U.S. patent application number 10/791372 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-27 for clamp connection and release device.
Invention is credited to Janovici, Dennis S., Sweeney, Matt, White, Robert, Zahn, Anthony JR..
Application Number | 20050015958 10/791372 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25403694 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050015958 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Janovici, Dennis S. ; et
al. |
January 27, 2005 |
Clamp connection and release device
Abstract
A release bracket for an inline releasable plug and socket type
connection comprises a collar having a forward end, a rear end and
defining an opening having an axis. An inline plug or socket
component is slidably accommodated in the opening of the collar,
the plug or socket component having a forward end and a rear end. A
handle having a first end is pivotally connected to the collar for
rotation about the pivotal connection, and a bracket is pivotally
connected at one of its ends to the plug or socket component and
pivotally connected at an opposing end thereof to the handle. When
the handle is rotated about its pivotal connection to the collar,
the collar and the plug or socket component move relative to each
other between a first position where the forward end of the plug or
socket component is a distance from the forward end of the collar
and a second position where the plug or socket component is a
greater distance from the forward end of the collar.
Inventors: |
Janovici, Dennis S.;
(Venice, CA) ; Zahn, Anthony JR.; (Henderson,
NV) ; White, Robert; (Henderson, NV) ;
Sweeney, Matt; (Studio City, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Colin P. Abrahams
Suite 400
5850 Canoga Avenue
Woodland Hills
CA
91367
US
|
Family ID: |
25403694 |
Appl. No.: |
10/791372 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10791372 |
Mar 1, 2004 |
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09894930 |
Jun 28, 2001 |
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6701595 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
29/426.5 ;
29/272; 29/464 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 29/49822 20150115;
B25B 27/10 20130101; Y10T 29/53683 20150115; Y10T 29/49895
20150115; H01R 13/6395 20130101; Y10T 403/7062 20150115; Y10T
29/53717 20150115; F16L 1/09 20130101; Y10T 29/53917 20150115; Y10T
29/53896 20150115; Y10T 29/53678 20150115; H01R 13/62933 20130101;
H01R 13/6335 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
029/426.5 ;
029/272; 029/464 |
International
Class: |
B25B 027/14; B23P
019/00 |
Claims
1. A clamp for an inline connector having a male and a female
component, the clamp comprising: a first sleeve member having a
peripheral portion defining an opening for receiving and holding
the male or female component; a second sleeve member adjacent the
first sleeve member, the second sleeve member having an opening
therein which is adjacent the opening in the first sleeve member; a
handle having a first end pivotally connected to the first sleeve
member for rotation about the pivotal connection; a bracket member
pivotally connected to the second sleeve member at one end thereof
and pivotally connected to the handle at another end thereof;
wherein rotation of the handle about its pivotal connection to the
first sleeve member moves the first sleeve member and the second
sleeve member relative to each other between a first position where
the first sleeve member and the second sleeve member are closer to
each other and a second position where the first sleeve member and
the second sleeve member are further apart from each other.
2. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first sleeve member is
a ring member and defines a circular opening for receiving and
holding the male or female component.
3. A clamp as claimed in claim 2 wherein the second sleeve member
is of a cylindrical shape and defines a circular opening adjacent
the circular opening of the ring member.
4. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein first sleeve member has a
recess therein for centering the male or female component within
the opening.
5. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein second sleeve member has a
cut out portion therein for centering the male or female component
within the opening.
6. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein the handle comprises a
pair of parallel end portions each of which connect at one end
thereof pivotally to the first sleeve member, a pair of tapering
portions extending from the end portions, and a pair of parallel
handle portions extending from the tapering portions, the handle
portions being connected to each other at ends thereof remote from
the tapering portions by a U-shaped member.
7. A clamp as claimed in claim 6 wherein each end portion has an
aperture therein, the first sleeve member has a pair of threaded
bores therein each of which registers with one of the apertures,
and a bolt connects the end portion to the first sleeve member by
passing through the aperture of the end portion and threadedly
engaging the threaded bore in the first sleeve member.
8. A clamp as claimed in claim 6 wherein the tapering portions are
downwardly angled with respect to the handle portions, and the end
portions are downwardly angled with respect to the tapering
portions.
9. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein the handle portion
includes an aperture therein for use in establishing the pivotal
connection between the handle and the bracket member.
10. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein the bracket member
comprises a pair of parallel first end portions each of which
connect at one end thereof pivotally to the second sleeve member, a
pair of tapering portions extending from the end portions, and a
pair of parallel second end portions extending from the tapering
portions.
11. A clamp as claimed in claim 10 wherein each first end portion
of the bracket member has an aperture therein, the second sleeve
member has a pair of threaded bores therein each of which registers
with one of the apertures, and a bolt connects the first end
portion to the second sleeve member by passing through the aperture
of the first end portion and threadedly engaging the threaded bore
in the second sleeve member.
12. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein-the tapering portions are
downwardly angled with respect to the second end portions, and the
first end portions are linear with respect to the tapering
portions.
13. A clamp as claimed in claim 12 wherein each of the second end
portions include an aperture therein for use in establishing the
pivotal connection between the handle and the bracket member.
14. A clamp as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second sleeve member
has a leading edge which is configured so as to engage with a body
accommodating the female or male component.
15. A clamp comprising: a housing member defining an opening for
receiving and holding a component; an abutment member adjacent the
housing member; a handle having a first end pivotally connected to
the housing member; a bracket member pivotally connected to the
abutment member at one portion thereof and pivotally connected to
the handle at another portion thereof; wherein rotation of the
handle about its pivotal connection to the housing member moves the
housing member and the abutment member relative to each other
between a first position and a second position where the housing
member and the abutment member are further apart from each other
than in the first position.
16. A method for connecting and disconnecting an inline coupling
having a male and female component, the method comprising: locating
a first sleeve member, having a peripheral portion defining an
opening for receiving and holding the male or female component,
adjacent a second sleeve member, the second sleeve member having an
opening therein adjacent the opening in the first sleeve member;
pivotally connecting a handle having a first end to the first
sleeve member for rotation about the pivotal connection; pivotally
connecting a bracket member to the second sleeve member at one end
thereof and to the handle at another end thereof; and rotating the
handle about its pivotal connection to the first sleeve member to
move the first sleeve member and the second sleeve member relative
to each other between a first position where the first sleeve
member and the second sleeve member are closer to each other and a
second position where the first sleeve member and the second sleeve
member are further apart from each other.
17. A release bracket for an inline releasable plug and socket type
connection, the release bracket comprising: a collar having a
forward end, a rear end and defining an opening having an axis; an
inline plug or socket component which is slidably accommodated in
the opening of the collar, the plug or socket component having a
forward end and a rear end; a handle having a first end pivotally
connected to the collar for rotation about the pivotal connection;
a bracket member pivotally connected at one end thereof to the plug
or socket component and pivotally connected at an opposing end
thereof to the handle; wherein rotation of the handle about its
pivotal connection to the collar moves the collar and the plug or
socket component relative to each other between a first position
where the forward end of the plug or socket component is a distance
from the forward end of the collar and a second position where the
plug or socket component is a greater distance from the forward end
of the collar.
18. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein the collar is
a ring member and defines a circular opening for receiving and
holding the plug or socket.
19. A release bracket as claimed in claim 18 wherein the plug or
socket is of a cylindrical shape.
20. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein collar has a
recess therein for centering the plug or socket within the
opening.
21. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein plug or socket
has a cut out portion therein for centering the plug or socket
within the opening.
22. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein the handle
comprises a pair of parallel end portions each of which connect at
one end thereof pivotally to the collar, a pair of tapering
portions extending from the end portions, and a pair of parallel
handle portions extending from the tapering portions, the handle
portions being connected to each other at ends thereof remote from
the tapering portions by a U-shaped member.
23. A release bracket as claimed in claim 22 wherein each end
portion has an aperture therein, the collar has a pair of threaded
bores therein each of which registers with one of the apertures,
and a bolt connects the end portion to the collar by passing
through the aperture of the end portion and threadedly engaging the
threaded bore in the collar.
24. A release bracket as claimed in claim 22 wherein the tapering
portions are downwardly angled with respect to the handle portions,
and the end portions are downwardly angled with respect to the
tapering portions.
25. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein the handle
portion includes an aperture therein for use in establishing the
pivotal connection between the handle and the bracket member.
26. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein the bracket
member comprises a pair of parallel first end portions each of
which connect at one end thereof pivotally to the plug or socket, a
pair of tapering portions extending from the end portions, and a
pair of parallel second end portions extending from the tapering
portions.
27. A release bracket as claimed in claim 26 wherein each first end
portion of the bracket member has an aperture therein, the plug or
socket has a pair of threaded bores therein each of which registers
with one of the apertures, and a bolt connects the first end
portion to the plug or socket by passing through the aperture of
the first end portion and threadedly engaging the threaded bore in
the plug or socket.
28. A release bracket as claimed in claim 22 wherein the tapering
portions are downwardly angled with respect to the second end
portions, and the first end portions are linear with respect to the
tapering portions.
29. A release bracket as claimed in claim 28 wherein each of the
second end portions include an aperture therein for use in
establishing the pivotal connection between the handle and the
bracket member.
30. A release bracket as claimed in claim 17 wherein the plug or
socket has a leading edge which is configured so as to engage with
a socket or plug.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/894,930 filed Jun. 28, 2001,
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a clamp connection and release
device. More particularly, the invention is for a clamp connection
and release device for inline connections for cables, plugs and
sockets, electrical connections, as well as hydraulic and pneumatic
connections. These connections are generally referred to as
couplings.
