Fluid connection assembly with removable retainer

Abstract

A fluid connection assembly comprising: a connector body having a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially inward surface including a first groove forming a first axial surface, and a first radially outward surface; and a retainer removable to the connector body, the retainer having a flange, a second radially inward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially outward surface, a second through hole, at least one finger extending from the fourth end, and a second axial surface configured to engage with the first axial surface to lock the retainer within the connector body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit under Articles 4 and 8 of the Stockholm Convention of the Paris Convention for the protection of industrial property of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 489,240, filed on March 9, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into this application.

[0002] This disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more particularly to fluid connection assemblies that include retainers that reduce the insertion force required for assembly and enable rapid assembly without the need for tools.

Background Art

[0003] Fluid connectors, fluid connections, and fluid connection assemblies are essential components in many applications, particularly in automotive applications. An automotive system is composed of various components such as a radiator, transmission, engine, refrigeration system, or cooling system. Therefore, fluid needs to be able to move not only within each component but also between components. An example of fluid moving between components is transmission fluid that moves from a transmission to a transmission oil cooler to lower the temperature of the transmission fluid. Fluids mainly move between components through flexible or rigid hoses connected to each component by fluid connectors. Such fluid connectors typically include retaining clips, retaining ring clips, or snap rings mounted on the connector body that are adapted to snap behind the raised shoulder of the tube when the tube is fully inserted into the connector body.

[0004] However, the current design has many drawbacks. Current fluid connection designs require machining slots or openings in the connector body so that the retaining clip can protrude through them and engage with the tube, which necessitates additional post-processing. During the assembly process, attaching the retaining clip to the connector body is difficult, and improper attachment can compromise the structural integrity of the retaining clip. In the current design, the force required to engage the tube with the connector body and overcome the radial force of the retaining clip is very large. Because the retaining clip is very thin and small, it is easily lost if dropped or misplaced. Some connection assembly solutions are time-consuming to fasten and require tools during the assembly process. A further problem with the current design is that it is difficult to disassemble. [Overview of the project]

[0005] This disclosure relates to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly, comprising a connector body and a retainer that enables rapid assembly and disassembly, eliminates the need for post-processing machining, and reduces the insertion force required to assemble the fluid connector.

[0006] This disclosure relates to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body having a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially inward surface including a first groove forming a first axial surface, and a first radially outward surface; and a retainer removablely connectable to the connector body, having a flange, a second radially inward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, a second radially outward surface, a second through hole, at least one finger extending from the fourth end, and a second axial surface configured to engage with the first axial surface to lock the retainer within the connector body.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, at least one finger comprises a proximal end connected to a fourth end, a distal end, a third radially outward face, and a third radially inward face, the third radially inward face being a frustoconical face positioned at an acute angle with respect to the second radially inward face. In exemplary embodiments, a second groove is formed on the third radially outward face, the second groove forming a second axial face. In exemplary embodiments, the distal end forms a second axial face. In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the second radially outward face and the third radially outward face is a frustoconical face positioned at an acute angle with respect to the second radially inward face.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the third radially outward-facing surface comprises a frustoconical surface and at least one constant-diameter surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one constant-diameter surface comprises a first constant-diameter surface and a second constant-diameter surface spaced apart from the first constant-diameter surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the second constant-diameter surface is located at the distal end. In an exemplary embodiment, the first constant-diameter surface has a first diameter, and the second constant-diameter surface has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter.

[0010] In exemplary embodiments, the retainer comprises a first section including a first projection and a first hole, and a second section including a second projection and a second hole, wherein the first projection and the second projection are configured to engage with the first hole and the second hole, respectively, to connect the first section to the second section and form a retainer. In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the first projection and the second projection comprises at least one tooth. In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the first projection and the second projection comprises a shoulder.

[0011] In exemplary embodiments, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tube having a fourth radially outward-facing surface with a second groove, and a flange configured to engage with the second groove to secure the tube within the connector body. In exemplary embodiments, the tube further comprises a third groove and a seal disposed therein. In exemplary embodiments, when the tube is secured to the connector body via a retainer, a radial space is provided between the fourth radially outward-facing surface and the third radially inward-facing surface. In exemplary embodiments, at least one finger comprises a plurality of fingers spaced circumferentially around the fourth end.

[0012] This disclosure relates 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 hole, a first radially inward surface including a first groove forming a first axial surface, and a first radially outward surface; a retainer removable to the connector body including a flange, a second radially inward surface forming a third and fourth end, a second radially outward surface, a second through hole, a plurality of fingers extending from the fourth end and circumferentially spaced around the fourth end, and a second axial surface configured to engage with the first axial surface to lock the retainer within the connector body; and a tube including a third radially outward surface with a second groove, wherein the flange is configured to engage with the second groove to secure the tube within the connector body.

[0014] In exemplary embodiments, each finger of a plurality of fingers comprises a proximal end connected to a fourth end, a distal end, a fourth radially outward face, and a third radially inward face, the third radially inward face being a frustoconical face positioned acutely with respect to the second radially inward face. In exemplary embodiments, a radial space is provided between the third radially outward face and the third radially inward face when the tube is secured to the connector body via the retainer. In exemplary embodiments, the retainer comprises a first section including a first projection and a first hole, and a second section including a second projection and a second hole, the first projection and the second projection engaging with the first hole and the second hole, respectively, to connect the first section to the second section and form the retainer. In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the first projection and the second projection comprises at least one tooth. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first projection and the second projection includes a shoulder portion.

