CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under Articles 4 and 8 of the Stockholm Act of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2022/073420, filed on July 5, 2022, which application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to fluid connectors, and more particularly, to a fluid connection assembly including an internally arranged connector body for connecting tubes that decreases the insertion force required for assembly and allows for quick assembly.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Fluid connectors, fluid connections, and fluid connection assemblies are integral components for many applications, and especially for automotive applications Since an automotive system is made up of various components such as a radiator, transmission, and engine, fluid must be able to travel not only within each component but also between components. An example of fluid traveling between components is the transmission fluid traveling from the transmission to the transmission oil cooler in order to lower the temperature of the transmission fluid. Another example of fluid traveling between components is refrigeration lines, which may carry a refrigerant. A refrigerant is a substance or mixture, usually a fluid, used in a heat pump and refrigeration cycle, and can be hazardous. As such, it is essential that fluid connectors for refrigeration lines be properly secured so as not to allow the release of any refrigerant.

[0001] Fluid predominantly moves between components via flexible or rigid hoses which connect to each component by fluid connectors. However, current fluid connectors are cumbersome and take up too much space for compact applications. Additionally, current fluid connectors do not allow for the use of smart systems and tools, torque-sensing connection verification, and hands-free tightening. Moreover, current fluid connectors do not provide a visual connection verification system. SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly that is compact and does not take up much external tube space, allows for allows for quick assembly, disassembly, and the use of smart tools, and/or includes a visual or an optical connection verification system.

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a first radially outward facing surface, and at least one finger pivotably connected to the first radially outward facing surface, and a wedging component operatively arranged to displace the at least one finger from an unlocked state to a locked state.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one finger comprises a surface arranged to engage the wedging element, and a protrusion. In an exemplary embodiment, in the unlocked state the protrusion extends from the at least one finger in a first axial direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one finger comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced fingers. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion comprises a through-hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one finger is elastically deformable. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one finger is resilient and biased to the unlocked state.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the wedging component comprises a wedge ring including a first wedging element, a second wedging element circumferentially spaced from the first wedging element, a first elastic element connecting the second wedging element to the first wedging element, and a second elastic element connecting the second wedging element to the first wedging element. In an exemplary embodiment, wedge ring is elastically expandable.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tube including a radially inward facing surface and a second radially outward facing surface, wherein in the locked state the first radially outward facing surface is arranged to engage the radially inward facing surface, and the at least one finger is arranged to engage the second radially outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube further comprises a protrusion extending radially outward from the second radially outward facing surface, and in the locked state, the at least one finger engages the protrusion to secure the tube to the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, in the locked state, the protrusion is visible through the at least one finger via a through-hole arranged therein.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tightening mechanism operatively arranged to force the wedging component radially inward into engagement with the at least one finger. In an exemplary embodiment, the first radially outward facing surface comprises a first diameter, the connector body further comprises a second radially outward facing surface extending from the first end to the first radially outward facing surface, the second radially outward facing surface comprises a second diameter, and the second diameter is less than the first diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the second radially outward facing surface comprises at least one annular groove operatively arranged to engage a seal.

[0011] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly comprises a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a first radially outward facing surface, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced fingers pivotably connected to the first radially outward facing surface, each finger of the plurality of fingers comprising a surface, and a protrusion, and a wedge ring including a plurality of wedges operatively arranged to engage the surface to simultaneously displace the plurality of fingers from an unlocked state to a locked state. [0013] In an exemplary embodiment, each finger of the plurality of fingers is elastically deformable and resilient toward the unlocked state. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wedges are circumferentially spaced and connected via a plurality of elastic elements. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tightening mechanism operatively arranged to force the plurality of wedges radially inward into engagement with plurality of fingers. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a tube including a radially inward facing surface and a second radially outward facing surface, wherein in the locked state the first radially outward facing surface is arranged to engage the radially inward facing surface, and the plurality of fingers are arranged to engage the second radially outward facing surface to secure the tube to the connector body.

[0014] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a fluid connection assembly, comprising a connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a first tube arranged to engage the connector body and a second tube arranged to engage the connector body. Tn an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly further comprises a wedging element or wedge ring. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body is integrally formed as a single component. In an exemplary embodiment, when assembled, connector body resides at least partially within the first tube and the second tube (e.g., 85% of the connector body is arranged internally to the first tube and/or the second tube) for compactness, for burst resistance, and to limit debris collection. The connector body comprises a plurality of fingers pivotably connected thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, the fingers are connected to the connector body outer surface via a living hinge. The fingers further comprise a driving or wedging surface.

