Tamper-resistant fluid connection assembly with visual connection verification

Abstract

1. A fluid connection assembly comprising: a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially outward surface including at least one opening extending from the first radially outward surface to the first through hole, and at least one engaging element disposed in the at least one opening; and a collar connected to the connector body, the collar including a radially inward surface including at least one pocket engaging with and extending radially outward from the first radially outward surface, and a second radially outward surface.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more particularly to a fluid connection assembly that includes a retainer that prevents disassembly and provides visual connection verification. [Background technology]

[0002] Fluid connectors, fluid connections and fluid connection assemblies are essential components for many applications, especially automotive applications. Since automotive systems consist of various components such as radiators, transmissions, engines, etc., fluids must be able to move within each component as well as between components. An example of a fluid moving between components is the transmission fluid moving from the transmission to the transmission oil cooler to reduce the temperature of the transmission fluid. Another example of a fluid moving between components is a cooling conduit carrying a refrigerant. A refrigerant is a substance or mixture (usually a fluid) used in heat pumps and refrigeration cycles that can be dangerous. It is therefore important that the fluid connectors of the cooling conduits are properly secured to prevent the refrigerant from being released.

[0003] Fluids are primarily transferred between components through flexible or rigid hoses connected to each component by fluid connectors. Such fluid connectors typically include a retaining clip, retaining ring clip, or snap ring mounted to the connector body adapted to snap behind a raised shoulder on the tube when the tube is fully inserted into the connector body. However, during the assembly process, installation of the retaining clip to the connector body can be difficult, and improper installation of the retaining clip can jeopardize the structural integrity of the retaining clip. In addition, the force required to engage the tube to the connector body and overcome the radial force of the retaining clip is very large in current designs. Also, the retaining clips are very thin and small, making them easily lost if dropped or misplaced. Furthermore, some connection assembly solutions are time consuming to fasten and require tools for the assembly process.

[0004] Another problem with existing fluid connection assembly designs is that they can easily be separated, potentially releasing hazardous refrigerants or other harmful fluids into the environment. Current fluid connection assembly designs do not include tamper-resistant features to prevent disassembly. Additionally, current fluid connection assembly designs do not include features that indicate when an attempt to separate the fluid connection assembly has occurred (i.e., tamper detection features).

[0005] Accordingly, there has been a long felt need for a fluid connection assembly that includes a retainer that prevents disassembly, provides visual connection verification and tamper detection, and reduces the insertion force required for assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to aspects presented herein, a fluid connection assembly is provided that includes a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially outward surface including at least one opening extending from the first radially outward surface to the first through hole, and at least one engaging element disposed in the at least one opening; and a collar connected to the connector body, the collar including a radially inward surface engaging with the first radially outward surface including at least one pocket extending radially outward therefrom, and a second radially outward surface.

[0007] In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the at least one engagement element engages with the at least one pocket, and in the locked state, the at least one engagement element engages with the radially inwardly facing surface and extends into the first through hole. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket increases in depth along the first circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the at least one opening is frustoconical. In some embodiments, the connector body further comprises a recess in the first radially outwardly facing surface, and the collar further comprises a second through hole extending from the radially inwardly facing surface to the second radially outwardly facing surface and a detent slidably disposed within the second through hole, the detent configured to engage with the recess to non-rotatably connect the collar and the connector body. In some embodiments, the detent comprises a first section configured to engage with the recess, a second section, and a biasing element configured to bias the first and second sections radially inwardly. In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the second section projects radially outward from the second radially outward surface, and in the locked state, the second section does not project radially outward from the second radially outward surface. In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the first section engages the radially outward surface and the collar is rotatable relative to the connector body, and in the locked state, the first section engages the recess and the collar and the connector body are non-rotatably connected. In some embodiments, the connector body further comprises a groove disposed in the first radially outward surface and at least partially aligned with the recess. In some embodiments, the groove comprises a first depth and the recess comprises a second depth, the first depth being greater than the second depth. In some embodiments, the second through hole comprises a counterbore extending radially outward from the radially inward surface. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a retaining ring disposed in the groove of the connector body and rotatably connectable to the collar to the connector body. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tube including a shoulder, the at least one engaging element configured to engage the shoulder to secure the tube to the connector body.

