Exhaust type quick action coupler
US5445358A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 1994 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L37/38
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A push-to-connect type coupler has an intermediate venting position for the nipple. The coupler includes a coupler socket having an inner sleeve, an intermediate coupler body, and an outer sleeve formed from tubular or cylindrical components which are axially movable with respect to one another. A valve member is disposed axially within the coupler and is normally biased into a closed position. The inner sleeve of the coupler is spring-biased toward the opening of the coupler, and includes an inner set of captive coupling balls. The coupler body also has an outer set of captive coupling balls, and a locking mechanism is disposed between the coupler body and the outer sleeve. When the nipple is inserted into the coupler, the nipple is retained by the interaction of the outer set of coupling balls with a deep groove in the inner sleeve, and the inner set of coupling balls with a channel formed in the nipple. The nipple also opens the valve member within the coupler, thus allowing pressurized air to pass through the coupler. When the nipple is to be removed, the outer sleeve is initially moved rearwardly (upstream), the outer set of coupling balls move radially outward, which allows t…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.