WO2024157176A1

WO2024157176A1 - Fluid coupling

Info

Publication number: WO2024157176A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/050644
Authority: WO
Inventors: Todd J. Vogel; Michael P. Wells
Original assignee: Danfoss AS
Current assignee: Danfoss AS
Priority date: 2023-01-23
Filing date: 2024-01-23
Publication date: 2024-08-02
Anticipated expiration: 2025-07-23
Also published as: EP4655520A1; CN120584253A

Abstract

A fluid coupling can include a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; an interface member secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling.

Description

FLUID COUPLING

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is being filed on January 23, 2024, as a PCT International patent application and claims the benefit of priority to United States Provisional Patent Application 63/440,580, filed January 23, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to fluid couplings, and particularly fluid couplings provided with quick connect and disconnect features.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Fluid couplings including two identical valved coupling halves are known. In some examples, fluid couplings are configured such that the valves of the coupling halves cannot be opened until the coupling halves are mated together and such that the coupling halves cannot be disconnected until the valves of each of the coupling halves are closed. Such a configuration ensures that spillage is reduced or eliminated when connecting and disconnecting the coupling halves. One example of a known fluid coupling of this type is shown and described in United States Patent US 8,132,781. In some implementations, fluid couplings of this type are used in data center cooling applications where low-spill, valved connections to liquid-cooled servers are required. Improvements are desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] A fluid coupling can include a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing, the valve casing being formed from a first material; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; a seal member secured to the valve casing at the first end, the seal member circumscribing the internal fluid passageway; an interface member, formed from a second material different from the first material, secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling; a bumper seal member circumscribing an outer perimeter of the interface member; and an interlock assembly arranged to prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to a second fluid coupling and arranged to prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position.

[0005] In some examples, the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material.

[0006] In some examples, a projection-receiver arrangement including a first part associated with the valve casing and including a cooperating second part associated with the interface member is provided, wherein the projection-receiver arrangement has single-fold rotational symmetry such that the interface member can only be mounted to the valve casing in a single rotational orientation.

[0007] In some examples, the interface member is secured to the valve casing by one or more fasteners.

[0008] In some examples, the interlock assembly includes a first pin extending through the valve casing and interface member, the first pin being movable by the handle such that when the handle is in a first position, the first pin is in a retracted position such that a distal end of the pin is recessed from a front face of the interface member, and such that when the handle is in a second position, the first pin is in an extended position in which the distal end extends beyond the front face of the interface member.

[0009] The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the valve member includes a first transverse recess received by a projection portion formed in the valve casing, wherein the valve member is rotatable about an transverse axis passing centrally through the first transverse recess and the projection portion.

[0010] In some examples, the valve member includes a second transverse recess, opposite the first transverse recess, for receiving a portion of the handle.

[0011] In some examples, the interface member and the valve casing cooperatively define a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of the bumper seal member. [0012] In some examples, a connector part received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the fluid passageway is provided. [0013] In some examples, the connector part is secured to the valve casing by a snap ring.

[0014] A fluid coupling can include a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing, the valve casing being formed from a first material; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; an interface member, formed from a second material different from the first material, secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling. In some examples, the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material. In some examples, a projection-receiver arrangement including a first part associated with the valve casing and including a cooperating second part associated with the interface member is provided, wherein the projection-receiver arrangement has single-fold rotational symmetry such that the interface member can only be mounted to the valve casing in a single rotational orientation. In some examples, the interface member is secured to the valve casing by one or more fasteners. In some examples, an interlock assembly is provided and arranged to prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to a second fluid coupling and arranged to prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position. In some examples, the interlock assembly includes a first pin extending through the valve casing and interface member, the first pin being movable by the handle assembly such that when the handle is in a first position, the first pin is in a retracted position such that a distal end of the pin is recessed from a front face of the interface member, and such that when the handle assembly is in a second position, the first pin is in an extended position in which the distal end extends beyond the front face of the interface member. In some examples, the valve member includes a first transverse recess received by a projection portion formed in the valve casing, wherein the valve member is rotatable about a transverse axis passing centrally through the first transverse recess and the projection portion. In some examples, the valve member includes a second transverse recess, opposite the first transverse recess, for receiving a portion of the handle assembly. In some examples, a bumper seal member is provided that circumscribes an outer perimeter of the interface member. In some examples, the interface member and the valve casing cooperatively define a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of the bumper seal member. In some examples, a connector part is provided and received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the fluid passageway. In some examples, a seal member is provided and secured to the valve casing at the first end, the seal member circumscribing the internal fluid passageway. In some examples, the interface member includes a ramped surface for receiving and guiding the engagement feature during coupling.

[0015] A fluid coupling can include a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; an interface member secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling. In some examples, the valve casing is formed from a first material and the interface member is formed from a second material different from the first material. In some examples, the valve member is formed from the first material. In some examples, a handle of the handle assembly is formed from the first material. In some examples, a connector part is provided and received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the fluid passageway, the connector part being formed from the first material. In some examples, the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material.