[0015] This disclosure relates to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly that provides a rapid, ergonomic, tool-free fluid connection type. In the exemplary embodiments, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body and a retainer. The retainer may be made of polymer and require a low insertion force to connect the tube to the connector body. Such a low insertion force results in an ergonomically good hand and body posture for the assembler. In the exemplary embodiments, the tube is roll-formed. In the exemplary embodiments, all seal and retaining components are positioned on the tube before the tube is inserted into the connector body. In the exemplary embodiments, the connector body can be brazed without destroying or damaging the retaining or sealing components of the fluid connection assembly.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly provides cut protection with tamper-proofing, in which case the retainer has multiple legs, and all of these legs must be compressed simultaneously to remove the retainer from the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, all legs can be compressed at once using a tool, and the retainer can be removed from the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly can be assembled and disassembled multiple times without damaging the retaining and sealing components.

[0017] These and other purposes, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become readily apparent by considering the following detailed description of this disclosure in light of the drawings and the attached claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein as part of this specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure and exemplify selected principles and teachings of this disclosure, and corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. However, the drawings do not illustrate all possible embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure and do not limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0019] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly.

[0020] [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly shown in Figure 1.

[0021] [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of the retainer shown in Figure 1.

[0022] [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a rear perspective view of the retainer shown in Figure 1.

[0023] [Figure 4A]Figure 4A is a rear perspective view of the retainer section shown in Figure 1.

[0024] [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a front perspective view of the retainer section shown in Figure 1.

[0025] [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly generally along line 5-5 of Figure 1.

[0026] [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly.

[0027] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a front perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly shown in Figure 6.

[0028] [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a front perspective view of the retainer shown in Figure 6.

[0029] [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a rear perspective view of the retainer shown in Figure 6.

[0030] [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a rear perspective view of the retainer section shown in Figure 6.

[0031] [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a front perspective view of the retainer section shown in Figure 6.

[0032] [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly generally along line 10-10 of Figure 6.

[0033] [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly generally along line 11-11 of Figure 6. [[ID=6l]] [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] It should be understood that, unless expressly otherwise specified, the present invention may employ various alternative directions and sequences of steps. It should also be understood that the particular assemblies and systems shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely illustrative embodiments of the inventive concept as defined herein. Therefore, specific dimensions, directions, or other physical characteristics relating to the disclosed embodiments should not be considered limiting to the invention unless expressly otherwise stated. Furthermore, similar elements in the various embodiments described herein may, though not necessarily, be commonly referenced by the same reference number within this section of the application.

[0035] Furthermore, please understand that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methods, materials, and modifications described herein, and is therefore subject to change. Also, please understand that the terminology used herein is intended solely to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art in which this disclosure relates. It should be understood that similar or equivalent methods, apparatus, or materials used herein may be employed in carrying out or testing the embodiments.

[0037] The terms "first," "second," etc., used herein do not necessarily indicate ordinal numbers, consecutive numbers, or priority relationships, but are used to more clearly distinguish one element or set of elements from other elements or sets of elements, unless otherwise specified.

[0038] The term "approximately" used here in relation to values ​​is intended to mean within the tolerance range of the equipment used to generate that value, or, in some examples, unless otherwise specified, to mean plus or minus 10%, plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%.

[0039] The word "substantially" is synonymous with words such as "nearby," "very close," "about," "approximately," "roughly," "approximately," "close," "essentially," "nearby," and "in the vicinity," and it should be noted that such words may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. The word "proximity" is synonymous with words such as "nearby," "close," "adjacent," "neighboring," "most recent," and "next door," and it should be understood that such words may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. The word "approximately" is intended to mean a value within 10 percent of the specified value.

[0040] The term “exemplary” as used herein is intended to mean “an example,” “provided as an example,” or “explanatory,” and does not indicate any preference or requirement regarding the disclosed aspects or embodiments.

[0041] It should be understood that the use of “or” in this application, unless otherwise specified, refers to “non-exclusive” combinations. For example, when “item x is A or B,” it should be understood that this could mean either (1) or (2) below: (1) Item x is either A or B alone, or (2) Item x is both A and B. In other words, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive or” combination. For example, an “exclusive or” combination for the statement “item x is A or B” would require that x is either A or B alone. Furthermore, “and / or” as used herein is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the enumerated elements or conditions are included or may occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted as one of the following structural combinations: 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.

[0042] Furthermore, when used herein, the expressions “comprising at least one of” and “comprising at least one of” in combination with a system or element are intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the expression. For example, an apparatus comprising at least one of the first element, the second element and the third element is intended to be interpreted as any one of the following structural combinations: an apparatus comprising the first element, an apparatus comprising the second element, an apparatus comprising the third element, an apparatus comprising the first and second elements, an apparatus comprising the first and third elements, an apparatus comprising the first element, the second element and the third element, or an apparatus comprising the second and third elements. A similar interpretation is intended when the expression “used in at least one of” is used herein.

[0043] Please note that the term “tube” as used herein is synonymous with hoses, pipes, channels, conduits, tube end formations, or any other suitable pipes used in hydraulics and fluid dynamics. Furthermore, please note that the term “tube” may mean a rigid or flexible conduit of any material suitable for containing and allowing the flow of gases or liquids.