[0003] There are many instances where it is necessary to connect
couplings, for subsequent easy release, in order to form an
electric or other connection between, for example, a switch or
power source and a device which it activates. In one application,
when a trailer is connected to a truck or tractor, it is not only
necessary to ensure the physical connection between the truck and
trailer, but, additionally, electrical or other components in the
trailer, which must be operated by the operator in the truck, need
to be secured. Therefore, all lighting, air conditioning, hydraulic
and electrical connections must be established between the truck
and trailer for proper and safe operation.
[0004] In conventional systems, it is typical for a truck to have a
socket or outlet conveniently located, usually at the back thereof,
the socket or outlet being provided with connectors of various
types. Such connectors may be of an electrical type, such as those
required to connect the truck with lighting or air conditioning
systems in an attached trailer, or of an hydraulic type, to connect
the truck's systems with that of the trailers. An example of such a
coupling is the braking system. When the trailer is physically
connected to the truck so as to be drawn thereby, a plug or
corresponding device from the trailer is releasably inserted into
the plug or outlet located on the truck, so as to establish the
necessary electrical, hydraulic or other (such as pneumatic)
connections, as appropriate. Thus, the main physical connection of
the truck to the trailer is conventionally established by what is
typically described as a multiple pole electrical plug and socket,
and, thereafter, the various systems of the truck and trailer are
connected for appropriate communication between truck and
trailer.
[0005] When inserting the plug or other type of connector on the
trailer into the socket or outlet of the truck, it is, of course,
important that the connection be a very secure one so as to be able
to withstand the normal motion, vibrations and sudden movements
which may occur under typical, and even severe, driving conditions.
For this reason, the plug connection from the trailer to the socket
or outlet of the truck is usually a very firm one, often requiring
a significant amount of force to disconnect the two. Moreover, the
connections may be located at positions which are difficult to
access, making maneuverability by the operator difficult for the
purposes of separating the plug from the socket.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided
a clamp for an inline connector having a male and a female
component, the clamp comprising: a first sleeve member having a
peripheral portion defining an opening for receiving and holding
the male or female component; a second sleeve member adjacent the
first sleeve member, the second sleeve member having an opening
therein which is adjacent the opening in the first sleeve member; a
handle having a first end pivotally connected to the first sleeve
member for rotation about the pivotal connection; a bracket member
pivotally connected to the second sleeve member at one end thereof
and pivotally connected to the handle at another end thereof;
wherein rotation of the handle about its pivotal connection to the
first sleeve member moves the first sleeve member and the second
sleeve member relative to each other between a first position where
the first sleeve member and the second sleeve member are closer to
each other and a second position where the first sleeve member and
the second sleeve member are further apart from each other.
[0007] Preferably, the first sleeve member is a ring member and
defines a circular opening for receiving and holding the male or
female component, and the second sleeve member is of a cylindrical
shape and defines a circular opening adjacent the circular opening
of the ring member.
[0008] The handle may comprise a pair of parallel end portions each
of which connect at one end thereof pivotally to the first sleeve
member, a pair of tapering portions extending from the end
portions, and a pair of parallel handle portions extending from the
tapering portions, the handle portions being connected to each
other at ends thereof remote from the tapering portions by a
U-shaped member. Preferably, the first sleeve member has a pair of
threaded bores therein each of which registers with one of the
apertures, and a bolt connects the end portion to the first sleeve
member by passing through the aperture of the end portion and
threadedly engaging the threaded bore in the first sleeve
member.
[0009] The tapering portions may be downwardly angled with respect
to the handle portions, and the end portions are downwardly angled
with respect to the tapering portions.
[0010] Preferably, the bracket member comprises a pair of parallel
first end portions each of which connect at one end thereof
pivotally to the second sleeve member, a pair of tapering portions
extending from the end portions, and a pair of parallel second end
portions extending from the tapering portions. Conveniently, each
first end portion of the bracket member has an aperture therein,
the second sleeve member has a pair of threaded bores therein each
of which registers with one of the apertures, and a bolt connects
the first end portion to the second sleeve member by passing
through the aperture of the first end portion and threadedly
engaging the threaded bore in the second sleeve member. The
tapering portions may be downwardly angled with respect to the
second end portions, and the first end portions are linear with
respect to the tapering portions.
[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a clamp comprising: a housing member defining an opening
for receiving and holding a component; an abutment member adjacent
the housing member; a handle having a first end pivotally connected
to the housing member; a bracket member pivotally connected to the
abutment member at one portion thereof and pivotally connected to
the handle at another portion thereof; wherein rotation of the
handle about its pivotal connection to the housing member moves the
housing member and the abutment member relative to each other
between a first position and a second position where the housing
member and the abutment member are further apart from each other
than in the first position.
