Distributing tube for liquid contained in shelled fruit, e.g. coconut

摘要

A hole is formed through the shell of the coconut or other shelled fruit, and a tubular connector (10) is inserted in the hole. The end of the connector includes a tapered section (18) which engages behind the shell after insertion. A second end (22) of the connector projects away from the shell for connection to a dispensing tube. A seal is formed around the connector by a combination of an annular stop surface (30) and an annular or tubular sealing member (32) which fits over the connector. A protective tube (14) encloses the whole assembly and contacts the outer shell surface. Insertion of the end section of the tube in the hole in the shell compresses and radially expands the sealing member to bear against the inner surface of the protective tube.