Interlocking fluid transfer device and resulting assembly
US4611643A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 21, 1983 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 1986 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 21, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S604/905
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tubular fluid transfer device is operative by itself to seal the end of a conduit. By coupling two of the devices together, a fluid path can be selectively established between two conduits by applying heat energy. The device includes a generally planar surface having a meltable region. The generally planar surface of one device is slidable against the generally planar surface of another one of the devices to bring the meltable regions into registration. The device includes a coupling mechanism which guides the meltable regions into the desired alignment as registration occurs. Furthermore, as the meltable regions register, the coupling mechanism generates forces which bias the meltable regions into intimate contact. The coupling mechanism thereafter releasably retains the devices in this snug interlocked relationship, so that the energy can be applied to jointly heat the meltable regions and melt open a fluid path between the two devices.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.