[0016] A fluid coupling can include a body defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the body, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; an interface including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to an engagement feature of a second fluid coupling, the interface defining a ramped surface tapering in an axial direction; and an interlock assembly. The interlock assembly is arranged to: prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to the second fluid coupling such that a component of the interlock assembly has been rotated past and out of contact with the interface ramped surface of the second fluid coupling; and prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position. In some examples, the interlock assembly includes a first pin that prevents relative rotation between the fluid couplings when in an extended position and includes a second pin that prevents movement of the first pin unless the second pin is in a retracted position, wherein the component of the interlock assembly is the second pin. In some examples, the fluid coupling is rotatable, with respect to the second fluid coupling, between an initially aligned angular position and a fully coupled angular position, and wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface through at least a third of a first angular distance between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions. In some examples, the first angular distance is about 75 degrees. In some examples, the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface for at least 30 degrees of rotation between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions. In some examples, the interface and the body are integrally formed together. In some examples, the interface and the body are separately formed and secured together by fasteners. In some examples, the interface is integrally formed with the body. In some examples, a fluid coupling arrangement is provided including a first fluid coupling and a second fluid coupling identical to the first fluid coupling, the second fluid coupling being removably coupled to the first fluid coupling, wherein each of the first and second fluid couplings is the above-described fluid coupling.

[0017] A fluid coupling can include a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis, the valve casing defining an interface including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to an engagement feature of another fluid coupling, the interface defining a ramped surface tapering in an axial direction; a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; and an interlock assembly arranged to: prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to a second fluid coupling such that a component of the interlock assembly has been rotated past and out of contact with an interface ramped surface of the second fluid coupling; and prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position. In some examples, the interlock assembly includes a first pin that prevents relative rotation between the fluid couplings when in an extended position and includes a second pin that prevents movement of the first pin unless the second pin is in a retracted position, wherein the component of the interlock assembly is the second pin. In some examples, the fluid coupling is rotatable, with respect to the second fluid coupling, between an initially aligned angular position and a fully coupled angular position, and wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface through at least a third of a first angular distance between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions. In some examples, the first angular distance is about 75 degrees. In some examples, the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface for at least 30 degrees of rotation between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions. In some examples, a fluid coupling arrangement is provided including a first fluid coupling and a second fluid coupling identical to the first fluid coupling, the second fluid coupling being removably coupled to the first fluid coupling, wherein each of the first and second fluid couplings is the above-described fluid coupling.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The following drawing figures, which form a part of this application, are illustrative of the described technology and are not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner.

[0019] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a fluid coupling having features in accordance with the present disclosure. [0020] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 3 is a first side view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0022] Figure 4 is a second side view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0023] Figure 5 is a third side view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0024] Figure 6 is a fourth side view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 7 is a first end view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0026] Figure 8 is a second end view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0027] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0028] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0029] Figure 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1, wherein the fluid coupling is in an open position.

[0030] Figure 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1, wherein the fluid coupling is in a closed position.

[0031] Figure 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1, wherein the fluid coupling is in the open position.

[0032] Figure 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1, wherein the fluid coupling is in the closed position.

[0033] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a handle assembly of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0034] Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of the handle assembly shown in

Figure 15.

[0035] Figure 17 is a front perspective view of a valve casing of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0036] Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of the valve casing shown in Figure 17.

[0037] Figure 19 is a side view of the valve casing shown in Figure 17.

[0038] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the valve casing shown in Figure 17.

[0039] Figure 21 is a front perspective view of an interface member of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0040] Figure 22 is a rear perspective view of the interface member shown in Figure 21.

[0041] Figure 23 is a front view of the interface member shown in Figure 21.

[0042] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of the interface member shown in Figure 21. [0043] Figure 25 is a front perspective view of a connector part of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0044] Figure 26 is a side view of the connector part shown in Figure 25.

[0045] Figure 27 is a first perspective view of a valve member of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0046] Figure 28 is a second perspective view of the valve member shown in Figure 27.

[0047] Figure 29 is a front perspective view of a second example of a fluid coupling having features in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 30 is a side cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 29.

[0049] Figure 31 is a side view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 29.

[0050] Figure 32 is a perspective exploded view of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 29.

[0051] Figure 33 is a front perspective view of a valve casing of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 29.

[0052] Figure 34 is an end view of the valve casing shown in Figure 33.

[0053] Figure 35 is a side view of the valve casing shown in Figure 33.

[0054] Figure 36 is a cross-sectional side view of the valve casing shown in Figure 33. [0055] Figure 37 is a first perspective view of a valve member of the fluid coupling shown in Figure 29.

[0056] Figure 38 is a side cross-sectional view of the valve member shown in Figure 37.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0057] Herein, an example fluid coupling assembly is described and depicted. A variety of specific features and components are characterized in detail. Many can be applied to provide advantage. There is no specific requirement that the various individual features and components be applied in an overall assembly with all of the features and characteristics described in order to provide for some benefit in accord with the present disclosure. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims.