[0044] Referring to the drawings, Figure 1 is a front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10. Figure 2 is a front exploded perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10. The fluid connection assembly 10 generally comprises a connector body 40 and a retainer 70. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 10 further comprises a tube 20.

[0045] The tube 20 comprises an end 22, a section 34, a groove 26, another section 36, an end 30, and a through hole 32. The through hole 32 extends through the tube 20 from end 22 to end 30. Section 34 is located between end 22 and groove 26 and comprises a radially outward-facing surface 24. The radially outward-facing surface 24 has a substantially constant diameter. In exemplary embodiments, the radially outward-facing surface 24 comprises a frustoconical tapered or curved surface near end 22 (see Figure 5).

[0046] The groove 26 is located between section 34 and section 36 and comprises surfaces 26A, 26B, and 26C. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26A is an axial surface at least partially facing axial AD2, and surface 26B is an axial surface at least partially facing axial AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 26C is a radially outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 20 may have shoulders projecting radially outward instead of, or in addition to, the groove 26. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the groove 26 is spaced between end 22 and end 30. Section 36 is located between the groove 26 and end 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 20 further comprises one or more seal grooves, e.g., grooves 28A to 28B, configured to at least partially enclose seals, e.g., seals 38A to 38B. The seals 38A to 38B are positioned within the grooves 28A to 28B, forming a fluid-tight seal between the tube 20 and the connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the small circular diameters of the seals 38A and 38B are greater than the depths of the grooves 28A and 28B, and the seals 38A and 38B protrude radially outward from the radially outward-facing surface 24.

[0047] The tube 20 is specifically configured to be inserted into the connector body 40 with its end 22 leading. The tube 20 is inserted into the connector body 40 until section 34 engages with the radially inward surface 58 and the retainer 70 snaps and / or engages with the groove 26. Seals 38A and 38B engage to the radially inward surface 58 to form a fluid-tight seal between the tube 20 and the connector body 40 (see Figure 5). The tube 20 may be any conventional tube or tube end forming part having a bead, a radially outward projection or flange, or a ramp contour, which should be recognized as extending radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube and securing the tube within the connector body. In exemplary embodiments, the tube 20 comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic. In exemplary embodiments, the tube 20 comprises metal and is roll-formed.

[0048] The connector body 40 comprises an end 42, an end 44, a through hole 41 extending from end 42 to end 44, one or more radially inward faces, e.g., radially inward face 48, radially inward face 52, and radially inward face 58, and one or more radially outward faces, e.g., radially outward face 60 and radially outward face 64. The radially inward face 48 extends from end 44 in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward face 48 has a constant diameter. The radially inward face 48 includes an annular groove 50 that forms two axial surfaces with the radially inward face. The annular groove 50, in particular the axial surface 50A of the annular groove 50 facing the axial direction AD1, is arranged to engage with the surface 90A of the groove 90 to secure the retainer 70 to the connector body 40, as will be described in more detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward surface 48 is connected to the end 44 via the radially inward surface 46. The radially inward surface 46 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially inward surface 46 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 70 when connecting the retainer 70 to the connector body 40.

[0049] The radially inward-facing surface 48 is connected to the radially inward-facing surface 52. The radially inward-facing surface 52 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. In exemplary embodiments, the radially inward-facing surface 52 corresponds to the radially outward-facing surface 76 and / or the radially outward-facing surface 86 (i.e., the radially inward-facing surface 52 is positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward-facing surface 58). The radially inward-facing surface 52 is connected to the radially inward-facing surface 58 via a surface 54. The surface 54 is an axial surface substantially oriented in the axial direction AD2. In exemplary embodiments, the radially inward-facing surface 58 is connected to the axial surface 54 via the radially inward-facing surface 56. The radially inward-facing surface 56 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially inward-facing surface 56 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 70 when connecting the retainer 70 to the connector body 40. The radially inward surface 58 extends from the end 42. In exemplary embodiments, the radially inward surface 58 has a constant diameter. In exemplary embodiments, the radially inward surface 48 has a larger diameter than the radially inward surface 58.

[0050] The radially outward-facing surface 60 extends from the end 44. The radially outward-facing surface 64 extends from the end 42. The head 62 is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 60 and the radially outward-facing surface 64. In exemplary embodiments, the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 60 is greater than the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 64. In exemplary embodiments, an annular notch or groove is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 60 and the head 62. In exemplary embodiments, an annular groove is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 64 and the head 62, and this annular groove is configured to engage with the seal and / or at least partially surround the seal. It should be noted that various radially outward-facing surfaces may have a constant diameter or a variable diameter.

[0051] The connector body 40 is configured to connect to a fluid-filled component. For example, the connector body 40 may be connected to the transmission via a radially outward-facing surface 64 (e.g., via screwing, brazing, adhesive, welding, etc.). The connector body 40 may be screwed into a threaded hole in the transmission via a head 62 (e.g., using a wrench), and then filled with transmission fluid. In the exemplary embodiment, the head 62 is hexagonal, but it should be noted that it may have any shape suitable for applying torque to the connector body 40. Also note that in the exemplary embodiment, the connector body 40 may be used for inline connections in a line set. Another component to which the fluid connection assembly 10, specifically the connector body 40, may be attached is the engine block. It should be noted that the fluid connection assembly 10 may be used for various other components, assemblies, and subassemblies to which fluid connections are required. In the exemplary embodiment, the connector body 40 comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0052] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of the retainer 70. Figure 3B is a rear perspective view of the retainer 70. Figure 4A is a rear perspective view of the retainer sections 70A and 70B. Figure 4B is a front perspective view of the retainer sections 70A and 70B. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 10 along line 5-5 in Figure 1. The retainer 70 is configured to be removably connected to the connector body 40 and comprises an end 72, an end or surface 74, a through hole 71, a radially outward-facing surface 76, a radially inward-facing surface 78, and one or more fingers 80.