[0015] When the wedging element or wedging ring is engaged with the connector body, namely the wedging surface of the fingers, it forces the fingers into a locked position over the flared or rolled ends of the tubes in a controlled manner. In an exemplary embodiment, the wedging ring may be tightened around the connector body via a clamp. In an exemplary embodiment, the wedging element or wedge ring is operatively arranged to engage the fingers and force them into a locked position. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body further comprises one or more seals or O-rings for creating a fluid tight seal between the connector body and the first tube and the second tube.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, fluid connection assembly can fit into a more compact engineering environment. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body engages interior surfaces of the first and second tubes. In an exemplary embodiment, the fingers include windows to view the flared portion of the tubes for visual connection verification. In an exemplary embodiment, the flared portions may comprise a paint or color for enhanced visual connection verification.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection assembly facilitates easy connection of the tubes using the tube connector body, for example, through use of a hose clamp, zip tie, or other fastening devices. The fluid connection assembly may also allow the use of smart systems and smart tools for torque sensing connection verification. During assembly, in an unlocked state, the connector body engages each tube and thus holds them in position, which allows for hands free tightening to the locked state. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body fingers each comprise a hook that engages the flared or rolled end of the tubes. [0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body is arranged at least partially within the adjacent tubes, for example, between 80-90% of the connector body is arranged within the adjacent tubes. In an exemplary embodiment, 85-86% of the connector body is arranged within the adjacent tubes.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the wedging ring comprises a plurality of wedge elements connected, for example, by flex extenders. The flex extenders allow the wedging ring to be expanded to fit over the connector body fingers.

[0020] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a tube connector system that has a connector body with a proximal end, a distal end, and a through- passage open through the connector body from the proximal end to the distal end and circumscribes a longitudinal center of the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body comprises a stepped outer surface including a center step defining the functional transverse center and the greatest diameter of the connector body, at least one proximal step and at least one distal step of lesser diameter extending longitudinally from the center step and terminating respectively at the proximal end and the distal end. In an exemplary embodiment, the center step is operatively arranged to be abutted by the open ends of two connected pipes. In an exemplary embodiment, the radially inward facing surfaces of the connected pipes comprise a lesser diameter than the diameter of the radially outward facing surface of the center step. In an exemplary embodiment, the first pipe circumscribes the at least one proximal step and the second pipe circumscribes the at least one distal step, the through-passage of the connector body creating a pathway for liquid from the first pipe to the second pipe.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body comprises at least one proximal O-ring seal member arranged in the outer surface of the proximal step and/or at least one distal O- ring seal member arranged in the distal step. In an exemplary embodiment, The seal members may be disposed partially within connector grooved portions circumscribing the outer surface of the connector body on, respectively, at least one proximal step and at least one distal step extended from the center step. In an exemplary embodiment, the O-ring seal members are designed to abut, be circumscribed by, and/or be partially compressed toward the longitudinal center by the inner surface of connected piping to create 360-degree seals.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body further comprises proximal and distal capture fingers that circumscribe the center step longitudinally apart from the functional transverse center of the connector body. Tn an exemplary embodiment, the capture fingers are designed to be rolled outward from the transverse center of the connector body over a flared lip portion of the connected piping abutted to the center step. In an exemplary embodiment, a clamp structure is operatively arranged to circumscribe the center step. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp structure comprises an interior wedge portion operatively arranged to wedge between and abut the proximal and distal capture fingers and to sustain transversely inward vectored force against the center step and longitudinally outward vectored force against the capture fingers from force exerted by a clamp member tightened around the diameter of the clamp structure.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one capture finger comprises a through-hole operatively arranged to allow the flared lip to be visible therethrough, thus providing visual connection verification. In an exemplary embodiment, the flared lip may comprise a distinct color to aid in the visual connection verification method. In an exemplary embodiment, the through-hole is designed to permit viewing the colored ring within an interior portion of the given capture finger when the given capture finger has been rolled outward over its section of the lip portion of connected piping and colored ring. The compressible colored ring tube portion, when viewable through the cutaway portion of each capture finger, indicates that the tube is secured to the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the colored ring tube portion is a contrasting color to the other elements of the fluid connection assembly. A contrasting color is a color that makes it easy for a person to see that color because of at least one or more of its differences, such as white against black, and brightness, such as viewing fluorescent green.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the proximal end and the distal end of the connector body are substantially equidistant from the actual transverse center of the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, the connecter body has the center step of shoulder, a first proximal step of the at least one proximal step circumscribed by two axially spaced O-rings, and a first distal step of the at least one distal step circumscribed by two axially spaced O-rings. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector body further comprises a second proximal step extending from the first proximal step and forming the proximal end of the connector body, and a second distal step extending from the first distal step and forming the distal end of the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, an outer groove portion of the radially collapsible clamp structure is designed to be circumscribed by and secured by a screw clamp. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube connector is operatively arranged, upon installation, at least 85% interior to the connected pipe members. Tn an exemplary embodiment, the center step defines the functional transverse center and the actual transverse center of the tube connector.