[0012] According to yet a further aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method for connecting and disconnecting an inline
coupling having a male and female component, the method comprising:
locating a first sleeve member, having a peripheral portion
defining an opening for receiving and holding the male or female
component, adjacent a second sleeve member, the second sleeve
member having an opening therein adjacent the opening in the first
sleeve member; pivotally connecting a handle having a first end to
the first sleeve member for rotation about the pivotal connection;
pivotally connecting a bracket member to the second sleeve member
at one end thereof and to the handle at another end thereof; and
rotating the handle about its pivotal connection to the first
sleeve member to move the first sleeve member and the second sleeve
member relative to each other between a first position where the
first sleeve member and the second sleeve member are closer to each
other and a second position where the first sleeve member and the
second sleeve member are further apart from each other.
[0013] The clamp connector and release device for facilitates
connection and easy release between a pair of registering
connectors, such as a plug and a socket, thereby providing an
inline connection which can be established and released as
needed.
[0014] The clamp of the invention has particular application when
used between a truck and trailer, whereby the various systems and
devices on a trailer, such as lighting, air conditioning, braking
and other systems, may be connected to the truck so that they can
be operated from the truck. The clamp of the invention may
establish inline connections of electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic
type, and is designed so as to facilitate the connection, and, most
importantly, allow ease or efficiency with respect to the release,
since the plug and socket connection may often be tight fitting and
require a significant amount of force to separate.
[0015] While the invention has as an important application in the
connection of systems between a truck and trailer, the invention is
not to be construed as being limited in this regard. The clamp of
the invention may be useful and applicable in any situation where a
plug may be connected to a socket, since the clamp of the invention
significantly facilitates ease of separation so that the plug can
be released or withdrawn from the socket.
[0016] In one aspect, the invention comprises a sleeve and
associated ring which can be moved towards or away from each other,
by the appropriate turning or movement of a handle, so that when
the ring and sleeve portion are separated, the plug or connector
will be removed from the socket.
[0017] It will be appreciated that the clamp of the invention can
be used to establish a connection, as well as to disconnect, the
plug or connector end of a cable, tube, or the like, irrespective
of its connector characteristics. In other words, the clamp may be
connected to a plug end, socket end, or any other type or
combination of these elements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the clamp connector and
release device of the invention, shown in the closed or connect
position;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the clamp shown in FIG. 1,
in the disconnect position;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a top view of the handle used in the clamp of the
invention shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side view of the handle which is shown in FIG. 3
of the drawings;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a top view of the bracket used in the clamp of the
invention shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a side view of the bracket shown in FIG. 5 of the
drawings;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a side view of the sleeve and ring of the clamp of
the invention shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a cross-section through the sleeve and clamp of
the invention shown in FIG. 7 of the drawings;
[0026] FIG. 9 is an end view of the sleeve and ring of the clamp of
the invention shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a cross-section of the sleeve and ring of the
clamp shown in FIG. 9 of the drawings;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a side view of the clamp of the invention shown
in the closed or connect position;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a side view of the clamp of the invention shown
in FIG. 11 of the drawings, in the disconnect position;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the clamp connector and
release device showing another embodiment of the invention, which
incorporates a plug member; and
[0031] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the clamp connector shown in
FIG. 13 showing individual components thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] Reference is now made to the drawings accompanying this
application, which show various views of the clamp connector and
release device of the invention, in different views, as well as the
elements and components which make up the clamp.
[0033] With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings,
a perspective view of a clamp 10 of the invention is shown in each
of these Figures, with FIG. 1 showing the clamp 10 in a closed
position, when a plug and socket are connected, and with FIG. 2
showing the clamp 10 in an open position, when a plug and socket
are disconnected, the clamp 10 having been maneuvered so as to
disconnect the plug from the socket.
[0034] The clamp 10 comprises a sleeve 12, a ring 26, a handle 60
and a bracket 96, all arranged and connected with respect to each
other as will be described.
[0035] The clamp 10 comprises the sleeve 12 which is of
substantially cylindrical shape, the sleeve 12 having an outer
surface 14, an inner surface 16, a leading end 18 and an inner end
20. The sleeve 12 has two substantially diametrically opposed holes
22 and 24 (see also FIGS. 8 to 10), each of the holes 22 having a
threaded inner bore for receiving a bolt, as will be described
below.
[0036] The clamp 10 further comprises the ring 26, the ring 26
having an outer surface 28, an inner surface 30, an inner end 32,
and a trailing end 34. The ring 26 is about circular in shape, and
is configured so as to be coaxial with the sleeve 12. In the closed
position of the clamp 10, as shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings, the
outer surface 14 of the sleeve 12, and the outer surface 28 of the
ring 26, form a substantially continuous surface, and are of
approximately the same diameter. Likewise, the inner surface 16 of
the sleeve 12, and the inner surface 30 of the ring 26, are of
substantially the same diameter, and define a flush, continuous
surface when in the closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 1 of
the drawings.
[0037] The ring 26 has a pair of substantially diametrically
opposed holes 36 and 38, each of which has an internal bore for
receiving a bolt (see again FIGS. 8 to 10), as will be described
more fully below.