[0058] Referring to Figures 1 to 14, a fluid coupling 100 is presented. In one aspect, two of the fluid couplings 100 can be coupled together to form a connected assembly. The fluid coupling 100 may also be coupled to a non-identical second fluid coupling having compatible connection features. In one aspect, the fluid coupling includes a valve casing 102 defining a central passageway 102n, an interface member 104 secured to a first end 102a of the valve casing 102, and a connector part 106 secured at a second end 102b of the valve casing. The interface member 104 is configured to provide for engagement with the interface member 104 of the second fluid coupling 100 such that the fluid couplings 100 can be physically coupled together. The connector part 106 is configured to provide for a connection to a piping or tubing and can be provided with a variety of interfaces, for example inwardly facing threads. Alternatively, and as shown for the second embodiment at Figures 29-38, the connector part 106 can be provided with a barbed hose fitting. For reference, the valve casing 102 is shown in isolation at Figures 17 to 20, the interface member 104 is shown in isolation at Figures 21 to 24, and the connector part 106 is shown in isolation at Figures 25 and 26. In one aspect, the valve casing 102 and connector part 106 define an internal fluid passageway 110 extending along a longitudinal axis X of the fluid coupling 100.

[0059] The fluid coupling 100 is further shown as including a valve member 112 defining a central bore 112a and being disposed within the internal fluid passageway 110 of the valve casing 102. A handle assembly 114 is also provided and is operably connected to the valve member 112. For reference, the handle assembly 114 is shown in isolation at Figures 15 and 16 while the valve member 112 is shown in isolation at Figures 27 and 28. The handle assembly 114 is operable to move the valve member 112 between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway. Figures 1-8 and 12 show the handle assembly 114 positioned such that the valve member 112 is in the closed position, while Figures 11 and 13 show the handle assembly 114 positioned such that the valve member 112 is in the open position. As most easily viewed at Figures 10 to 12, a seal member 154 including a seal part 154a and a seal support 154b, onto which the seal part 154a is over molded, is provided to form a seal between the valve member 112 and the valve casing 102.

[0060] The fluid coupling 100 is further shown as including a main seal member 118 supported within a recess 102m of the valve casing 102 at the first end 102a and circumscribing the internal fluid passageway 110. The main seal member 118 is configured to seal against a corresponding main seal member 118 of the second fluid coupling 100. The fluid coupling 100 is additionally shown as including a bumper seal member 120 mounted to an outer perimeter of the interface member 104. As shown, the interface member 104 and valve casing 102 form a groove 158 within which a portion of the bumper seal member 120 can be received and retained. The bumper seal member 120 is configured to adjoin a corresponding bumper seal member of the second fluid coupling 100 to provide a bumper-to-bumper contact between the joined fluid couplings 100 such that a general seal is formed to prevent the ingress of contaminants. The main seal member 118 and bumper seal member 120 may be formed from a variety of materials such as natural or synthetic rubbers, for example, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) based rubber materials.

[0061] In one aspect, the connector part 106 is provided with a central passageway 106a that forms a part of the internal fluid passageway 110. As can be most easily seen at Figures 25 and 26, the connector part 106 is further shown with a first recess 106b, a second recess 106c, and a third recess 106d. The first and second recesses 106b, 106c are configured to receive seal members 148, 150 which are shown as being provided as O-rings. The third recess 106d is configured to receive a snap ring 152 which is also received into a recess of the valve casing 102 and functions to secure the connector part 106 to the valve casing 102.

[0062] The fluid coupling 100 is further shown as being provided with an interlock assembly 116. In general terms, the interlock assembly 116 operates to prevent the handle assembly 114 from moving the valve member 112 from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member 104 is coupled to a second fluid coupling 100, and is further arranged to prevent the interface member 104 from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly 114 is first moved into the closed position. As most easily viewed at Figure 10, the interlock assembly 116 includes a first pin 122, a second pin 124, a ball member 126, and a spring member 128. As most easily viewed at Figures 13 and 14, the first pin 122 is received into a first bore 102c of the valve casing 102 and a coaxially aligned first bore 104a of the interface member 104, while the second pin 124 is received into a second bore 102d of the valve casing 102 and a coaxially aligned second bore 104b of the interface member. The spring member 128 is also disposed in the second bore 102d of the valve casing and biases the second pin 124 into an extended position, as shown at Figure 14. In this extended position, the ball member 126, which can travel between the first and second bores 102c, 102d is forced into the first bore by the second pin 124 and into a recess 122a of the first pin 122 to prevent axial movement of the first pin 122. In this position, and as illustrated at Figure 14, the first pin 122 can be characterized as being locked in place in a retracted position within the first bore 102c. When two fluid couplings 100 are joined together, a front face 104d of the opposite coupling interface member 104 depresses the second pin 124 into the second bore 102d towards the valve casing second end 102b. In this position, a recess 124a of the second pin 124 can receive the ball member 126, thereby allowing the ball member 126 to move out of the first bore 102c such that the first pin 122 can travel axially within the first bore 102c. As illustrated at Figure 14, the handle assembly 114 is provided with a handle member 130 having teeth 130a that interface with corresponding teeth 122b in the first pin 122 and is oriented such that the valve member 112 is in the closed position when the first pin is in the retracted position. Accordingly, when the fluid coupling 100 is in an uncoupled state such that the second pin 124 is in the extended position, the handle member is prevented from operating the valve member from the closed position to the open position by virtue of the ball member 126 locking the first pin 122 in the locked, retracted position. When the fluid coupling 100 is in a coupled state, such that the second pin 124 is in the depressed position, the handle member is enabled to operate the valve member from the closed position to the open position by virtue of the ball member 126 moving into the recess 124a of the second pin 124 and out of the first bore 102c. This position is illustrated at Figure 13.

