Slit(s) 0 Radially inward facing surface 286 Slit(s) 2 Barrier portion 288A Radial flange 0 Fluid connection assembly 288B Section 0 Connector body 290 Male connector or protrusion(s)1 Through-bore 290B Surface 2 End 290C Surface 4 End 292 Hole 6 Radially outward facing surface 294 Female connector or hole(s)8 Radially inward facing surface 370 Retainer 0 Radially inward facing surface 370 A Section 2 Radially inward facing surface 370B Section 4A Groove 372 End 4B Groove 374 End 4C Groove 376 Radially outward facing surface4D Groove 378 Radially inward facing surfaceFlange 396 Female hinge component or holeSurface 398 Male hinge component or hookFlange 400 HoleSurface ADI Axial directionSlit(s) AD2 Axial directionSlit(s) CD1 Circumferential directionA Radial flange CD2 Circumferential directionB Radial flange L Axis or lineMale connector or protrusion(s) RD1 Radial directionHole RD2 Radial directionFemale connector or hole(s)

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A fluid connection assembly, comprising: a connector body, including: a first end; a second end; a first through-bore; a first radially inward facing surface including a first groove and a second groove; and a first radially outward facing surface; a first seal arranged in the first groove; a second seal arranged in the second groove; and a retainer removably connectable to the connector body, including: a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end; a second radially inward facing surface; a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface; and a second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface.

2. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, further comprising a first tube including a first shoulder, wherein in an assembled state the first shoulder is arranged axially between the first flange and the first end and the first tube is engaged with the first seal.

3. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 2, further comprising a second tube including a second shoulder, wherein in the assembled state the second shoulder is arranged axially between the second flange and the second end and the second tube is engaged with the second seal.

4. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 3, wherein in the assembled state the first tube and the second tube are concentrically aligned.

5. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the second flange is axially spaced apart from first flange.

6. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 5, wherein the first flange is arranged at the third end.

7. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 6, wherein the second flange is arranged at the fourth end.

8. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the first flange comprises a first curvilinear radially inward facing surface.

9. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 8, wherein the second flange comprises a second curvilinear radially inward facing surface.

10. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section displaceable with respect to the first section.

11. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 10, wherein: the first section comprises a male engaging component; the second section comprises a female engaging component; and the male engaging component is operatively arranged to engage the female engaging component to secure the second section the first section.

12. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 11, wherein the male engaging component comprises a protrusion extending radially outward from the second radially outward facing surface.

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

14. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, further comprising a filter arranged in the first through-bore.

15. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein: the first radially inward facing surface comprises a third groove; and the filter engages the third groove.

16. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first flange and the second flange comprises a plurality of section separated by at least one circumferential space.

17. A fluid connection assembly, comprising: a connector body, including: a first end; a second end; a first through-bore; a first radially inward facing surface including a first annular groove and a second annular groove; and a first radially outward facing surface; a first seal arranged in the first groove; a second seal arranged in the second groove; a retainer removably connectable to the connector body, including: a second radially outward facing surface forming a third end and a fourth end; a second radially inward facing surface; a first flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface; anda second flange extending radially inward from the second radially inward facing surface; a first tube including a first shoulder, the first tube operatively arranged to engage the first seal; and a second tube including a second shoulder, the second tube operatively arranged to engage the second seal; wherein in an assembled state: the first flange engages first shoulder to secure the first tube in the connector body; and the second flange engages the second shoulder to secure the second tube in the connector body.

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

19. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 17, wherein: the first end engages a first inner axial surface of the first shoulder and the first flange engages a first outer axial surface of the first shoulder; and the second end engages a second inner axial surface of the second shoulder and the second flange engages a second outer axial surface of the second shoulder.

20. The fluid connection assembly as recited in claim 16, wherein the retainer further comprises a first section and a second section displaceable with respect to and completely removable from the first section.

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