[0025] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a method for connecting two pipe members.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the method for connecting two pipe members comprises installing within an open proximal end of a first pipe member a distal end of a connector body, the connector body having a proximal end and a distal end, a through-passage through the connector body from the proximal end to the distal end of the connector body adapted to allow passage of material flowing from the first pipe member to and through a second pipe member, abutting to the first pipe member a center step defining the functional transverse center and the greatest diameter of the connector body, the first pipe member circumscribing an at least one distal step of lesser diameter than the center step extending longitudinally from the center step to the distal end of the connector body, placing a clamp member and clamp structure over the tube connector to circumscribe the tube connector, abutting the second pipe member to the center step defining the functional transverse center and the greatest diameter of the connector body, the second pipe member circumscribing an at least one proximal step of lesser diameter than the center step extending longitudinally from the center step to the proximal end of the connector body, compressing partially, toward the longitudinal center, with respective interior surfaces of the pipe members, at least one proximal O-ring seal member and at least one distal O-ring seal member disposed partially within connector grooved portions circumscribing the outer surface of the connector body on, respectively, the at least one proximal step and at least one distal step extended from the center step, creating a 360-degree seal, therefore, with the O-ring seal members by way of the inner surface of connected piping, rolling outward from the functional transverse center of the connector body proximal and distal capture fingers circumscribing the center step longitudinally apart from the functional transverse center of the connector body, the capture fingers rolling over a flared lip portion of the connected piping abutting the center step and a colored ring tube portion circumscribing each pipe and abutting the outer surface of the respective flared lip portions of the connected piping, and clamping the clamp structure adapted to circumscribe the center step, wedging an interior wedge portion of the clamp structure between and abutting the proximal and distal capture fingers, creating and sustaining transversely inward vectored force against the center step and longitudinally outward vectored force against the capture fingers, the longitudinally outward vectored force preventing release of the capture fingers.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises viewing the colored ring through at least one cutaway portion of each capture finger, confirming the given capture finger has been rolled outward as designed over its section of the flared lip portion of connected piping and compressible colored ring tube portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises collapsing the radially collapsible clamp structure having flexible extenders around the center step of the connector body. In an exemplary embodiment, method further comprises circumscribing and securing with a screw clamp the collapsible clamp structure.

[0028] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent upon a review of the following detailed description of the disclosure, in view of the drawings and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein as part of the specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter and are illustrative of selected principles and teachings of the present disclosure, in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. However, the drawings do not illustrate all possible implementations of the presently disclosed subject matter and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0030] FIG. 1 A is a front perspective view of a fluid connection assembly in a locked state.

[0031] FIG. IB is a rear perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG.

1A.

[0032] FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A.

[0033] FIG. ID is a left side perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a front perspective exploded view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1A.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a partial right side elevational view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1 A, an unlocked state. [0036] FTG. 4 is a partial detailed perspective view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 1 A, in the locked state.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 5-5 in FIG. 1 A, in the locked state.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 5, with the clamping member removed.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly taken generally along line 7-7 in FIG. 1 A, in the unlocked state.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 7, with the clamping member removed.

[0041] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the wedge ring shown in FIG. 1 A.

[0042] FIG. 9B is a left side elevational view of the wedge ring shown in FIG. 9A.

[0043] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the tube shown in FIG. 1A.

[0044] FIG. 10B is a side elevational view of the tube shown in FIG. 10A.