[0063] The valve casing 102 is further shown as being provided with a third bore 102e while the interface member 104 is shown as being provided with a coaxially aligned third bore 104c. The third bores 102e, 104c are oriented such that they are directly opposite the first bores 102c, 104a when the fluid couplings 100 are coupled together. As such, when the fluid coupling 100 is in a coupled state and the handle member 130 is rotated to move the valve member 112 into the open position, the interaction of the teeth 122b and 130a causes the first pin 122 to move into an extended position beyond the front face 104d of the interface member 104 and into the third bores 102e, 104c of the second fluid coupling 100. Accordingly, the coupled fluid couplings 100 are prevented from rotating relative to each other, and thereby prevented from decoupling from each other, when either of the first pins is in the extended position (i.e., when either valve member 112 is in the open position). Such a configuration therefore prevents an operator from accidentally decoupling two connected fluid couplings unless both fluid couplings 100 have been operated to position the valve members 112 in the closed position. [0064] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the handle assembly 114 is shown in isolation such that the components can be more easily viewed. As referenced above, the handle assembly 114 includes a handle member 130 having teeth 130a for interacting with the first pin. The handle member 130 is further provided with a stem 130b including a pair of flat sides 130c that are received into a corresponding recess 112b of the valve member 112. The stem 130b is further provided with a recess 130d for receiving a seal member 134 which forms a fluid-tight seal between the handle member 130 and the valve casing 102 at a bore 102j through which the stem 130b is received. The handle member 130 is further shown as defining a bore 130e through the stem 130b for receiving a fastener 136. In one aspect, the fastener 136 is provided with a recess 136a for receiving a seal member 138 such that a fluid-tight seal can be formed between the fastener 136 and the handle member 130. As most easily viewed at Figures 11 and 12, the fastener 136 is received by an insert 140 which is, in turn, received into a recess 112c of the valve member 112. In the example shown, the fastener 136 is provided with externally facing threads that are received by internally facing threads of the insert 140. In one example, the insert 140 can be press-fit into the valve member 112. In an alternative arrangement, the valve member can be provided with inwardly facing threads for directly engaging with the threads on the fastener 136. Other connection arrangements are possible. Figures 11 and 12 also illustrate that the valve casing 102 is formed with an integrally formed protrusion 102k that is received into a correspondingly shaped recess 112d of the valve member 112. As such, the valve member 112 is rotationally supported at opposite ends by the protrusion 102k and the valve stem 130b.

