Quick-disconnect coupling system with emergency release feature

• US 7,252,533 B1
• Filed: 10/20/2006
• Issued: 08/07/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 10/20/2005
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Interlemo Holding S.A. (LemoSA)
• Original Assignee: Interlemo Holding S.A. (LemoSA)
• Inventors: Lee, William H.
• Primary Examiner(s): Harvey; James R.
• Application Number:
  US11/551,693
• Time in Patent Office: 291 Days
• Field of Search: 439/63, 439/382, 439/474, 439/607, 439/675, 439/923
• US Class Current: 439/382
• CPC Class Codes: H01R 13/6273 comprising two latching arms
• CPC Class Codes: H01R 13/6277 comprising annular latching means, e.g. ring snapping in an annular groove
• CPC Class Codes: H01R 13/635 by mechanical pressure, e.g. spring force

Abstract

A quick-disconnect coupling device for use in plug and receptacle style electrical connectors, fiberoptic connectors, pneumatic and hydraulic couplings or any other application where a secure quick-disconnect connection is desired. Under normal operation, the coupling device incorporates a sliding outer sleeve to activate and release latching features within the retention system, which engages with an appropriate mating receptacle. An emergency release feature is included to allow the coupling to disconnect at a selectable, predetermined axial pull-force on the rear of the coupler. The secondary release feature prevents damage to the components and, in many applications, increases personal safety, by providing an emergency release feature, while still maintaining standard coupling and decoupling functionality.

Claims

1. A quick-disconnect coupling system having a proximal portion and distal portion, said coupling system, comprising:

a proximal shell having a neck portion with a plurality of holes;

a latch arm sleeve slidably inserted into said proximal shell, said latch arm sleeve extending proximally into a plurality of flexible latch arms, each of said latch arms having ramp portions releasably inserted into the holes in said neck portion when said coupling system is not in a disengagement event or not coupled to a receptacle, said latch arm sleeve terminating distally in a distal collar;

a medial coupler slidably inserted into a distal end of said proximal shell, said medial coupler having an internal ring;

a distal clamp member threadably connected to said medial coupler and having clamping means to capture and retain a cable member;

a resilient member disposed between said distal collar and said internal ring and compressible there between; and

structure to limit lateral translation of said latch arm sleeve and said latch arms within said proximal shell.