[0008] According to aspects depicted herein, a fluid connection assembly is provided that includes a connector body including a first end, a second end, a first through hole, a first radially outward surface including at least one opening extending from the first radially outward surface to the first through hole and a recess extending radially inward from the first radially outward surface, and at least one engagement element disposed in the at least one opening; a collar connected to the connector body, the collar including a radially inward surface including at least one pocket engaging with the first radially outward surface and extending radially outward therefrom, a second radially outward surface, and a second through hole extending from the radially inward surface to the second radially outward surface; and a detent slidably disposed within the second through hole and configured to engage the recess to non-rotatably connect the collar and the connector body.

[0009] In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the at least one engagement element engages with the at least one pocket, and in the locked state, the at least one engagement element engages with the radially inward surface and extends into the first through hole. In some embodiments, the detents are biased radially inward. In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the detents protrude radially outward from the second radially outward surface, and in the locked state, the detents do not protrude radially outward from the second radially outward surface. In some embodiments, in the unlocked state, the detents engage with the radially outward surface, and the collar is rotatable relative to the connector body, and in the locked state, the detents engage with the recess, and the collar and the connector body are non-rotatably connected. In some embodiments, the connector body further comprises a groove disposed on the first radially outward surface and at least partially aligned with the recess. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tube including a shoulder, and the at least one engagement element is configured to engage the shoulder in the first through hole to secure the tube to the connector body.

[0010] According to aspects presented herein, a locking, tamper-resistant fluid quick-connect or connection assembly is provided that includes a visual connection verification feature. The fluid connection assembly provides for quick connection under automotive assembly line conditions of air conditioning conduits carrying refrigerant or other fluids. The fluid connection assembly can also provide a visual indication that full engagement of the fluid connection assembly has been achieved.

[0011] The fluid connection assembly of the present disclosure provides a user with a tool- and hardware-free fluid connection assembly with visual connection verification for use with fluid conduits (e.g., air conditioning conduits carrying refrigerant). The fluid connection assembly eliminates the need for tools (such as power tools) and reduces potentially detrimental ergonomic aspects caused by awkward assembly positions when connecting tubes. The fluid connection assembly includes a positive visual indicator that the tube end formation is fully engaged with the connector body and a tamper detection feature once the connection is made. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly includes a collar including at least one ball that presses a sealing surface of the tube end formation into a face of the connector body. The at least one ball is disposed on a radially inward facing surface of the collar. As the collar rotates, the ball is pressed radially inward and the sealing surface of the tube end formation engages the sealing surface of the connector body. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly includes a tamper detection locking feature that indicates if a locked connection has been tampered with (i.e., an unauthorized attempt to separate the fluid connection assembly).

[0012] In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly includes a collar that is rotated to engage a ball that presses the tube end formation into a sealing area of ​​the connector body. Once the collar is fully rotated, a locking mechanism non-rotatably connects the collar to the connector body and prevents the tube end formation from being removed from the connector body. An anti-tamper detection feature covers the locking mechanism and prevents it from being unlocked. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may include a color scheme that indicates full engagement of the locking mechanism, i.e., the tube within the connector body. For example, the locking mechanism may include a locking detent disposed within the collar and biased radially inward by an O-ring, spring, or another resilient biasing element. The locking detent includes a first section that resides within the collar and a second section that extends from a radially outward surface of the collar in an unlocked position. In the locked position, the O-ring presses the detent radially inward and the first section engages a recess in the connector body, thereby non-rotatably connecting the collar and connector body and preventing the second section from protruding from the collar. The second section may have a color, such as red, that contrasts with the darker color of the color.

[0013] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description of the disclosure, taken in light of the drawings and the appended claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] Various embodiments are disclosed by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which: [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fluid connection assembly in a locked state. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A in an unlocked state. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 3A] 3A is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 3A-3A of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3B] 3B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 3B-3B of FIG. 1B. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1B is a partial elevational view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1C is a partial elevational view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] It should be recognized at the outset that like drawing numbers on different drawings may identify identical or functionally similar structural elements. It is to be understood that the claims are not limited to the disclosed aspects.

[0016] Further, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methods, materials, and modifications described, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0017] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It is understood that methods, devices, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the example embodiments. The assemblies of the present disclosure may be actuated hydraulically, electronically, pneumatically, and / or spring-driven.