[0065] In one example, the fastener 136 and insert 140 are formed from a metal material while the valve member 112 is formed from a non-metal material, such as a polymeric material. In one aspect, the handle assembly 114 is further shown as being provided with a pin 142 and a spring 144 that are provided in a first bore 130g of the handle member 130 and a ball member 146 provided in an interconnected second bore 13 Of of the handle member. The spring 144 biases the pin 142 into an extended position within the first bore 130g such that the pin 142 blocks the ball member 146 from being fully displaced within the second bore 13 Of. When the pin 142 is depressed into the first bore 130g by an operator, a recess 142a of the pin 142 receives the ball member 146 such that the ball member 146 can be fully received into the second bore 130f. As most easily seen at Figure 17, the valve casing 102 is provided with detents 102g, 102h configured for receiving the ball member 146 when the handle member 130 is respectively in the fully open or closed position. With such a configuration, the handle member 130 is prevented from moving out of either position unless an operator depresses the pin 142 to allow the ball member 146 to move into the second bore 13 Of and out of the detents 102g, 102h. This feature is a redundant safety feature to the interlock assembly 116 that further prevents inadvertent movement of the handle member 130. The valve casing 102 is further provided with an arced race surface 102i extending between the detents such that it supports the ball member 146 when the handle is being moved between positions and the pin 142 is in the extended state. [0066] With reference to Figures 21 and 24, the interface member 104 is shown as a unitarily formed component including the aforementioned bores 104a, 104b, 104c along with additional features. In one aspect, the interface member generally forms an annular structure defining a front face 104d and a rear face 104e that extend to an outer perimeter edge 104f and that define a central opening 104g. In one aspect, the interface member 104 includes a first pair of countersunk bores 104h, 104i for receiving fasteners 156 extending through to corresponding bores 102p, 102q in the valve casing 102. With such a configuration, the interface member 104 can be secured to the valve casing 102 with the rear face 104e being adjacent a front face 102r of the valve casing 102 and such that heads of the fasteners 156 are flush with the front face 104d of the interface member 104. The interface member 104 is further shown as being provided with first and second radially outwardly facing recess 104aa, 104ab for receiving correspondingly shaped projections 102aa, 102ab extending from the front face 102r of the valve casing 102. In one aspect, the recesses 104aa, 104ab each form one half of a countersunk bore 104ac while received projections 102aa, 102ab form the other half of the countersunk bore. As such, when the interface member 104 is mounted to the valve casing, the recess 104aa and projection 102aa form a countersunk bore 104ac, while the recess 104ab and projections 102ab form a countersunk bore 104ad for receiving additional fasteners 156 for securing the interface member 104 to the valve casing 102 via bores 102ah, 102ai in the casing 102. In the example shown, the recesses 104aa, 104ab and projections 102aa, 102ab extend along an axis that is oblique to a radial line extending from the longitudinal axis X. Other arrangements are possible. For example, these features could extend in a direction coaxial or parallel to a radial line extending from the longitudinal axis X. In one example, the recess 104aa and projection 102aa can be provided with a different shape or configuration in comparison to the respective recess 104ab and projection 102ab. A further locating and positioning arrangement is provided in recesses 102ae, 102af, 102ag provided in the face of the casing 102 that receive corresponding protrusions 104ae, 104af, 104ag in the rear face of the interface member 104. These arrangements advantageously ensure that the interface member 104 can only be mounted onto the valve casing 102 in a single rotational orientation, thus ensuring that the above-discussed interlock assembly features and the below-discussed coupling or mating features of the interface member 104 and valve casing 102 are properly aligned. In one aspect, the arrangements associated with positioning the valve casing 102 and the interface member 104 can be characterized as having single-fold symmetry about the longitudinal axis X. Other configurations involving differently shaped recesses and protrusions are possible. For example, the radial length or dimension of the recess 104aa and the projection 102aa can be longer or shorter in comparison to the corresponding radial length or dimension of the recess 104ab and the projection 102ab. It is noted that the fasteners 156 are only shown in Figure 1 and not in the other figures for the purpose of showing other features of the fluid coupling 100. In one aspect, the recesses 104aa, 104ab and projections 102aa, 102ab can be characterized as forming a projection-receiver arrangement, with the recesses 104aa, 104ab forming a first part of the arrangement and the projections 102aa, 102ab forming a second part of the arrangement.

[0067] The interface member 104 is further shown as being provided with a first arcuate projection 104j and a second arcuate projection 104k extending from the front face 104d. The arcuate projections 104j , 104k are respectively provided with radially outward extending flanges 104m, 104n which present axially inward facing surfaces 104p, 104q that face towards the front face 104d. It is noted that the first arcuate projection 104j is provided with a greater circumferential arc length in comparison to the second arcuate projection 104k. The interface member 104 further includes a first arcuate recess portion 104r adjacent the first arcuate projection 104j and a first arcuate overhang portion 104s extending between the first arcuate recess portion 104r and the second arcuate projection 104k. In one aspect, the first arcuate overhang portion 104s presents an inwardly axially facing surface 104t. The interface member 104 also includes a second arcuate recess portion 104u adjacent the second arcuate projection 104k and a second arcuate overhang portion 104v extending between the second arcuate recess portion 104u and the first arcuate projection portion 104j . In one aspect, the second arcuate overhang portion 104v presents an inwardly axially facing surface 104w. The second arcuate overhang portion 104v is further shown as including an arcuate ramped surface 104x that slopes in a direction from the front face 104d towards the rear face 104e and in a direction from the first arcuate projection 104j towards the second arcuate recess portion 104u. In one aspect, the projections 104j, 104k, the arcuate recess portions 104r, 104u, and the overhang portions 104s, 104v, including the ramped portion 104x, define an inner circumferential edge 104y of the central opening 104g of the interface member 104. In the configuration shown, the inner circumferential edge 104y is closest to the longitudinal axis X at the locations of the projections 104j, 104k and furthest from the longitudinal axis at the locations of the recess portions 104r, 104u, with the overhang portions 104s, 104v defining an intermediate location of the inner circumferential edge 104y. The inner circumferential edge 104y, at the location of the arcuate ramped portion 104x, tapers in steps from a radial inner edge of the second arcuate overhang portion 104v to a radial inner edge of the second arcuate recess portion 104u. Accordingly, the inner circumferential edge 104y can be characterized as having a varying radial profile and/or varying radius. [0068] With reference to Figure 17, additional features of the valve casing 102 cooperating with the interface member 104 are shown. In one aspect, the valve casing 102 defines a pair of identical spaced apart arcuate recesses 102s, 102t arranged about an circumferential wall 102o that defines the recess 102m for the seal member 118. Each of the recesses 102s, 102t is additionally defined by end walls 102u, 102v extending from the wall 102o and by outer circumferential wall portions 102w, 102x extending between the end walls 102u, 102v. Each of the walls 102o, 102u, 102v, 102w, 102x extend from a recessed axial face wall 102z. In one aspect, the outer circumferential wall portion 102w is further from the longitudinal axis X than the outer circumferential wall portion 102x such that the recesses 102s, 102t have a greater width at the location of the outer circumferential wall portion 102w. A transition portion 102y is provided between the circumferential wall portions 102w, 102x. The valve casing 102 is further shown as having a first projection 102aa and an opposite second projection 102ab extending from the front face 102r.