[0053] The end portion 72 has an axial surface that is generally oriented in the axial direction AD1. The end portion 72 is configured to be engageable with or positioned close to the surface 54 when the retainer 70 is connected to the connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the radially outward surface 76 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially outward surface 76 may correspond to the radially outward surface 86 and form a single frustoconical surface positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward surface 78. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward surface 78 has a constant diameter and forms a flange 79 configured to engage with the groove 24 to secure the tube 20 to the connector body 40. Specifically, when the tube 20 is fixed to the connector body 40 by the retainer 70, surface 72 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to surface 26A, surface 74 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to surface 26B, and radially inward surface 78 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to radially outward surface 26C.

[0054] Each finger 80 comprises an end 82 connected to an end 74, an end 84, a radially outward-facing surface 86, and a radially inward-facing surface 92. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the radially outward-facing surface 86 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially outward-facing surface 86 is positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward-facing surface 78. In an exemplary embodiment, the angle α is acute, for example, 25 degrees. When the retainer 70 is connected to the connector body 40, the radially outward-facing surface 86 and / or the radially outward-facing surface 76 are configured to engage with or be in close proximity to the radially inward-facing surface 52. The engagement of the radially outward-facing surfaces 76, 86 with the radially inward-facing surface 52 and / or the end 72 with the surface 54 prevents axial displacement of the retainer 70 relative to the connector body 40 in the direction AD1. Furthermore, the frustoconical nature of the corresponding surfaces 52 and 76, 86 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 70 when it is connected to the connector body 40.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the finger 80 further comprises a radially outward-facing surface 88A and / or a radially outward-facing surface 88B. The radially outward-facing surface 88A has a constant diameter and is connected to the radially outward-facing surface 86. The radially outward-facing surface 88B has a constant diameter and is connected to the end 84. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 88B is greater than the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 88A. The finger 80 further comprises a groove 90. The groove 90 is an annular groove extending radially inward within the finger 80. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the groove 90 is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 88A and the radially outward-facing surface 88B. However, it should be noted that in an exemplary embodiment, the groove 90 is positioned on the radially outward-facing surface 86. The groove 90 forms a surface 90A that is configured to engage with the surface 50A when the retainer 70 is connected to the connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 90A is an axial surface substantially oriented in the axial direction AD2.

[0056] The radially inward surface 92 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially inward surface 92 is positioned at an angle β with respect to the radially inward surface 78 or radially outward surface 24 of the tube 20. In exemplary embodiments, angle β is acute, for example, 8 degrees. In exemplary embodiments, angle α is greater than angle β. Due to the frustoconical nature of the radially inward surface 92, a radial space is created between the finger 80 and the tube 20. This space allows the finger 80 to move radially inward in the radial direction RD2, causing surface 90A to detach from surface 50A and allowing the retainer 70 and tube 20 to be removed from the connector body 40.

[0057] The fingers 80 are arranged circumferentially at intervals of, for example, S1. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 70 comprises a plurality of fingers 80, for example, four fingers 80. As described above, the fingers 80 facilitate the removal of the retainer 70 from the connector body. For example, a user can move the fingers 80 radially inward via the end 84 and / or radially outward surface 88B to detach the surface 90A from the surface 50A, at which point the retainer 70 can be removed from the connector body 40.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 70 comprises several sections, for example, section 70A and section 70B. In the exemplary embodiment, sections 70A and 70B are substantially identical and are therefore described herein as having substantially identical components. In addition to the components described above, sections 70A and 70B comprise a plane 94, a hole 98, and a projection 100. As shown in the figure, the retainer 70 is substantially divided in half at the surface 94. Specifically, section 70A fits with section 70B at each of its respective surfaces 94. The projection 100 of section 70A is configured to engage with the hole 98 of section 70B, and the projection 100 of section 70B is configured to engage with the hole 98 of section 70A.

[0059] The hole 98 extends from surface 94 to surface 96. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 96 is positioned parallel to surface 94. The projection 100 includes a shoulder 102. When sections 70A and 70B are connected to form the retainer 70, the surfaces 94 of sections 70A and 70B engage, the projection 100 passes through each hole 98, and the shoulder 102 engages with each surface 96, preventing section 70B from coming loose from section 70A. In an exemplary embodiment, the projection 100 further includes a tapered surface 104. The tapered surface 104 facilitates the alignment and connection of sections 70A and 70B when the projection 100 is inserted into each hole 98.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, each of sections 70A to 70B comprises a plurality of fingers 80, for example, three fingers 80. The first finger 80 has a projection 100, and the second finger 80 has a hole 98. The third finger 80 is positioned between the first and second fingers 80, with a circumferential spacing from the first and second fingers 80. When sections 70A to 70B are connected, the first finger 80 of section 70A abuts against the second finger of section 70B, and the second finger of section 70A abuts against the first finger of section 70B. Thus, the retainer 70 can be said to comprise six fingers, or four circumferentially spaced fingers.