[0038] In the embodiments shown in the drawings, the inner end 20
of the sleeve 12, as well as the inner end 32 and trailing end 34
of the ring 26, are approximately normal to the axis of both the
sleeve 12 and ring 26 respectively. However, in the embodiment
shown, the leading edge 18 of the sleeve 12 is cut obliquely with
respect to the axis of the sleeve 12, and is, in use, designed to
engage or abut a correspondingly shaped surface surrounding a plug
or socket. It will, however, be appreciated that while an oblique
leading end 18 of the sleeve 12 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 of the
drawings, the particular angle, and even shape, of the leading edge
18 will be determined and configured so as to properly engage the
surface surrounding a plug or socket with which the clamp 10 is
used. While it may be preferable, in certain circumstances, to
shape the leading end 18 of the sleeve 12 according to the surface
which it engages, such a shaping is not required by the invention,
and any shaped leading end 18 which will engage the surface
surrounding the plug or socket in a manner to allow the proper
functioning of the clamp 10 will suffice.
[0039] At the top 40 of the sleeve 12, there is provided a cut-out
portion 42 which is of rectangular shape. The ring 26 has, also at
its top 44 a groove or recess 46 which is provided in a portion of
the ring 26. The recess 46 is cut from them inner surface 30 of the
ring 26, through only a portion of the thickness of the ring 26,
such that the outer surface 28 of the ring 26 at the top 44 thereof
is not affected by the recess 46.
[0040] In the assembled form, to be discussed more fully below, the
cut-out portion 42 registers with the recess 46 so as to provide a
continuous channel 48, best seen in FIG. 11 of the drawings (but
also illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10), when the sleeve 12 and ring 26
are adjacent each other.
[0041] It will be noted that the leading edge 18 of the sleeve 12
is layered in its upper half. Thus, the leading end 18 comprises an
oblique surface 50 which forms a continuation of the leading edge
18 in the lower half, and a perpendicular surface 52, which is
substantially parallel to the inner surface 20 of the sleeve 12.
This may facilitate a connection which could operate with both an
angled and a perpendicular shaped connector. However, the leading
end 18 may be any shape, as necessary, and may also typically be
squared off in its entirety.
[0042] The clamp 10 further comprises a handle 60 designed to
connect to the ring 26. The handle 60, best illustrated in FIGS. 3
and 4 of the drawings, comprises a pair of parallel end portions 62
and 64, a pair of tapering mid-portions 66 and 68, and a pair of
parallel handle portions 70 and 72. The ends of the handle portions
70 and 72 remote from the parallel end portions 62 and 64 are
connected to each other by a U-shaped portion 74 so that the handle
60 constitutes a single unit. The parallel end portions 62 and 64
have apertures 76 and 78, the purpose of which will be described
below, while the handle portions 70 and 72 include apertures 80 and
82, also to be described more fully below.
[0043] It will be seen from FIG. 4 of the drawings that the handle
60 is not straight or linear in construction. The tapering
mid-portions 66 and 68 are configured at angle .alpha. with respect
to the handle portions 70 and 72, so as to depend downwardly from
these handle portions 70 and 72, while the parallel end portions 62
and 64 are at angle .beta. with respect to the tapering
mid-portions 66 and 68. The construction of the handle 60 so as to
have the handle portions, tapering mid-portions and parallel end
portions, configured at these angles facilitates operation of the
release function of the clamp 10, to be described more fully
below.
[0044] In use, the handle 60 is connected to the ring 26. The
distance defined between the parallel end portions 62 and 64 is
slightly greater than the outer diameter of the ring 26. The
apertures 76 and 78 in the parallel end portions 62 and 64 are
located so that they register and correspond with the holes 36 and
38 in the ring 26. A bolt 86 (seen in FIGS. 4, 11 and 12) extends
through each of unthreaded apertures 76 and 78 in the parallel end
portions 62 and 64, and engages with the internally threaded holes
36 and 38 located in the ring. The connection established is such
that the handle 60 is able to pivot or rotate about the bolt 86 so
that rotational movement of the handle 60 relative to the ring 26
is possible.
[0045] The clamp 10 of the invention further comprises a bracket
96, best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 of the drawings. The bracket
96 comprises parallel end portions 98 and 100, each of which
contains an aperture 102 and 104 respectively. The bracket 96
comprises a pair of tapering mid-portions 106 and 108, and a pair
of end portions 110 and 112, each of the end portions having an
aperture 114 and 116 respectively. With reference to FIG. 6 of the
drawings, it will be noted that the tapering mid-portion 106 is at
an angle e with respect to the end portion 110. In side view, the
tapering mid-portion 106 and parallel end portion 100 are linear,
or form a continuous line.