[0018] It is to be appreciated that the term "substantially" is synonymous with words such as "near," "very near," "about," "approximately," "approximately," "essentially," "neighborhood," "vicinity," and the like, and that such terms may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. It is to be understood that the term "proximate" is synonymous with words such as "near," "close," "adjacent," "neighboring," "immediately," "next to," and the like, and that such terms may be used interchangeably when they appear in the specification and claims. The term "approximately" is intended to mean a value within 10 percent of the specified value.

[0019] The use of "or" in this application is understood to refer to a "non-exclusive" arrangement unless otherwise stated. For example, when it says "item x is A or B," this is understood to mean either (1) or (2) below: (1) item x is only one or the other of A and B; (2) item x is both A and B. In other words, the word "or" is not used to define an "exclusive or" arrangement. For example, the "exclusive or" arrangement for the statement "item x is A or B" requires that x is 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 listed elements or conditions 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 interpreted as any one of the following structural arrangements: That is, an apparatus comprising a first element, an apparatus comprising a second element, an apparatus comprising a third element, an apparatus comprising a first element and a second element, an apparatus comprising a first element and a third element, an apparatus comprising a first element, a second element, and a third element, or an apparatus comprising a second element and a third element.

[0020] Furthermore, as used herein, the phrases "comprising at least one of" and "comprising at least one of" in conjunction with a system or element are intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, an apparatus comprising at least one of a first element, a second element, and a third element is intended to be interpreted as any one of the following structural arrangements: an apparatus comprising a first element, an apparatus comprising a second element, an apparatus comprising a third element, an apparatus comprising a first element and a second element, an apparatus comprising a first element and a third element, an apparatus comprising a first element, a second element, and a third element, or an apparatus comprising a second element and a third element. A similar interpretation is also intended when the phrase "used in at least one of" is used herein. Furthermore, as used herein, "and / or" is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the listed elements or conditions 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 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.

[0021] It should be appreciated that the term "tube" as used herein is synonymous with hose, pipe, channel, conduit, tube end formation, or any other suitable pipe flow used in hydraulics and fluid mechanics. It should be further appreciated that the term "tube" may refer to a rigid or flexible conduit of any material suitable for containing and allowing the flow of gases or liquids.

[0022] "Non-rotatably connected" elements means that the elements are connected such that rotation of one of the elements rotates all of the elements, and no relative rotation between the elements is possible. Radial and / or axial movement of non-rotatably connected elements relative to one another is possible, but not required. "Rotarily connected" elements means that the elements can rotate relative to one another, and radial and / or axial displacement of one element causes radial and / or axial displacement of all of the elements.

[0023] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10 in a locked state. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10 in an unlocked state. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the fluid connection assembly 10. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 10 generally taken along line 3A-3A in FIG. 1A. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly 10 generally taken along line 3B-3B in FIG. 1B. FIG. 4A is a partial elevational view of the fluid connection assembly 10 in a locked state. FIG. 4B is a partial elevational view of the fluid connection assembly 10 in an unlocked state. The fluid connection assembly 10 generally comprises a collar 20, a connector body 40, and a tube 80. The following description should be read in light of FIGS. 1A-4B.

[0024] Tube 80 comprises end 82, section 83, shoulder 87, section 89, end 94, and through hole 96. Through hole 96 extends through tube 80 from end 82 to end 94. Section 83 is disposed between end 82 and shoulder 87 and comprises radially outwardly facing surface 84. Radially outwardly facing surface 84 comprises a substantially constant diameter. In some embodiments, radially outwardly facing surface 84 comprises a frustoconical or curvilinear taper proximal to end 82 (see FIGS. 3A-3B). In some embodiments, section 83 further comprises a raised portion disposed between radially outwardly facing surface 84 and shoulder 87. Shoulder 87 is disposed between section 83 and section 89 and comprises radially outwardly facing surface 86 and surface 88. As shown, radially outwardly facing surface 86 is a frustoconical surface extending from radially outwardly facing surface 84 to surface 88. The radially outward surface 86 increases in diameter toward the axial direction AD2. In some embodiments, the radially outward surface 86 is an axial surface that faces at least partially in the axial direction AD1. In some embodiments, the tube 80 comprises a radially outward surface of constant diameter disposed between the radially outward surface 86 and the surface 88. The shoulder surface 88 is an axial surface that faces at least partially in the axial direction AD2. The section 89 is disposed between the shoulder 87 and the end 94 and comprises a radially outward surface 92. The radially outward surface 92 comprises a substantially constant diameter. In some embodiments, the section 89 further comprises a raised portion, i.e., a radially outward surface 90, disposed between the shoulder surface 88 and the radially outward surface 92. The radially outward surface 90 has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the radially outward surface 92.