[0061] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 10, sections 70A and 70B are positioned around the tube 20 such that the radially inward-facing surface 78 is substantially aligned with the radially outward-facing surface 26C and the projection 100 is aligned with the hole 98. Section 70B connects to section 70A around the tube 20. Specifically, as described above, the projection 100 engages with each hole 98 until the shoulder portion 102 engages with each surface 96. The radially inward-facing surface 78 engages with the groove 26 and the tube 20 extends through the retainer 70. In an exemplary embodiment, seals 38A-38B are positioned in the grooves 28A-28B. Next, the tube 20 on which the retainer 70 is positioned is inserted into the connector body 40 axially AD1, with the end 22 leading, until section 34 engages with the radially inward surface 58, end 72 engages with the surface 54, and / or radially outward surfaces 76, 86 engage with the radially inward surface 52. As the radially outward surface 86 engages with the radially inward surface 48, the finger 80 is pushed radially inward until the surface 90A aligns with the groove 50, at which point the finger 80 snaps back to its original position radially outward. The surface 90A then engages with the surface 50A, preventing the retainer 70 from moving axially AD2 relative to the connector body 40.

[0062] To disassemble the fluid connection assembly 10, the finger 80 is moved radially inward until surface 90A is detached from surface 50A, thereby reducing the angle β. The retainer 70 and tube 20 can then be detached from the connector body 40. If necessary, the retainer 70 can be detached from the tube 20 by moving, for example, the projection 100 to detach the shoulder portion 102 from each surface 96, at which point section 70B can be detached from section 70A.

[0063] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 110. Figure 7 is an exploded front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 110. The fluid connection assembly 110 generally comprises a connector body 140 and a retainer 170. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly 110 further comprises a tube 120.

[0064] The tube 120 comprises an end 122, a section 134, a groove 126, another section 136, an end 130, and a through hole 132. The through hole 132 extends through the tube 120 from end 122 to end 130. Section 134 is located between end 122 and groove 126 and comprises a radially outward-facing surface 124. The radially outward-facing surface 124 has a substantially constant diameter. In exemplary embodiments, the radially outward-facing surface 124 has a frustoconical tapered or curved surface near end 122 (see Figure 10).

[0065] The groove 126 is located between section 134 and section 136 and comprises surfaces 126A, 126B, and 126C. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 126A is an axial surface at least partially oriented in the axial direction AD2, and surface 126B is an axial surface at least partially oriented in the axial direction AD1. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 126C is a radially outward-facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 120 may have shoulders projecting radially outward instead of, or in addition to, the groove 126. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the groove 126 is located between end 122 and end 130, spaced apart from end 122 and end 130. Section 136 is located between the groove 126 and end 130. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube 120 further comprises one or more seal grooves, e.g., grooves 128A-128B, configured to at least partially enclose seals, e.g., seals 138A-138B. The seals 138A-138B are positioned within the grooves 128A-128B, forming a fluid-tight seal between the tube 120 and the connector body 140. In an exemplary embodiment, the small circular diameters of the seals 138A, 138B are greater than the depths of the grooves 128A, 128B, and the seals 138A, 138B protrude radially outward from the radially outward surface 124.

[0066] The tube 120 is specifically configured to be inserted into the connector body 140 with end 122 leading. The tube 120 is inserted into the connector body 140 until section 134 engages with the radially inward face 158 and the retainer 170 snaps and / or engages with the groove 126. Seals 138A and 138B engage to the radially inward face 158 to form a fluid-tight seal between the tube 120 and the connector body 140 (see Figure 10). The tube 120 may be any conventional tube or tube end forming part having a bead, a radially outward projection or flange, or a ramp contour, which should be recognized as extending radially outward and axially on the outer surface of the tube and securing the tube within the connector body. In exemplary embodiments, the tube 120 comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic. In exemplary embodiments, the tube 120 comprises metal and is roll-formed.

[0067] The connector body 140 comprises an end 142, an end 144, a through hole 141 extending from end 142 to end 144, one or more radially inward faces, e.g., radially inward face 148, radially inward face 152, and radially inward face 158, and one or more radially outward faces, e.g., radially outward face 160 and radially outward face 164. The radially inward face 148 extends axially AD1 from end 144. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward face 148 has a constant diameter. The radially inward face 148 includes an annular groove 150 that forms two axial surfaces with the radially inward face. The annular groove 150, particularly the axial surface 150A of the annular groove 150 facing axial AD1, is configured to engage with the surface 190A of the groove 190 to secure the retainer 170 to the connector body 140, as will be described in more detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward surface 148 is connected to the end 144 via the radially inward surface 146. The radially inward surface 146 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in axial AD2. The radially inward surface 146 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 170 when connecting the retainer 170 to the connector body 140.

[0068] The radially inward-facing surface 148 is connected to the radially inward-facing surface 152. The radially inward-facing surface 152 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 152 corresponds to the radially outward-facing surface 176 and / or the radially outward-facing surface 186 (i.e., the radially inward-facing surface 152 is positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward-facing surface 158). The radially inward-facing surface 152 is connected to the radially inward-facing surface 158 via a surface 154. The surface 154 is an axial surface substantially oriented in the axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 158 is connected to the axial surface 154 via the radially inward-facing surface 156. The radially inward-facing surface 156 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially inward-facing surface 156 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 170 when connecting it to the connector body 140. The radially inward-facing surface 158 extends from the end 142. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 158 has a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward-facing surface 148 has a larger diameter than the radially inward-facing surface 158.