[0045] FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view of the tube taken generally along line 10C-10C in FIG. 10A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific assemblies and systems illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. Hence, specific dimensions, directions, or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise. Also, although they may not be, like elements in various embodiments described herein may be commonly referred to with like reference numerals within this section of the application.

[0047] Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0048] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the example embodiments.

[0049] Where used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and so on, do not necessarily denote any ordinal, sequential, or priority relation, but are simply used to more clearly distinguish one element or set of elements from another, unless specified otherwise.

[0050] Where used herein, the term “about” when applied to a value is intended to mean within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce the value, or, in some examples, is intended to mean plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless otherwise expressly specified.

[0051] It should be appreciated that the term “substantially” is synonymous with terms such as “nearly,” “very nearly,” “about,” “approximately,” “around,” “bordering on,” “close to,” “essentially,” “in the neighborhood of,” “in the vicinity of,” etc , and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. It should be appreciated that the term “proximate” is synonymous with terms such as “nearby,” “close,” “adjacent,” “neighboring,” “immediate,” “adjoining,” etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. The term “substantially” is intended to mean values within ten percent of the specified value.

[0052] Where used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of,” “serving as an example,” or “illustrative,” and does not denote any preference or requirement with respect to a disclosed aspect or embodiment.

[0053] It should be understood that use of “or” in the present application is with respect to a “non-exclusive” arrangement, unless stated otherwise. For example, when saying that “item x is A or B,” it is understood that this can mean one of the following: (1) item x is only one or the other of A and B; (2) item x is both A and B. Alternately stated, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive or” arrangement. For example, an “exclusive or” arrangement for the statement “item x is A or B” would require that x can be 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 elements or conditions recited 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.

[0054] Moreover, as used herein, the phrases “comprises at least one of’ and “comprising at least one of’ in combination with a system or element is intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device comprising at least one of: a first element; a second element; and 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. A similar interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of” is used herein.

[0055] It should be appreciated that the term “tube” as used herein is synonymous with hose, pipe, channel, conduit, tube end form, or any other suitable pipe flow used in hydraulics and fluid mechanics. It should further be appreciated that the term “tube” can mean a rigid or flexible conduit of any material suitable for containing and allowing the flow of a gas or a liquid.

[0056] The terms unlocked state and locked state as used herein refer to the position and arrangement of fingers 72, 82 and/or the position and arrangement of fingers 72, 82 and corresponding tube 20, 30. In the unlocked state, fingers 72, 82 are arranged in a disengaged position with respect to hook or protrusion or lip 23, 33 of tube 20, 30 and tube 20, 30 is not secured to connector body 40. In the locked state, fingers 72, 82 are engaged with lip 23, 33 and tube 20, 30 is secured to connector body 40. It should be appreciated that connector body 40 may be engaged with tube 20, 30 in both the unlocked and locked state.

[0057] Adverting now to the figures, FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of fluid connection assembly 10 in a locked state, wherein tube 20 is shown transparent for to better view its engagement with connector body 40. FIG. IB is a rear perspective view of fluid connection assembly 10. FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of 10 fluid connection assembly. FIG. ID is a left side perspective view of fluid connection 10. FIG. 2 is a front perspective exploded view of fluid connection assembly 10. Fluid connection assembly 10 generally comprises connector body 40 and wedge ring 100. In an exemplary embodiment, fluid connection assembly 10 further comprises clamping member 120. Tn an exemplary embodiment, fluid connection assembly 10 further comprises one or more tubes, for example, tube 20 and/or tube 30.

[0058] Tube 20 comprises through-bore or hole 21, end 22, end 28, one or more radially outward facing surfaces, for example radially outward facing surface 25, and one or more radially inward facing surfaces, for example, radially inward facing surfaces 26 and 27 (see FIGS. 5-8). Through-bore 21 extends through tube 20 from end 22 to end 28. Tube 20 is operatively arranged to be fluidly connected to connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, tube 20 is a flexible conduit operatively arranged to engage connector body 40.