[0025] The tube 80 is configured to be inserted end 82 first into the connector body 40, specifically through bore 41. The tube 80 is inserted axially AD1 into the connector body 40 until shoulder 87 axially passes balls or engagement elements or detents 64A and 64B (i.e., shoulder 87 is located to the right of balls 64A-B as shown in FIGS. 3A-B). Engagement of balls 64A-B with shoulder surface 88 secures tube 80 within connector body 40. It should be appreciated that tube 80 may be any conventional tube comprising a bead, radially outwardly extending protrusion or flange, or ramp profile that extends radially outward and axially on an outer surface of the tube to displace balls 64A-B of collar 20 and secure the tube within the connector body. In some embodiments, tube 80 comprises a metal. In some embodiments, tube 80 comprises a non-metal (e.g., a polymer, a rubber, a ceramic, etc.).

[0026] The connector body 40 comprises a through bore 41 extending from end 42 to end 44, a radially inwardly facing surface 46, a radially inwardly facing surface 48, a groove 50, a radially outwardly facing surface 52, a groove 52B, a head 58, and a radially outwardly facing surface 60. The connector body 40 is configured to be connected to a component that is filled with or through which a fluid flows. For example, the connector body 40 can be connected to a refrigeration compressor or transmission via the radially outwardly facing surface 60, which can comprise male threads. The connector body 40 is threaded into a threaded hole in the compressor via the head 58 (e.g., using a wrench) and is then filled with refrigerant fluid. In some embodiments, the head 58 is hexagonal, but it should be appreciated that the head 58 can comprise any geometric shape suitable for applying torque to the connector body 40. Another component to which the fluid connector 10, and specifically the connector body 40, can be attached is a condenser, evaporator, or pump. It should be appreciated that the fluid connector 10 can be used in a variety of other components, assemblies, and subassemblies where a fluid connection is desired. The radially outwardly facing surface 60 can further include a groove 56. A seal or O-ring is disposed within the groove 56 to form a fluid-tight seal between the connector body 40 and the component to which it is connected. A seal 62 is disposed within the connector body 40. Specifically, the seal 62 is disposed within the groove 50 to engage the tube 80 (i.e., the radially outwardly facing surface 84). The groove 50 is disposed on the radially inwardly facing surface 48. In some embodiments, the seal 62 is an O-ring.

[0027] In some embodiments, as shown, radially inwardly facing surface 46 is a substantially cylindrical surface. In some embodiments, radially inwardly facing surface 46 comprises a frustoconical surface or a tapered proximal end 44 extending radially outward. In some embodiments, radially inwardly facing surface 48 is a substantially cylindrical surface. Surface 47 connects surfaces 46 and 48. In some embodiments, surface 47 is a frustoconical surface. In some embodiments, surface 47 is an axially facing surface. Surface 47 is configured to engage shoulder 87 and specifically prevent axial displacement of tube 80 relative to connector body 40 in axial direction AD1.

[0028] Groove 52A is disposed on radially outward surface 52. Groove 52A is axially disposed between end 44 and head 58. In some embodiments, groove 52A is axially spaced apart between end 44 and head 58. Retaining ring 66 is configured to engage groove 52A to rotatably connect collar 20 and connector body 40. When fully engaged with groove 52A, retaining ring 66 is rotatably connected to connector body 40 and prevents axial displacement of collar 20 relative to connector body 40 in axial direction AD2.

[0029] The connector body 40 further includes one or more openings (e.g., openings 55A and 55B) disposed in the radially outward surface 52. Specifically, the openings 55A and 55B are axially disposed between the groove 52A and the head 58 and extend from the radially outward surface to the through hole 41. The openings 55A and 55B are configured to allow the balls 64A and 64B to extend therethrough and engage the shoulder 87 to secure the tube 80 within the connector body 40. In some embodiments, the openings 55A-B are generally conical or frustoconical, as best shown in FIGS. 3A-B. Such a design allows the balls 64A-B to extend only partially into the through hole 41, thereby preventing the balls 64A-B from falling into the through hole 41. Thus, the radially innermost diameter of openings 55A-B is smaller than the diameter of balls 64A-B to prevent displacement of balls 64A-B in radial direction RD1. Although engagement elements 64A-B are illustrated as balls or spheres, it should be appreciated that engagement elements or detents 64A-B may comprise any suitable geometric shape for engaging openings 55A-B and pockets 34A-B and engaging shoulder 87.