[0069] The radially outward-facing surface 160 extends from the end 144. The radially outward-facing surface 164 extends from the end 142. The head 162 is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 160 and the radially outward-facing surface 164. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 160 is greater than the diameter of the radially outward-facing surface 164. In an exemplary embodiment, an annular groove is axially positioned between the radially outward-facing surface 164 and the head 162, and the annular groove is configured to engage with and / or at least partially surround the seal 210. It should be noted that the various radially outward-facing surfaces may have a constant diameter or a variable diameter.

[0070] The connector body 140 is configured to connect to a fluid-filled component. For example, the connector body 140 may be connected to the transmission via a radially outward-facing surface 164 (e.g., via screwing, brazing, adhesive, welding, etc.). The connector body 140 is screwed into a threaded hole in the transmission via a head 162 (e.g., using a wrench), and then filled with transmission fluid. In the exemplary embodiment, the head 162 is hexagonal, but it should be noted that it may have any shape suitable for applying torque to the connector body 140. Also note that in the exemplary embodiment, the connector body 140 can also be used for inline connections in a line set. Another component to which the fluid connection assembly 110, specifically the connector body 140, is attached is the engine block. It should be noted that the fluid connection assembly 110 may be used for various other components, assemblies, and subassemblies to which fluid connections are required. In the exemplary embodiment, the connector body 140 comprises at least one of metal, polymer, and ceramic.

[0071] Figure 8A is a front perspective view of the retainer 170. Figure 8B is a rear perspective view of the retainer 170. Figure 9A is a rear perspective view of the retainer sections 170A and 170B. Figure 9B is a front perspective view of the retainer sections 170A and 170B. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 110 along approximately line 10-10 in Figure 6. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 110 along approximately line 11-11 in Figure 6. The retainer 170 is configured to be removably connectable to the connector body 140 and includes an end 172, an end or surface 174, a through hole 171, a radially outward-facing surface 176, a radially inward-facing surface 178, and one or more fingers 180.

[0072] The end portion 172 has an axial surface that is generally oriented in the axial direction AD1. The end portion 172 is configured to be engageable with or positioned close to the surface 154 when the retainer 170 is connected to the connector body 140. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the radially outward surface 176 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially outward surface 176 may correspond to the radially outward surface 186 and form a single frustoconical surface positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward surface 178. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward surface 178 forms a flange 179 having a certain diameter and configured to engage with the groove 124 to secure the tube 120 to the connector body 140. Specifically, when the tube 120 is fixed to the connector body 140 by the retainer 170, surface 172 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to surface 126A, surface 174 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to surface 126B, and radially inward surface 178 is configured to engage with or be adjacent to radially outward surface 126C.

[0073] Each finger 180 comprises an end 182 connected to an end 174, an end 184, a radially outward-facing surface 186, and a radially inward-facing surface 192. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the radially outward-facing surface 186 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially outward-facing surface 186 is positioned at an angle α with respect to the radially inward-facing surface 178. In an exemplary embodiment, the angle α is acute, for example, 25 degrees. When the retainer 170 is connected to the connector body 140, the radially outward-facing surface 186 and / or radially outward-facing surface 176 are configured to engage with or be adjacent to the radially inward-facing surface 152. The engagement of the radially outward-facing surfaces 176 and 186 with the radially inward-facing surface 152 and / or the end 172 with the surface 154 prevents axial displacement of the retainer 170 in the AD1 direction relative to the connector body 140. Furthermore, the frustoconical nature of the corresponding surfaces 152 and 176, 186 facilitates the alignment and connection of the retainer 170 when it is connected to the connector body 140. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the end 182 has a recess or groove extending radially outward from the radially inward surface 192. This recess or groove facilitates the elastic displacement of the fingers 180 for connecting and disconnecting the retainer 170 from the connector body 140.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the finger 180 further comprises radially outward-facing surfaces 188A and / or radially outward-facing surfaces 188B. Radially outward-facing surface 188A has a constant diameter and is connected to radially outward-facing surface 186. Radially outward-facing surface 188B has a constant diameter and is connected to end 184. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of radially outward-facing surface 188B is greater than the diameter of radially outward-facing surface 188A. The finger 180 further comprises a groove 190. The groove 190 is an annular groove extending radially inward within the finger 180. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the groove 190 is axially positioned between radially outward-facing surfaces 188A and radially outward-facing surfaces 188B. However, it should be noted that in an exemplary embodiment, the groove 190 is positioned on radially outward-facing surface 186. The groove 190 forms a surface 190A that is configured to engage with surface 150A when the retainer 170 is connected to the connector body 140. In an exemplary embodiment, surface 190A is an axial surface substantially oriented in the axial direction AD2.

[0075] The radially inward surface 192 is a frustoconical surface extending radially outward in the axial direction AD2. The radially inward surface 192 is positioned at an angle β with respect to the radially inward surface 178, or the radially outward surface 124 of the tube 120. In exemplary embodiments, angle β is acute, for example, 8 degrees. In exemplary embodiments, angle α is greater than angle β. Due to the frustoconical nature of the radially inward surface 192, a radial space is created between the finger 180 and the tube 120. This space allows the finger 180 to move radially inward in the radial direction RD2, causing surface 190A to detach from surface 150A, and allowing the retainer 170 and tube 120 to be removed from the connector body 140.

