Latching mechanisms for clamshell type couplers

摘要

Latching mechanisms in multiple embodiments connect clamshell type couplers comprising a pair of arcuate coupling halves joined at a hinge. One embodiment includes a biased catch lever that engages a corresponding latch plate. Another embodiment includes a plurality of latching extensions that engage an opposing latching housing, along with biased locking buttons for selectively locking the mechanism. Another embodiment includes dual rotatable latching arms for interconnecting the coupling halves, each arm having a latching cam for selectively locking the mechanism. Another embodiment includes a rotatable latching arm and a receiving bracket for receiving the latching arm for selectively locking the mechanism. Another embodiment includes an over center hinge mechanism including three cooperating and rotatable latch plates. Another embodiment includes cooperating cassette mechanisms, each having connector extensions for connecting the cassette mechanisms to one another for selectively locking the mechanism. Methods are also disclosed for selectively locking the latching mechanisms.

主权项

1. A coupling including a latching mechanism for selectively locking and unlocking the coupling used to interconnect ends of two fluid conveying members, said coupling comprising:
a first coupling member; a second coupling member rotatable attached to said first coupling member; a base mounted to said first coupling member of said coupling; a tongue extending from said base towards said second coupling member of said coupling; a latching housing mounted to said second coupling member, said latching housing having an opening for receiving said tongue, said latching housing further including a locking button attached to said latching housing, and a biased catch member communicating with said locking button; a pair of latching mounts mounted on at least one of said first or second coupling members and said base or said latching housing placed between said pair of latching mounts, said pair of latching mounts for providing lateral containment of said base or said latching housing; and wherein said tongue extends across a gap between facing surfaces of said first and second coupling members when said coupling is placed in a closed position about said fluid conveying members, said latching mechanism placed in a locked position by placing said tongue through said opening of said latching housing and contacting said biased catch member, said latching mechanism placed in an unlocked position by pressing said locking button and simultaneously removing said tongue from within said latching housing.