[0030] Connector body 40 further includes one or more axial grooves (e.g., grooves 54A and 54B) disposed on radially outward surface 52. Grooves 54A-B extend in an axial direction AD1 from end 44 to head 58 or near head 58. Grooves 54A-B are configured to allow a prong of a disconnection tool to be inserted therein to unlock collar 20 and disconnect tube 80 from connector body 40. In some embodiments, groove 54A is disposed 180° from groove 54B.

[0031] Connector body 40 further includes one or more recesses (e.g., recesses 54C and 54D) disposed in radially outward surface 52. Recesses 54C-D are at least partially aligned with grooves 54A-B, respectively, and are configured to engage detents 70A, 70B to non-rotatably connect collar 20 and connector body 40, as described in more detail below.

[0032] In some embodiments, the connector body 40 further comprises a spacer 57 extending from the head 58 in the axial direction AD2. The spacer 57 may be integrally formed with the connector body 40 or may be removably connected to the connector body 40 (e.g., a washer) and is configured to maintain an axial distance between the collar 20 and the head 58. In some embodiments, the connector body 40 comprises a metal. In some embodiments, the connector body 40 comprises a polymer. In some embodiments, the connector body 40 comprises a ceramic.

[0033] The collar or locking collar 20 is configured to be rotatably connectable to the connector body 40. In some embodiments, the collar 20 comprises two sections, e.g., sections 20A and 20B, secured together along an axial surface. In some embodiments, one of the sections 20A and 20B comprises one or more dowels 36 and the other of the sections 20A and 20B comprises one or more holes 38, where the dowels 36 engage the holes 38 to non-rotatably connect the sections 20A and 20B. In some embodiments, the dowels 36 and the holes 38 comprise a frustoconical shape. It should be appreciated that the sections 20A and 20B may be secured together using any suitable means, e.g., bolts, rivets, screws, pins, nails, adhesives, etc. The collar 20 comprises a hole 21 extending from the end 22 to the end 24, the radially inward surface 26, and the radially outward surface 28. Bore 21 is configured to engage connector body 40 such that radially inwardly facing surface 26 engages or is disposed proximate to radially outwardly facing surface 52. When collar 20 is connected to connector body 40, end 22 is configured to engage or abut spacer 57 and end 24 is configured to engage or abut retaining ring 66. In some embodiments, end 22 is configured to engage or abut head 58.

[0034] In some embodiments, the radially outward surface 28 includes knurling or small ridges or beads thereon to aid in gripping. In some embodiments, the radially outward surface 28 includes a constant diameter. In some embodiments, the radially outward surface 28 includes a variable diameter.

[0035] Collar 20 further includes one or more recesses (e.g., recesses 32A-B) and / or one or more through holes (e.g., through holes 30A-B). Through holes 30A-B extend radially from radially outward facing surface 28 to radially inward facing surface 26. Through holes 30A-B are configured to be engageable with sections 74A-B of detents 70A-B, respectively, to provide a visual connection verification feature, as described in more detail below. Recesses or counterbores 32A-B extend radially outward from radially inward facing surface 26 in radial direction RD2. Recesses 32A-B are configured to be engageable with sections 72A-B and resilient elements 76A-B, respectively, to non-rotatably connect collar 20 to connector body 40, as described in more detail below.

[0036] 4A-B show partial elevational views of the fluid connection assembly 10 in a locked and unlocked state, respectively, with the retaining ring 66 and section 20B of the collar 20 removed to better show the engagement of the detents 70A-B with the collar 20 and connector body 40.

[0037] The collar 20 includes one or more pockets, e.g., pockets 34A-B, each configured to be engageable with a ball 64A-B. The pockets 34A-B extend radially outward in a radial direction RD2 from the radially inward surface 26. As best shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the pockets 34A and 34B have increasing depths in a circumferential direction CD1. At their deepest portions, the pockets 34A-B allow the balls 64A-B to be displaced radially outward in the radial direction RD2 and disengage from the shoulder 87, thereby allowing the tube 80 to be removed from the connector body 40 (i.e., an unlocked state). At their shallowest portions, the pockets 34A-B press the balls 64A-B radially inward in the radial direction RD1 to engage the shoulder 87, thereby preventing the tube 80 from being removed from the connector body 40 (i.e., a locked state). Because the pockets 34A-B have a gradually decreasing depth, the fluid connection assembly 10 can be changed from the unlocked position shown in Figure 4B to the locked position shown in Figure 4A by displacing or rotating the collar 20 in a circumferential direction CD1. The fluid connection assembly 10 can be changed from the locked position shown in Figure 4A to the unlocked position shown in Figure 4B by displacing or rotating the collar 20 in a circumferential direction CD2.