[0076] The fingers 180 are arranged circumferentially at intervals of, for example, S2. In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 170 comprises a plurality of fingers 180, for example, four fingers 180. As described above, the fingers 180 facilitate the removal of the retainer 170 from the connector body. For example, the user may move the fingers 180 radially inward via the end 184 and / or radially outward surface 188B to detach the surface 190A from the surface 150A, at which point the retainer 170 can be removed from the connector body 140. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more fingers 180 comprises a projection 204 extending axially AD2 from the end 184. The projection 204 forms a radially outward surface 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the radially outward surface 206 is smaller than the diameter of the radially outward surface 188B. Therefore, the projection 204 can be easily positioned and used as an engagement position for connecting or disconnecting the retainer 170 from the connector body 140. Specifically, the projection 204 is displaced radially inward to separate the surface 190A from the surface 150A (i.e., the user can clamp the retainer 170 with the radially outward surface 206). In an exemplary embodiment, the radially outward surface 206 is a frustoconical surface whose diameter increases in the axial direction AD2.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 170 comprises several sections, for example, section 170A and section 170B. In the exemplary embodiment, sections 170A and 170B are substantially identical and are therefore described herein as having substantially identical components. In addition to the components described above, sections 170A and 170B comprise a plane 194, a hole 196, and a projection 200. As shown in the figure, the retainer 170 is substantially divided in half at the surface 194. Specifically, section 170A fits with section 170B at each of its respective surfaces 194. The projection 200 of section 170A is configured to engage with the hole 196 of section 170B, and the projection 200 of section 170B is configured to engage with the hole 196 of section 170A.

[0078] The hole 196 extends from the surface 194 to the space S2. The hole 196 forms the radially outward-facing surfaces of sections 170A and 170B, on which one or more teeth 198 are disposed. The projection 200 comprises one or more teeth 202. When sections 170A and 170B are connected to form the retainer 170, the surfaces 194 of sections 170A and 170B engage, the projection 200 at least partially penetrates each hole 196, and the teeth 202 at least partially engage with the teeth 198, thereby preventing section 170B from coming out of section 170A. In an exemplary embodiment, the projection 200 further comprises a tapered surface 208. The tapered surface 208 facilitates the alignment and connection of sections 170A and 170B when the projection 200 is inserted into each hole 196.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, each of sections 170A to 170B comprises a plurality of fingers 180, for example, three fingers 180. The first finger 180 has a projection 200, and the second finger 180 has a hole 196. The third finger 180 is positioned between the first finger 180 and the second finger 180, circumferentially spaced away from them. When sections 170A to 170B are connected, the first finger 180 of section 170A abuts against the second finger of section 170B, and the second finger of section 170A abuts against the first finger of section 170B. Thus, the retainer 170 can be said to comprise six fingers, or four circumferentially spaced fingers.

[0080] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 110, sections 170A and 170B are positioned around the tube 120 such that the radially inward-facing surface 178 is substantially aligned with the radially outward-facing surface 126C and the projection 200 is aligned with the hole 196. Section 170B connects to section 170A around the tube 120. Specifically, as described above, the projection 200 engages with each hole 196 until the teeth 202 engage with each tooth 198. The radially inward-facing surface 178 engages with the groove 126, and the tube 120 extends through the retainer 170. In an exemplary embodiment, seals 138A-138B are positioned in the grooves 128A-128B. Next, the tube 120 on which the retainer 170 is positioned is inserted into the connector body 140 axially AD1, with the end 122 leading, until section 134 engages with the radially inward surface 158, end 172 engages with the surface 154, and / or radially outward surfaces 176, 186 engage with the radially inward surface 152. As the radially outward surface 186 engages with the radially inward surface 148, the finger 180 is pushed radially inward until the surface 190A aligns with the groove 150, at which point the finger 180 snaps back to its original position radially outward. Next, the surface 190A engages with the surface 150A, preventing the retainer 170 from moving axially AD2 relative to the connector body 140.

[0081] To disassemble the fluid connection assembly 110, move the finger 180 radially inward until surface 190A is detached from surface 150A, thereby reducing the angle β. The retainer 170 and tube 120 can then be removed from the connector body 140. If necessary, the retainer 170 can be removed from the tube 120 by moving, for example, the projection 200 to detach the teeth 202 from their respective teeth 198, at which point section 170B can be removed from section 170A.