[0069] When the interface member 104 is mounted to the valve casing 102 in the manner described above, the above-described features of each component are aligned as follows: inner circumferential surfaces of the first and second arcuate projections 104j, 104k are aligned with the circumferential wall 102o; the end walls 102u, 102v are aligned with radial side edges of the first and second arcuate projections 104j , 104k; the inner circumferential edge 104y defined by the arcuate recess portions 104r, 104u is aligned with the outer circumferential wall portion 102w; the overhang portions 104s, 104v, including the ramped surface 104x, extend radially inward and beyond the outer circumferential wall portion 102x such that a recess is formed with the exposed axially inward facing surfaces 104p, 104q facing the recessed axial wall face 102z. With such a configuration, two fluid couplings 100 can be coupled together by first aligning the projections 104j, 104k of each fluid coupling 100 with the recess portions 104r, 104u of the opposite fluid coupling 100, then receiving the projections 104j , 104k into the recess portions 104r, 104u, and then rotating the fluid couplings 100 relative to each other such that the axially inward facing surfaces 104p, 104q engage with the rear face side of the overhang portions 104s, 104v until the projections 104j , 104k abut the respective end walls 102u, 102v. The coupling operation is simplified by the presence of the arcuate ramped surface 104x in that the fluid couplings 100 do not need to be fully aligned with each other as a misalignment will result in contact between the first arcuate projections 104j and the ramped surface 104x. Once this contact occurs and an operator rotates the fluid couplings 100 relative to each other, the projections 104j will be guided along the ramped surface 104x until they drop into the respective recess portions 104r, 104u and into the arcuate recesses 102s, 102t. The ramped surface 104x also advantageously creates a rotational delay that ensures the projections 104j, 104k must be received past recess portions 104u, 104u and engaged with the inward facing surfaces 104p, 104q before the end of the second pin 124 is fully depressed by the front face 104d of the opposing fluid coupling 100. In this position, the main seal members 118 of each fluid coupling 100 are brought into sealing contact with each other to define a sealed fluid passageway through both fluid couplings 100. In the fully coupled position, the bumper seal members 120 are also brought into sealing contact with each other. As configured, the fluid couplings 100 must be rotated about 75 degrees from the initially aligned position to the fully coupled position.

[0070] In one aspect, the presence of the arcuate ramped surfaces 104x operate to delay the full depression of the second pin 124 of each fluid coupling 100 during the coupling process. Once the fluid couplings 100 are initially aligned with each other such that the projections 104j, 104k are received into the recess portions 104, 104u, the distal end of each second pin 124 will initially contact the ramped surfaced 104x. As the ramped surface 104x is sloped in an axial direction, relative rotation of the fluid couplings 100 will gradually depress the second pins 124 as they slide along the ramped surfaces 104x through about 32 degrees of rotation from the initial aligned position. The second pins 124 are in contact with the ramped surface 104x over a majority of this rotational distance. As such, it is only when the fluid couplings 100 are rotated through the last phase of rotation such that the second pins 124 move past the ramped surfaces 104x that the pins 124 become fully depressed. As such, the disclosed configuration ensures that the operation of the handle assembly 114 and opening of the valve member 112 cannot occur to any extent until the fluid couplings 100 are almost completely coupled together. In one aspect, the ramped surface 104x delays pin compression by about 30 degrees. Therefore, the valve can open during the last 45 degrees (e.g., 75 degrees for full engagement - 30 degree delay = 45 degrees). This delay is significant because lugs are engaged enough at this point to hold the two coupling halves together against internal pressure and against pin 122 that wants to extend outward when the valve tries to open. This is a significant advantage over standard fluid couplings that do not include a ramped surface as such fluid couplings are inherently enabled to inadvertently open well before the fluid couplings are fully coupled. The ramped surface 104x can also advantageously provide a sloped surface for guiding two fluid couplings 100 into the initial alignment position, whereby contact between the projections 104j , 104k and ramped surfaces 104x allows the fluid couplings to be guided along the ramped surface 104x until they drop into the respective recess portions 104r, 104u and into the arcuate recesses 102s, 102t.