[0059] Radially outward facing surface 25 extends from end 22 and includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 25 comprises a variable diameter. Tube 20 comprises a rolled or flared end 22 thereby forming radially outward extending hook or protrusion or lip 23. In an exemplary embodiment, hook 23 extends radially outward in radial direction RD2 and in axial direction AD2 with respect to end 22, thereby forming channel 24 arranged radially between hook 23 and radially outward facing surface 25. Hook 23 is operatively arranged to engage fingers 82 to secure tube 20 to connector body 40, as will be described in greater detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of lip 23 comprises paint or a color for enhancing visual or optical connection verification. [0060] Radially inward facing surface 26 extends from end 22 and includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 26 comprises a variable diameter. Radially inward facing surface 27 extends from end 28 and is connected to radially inward facing surface 26. Radially inward facing surface 27 comprises a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 27 is connected to radially inward facing surface 26 via a frusto-conical surface (see FIGS. 5-8). In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 27 comprises a variable diameter. Radially inward facing surface 26 comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 27. It can be said that tube 20 comprises a flared section which forms the enlarged diameters of radially inward facing surface 26 and radially outward facing surface 25. Radially inward facing surface 26 is operatively arranged to sealingly engage radially outward facing surface 64 of connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 27 is operatively arranged to engage radially outward facing surface 70 of connector body 40. [0061] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of tube 30. FIG. 1 OB is a side elevational view of tube 30. FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view of tube 30 taken generally along line 10C-10C in FIG. 10A. Tube 30 comprises through-bore or hole 31, end 32, end 38, one or more radially outward facing surfaces, for example radially outward facing surface 35, and one or more radially inward facing surfaces, for example, radially inward facing surfaces 36 and 37 (see FIGS. 5-8). Hole 31 extends through tube 30 from end 32 to end 38. In an exemplary embodiment, tube 30 comprises bend or bent portion 39 (e.g., tube 30 is an elbow). Tube 30 is operatively arranged to be fluidly connected to connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, tube 30 is a flexible conduit operatively arranged to engage connector body 40.

[0062] Radially outward facing surface 35 extends from end 32 and includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 35 comprises a variable diameter Tube 30 comprises a rolled or flared end 32 thereby forming radially outward extending hook or protrusion or lip 33. In an exemplary embodiment, hook 33 extends radially outward in radial direction RD2 and in axial direction ADI with respect to end 32, thereby forming channel 34 arranged radially between hook 33 and radially outward facing surface 35. Hook 33 is operatively arranged to engage fingers 72 to secure tube 30 to connector body 40, as will be described in greater detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of lip 33 comprises paint or a color for enhancing visual or optical connection verification. [0063] Radially inward facing surface 36 extends from end 32 and includes a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 36 comprises a variable diameter. Radially inward facing surface 37 extends from end 38 and is connected to radially inward facing surface 36. Radially inward facing surface 37 comprises a substantially constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 37 is connected to radially inward facing surface 36 via a frusto-conical surface (see FIGS. 5-8). In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 37 comprises a variable diameter. Radially inward facing surface 36 comprises a diameter that is greater than the diameter of radially inward facing surface 37. It can be said that tube 30 comprises a flared section which forms the enlarged diameters of radially inward facing surface 36 and radially outward facing surface 35. Radially inward facing surface 36 is operatively arranged to sealingly engage radially outward facing surface 56 of connector body 40. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 37 is operatively arranged to engage radially outward facing surface 48 of connector body 40. [0064] FTG. 3 is a partial right side elevational view of fluid connection assembly 10, an unlocked state. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 10 taken generally along line 7-7 in FIG. 1A, in the unlocked state. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid connection assembly shown in FIG. 7, with the clamping member removed.

[0065] Connector body 40 generally comprises through-bore 41, end 42, end 44, radially inward facing surface 46, and one or more radially outward facing surfaces, for example, radially outward facing surfaces 48, 50, 56, 62, 64, 68, and 70. Through-bore 41 extends from end 42 to end 44 and forms radially inward facing surface 46. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 46 comprises a constant diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially inward facing surface 46 comprises a variable diameter.