[0046] The distance between the parallel end portions 98 and 100 is
sufficient so as to straddle both the ring 26 and sleeve 12, as
well as the parallel end portions 62 and 64 of the handle 60. This
can best be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings. The bracket 96
is connected to the sleeve 12 by passing a bolt 122 (see FIGS. 6,
11 and 12) through each of apertures 102 and 104, the apertures 102
and 104 being aligned with or registering with the holes 24 and 22
respectively in the sleeve 12. A bolt 122 passes through each of
the apertures 102 and 104, and is secured within the threaded bore
of the holes 22 and 24 so as to firmly secure the bracket 96 to the
sleeve 12 of the clamp 10. It should be noted that the bolts 122
securing the bracket 96 to the sleeve 12 are constructed such that
the bracket 96 is capable of relative movement with respect to the
sleeve 12, so that it can rotate or pivot about the bolt 122.
[0047] The bracket 96 is also connected to the handle 60. In this
regard, it will be noted that the apertures 80 and 82 in the handle
60 register with the apertures 116 and 114 respectively in the
bracket 96, and the handle 60 and bracket 96 are thereby connected
by passing a bolt 124 (seen in FIGS. 11 and 12) through apertures
80 and 116 respectively, and another bolt 124 through apertures 82
and 114 respectively. The bolts 124 secure the bracket 96 and
handle 60 together such that both the bracket 96 and handle 60 are
capable of pivotal or rotational movement relative to each other
about the bolts 124 when in the secured position.
[0048] The clamp 10 of the invention is intended to facilitate the
connection and disconnection between a plug and socket, or to
otherwise axially connect electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic
components in line, in a cable. It will be seen in FIG. 11 of the
drawings that a cable 130 is, in use, secured to the inner surface
30 of the ring 26. The cable 130 has at one end 132 thereof a
series of electrical pins, in this particular example, which will
connect to a plug or socket in line. The plug or socket,
represented in phantom lines by reference numeral 136 in FIG. 11 of
the drawings, has a series of female pin receivers 138 intended to
receive pins 134 at the end 132 of the cable 130. The plug or
socket 136 is connected through appropriate wiring or cable
connections to controls, switches, or other device(s) as desired,
which may be located in the truck. On the other hand, the cable
130, including the various pins 134, may be located in the trailer
being drawn by the truck, and the various electrical pins 134 will
branch out to connect to devices in the trailer, such as lighting,
air conditioning or the like.
[0049] The operation of the clamp 10 of the invention, to be
described, facilitates the connection and disconnection between the
cable 130, and the plug 136.
[0050] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11 and 12 of the drawings. It
will be seen in FIG. 11 that the sleeve 12 and ring 26 are adjacent
each other. In this position, the entire clamp 10 is moved forward
so that the plug 136 enters the sleeve 12, and an axial connection
is formed between the end 132 of the cable and the plug 136. In
this way, an electrical coupling is established between the pins
134 and the pin receiver apertures 138. A secure connection is made
between the cable 130 and the plug 136 so that even severe truck
motions and vibrations will not result in the inadvertent
disconnection which could result in a dangerous situation.
[0051] The clamp 10 of the invention functions in its most useful
form when it is desired to disconnect the end 132 of the cable 130
from the plug 136. Since the axial connection is usually a very
firm one, in order to withstand the movement and vibration of
machines and vehicles, it is often difficult to pull out the cable
130 from the plug 136. Moreover, the access of an operator may be
limited, making it even more difficult to maneuver the cable 130
from the plug 136.
[0052] In the clamp 10 of the invention, simple removal of the
cable 130 can be achieved as follows. Reference is made to FIG. 12
of the drawings, which shows the handle in the raised position. As
the handle 60 is raised, or rotated in the direction indicated by
arrow A, from the position shown in FIG. 11 to the position shown
in FIG. 12, the handle 60 and bracket 96 pivot relative to each
other about the bolt 124. Further, the handle 60, as it moves,
pivots about the bolt 86 on the ring 26, and the bracket 96 pivots
about bolt 122 on the sleeve 12. Due to the shape and configuration
of the handle 60 and bracket 96, as well as their connection with
respect to each other, movement of the handle 60 from the position
shown in FIG. 11 to the position shown in FIG. 12 results in the
ring 26 moving away from the sleeve 12, to create a gap 138
therebetween. The movement of the ring 26 away from the sleeve 12
causes the cable 130 to be pulled back and away from the plug 136,
effecting the disconnection. Thus, a simple movement of the handle
60, and the configuration of the clamp 10, provides a mechanical
advantage to the user whereby the ring 26 is pulled back from the
sleeve 12, requiring much less force, and easy maneuverability, in
separating the cable 130 from the plug 136.
[0053] It will be appreciated that the reverse operation may also
apply, enabling the cable 130 to be connected to the plug 136 by
operating the handle 60 so as to close the gap 138 between the ring
126 and the sleeve 12. In an embodiment of the invention, this
connection operation may be facilitated by a simple hooking or
engagement of the sleeve 12 to the surrounding portions of the plug
136.