[0038] Detents 70A and 70B are operably disposed within collar 20. Detent 70A comprises section 72A, section 74A connected to section 72A, and biasing element or spring or O-ring 76A. Section 72A is generally cylindrical and is slidably engaged within recess 32A. Section 74A is generally cylindrical and is slidably engaged within through hole 30A. In some embodiments, the diameter of section 72A is greater than the diameter of section 74A. O-ring 76A is disposed around section 74A and engages recess 32A. O-ring 76A biases sections 72A and 74A radially inward in radial direction RD1. Thus, any biasing element, e.g., a spring, suitable for biasing sections 72A and 74A radially inward can be used. Section 72A is configured to be engageable with radially outward surface 52. As best shown in FIG. 4B, in the unlocked state, section 72A slides along radially outward surface 52. In the unlocked state, section 74A projects radially outward from radially outward surface 28, thereby creating a visual indication that fluid connection assembly 10 is in an unlocked state. When detent 70A is aligned with recess 54C, sections 72A and 74A are displaced radially inward in radial direction RD1 to engage recess 54C and non-rotatably connect collar 20 to connector body 40. At this point, fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked state, as best shown in FIG. 4A. In the locked state, section 74A is recessed (i.e., spaced radially inward from radially outward surface 28) within throughbore 30A, thereby creating a visual indication that fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked state. To aid in such visual indication, the radially outward surface of section 74A may be provided with a color (e.g., red) that contrasts with both the protruding end of section 74A and radially outward surface 28. This makes it easier to discern whether the fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked or unlocked state (i.e., no visible red means unlocked, no visible red means locked).

[0039] The detent 70B includes a section 72B, a section 74B connected to the section 72B, and a biasing element or spring or O-ring 76B. The section 72B is generally cylindrical and is slidably engaged within the recess 32B. The section 74B is generally cylindrical and is slidably engaged within the through hole 30B. In some embodiments, the diameter of the section 72B is greater than the diameter of the section 74B. The O-ring 76B is disposed around the section 74B and engages with the recess 32B. The O-ring 76B biases the sections 72B and 74B radially inward in the radial direction RD1. Thus, any biasing element, e.g., a spring, suitable for biasing the sections 72B and 74B radially inward can be used. The section 72B is configured to be engageable with the radially outward surface 52. As best shown in FIG. 4B, in the unlocked state, the section 72B slides along the radially outward surface 52. In the unlocked state, section 74B projects radially outward from radially outward surface 52, thereby creating a visual indication that fluid connection assembly 10 is in an unlocked state. When detent 70B is aligned with recess 54D, sections 72B and 74B are displaced radially inward in radial direction RD1 to engage recess 54D and non-rotatably connect collar 20 to connector body 40. At this point, fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked state, as best shown in FIG. 4A. In the locked state, section 74B is recessed (i.e., spaced radially inward from radially outward surface 28) within through hole 30B, thereby creating a visual indication that fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked state. To aid in such visual indication, radially outward surface of section 74B may be provided with a color (e.g., red) that contrasts with both the protruding end of section 74B and radially outward surface 28. This makes it easy to tell whether the fluid connection assembly 10 is in a locked or unlocked state (i.e., no red visible means unlocked, no red visible means locked).It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly 10 may include only one detent for non-rotatably connecting the collar 20 and the connector body 40. In some embodiments, the fluid connection assembly 10 includes multiple detents for non-rotatably connecting the collar 20 and the connector body 40.