[0066] Radially outward facing surface 48 extends from end 42 and comprises constant diameter DI In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 48 comprises a variable diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 48 is connected to end 42 via a curvilinear surface or fillet. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 48 engages radially inward facing surface 37 of tube 30.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, connector body 40 comprises raised portion 52, which forms radially outward facing surface 56. Radially outward facing surface 56 is axially arranged between radially outward facing surface 48 and raised portion or shoulder 60, and comprises constant diameter D2, which is greater than diameter DI . In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, radially outward facing surface 56 is connected to radially outward facing surface 48 via frusto-conical surface 50. Frusto-conical surface 50 increases in diameter in axial direction AD2. Radially outward facing surface 56 is operatively arranged to sealingly engage tube 30. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 56 comprises at least one groove, for example grooves 58A-58B, operatively arranged to at least partially engage a seal. For example, seal 90A is arranged in groove 58A and seal 90B is arranged in groove 58B. Seal 90 A, 90B engages radially inward facing surface 36 and radially outward facing surface 56 (i.e., groove 58A, 58B) to create a fluid tight seal between connector body 40 and tube 30. In an exemplary embodiment, groove 58A and/or groove 58B is arranged axially between and spaced apart from surface 50 and shoulder 60.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, connector body 40 comprises raised portion or shoulder 60, which forms radially outward facing surface 62. Radially outward facing surface 62 is axially arranged between radially outward facing surface 56 and radially outward facing surface 64, and comprises constant diameter D3, which is greater than diameter D2. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 62 comprises a variable diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, radially outward facing surface 62 is connected to radially outward facing surface 56 via an axial surface and/or a curvilinear surface. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, radially outward facing surface 62 is connected to radially outward facing surface 64 via an axial surface and/or a curvilinear surface. Shoulder 60 and/or radially outward facing surface 62 is operatively arranged to engage end 22, 32 of tube 20, 30 to maintain proper spacing. In particular, the arrangement of shoulder 60 prevents tubes 20 and 30 from being forced axially into fingers 82 and 72, respectively, which could result in damage thereto. Moreover, shoulder 60 maintains tubes 20 and 30 in a position such that fingers 82 and 72 can adequately engage protrusions 23 and 33 to form the locked state.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, connector body 40 comprises raised portion 54, which forms radially outward facing surface 64. Radially outward facing surface 64 is axially arranged between radially outward facing surface 70 and shoulder 60, and comprises constant diameter D2. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, radially outward facing surface 64 is connected to radially outward facing surface 70 via frusto-conical surface 68. Frusto-conical surface 68 increases in diameter in axial direction ADI. Radially outward facing surface 64 is operatively arranged to sealingly engage tube 20. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 64 comprises at least one groove, for example grooves 66A-66B, operatively arranged to at least partially engage a seal. For example, seal 92A is arranged in groove 66A and seal 92B is arranged in groove 66B. Seal 92A, 92B engages radially inward facing surface 26 and radially outward facing surface 64 (i.e., groove 66A, 66B) to create a fluid tight seal between connector body 40 and tube 20. In an exemplary embodiment, groove 66A and/or groove 66B is arranged axially between and spaced apart from surface 68 and shoulder 60.

[0070] Radially outward facing surface 70 extends from end 44 and comprises constant diameter DI. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 70 comprises a variable diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 70 is connected to end 44 via a curvilinear surface or fdlet. In an exemplary embodiment, radially outward facing surface 70 engages radially inward facing surface 27 of tube 20. [0071] FIG. 4 is a partial detailed perspective view of fluid connection assembly 10, in the locked state. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 10 taken generally along line 5-5 in FIG. 1A, in the locked state. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of fluid connection assembly 10, with clamping member 120 removed.