[0082] It will be recognized that various aspects of the above disclosure, as well as other features and functions, or their substitutes, can preferably be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various currently unforeseen or unforeseen substitutes, variations, changes, or improvements therein may be made in the future by those skilled in the art, and these are also intended to be included in the following claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0083] 10 Fluid connection assemblies 20 tubes 22 End 24 Radial outward facing surface 26 Groove 26A surface 26B surface 26C Radial outward facing surface 28A groove 28B Groove 30 End 32 Through holes 34 sections 36 sections 38A seal 38B Seal 40 Connector body 41 Through hole 42 End 44 End 46 Radial inward facing surface 48 Radial inward facing surface 50 grooves 50A surface 52 Radial inward facing surface 54 Surface 56 Radial inward facing surface 58 Radial inward facing surface 60 Radial outward facing surface 62 heads 64 Radial outward facing surface 70 Retainers Section 70A Section 70B 71 Through hole 72 End 74 End 76 Radial outward facing surface 78 Radial inward facing surface 79 Flange 80 Fingers 82 End 84 End 86 Radial outward facing surface 88A Radial outward facing surface 88B Radial outward facing surface 90 grooves 90A surface 92 Radial inward facing surface 94 Surface 96 Surface 98 holes 100 Protrusion 102 Shoulder 104 Surface 110 Fluid connection assembly 120 tubes 122 End 124 Radial outward facing surface 126 Groove 126A surface 126B Surface 126C Radial outward facing surface 128A Groove 128B Groove 130 End 132 Through hole Section 134 Section 136 138A Seal 138B Seal 140 Connector body 141 Through hole 142 End 144 End 146 Radial inward facing surface 148 Radial inward facing surface 150 groove 150A surface 152 Radial inward facing surface 154 Surface 156 Radial inward facing surface 158 Radial inward facing surface 160 Radial outward facing surface 162 heads 164 Radial outward facing surface 170 Retainer Section 170A Section 170B 171 Through hole 172 End 174 End 176 Radial outward facing surface 178 Radial inward facing surface 179 Flange 180 Fingers 182 End 184 End 186 Radial outward facing surface 188A Radial outward facing surface 188B Radial outward facing surface 190 Groove 190A surface 192 Radial inward facing surface 194 Surface 196 Holes or surfaces 198 teeth 200 Protrusion 202 teeth 204 Protrusion 206 Radial outward facing surface 208 Tapered surface 210 stickers AD1 Axial direction AD2 axial direction CD1 Circumferential direction CD2 Circumferential Direction RD1 Radial direction RD2 Radial direction S1 Interval S2 interval α angle β angle

Claims

1. The connector body, The first end and, The second end and The first through hole and A first radially inward surface including a first groove that forms a first axial surface, The first radially outward-facing surface, A connector body equipped with, A retainer that can be detachably connected to the connector body, A flange, a second radially inward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, A second radially outward-facing surface, The second through hole, At least one finger extending from the fourth end, A second axial surface is configured to engage with the first axial surface and lock the retainer into the connector body, A retainer including, Fluid connection assembly.

2. The at least one finger is The proximal end connected to the fourth end, The distal end and A third radially outward-facing surface, It comprises a third radially inward surface, The third radially inward surface is a frustoconical surface positioned at an acute angle to the second radially inward surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 1.

3. A second groove is formed on the third radially outward surface, and the second groove forms the second axial surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

4. The distal end forms the second axial surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

5. At least one of the second radially outward-facing surface and the third radially outward-facing surface is a frustoconical surface positioned at an acute angle with respect to the second radially inward-facing surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

6. The third radially outward-facing surface is, A frustoconical surface and A device comprising at least one constant diameter surface, The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

7. The aforementioned at least one constant diameter surface is A first constant diameter surface and The fluid connection assembly according to claim 6, further comprising: a second constant diameter surface disposed at a distance from the first constant diameter surface.

8. The second constant diameter surface is located at the distal end, The fluid connection assembly according to claim 7.

9. The first constant diameter surface has a first diameter, The second constant diameter surface has a second diameter, The second diameter is larger than the first diameter. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 7.

10. The aforementioned retainer is, A first section including a first projection and a first hole, A second section including a second projection and a second hole, The first projection and the second projection are configured to engage with the first hole and the second hole, respectively, so as to connect the first section to the second section and form the retainer. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

11. At least one of the first projection and the second projection is provided with at least one tooth. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 10.

12. The connector further comprises a tube including a fourth radially outward-facing surface having a second groove, wherein the flange is configured to engage with the second groove to secure the tube within the connector body. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 2.

13. The tube further comprises a third groove and a seal disposed therein. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 12.

14. When the tube is fixed to the connector body via the retainer, a radial space is provided between the fourth radially outward-facing surface and the third radially inward-facing surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 12.

15. The at least one finger includes a plurality of fingers arranged circumferentially at intervals around the fourth end. The retainer according to claim 1.

16. The connector body, The first end and, The second end and The first through hole and A first radially inward surface including a first groove that forms a first axial surface, The first radially outward-facing surface, The connector body includes, A retainer that can be detachably connected to the connector body, A flange, a second radially inward surface forming a third end and a fourth end, A second radially outward-facing surface, The second through hole, A plurality of fingers extending from the fourth end and arranged circumferentially around the fourth end at intervals thereof, A second axial surface is configured to engage with the first axial surface and lock the retainer into the connector body, A retainer including, A tube comprising a third radially outward-facing surface having a second groove, The flange is configured to engage with the second groove so that the tube can be fixed inside the connector body. Fluid connection assembly.

17. Each of the aforementioned multiple fingers is The proximal end connected to the fourth end, The distal end and A fourth radially outward-facing surface, It comprises a third radially inward surface, The third radially inward surface is a frustoconical surface positioned at an acute angle to the second radially inward surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 16.

18. When the tube is fixed to the connector body via the retainer, a radial space is provided between the third radially outward-facing surface and the third radially inward-facing surface. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 17.

19. The aforementioned retainer is, A first section including a first projection and a first hole, A second section including a second projection and a second hole, The first projection and the second projection engage with the first hole and the second hole, respectively, to connect the first section to the second section and form the retainer. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 16.

20. At least one of the first projection and the second projection is provided with at least one tooth. The fluid connection assembly according to claim 19.

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