[0071] Referring to Figures 29 to 38, a second example of a fluid coupling 100 is presented. As many features of the previously-described fluid coupling 100 are overlapping with those of this example, the already-provided descriptions of those features are fully applicable and need not be repeated here. Rather, this section outlines the differences between the two embodiments. In one aspect, the fluid coupling 100 shown in Figures 29-38 differs primarily in that the valve casing 102 incorporates the features of the interface member 104 into one integrally formed component rather than being a two-part design. Accordingly, the valve casing 102 defines the front face 104 coincident with front face 102r and first end 102a; bores 104a, 104b, and 104c, coincident with bores 102c, 102d, 102e to form a single structure, arcuate projections 104j, 104k; flanges 104m, 104n; arcuate recessed portions 104r, 104u, coincident with recesses 102s, 102t to form a single structure; overhang portions 104s, 104v; arcuate ramped surface 104x; and the inner circumferential edge 104y. Due to this configuration, the valve casing 102 shown in Figures 29-36 also integrally defines the groove 158 which is shown as having a concave radiused cross-sectional shape such that the groove 158 can receive a bumper seal member 120 configured as an O-ring, as most easily seen at Figure 30. Groove 158 can also be configured to have a rectangular shape as shown for the previous embodiment to accommodate a similarly shaped bumper seal member 120, if desired. Similarly, the groove 158 for the previous embodiment can be configured to have a radiused shape of the type shown for this embodiment so as to receive an O-ring shaped bumper seal member 120.

[0072] As can be most easily seen at Figures 29 and 36, the valve casing 102 is provided with an opening or recess 102k rather than the protrusion 102k of the previous example. Opening or recess 102k is configured to receive a corresponding protrusion 112d of the valve member 112, as most easily viewed at Figure 30. The valve member 112 is further provided with recess 112e, extending through the protrusion 112d, which can be configured to receive the valve stem 130b. It is noted that the recess/protrusion configuration shown for the valve assembly of Figures 29 to 38 may be applied to the embodiment shown at Figures 1 to 28. Similarly, the protrusion/recess configuration of the embodiment shown at Figures 1 to 28 may be applied to the embodiment shown at Figures 29 to 38.

[0073] In some examples, the valve assembly 100 of Figures 1-28 and the valve assembly of Figures 29-38 can be provided with a release sleeve, to facilitate decoupling of the connector part 106 from the valve casing 102, of the type shown and described in United States Patent US 5,226,682, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. In some examples, the valve casing 102 and valve member 112 shown in Figures 29-38 are formed from a metal material. Other materials are possible, for example composite materials.

[0074] While the best modes for carrying out the invention have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which this invention relates will recognize various alternative designs and embodiments for practicing the invention within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A fluid coupling comprising: a) a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing, the valve casing being formed from a first material; b) a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; c) a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; d) a seal member secured to the valve casing at the first end, the seal member circumscribing the internal fluid passageway; e) an interface member, formed from a second material different from the first material, secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling; f) a bumper seal member circumscribing an outer perimeter of the interface member; and g) an interlock assembly arranged to prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is mated to the second fluid coupling and arranged to prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position.

2. The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material.

3. The fluid coupling of claim 1, further comprising: a) a projection-receiver arrangement including a first part associated with the valve casing and including a cooperating second part associated with the interface member, wherein the projection-receiver arrangement has single-fold rotational symmetry such that the interface member can only be mounted to the valve casing in a single rotational orientation.

4. The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the interface member is secured to the valve casing by one or more fasteners.

5. The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the interlock assembly includes a first pin extending through the valve casing and interface member, the first pin being movable by a handle member such that when the handle member is in a first position, the first pin is in a retracted position such that a distal end of the first pin is recessed from a front face of the interface member, and such that when the handle member is in a second position, the first pin is in an extended position in which the distal end extends beyond the front face of the interface member.

6. The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the valve member includes a first transverse recess received by a projection portion formed in the valve casing, wherein the valve member is rotatable about a transverse axis passing centrally through the first transverse recess and the projection portion.

7. The fluid coupling of claim 1 or 6, wherein the valve member includes a second transverse recess, opposite the first transverse recess, for receiving a portion of the handle assembly.

8. The fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the interface member and the valve casing cooperatively define a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of the bumper seal member.

9. The fluid coupling of claim 1, further comprising: a) a connector part received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the internal fluid passageway.

10. The fluid coupling of claim 9, wherein the connector part is secured to the valve casing by a snap ring.

11. A fluid coupling comprising: a) a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing, the valve casing being formed from a first material; b) a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; c) a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; and d) an interface member, formed from a second material different from the first material, secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling.

12. The fluid coupling of claim 11, wherein the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material.

13. The fluid coupling of claim 11, further comprising: a) a projection-receiver arrangement including a first part associated with the valve casing and including a cooperating second part associated with the interface member, wherein the projection-receiver arrangement has single-fold rotational symmetry such that the interface member can only be mounted to the valve casing in a single rotational orientation.

14. The fluid coupling of claim 11, wherein the interface member is secured to the valve casing by one or more fasteners.

15. The fluid coupling of claim 11, further comprising: a) an interlock assembly arranged to prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is mated to the second fluid coupling and arranged to prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position.

16. The fluid coupling of claim 15, wherein the interlock assembly includes a first pin extending through the valve casing and interface member, the first pin being movable by a handle member such that when the handle member is in a first position, the first pin is in a retracted position such that a distal end of the first pin is recessed from a front face of the interface member, and such that when the handle member is in a second position, the first pin is in an extended position in which the distal end extends beyond the front face of the interface member.