[0072] Connector body 40 further comprises one or more locking or capture fingers, for example, fingers 72 and fingers 82. Fingers 72, 82 are pivotably connected to connector body 40 and extend substantially radially outward in radial direction RD2 therefrom. Fingers 72 and 82 are operatively arranged to engage protrusions 33 and 23 to secure tubes 30 and 20 to connector body 40, respectively.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 72 are pivotably connected to shoulder 60 and/or radially outward facing surface 62. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 72 are circumferentially spaced along radially outward facing surface 62 (i.e., fingers 72 are separated in circumferential direction CD1, CD2 by circumferential spaces). Each of fingers 72 comprises hook or protrusion 74 and surface 78. In the unlocked state, and as best shown in FIG. 8, surface 78 is arranged substantially perpendicular to radially outward facing surface 62. Protrusion 74 is arranged substantially perpendicular to surface 78 and extends generally in axial direction ADI. In an exemplary embodiment, protrusion 74 comprises through-hole or window 76. When finger 72 is in the locked state, as best shown in FIGS. IB and 6, protrusion 74 is forced radially inward and into engagement with protrusion 33, and protrusion 33 can be seen through window 76 thereby created a visual or an optical connection verification means (i.e., if lip 33 can be seen through window 76, tube 30 is secured to connector body 40). In an exemplary embodiment, finger 72 is connected to radially outward facing surface 62 via a living hinge. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 72 are arranged axially between and spaced apart from radially outward facing surface 56 and radially outward facing surface 64. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 72 are resilient and biased to an original unlocked state (see FIG. 8). In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 72 are operatively arranged to be operably malleable enough to be rolled outward from the unlocked state over lip 33 of pipe 30.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 82 are pivotably connected to shoulder 60 and/or radially outward facing surface 62. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 82 are circumferentially spaced along radially outward facing surface 62 (i.e., fingers 82 are separated in circumferential direction CD1, CD2 by circumferential spaces). Each of fingers 82 comprises hook or protrusion 84 and surface 88. Tn the unlocked state, and as best shown in FTG. 8, surface 88 is arranged substantially perpendicular to radially outward facing surface 62. Protrusion 84 is arranged substantially perpendicular to surface 88 and extends generally in axial direction AD2. In an exemplary embodiment, protrusion 84 comprises through-hole or window 86. When finger 82 is in the locked state, as best shown in FIGS. 1C and 6, protrusion 84 is forced radially inward and into engagement with protrusion 23, and protrusion 23 can be seen through window 86 thereby created a visual or an optical connection verification means (i.e., if lip 23 can be seen through window 86, tube 20 is secured to connector body 40). In an exemplary embodiment, finger 82 is connected to radially outward facing surface 62 via a living hinge. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 82 are arranged axially between and spaced apart from radially outward facing surface 56 and radially outward facing surface 64. In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 82 are resilient and biased to an original unlocked state (see FIG. 8). In an exemplary embodiment, fingers 82 are operatively arranged to be operably malleable enough to be rolled outward from the unlocked state over lip 23 of pipe 20.

[0075] In the unlocked state, and as best shown in FIG. 8. surface 88 is arranged substantially parallel to surface 78, and surface 88 is spaced apart axially from surface 78 by space 80. Surfaces 78 and 88 are arranged substantially perpendicular to radially outward facing surface 62. In the locked state, and as best shown in FIG. 6, surfaces 78 and 88 are forced apart, thus increasing the size of space 80, such that surface 88 is not arranged parallel to surface 78. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, surface 78 is displaced generally in axial direction ADI and is arranged at angle a with respect to radially outward facing surface 62. In an exemplary embodiment, angle a is an acute angle. Surface 88 is displaced generally in axial direction AD2 and is arranged at angle P with respect to radially outward facing surface 62. In an exemplary embodiment, angle P is an acute angle.

[0076] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of wedging component or wedge ring 100. FIG. 9B is a left side elevational view of wedge ring 100. Wedge ring 100 comprises one or more wedging elements 102 operatively arranged to engage surfaces 78 and 88 to force them from an unlocked state (shown in FIG. 7) to a locked state (shown in FIG. 5). Each wedging component 102 comprises radially inward facing surface 104, surface 106, surface 108, and radially outward facing surface 110. Surface 104 extends radially outward in axial direction ADI and surface 106 extends radially outward in axial direction AD2, thereby forming the wedge. Surface 104 is operatively arranged to engage surface 78 and surface 106 is arranged to engage surface 88. Tn an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, wedging elements 102 are circumferentially spaced from each other (i.e., wedging elements 102 are separated in circumferential direction CD1, CD2 by circumferential spaces).

[0077] Wedging elements 102 are connected together by elastic elements or flex extenders 116. Elastic elements 116 are operatively arranged to allow wedge ring 100 to expand radially when installing onto connector body 40. Specifically, wedging elements 102 are displaced radially outward in radial direction RD2 and wedge ring 100 is placed around connector body 40. Once wedge ring 100 is properly arranged around connector body 40 (i.e., wedging elements 102 are aligned with space 80), the radially outward force is released and elastic elements 116 displace wedging elements 102 radially inward in radial direction RD 1 back to their original position.

[0078] Radially outward facing surface 110 is arranged to engage a clamping element, for example clamping member 120. Clamping member 120 is substantially similar to a hose clamp and comprises band or line (e.g., string, cable, strap, rope, etc.) 122 and tightening mechanism 126. Band 122 is wrapped around wedge ring 100 and engages radially outward facing surface 110. In an exemplary embodiment wedge ring 100 may further comprise one or more brackets, for example brackets 112 and 114, operatively arranged to engage band 110. For example, brackets 112 and 114 extend radially outward from radially outward facing surface 110, engage band 122, and prevent band 122 from sliding off and/or being removed from radially outward facing surface 110. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown, bracket 112 and/or bracket 114 comprises an axially extending protrusion arranged at a distal end thereof.

