Patent · US Expired

Mechanical connector apparatus

US4570977A · kind A · utility

1Cited by
8References
10Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJun 17, 1983
Grant dateFeb 18, 1986
Priority date
Expiry dateJun 17, 2003

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T403/59
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A connector apparatus for releasably securing two separate force transmitting assemblies in a force transfer relationship is disclosed. A first connector assembly having a tubular member forming a central opening having a locking recess formed therein is anchored at a desired location. A second connector assembly having a primary and a secondary housing operably connects with the first connector assembly for transferring the static forces therebetween. The primary housing mounts an expandable locking ring which fits in the recess of the first connector assembly for effecting the mechanical securing. The locking ring may be released by two separate modes of operation. When released, all operating parts of the connector except the first connector assembly may be retrieved to a convenient location for inspection or repair. Should the locking ring fail to release by either mode, the secondary housing may in the alternative be released from the primary housing.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.