17. The fluid coupling of claim 11, wherein the valve member includes a first transverse recess received by a projection portion formed in the valve casing, wherein the valve member is rotatable about a transverse axis passing centrally through the first transverse recess and the projection portion.

18. The fluid coupling of claim 11 or 17, wherein the valve member includes a second transverse recess, opposite the first transverse recess, for receiving a portion of the handle assembly.

19. The fluid coupling of claim 11, wherein the interface member and the valve casing cooperatively define a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of a bumper seal member.

20. The fluid coupling of claim 11, further comprising: a) a connector part received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the internal fluid passageway.

21. The fluid coupling of claim 11, further comprising: a) a seal member secured to the valve casing at the first end, the seal member circumscribing the internal fluid passageway.

22. The fluid coupling of claim 11, further comprising: a) a bumper seal member circumscribing an outer perimeter of the interface member.

23. The fluid coupling of claim 15, wherein the interface member includes a ramped surface for contacting and guiding a component of the interlock assembly during coupling.

24. A fluid coupling comprising: a) a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the valve casing; b) a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; c) a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; and d) an interface member secured to the valve casing, the interface member including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to a similarly shaped engagement feature of a second fluid coupling.

25. The fluid coupling of claim 24, wherein the valve casing is formed from a first material and the interface member is formed from a second material different from the first material.

26. The fluid coupling of claim 25, wherein the valve member is formed from the first material.

27. The fluid coupling of claim 25 or 26, wherein a handle member of the handle assembly is formed from the first material.

28. The fluid coupling of any of claims 24 to 27, further comprising: a) a connector part received by the valve casing and forming a portion of the internal fluid passageway, the connector part being formed from the first material.

29. The fluid coupling of any of claims 24 to 28, wherein the first material is a metal material and the second material is a polymeric material.

30. A fluid coupling comprising: a) a body defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis; b) a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the body, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; c) a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; d) an interface including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to an engagement feature of another fluid coupling, the interface defining a ramped surface tapering in an axial direction; and e) an interlock assembly arranged to: i. prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to a second fluid coupling such that a component of the interlock assembly has been rotated past and out of contact with an interface ramped surface of the second fluid coupling; and ii. prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position.

31. The fluid coupling of claim 30, wherein the interlock assembly includes a first pin that prevents relative rotation between the fluid couplings when in an extended position and includes a second pin that prevents movement of the first pin unless the second pin is in a retracted position, wherein the component of the interlock assembly is the second pin.

32. The fluid coupling of claim 31, wherein the fluid coupling is rotatable, with respect to the second fluid coupling, between an initially aligned angular position and a fully coupled angular position, and wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface through at least a third of a first angular distance between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions.

33. The fluid coupling of claim 32, wherein the first angular distance is about 75 degrees.

34. The fluid coupling of claim 33, wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface for at least 30 degrees of rotation between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions.

35. The fluid coupling of claim 30, wherein the interface is integrally formed with the body.

36. A fluid coupling arrangement comprising: a) a first fluid coupling; and b) a second fluid coupling identical to the first fluid coupling, the second fluid coupling being removably coupled to the first fluid coupling, wherein each of the first and second fluid couplings is the fluid coupling of claim 30.

37. A fluid coupling comprising: a) a valve casing defining an internal fluid passageway extending along a longitudinal axis, the valve casing defining an interface including at least one engagement feature for coupling the fluid coupling to an engagement feature of a another fluid coupling, the interface defining a ramped surface tapering in an axial direction; b) a valve member including a central longitudinal bore and being disposed within the valve casing, the valve member being operable between open and closed positions to respectively allow and block fluid flow through the internal fluid passageway; c) a handle assembly operably connected to the valve member, the handle assembly being movable between a first position, in which the valve member is in the closed position, and a second position, in which the valve member is in the open position; and d) an interlock assembly arranged to: i. prevent the handle assembly from moving the valve member from the closed position into the open position unless the interface member is coupled to a second fluid coupling such that a component of the interlock assembly has been rotated past and out of contact with an interface ramped surface of the second fluid coupling; and ii. prevent the interface member from decoupling from the second fluid coupling unless the handle assembly is moved into the closed position.

38. The fluid coupling of claim 37, wherein the interlock assembly includes a first pin that prevents relative rotation between the fluid couplings when in an extended position and includes a second pin that prevents movement of the first pin unless the second pin is in a retracted position, wherein the component of the interlock assembly is the second pin.

39. The fluid coupling of claim 38, wherein the fluid coupling is rotatable, with respect to the second fluid coupling, between an initially aligned angular position and a fully coupled angular position, and wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface through at least a third of a first angular distance between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions.

40. The fluid coupling of claim 39, wherein the first angular distance is about 75 degrees.

41. The fluid coupling of claim 40, wherein the second pin is in contact with the ramped surface for at least 30 degrees of rotation between the initially aligned and fully coupled angular positions.

42. A fluid coupling arrangement comprising: a) a first fluid coupling; and b) a second fluid coupling identical to the first fluid coupling, the second fluid coupling being removably coupled to the first fluid coupling, wherein each of the first and second fluid couplings is the fluid coupling of claim 37.