[0040] To assemble the fluid connection assembly 10, the seal 62 is placed in the groove 50. The balls 64A and 64B are placed in the openings 55A and 55B, respectively. The collar 20 is then rotatably connected to the connector body 40. This can be accomplished in many different ways. For example, the section 20A can be placed circumferentially around the radially outwardly facing surface 52 with the end 22 engaged with the spacer 57 (or head 58). The detents 70A and 70B then engage with the section 20A. Specifically, the sections 72A-B and the O-ring 76A engage with the recesses 32A-B, and the sections 74A-B engage with the through holes 30A-B. The section 20B is then non-rotatably connected to the section 20A and rotatably connected to the connector body 40. In another assembly method, the section 20B is non-rotatably connected to the section 20B. Detents 70A-B then engage collar 20 which is then positioned circumferentially around radially outward surface 52 with ends 22 engaged with spacers 57 (or heads 58).

[0041] After the collar 20 is rotatably connected to the connector body 40 and the radially inwardly facing surface 26 engages the radially outwardly facing surface 52, the retaining ring 66 is connected to the connector body 40, specifically within the groove 52A. The collar 20 is thus prevented from being axially displaced in the axial direction AD1 by the spacer 57 (or head 58) and in the axial direction AD2 by the retaining ring 66. It should be appreciated that the collar 20 can be connected to the connector body 40 in an unlocked state (i.e., with the sections 72A-B engaged with the radially outwardly facing surface 52 as shown in FIG. 4B) or in a locked state (with the sections 72A-B engaged with the recesses 54C-D as shown in FIG. 4A) and then unlocked using a tool. In either scenario, however, the collar 20 must be placed in the unlocked state with the detents 70A and 70B disengaged from the recesses 54C-D prior to inserting the tube 80 into the connector body 40. At this point, sections 74A-B protrude from radially outward surface 28 to visually indicate the unlocked condition.

[0042] Once the collar 20 is rotatably connected to the connector body 40 in an unlocked state, the tube 80 can then be inserted therein. As best shown in FIG. 4B, in the unlocked state, the balls 64A and 64B can be displaced radially outward in a radial direction RD2 into the depths of the pockets 34A and 34B, respectively. The tube 80 is inserted axially in an AD1 direction, end 82 first, into the through hole 41. The radially outward facing surface 86 of the shoulder 87 engages the balls 64A, 64B and displaces them in the radial direction RD2 until the shoulder 87 axially clears the balls 64A, 64B. 3B, when tube 80 is fully inserted into connector body 40 in the unlocked position, radially outward surface 86 engages or is disposed near radially inward surface 47, after which balls 64A-B can again be displaced radially inward in radial direction RD1 to engage surface 88 and radially outward surface 90 or radially outward surface 92. In some embodiments, fluid connection assembly 10 further comprises a frustoconical seal (e.g., a rubber gasket) disposed between radially outward surface 86 and radially inward surface 47.

[0043] Once the tube 80 is fully inserted into the connector body 40, the collar 20 is rotated, for example in a circumferential direction CD1, relative to the connector body 40 to lock the fluid connection assembly 10. As the depth of the pockets 34A-B is reduced, the balls 64A-B are forced radially inward in the radial direction RD1 to engage with the surface 88 and the radially outward surface 90 or 92. As best shown in FIG. 4A, the balls 64A-B can no longer be displaced radially outward in the radial direction RD2, and thus the tube 80 is prevented from being removed from the connector body 40. Also, in the locked state, the detents 70A-B snap radially inward in the radial direction RD1 to engage the recesses 54C-D (due to the biasing effect of the O-rings 76A-B), as previously described. At this point, the sections 74A-B are fully recessed into the through holes 30A-B, respectively, visually indicating the locked state.

[0044] To unlock the fluid connection assembly 10, detents 70A-B are pushed radially outward in radial direction RD2 out of recesses 54C-D and collar 20 is rotated, e.g., in circumferential direction CD2, relative to connector body 40. Balls 64A-B are again able to be displaced in radial direction RD2, thereby allowing tube 80 to be removed from connector body 40.

