Pressure-balanced fluid coupling
US4124228A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 1977 |
| Grant date | Nov 7, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 24, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/87949
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fluid coupling of the type which couples automatically on the engagement of two coupling members and which uncouples automatically on the application of a predetermined minimum axial separation force, as is useful in refueling operations between moving vehicles. One coupling member has an annular groove about its outer surface, and the other carries at least one locking ball which may be held in engagement with the groove by a lock ring having graduations in internal diameter. Applying a tensile force between the coupling members compresses a spring and simultaneously displaces the lock ring with respect to the ball until an unlocked position is reached, allowing uncoupling by release of the ball from the groove. Uncoupling may also be effected manually and independently of the tensile force applied, and there is a convenient adjustment of the threshold force necessary for uncoupling. The coupling preferably includes automatically operable valves to prevent loss of fluid on uncoupling, and is almost completely pressure balanced, to provide for consistent and reliable operation and very little change in operating characteristics over a wide range of fluid pressures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.