[0054] In the embodiment shown, the leading edge 18 of the sleeve
12 is oblique or angled, and would typically engage a
correspondingly angled housing or portion surrounding the plug 136
to enhance proper connection. As mentioned above, this leading edge
18 may be constructed so as to have any number of oblique angles,
as the situation requires, or may simply be flat. In another
alternative, this leading edge 18 may have a specific form and
shape which matches that of the housing surrounding the plug 136 to
which it will be connected.
[0055] The cut-out portion 42 in the sleeve 12, and the recess 46
in the ring 26, preferably register with each other to form the
channel 48 as shown, and would typically be used to ensure that the
cable 130 is properly centered and/or located within the clamp 10
so that when the clamp 10 is used to connect the cable to a plug or
socket, the pins 134 and recesses 138 therefor will correctly
match. Thus, the cable 130 may include a projection, shown in FIG.
11 in phantom lines and identified by reference numeral 140. FIG.
11 also shows the cut-out portion 42 and recess 46 in the sleeve 12
and ring 26 respectively.
[0056] While the clamp 10 of the invention has as an important
application thereof the important function of connecting systems
between a truck and trailer, the clamp of the invention is
certainly not limited to such use. Any inline or axial connection
between a plug and socket could benefit from the use of the clamp
of the invention. Further, the clamp of the invention could be used
for hydraulic, pneumatic or other types of connections and
disconnections, and its function is not to be construed as being
limited to electrical connections.
[0057] Additionally, where the cable, plug and/or socket have other
than a circular shape, the sleeve 12 and ring 26 may be
appropriately shaped so as to conform to the particular cable and
connection arrangement for which it will be used. For example, if
the clamp is used in an ordinary household outlet, the sleeve 12
and/or ring 26 may be rectangularly shaped so as to receive a
standard residential plug. The clamp can also be used to connect
axial cables such as TV or other forms of inline cable, where it is
often difficult and cumbersome to separate conventional
connections. The clamp of the invention allows increased force to
be applied in separating a plug from a socket, but since the force
will be appropriately applied by the separation of the sleeve 12
and ring 26 so that the components will not be damaged or broken,
the additional force will not be harmful.
[0058] Turning now to FIGS. 13 and 14 of the drawings, there is
shown a perspective view and exploded view respectively of a clamp
210 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. In this
embodiment, the clamp 210 actually incorporates the plug (socket)
as a component thereof, as will be described.
[0059] The clamp 210 comprises a sleeve 212, a plug 226, a handle
260 and a bracket 296, all arranged and connected with respect to
each other as will be described. Note that the plug 226 could be a
socket, in accordance with the principles of the invention.
[0060] The clamp 210 comprises the sleeve 212 which is of
substantially cylindrical shape, the sleeve 212 having an outer
surface 214, an inner surface 216, a leading end 218 and an inner
end 220. The sleeve 212 has two substantially diametrically opposed
holes 222 and 224, each of the holes 222 and 224 having a threaded
inner bore for receiving a bolt, to be described.
[0061] The clamp 210 further comprises the plug 226, the plug 226
having an outer surface 228, in line connection components 230, an
inner end 232, and a trailing end 234. The plug 226 is about
tubular in shape, and is configured so as to be coaxial with the
sleeve 212.
[0062] The plug 226 has a pair of substantially diametrically
opposed protrusions 360 and 362 each of which has a hole 236 and
238, each hole 236 and 238 having an internal bore for receiving a
bolt 286, to be described.
[0063] The inner end 220 of the sleeve 212, as well as the inner
end 232 and trailing end 234 of the plug 226, are approximately
normal to the axis of both the sleeve 212 and plug 226
respectively.
[0064] At the top 240 of the sleeve 212, there is provided a
cut-out portion 242 which is of rectangular shape. The plug 226
has, also at its top 244 a tapering projection 246. In the
assembled form, the cut-out portion 242 registers with the
projection 246 so as to define the extent of its relative movement
when the sleeve 212 and plug 226 are moved with respect to each
other and also facilitate alignment.
[0065] The clamp 210 further comprises the handle 260 designed to
connect to the plug 226. The handle 260 comprises a pair of end
portions 262 and 264, a pair of tapering mid-portions 266 and 268,
and a pair of handle portions 270 and 272. The ends of the handle
portions 270 and 272 remote from the end portions 262 and 264 are
connected to each other by a U-shaped portion 274 so that the
handle 260 constitutes a single unit. The end portions 262 and 264
have apertures 276 and 278, while the handle portions 270 and 272
include apertures 280 and 282, both to be described.
[0066] In use, the handle 260 is connected to the plug 226. The
distance defined between the end portions 262 and 264 is slightly
greater than the outer diameter of the plug 226 and straddle the
protrusions 360 and 362. The apertures 276 and 278 in the end
portions 262 and 264 are located so that they register and
correspond with the holes 236 and 238 in the plug 226. A bolt 286
extends through each of unthreaded apertures 276 and 278 in the end
portions 262 and 264, and engages with the internally threaded
holes 236 and 238 located in the plug 226. The connection
established is such that the handle 260 is able to pivot or rotate
about the bolts 286 so that rotational movement of the handle 260
relative to the plug 226 is possible.