[0079] Band 122 is fixedly secured at a first end to tightening mechanism 126. The second end of band 122 is fed into tightening mechanism 126 such that, as tightening mechanism 126 is activated, band 122 is pulled tighter thereby forcing wedging elements 102 radially inward. In an exemplary embodiment, band 122 comprises slots 124 that engage a worm drive of tightening mechanism 126. It should be appreciated that fluid connection assembly 10 may have any tightening mechanism suitable for forcing wedging elements 102 radially inward such that fingers 72, 82 engage lip 33, 23, for example, a zip tie, tie wrap, retaining ring, snap ring, elastic bands or straps, sleeves, swivel clamps, wrap around clamps, I-bolt clamps, ear clamps, lock clamps, crimping locks, or the like. [0080] To assemble fluid connection assembly 10, tube 20 and/or tube 30 are engaged with connector body 40. Tube 30 arranged on connector body 40 such that radially inward facing surface 36 is engaged with radially outward facing surface 56 and seal 90A, 90B creates a fluid tight seal therebetween, and end 32 is engaged with shoulder 60. Tube 20 arranged on connector body 40 such that radially inward facing surface 26 is engaged with radially outward facing surface 64 and seal 92A, 92B creates a fluid tight seal therebetween, and end 22 is engaged with shoulder 60.

[0081] Wedge ring 100 is then arranged around connector body 40. Specifically, wedge ring 100 is expanded radially and arranged around connector body 40 such that wedging elements 102 is aligned with space 80. Then the radial force on wedge ring 100 is released such that wedging elements 102 displace radially inward back to their original position, and into engagement with fingers 72 and 82 (i.e., surfaces 78 and 88).

[0082] Clamping member 120 is then arranged around wedge ring 100 such that band 122 engages radially outward facing surface(s) 110. Clamping member 120 is tightened thereby forcing wedging elements 102 radially inward. The engagement of surfaces 106 and 108 with surfaces 78 and 88, respectively, forces protrusions 74 and 84 down around lips 33 and 23, respectively, which locks tubes 30 and 20 to connector body 40.

[0083] To disassemble fluid connection assembly, clamping member 120 is loosened and removed from wedge ring 100. Wedge ring 100 is expanded radially and removed from connector body 40. This allows fingers 72 and 82 to spring back to their original vertical position as shown in FIG. 8 (e.g., fingers 72 and 82 are elastic and biased toward an unlocked state). At this point protrusions 74 and 84 are disengaged from lips 33 and 23, respectively, such that tubes 30 and 20 may be removed from connector body 40.

[0084] It will be appreciated that various aspects of the disclosure above and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims. REFERENCE NUMERALS

Fluid connection assembly 56 Radially outward facing surface

Tube 58A Groove

Through-bore 58B Groove

End 60 Raised portion or shoulder

Hook or protrusion or lip 62 Radially outward facing surface

Channel 64 Radially outward facing surface

Radially outward facing surface 66A Groove

Radially inward facing surface 66B Groove

Radially inward facing surface 68 Radially outward facing surface

End 70 Radially outward facing surface

Tube 72 Finger

Hole 74 Hook or protrusion

End 76 Through-hole or window

Hook or protrusion or lip 78 Surface

Channel 80 Space

Radially outward facing surface 82 Finger

Radially inward facing surface 84 Hook or protrusion

Radially inward facing surface 86 Through-hole or window

End 88 Surface

Bend 90A Seal

Connector body 90B Seal

Through-bore 92A Seal

End 92B Seal

End 100 Wedge ring

Radially inward facing surface 102 Wedging element

Radially outward facing surface 104 Radially inward facing surface

Radially outward facing surface 106 Surface Raised or stepped portion 108 Surface Raised or stepped portion 110 Radially outward facing surface 1 12 Bracket CD1 Circumferential direction

114 Bracket CD2 Circumferential direction

116 Elastic element DI Diameter

120 Clamping member D2 Diameter

122 Band or line D3 Diameter

124 Slots RD1 Radial direction

126 Tightening mechanism RD2 Radial direction

ADI Axial direction a Angle

AD2 Axial direction P Angle