[0045] It will be recognized that various aspects of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications, and various presently unforeseen or unanticipated substitutions, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, which are also intended to be within the scope of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0046] 10 Fluid Connection Assembly 20 Locking collar or collar 20A Section Section 20B 21 holes 22 End 24 End 26 Radial inward facing surface 28 Radial outward facing surface 30A through hole 30B through hole 32A Recess or counterbore 32B Recess or counterbore 34A Pocket 34B Pocket 36 Dowel 38 holes 40 Connector body 41 Through hole 42 End 44 End 46 Radial inward facing surface 47 sides 48 Radial inward facing surface 50 grooves 52 Radial outward facing surface 52A Groove 54A Groove 54B Groove 54C Recess 54D Recess 55A opening 55B opening 56 Groove 58 Head 60 Radial outward facing surface 62 Seal 64A Ball / Engagement Element / Detent 64B Ball / engagement element / detent 66 Retaining ring 70A Detent 70B Detent Section 72A Section 72B Section 74A Section 74B 76A O-ring (or spring) 76B O-ring (or spring) 80 Tubes 82 End Section 83 84 Radial outward facing surface 86 Radial outward facing surface 87 Shoulder 88 sides Section 89 90 Radial outward facing surface 92 Radial outward facing surface 94 End 96 Through Hole AD1 Axial direction AD2 axial direction CD1 Circumferential direction CD2 Circumferential direction RD1 Radial direction RD2 Radial direction

Claims

1. A connector body, A first end; A second end. A first through hole; a first radially outwardly facing surface including at least one opening extending from the first radially outwardly facing surface to the first through hole; at least one engagement element disposed in the at least one opening; A connector body including: a collar connected to the connector body, a radially inwardly facing surface engaging the first radially outwardly facing surface and including at least one pocket extending radially outwardly therefrom; a second radially outward surface; and a second through hole extending from the radially inward surface to the second radially outward surface; Colors including, a detent slidably disposed within the second throughbore of the collar; Equipped with Fluid connection assembly.

2. In an unlocked state, the at least one engagement element engages the at least one pocket; In a locked state, the at least one engagement element engages the radially inward surface and extends into the first through hole. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

3. the at least one pocket has an increasing depth along a first circumferential direction; The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

4. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 , wherein the at least one opening is frusto-conical.

5. the connector body further comprising a recess in the first radially outward surface; the detent is configured to engage the recess to non-rotatably connect the collar and the connector body. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

6. The detent is a first section configured to be engageable with the recess; A second section; a biasing element configured to bias the first and second sections radially inward; and Equipped with The fluid connection assembly of claim 5 .

7. In an unlocked state, the second section projects radially outward from the second radially outward surface; In a locked state, the second section does not protrude radially outward from the second radially outward surface. The fluid connection assembly of claim 6.

8. In an unlocked state, the first section engages the first radially outward surface and the collar is rotatable relative to the connector body; In a locked state, the first section engages with the recess, and the collar and the connector body are non-rotatably connected. The fluid connection assembly of claim 6.

9. the connector body further comprising a groove disposed in the first radially outward surface and at least partially aligned with the recess. The fluid connection assembly of claim 5 .

10. the groove has a first depth and the recess has a second depth, the first depth being greater than the second depth; The fluid connection assembly of claim 9.

11. the second through hole includes a counterbore extending radially outward from the radially inward surface; The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

12. a retaining ring disposed in a groove in the connector body and rotatably connectable to the connector body. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

13. a tube including a shoulder, the at least one engaging element configured to engage the shoulder to secure the tube to the connector body. The fluid connection assembly of claim 1 .

14. A connector body, A first end; A second end. A first through hole; a first radially outwardly facing surface including at least one opening extending from said first radially outwardly facing surface to said first through hole and a recess extending radially inwardly from said first radially outwardly facing surface; at least one engagement element disposed in the at least one opening; A connector body including: a collar connected to the connector body, a radially inwardly facing surface engaging the first radially outwardly facing surface and including at least one pocket extending radially outwardly therefrom; a second radially outward surface; and a second through hole extending from the radially inward surface to the second radially outward surface; Colors including, a detent slidably disposed within the second through hole and configured to engage the recess to non-rotatably connect the collar and the connector body. Fluid connection assembly.

15. In an unlocked state, the at least one engagement element engages the at least one pocket; In a locked state, the at least one engagement element engages the radially inward surface and extends into the first through hole. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

16. The detents are biased radially inwardly. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

17. In an unlocked state, the detent projects radially outward from the second radially outward surface; In a locked state, the detent does not protrude radially outward from the second radially outward surface. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

18. In an unlocked state, the detent engages the first radially outward surface and the collar is rotatable relative to the connector body; In a locked state, the detent engages the recess and the collar and the connector body are non-rotatably connected. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

19. the connector body further comprising a groove disposed in the first radially outward surface and at least partially aligned with the recess. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

20. a tube including a shoulder, the at least one engaging element configured to engage the shoulder within the first throughbore to secure the tube to the connector body. The fluid connection assembly of claim 14.

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