[0067] The clamp 210 of the invention further comprises a bracket
296, which comprises end portions 298 and 300, each of which
contains an aperture 302 and 304 respectively. The bracket 296
comprises a pair of tapering mid-portions 306 and 308, and a pair
of end portions 310 and 312, each of the end portions having an
aperture 314 and 316 respectively.
[0068] The distance between the end portions 298 and 300 is
sufficient so as to straddle both the plug 226 and sleeve 212, as
well as the end portions 262 and 264 of the handle 260. The bracket
296 is connected to the sleeve 212 by passing a bolt 322 through
each of apertures 302 and 304, the apertures 302 and 304 being
aligned with or registering with the holes 224 and 222 respectively
in the sleeve 212. The bolt 322 passes through each of the
apertures 302 and 304, and is secured within the threaded bore of
the holes 222 and 224 so as to firmly secure the bracket 296 to the
sleeve 212 of the clamp 210. The bolts 322 securing the bracket 296
to the sleeve 212 are constructed such that the bracket 296 is
capable of relative movement with respect to the sleeve 212, so
that it can rotate or pivot about the bolt 322.
[0069] The bracket 296 is also connected to the handle 260. The
apertures 280 and 282 in the handle 260 register with the apertures
316 and 314 respectively in the bracket 296, and the handle 260 and
bracket 296 are thereby connected by passing a bolt 324 through
apertures 280 and 314 respectively, and another bolt 324 through
apertures 282 and 316 respectively. The bolt 324 secures the
bracket 296 and handle 260 together such that both the bracket 296
and handle 260 are capable of pivotal or rotational movement
relative to each other about the bolt 324 when in the secured
position. A spacer 366 is located between the holes 280 and
282.
[0070] A stiffener 370 may be provided to stabilize and/or
strengthen the handle 260 and enhance its operation.
[0071] The clamp 210 of the invention is intended to facilitate the
connection and disconnection between the plug 226 and a socket (or
vice versa), or to otherwise axially connect electrical, hydraulic
or pneumatic components in line, in a cable. The clamp 210 operates
in substantially the same manner as the clamp 10 described with
respect to the preceding embodiment and drawings, except that the
plug 226 (or a socket) is now integral with and a part of the clamp
210. In other words, the plug 226 is a substitute for the ring 26.
The plug 226 may have a series of pin receivers intended to receive
pins (or vice versa), as already described above. The operation of
the clamp 210 may facilitate the connection and disconnection
between a cable (not shown here), and the plug 226.
[0072] The sleeve 212 and plug 226 move axially relative to each
other as the sleeve 12 and ring 26 do in the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 11 and 12 of the drawings. Since the principle of operation
is substantially the same, it will not be repeated in detail.
[0073] It will be seen in FIGS. 13 and 14 that the sleeve 212 and
plug 226 are arranged coaxially so that the plug 226 can slide
axially within the sleeve 212. In installing the clamp 210, the
handle 260 is moved so that the plug 226 moves forward in the
sleeve 212, and an axial connection is formed between the plug 226
and a socket. In this way, an electrical coupling is established. A
secure connection is made so that even severe truck motions and
vibrations will not result in the inadvertent disconnection which
could result in a dangerous situation.
[0074] The clamp 210 can be removed or disconnected as follows. As
the handle 260 is raised, or rotated, the handle 260 and bracket
296 pivot relative to each other about the bolt 324. Further, the
handle 260, as it moves, pivots about the bolt 286 on the plug 226,
and the bracket 296 pivots about bolt 322 on the sleeve 212. Due to
the shape and configuration of the handle 260 and bracket 296, as
well as their connection with respect to each other, movement of
the handle 260 results in the plug 226 moving backward through the
sleeve 212. This movement causes the plug 226 to be pulled back and
away from the cable, effecting the disconnection. Thus, a simple
movement of the handle 260, and the configuration of the clamp 210,
provides a mechanical advantage to the user whereby the plug 226 is
pulled backward in the sleeve 212, requiring much less force, and
easy maneuverability, in separating the cable from the plug
226.
[0075] It will be appreciated that the reverse operation may also
apply, enabling a cable to be connected to the plug 226 by
operating the handle 260 so as to move the plug 226 forward in the
sleeve 212.
[0076] The cut-out portion 242 in the sleeve 212, and the tapering
projection 246 on the plug 226, preferably register with each other
to form the channel 248 as shown, and would typically be used to
ensure that the cable is properly centered and/or located within
the clamp 210 so that when the clamp 210 is used to connect the
cable to a plug or socket, the pins and the recesses therefor will
correctly align.
[0077] The invention is not limited to the precise construction or
details described hereabove, and variations within the scope of the
claims may be made.
* * * * *