| 摘要 |
A connecting assembly (110) is disclosed having a first component (120) defining an opening (122), a second component (112) adapted to be retained together with the first component and a washer component (114) made of a super-elastic alloy. Relative motion between at least two of the components (112, 114, 120) causes a super-elastic activation in the washer (114) wherein the activation simultaneously retains the components (112, 120) together with the washer component (114) interposed jointly there between. The super-elastic component (114) can expand or contract to also form a seal, preferably upon mechanical stress activation using interference fit with one or more of the other components (112, 120) of the assembly (110). This improved seal is useful in fluid connectors such as hoses (510), electrical connectors (710), torque transmission devices (510), and for dampening vibration. Preferably the washer component (114) is pre-assembled to one of the first (120) and second components (112). More preferably, the first component (120) is pre-assembled with the washer (114) and the component (112) is moved relative to the pre-assembled components to activate the super-elastic alloy of the washer (114). The resultant assemblies (110) form high performance connections and seals that are corrosion and wear resistant. These assemblies (110) are fully reversible and because of the elastic properties in the washer (114) the assemblies (110) contain hugh surface-to-surface contact, which allow them to exhibit strong axial and torsional holding forces.
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