WO2011061532A1

WO2011061532A1 - A tubular connector

Info

Publication number: WO2011061532A1
Application number: PCT/GB2010/051915
Authority: WO
Inventors: Milton Verity
Original assignee: Milton Verity
Priority date: 2009-11-17
Filing date: 2010-11-17
Publication date: 2011-05-26
Also published as: GB0920062D0; GB201210444D0; GB2488935A; GB2488935B; WO2011061532A4; GB201012006D0

Abstract

A connector comprises first and second tubular couplers (3, 5) and a tubular locking collar (7), the locking collar comprising at least one radially extending locking rib (47, 49) comprising longitudinally opposed locking faces. Each coupler is formed with a respective locking formation (15), the connector being arranged such that each coupler can be mated together such that each locking formation is adjacent a respective one of the locking faces of the locking rib. Rotation of the collar (7) relative to the couplers (3, 5) is operative to cause each locking formation to engage with a respective locking face to lock the couplers together such that relative movement between each coupler and the collar along the longitudinal axis is resisted. Thus the collar and couplers are arranged when locked together to prevent relative rotation between the couplers, and also to prevent relative longitudinal movement between the couplers.

Description

A TUBULAR CONNECTOR

The present invention relates to a tubular connector for connecting two components together.

It is a problem in a wide range of technical fields, of how to securely connect two components together to minimise the likelihood of the components being accidentally disconnected. It is also a problem in some technical fields that a rotational force applied to one component in use, can accidentally disconnect the components.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a connector comprising first and second tubular couplers and a tubular locking collar, the locking collar comprising at least one radially extending locking rib comprising longitudinally opposed locking faces, each coupler being formed with a respective locking formation, the connector being arranged such that each coupler can be mated together such that each locking formation is adjacent a respective one of the locking faces of the locking rib, rotation of the collar relative to the couplers being operative to cause each locking formation to engage with a respective locking face to lock the couplers together such that relative movement between each coupler and the collar along the longitudinal axis is resisted. The locking collar may comprise a longitudinally extending through bore defined by an internal wall provided with the at least one radially extending locking rib, the locking rib extending radially inwardly, the connector being arranged such that each coupler can be partially inserted into the through bore of the locking collar to a position wherein each locking formation is adjacent a respective one of the locking faces of the locking rib. An internal cavity may be defined by at least one coupler, the locking formations being located in the internal cavity when the couplers are mated together, the collar being located in the internal cavity and connected to an actuator operative to rotate the internal collar relative to the mated together couplers.

Preferably rotation of the collar relative to the couplers is operative to cause each locking formation to engage with a respective locking face to lock the couplers together such that relative rotational movement between each coupler about the longitudinal axis is resisted. When so mated, the locking formations of each coupler may engage to resist relative rotation between the couplers,

Preferably the collar comprises at least two locking ribs axially spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the through bore, a locking face of one rib engaging the locking formation of the first coupler, a locking face of the other rib engaging the locking formation of the second coupler.

The collar may comprise a plurality of locking ribs circumferentially spaced apart on the internal wall of the bore about the longitudinal axis, that is, one locking rib is at a different angular position on the internal wall to another locking rib, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the collar.

In a preferred embodiment, two pairs of ribs are provided, each pair of ribs being longitudinal spaced apart, the ribs in each pair being angularly spaced apart about the longitudinal axis. Each rib may extend through substantially 90°. Preferably one locking rib is circumferentially non-aligned with the other locking rib, that is, one locking rib is at a different angular position on the internal wall to the other locking rib, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the collar. Preferably the locking ribs are relatively spaced along the longitudinal axis such that a circumferential slot is defined between the locking ribs, the dimension of the slot in the direction along the longitudinal axis being sufficient to receive the locking formations of the first and second couplers. The, or each, locking rib of the collar may comprise an end stop to resist rotational movement of the respective locking formation beyond the end stop.

Preferably each coupler comprises a boss, each locking formation comprising a flange that projects radially outwardly from the boss and the longitudinal axis of the coupler, each flange comprising opposed, planar locking surfaces.

Preferably each flange is arcuate and comprises a radially outer arcuate wall dimensioned to be received within the bore of the locking collar.

Preferably each coupler comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart flanges.

Preferably the locking formation of one coupler is axially aligned with the locking formation of the other coupler when the couplers are received in the bore of the locking collar and the locking collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together. Preferably the locking formations are axially spaced apart such that the locking formations of each coupler form a substantially continuous locking flange, when the couplers are received in the bore of the locking collar. Preferably the or each locking formation is axially spaced from an intermediate wider diameter portion of the coupler such that a circumferential channel is defined therebetween, the locking ribs of the collar being received in the channel when the collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together. Preferably the locking ribs and locking formations are arranged such that the collar is rotated substantially 90° relative to the couplers to reach the position in which the couplers are locked together.

The locking ribs and locking formations may be arranged such that the collar is rotatable clockwise to lock the couplers together. The, or each, coupler may comprise an adaptor, distal from the locking formations, and operative to enable the coupler to be joined to a desired object.

The couplers and/or the locking collar may be of substantially cylindrical outer shape. A protrusion may be formed on one of the collar and couplers, and a recess may be formed on the other of the collar and couplers, rotation of the collar relative to the couplers being operative to force the protrusion into the recess to provide feedback to the user that the collar is in the locked position. The collar and couplers may be so arranged that rotation of the collar relative to the couplers causes a relative longitudinal movement between the couplers to force the couplers longitudinally together.

The couplers and/or the locking collar may be formed with a shaped formation on their outer periphery adapted to engage with a tool to facilitate rotation of the collar relative to the couplers.

The shaped formation may comprise a portion of the couplers and/or locking collar that is square or hexagonal for example.

The connector may be a fluid connector comprising a seal operative to form a fluid seal between the couplers. The seal may comprise an o-ring type seal extending around a protruding tubular extension of one of the couplers, the tubular extension being received within the other coupler such that the couplers together form a continuous fluid-through passageway. The connector may be a data connector, one coupler being provided with a male data interface, the other coupler comprising a female data interface, the data interfaces, when connected together being operative to transfer data therebetween.

The connector may be an electrical connector, one coupler being provided with an electrical plug, the other coupler comprising an electrical socket, the plug being received in the socket to form an electrically conductive connection therebetween.

The connector may comprise at least one guide formation on a coupler operative to engage with at least one corresponding guide formation provided on the collar, the guide formations engaging as the coupler is inserted into the collar, the shape of the guide formations being such as to cause relative rotation between the coupler and the collar such that the coupler is in the angular position relative to the collar where the coupler can be inserted into the through bore of the locking collar to the position in which the locking formation on the coupler is adjacent the locking rib of the collar.

Preferably each coupler is provided with a respective guide formation.

The guide formation on the coupler may comprise an inclined wall of the locking formation. The guide formation on the locking collar may comprise an inclined wall of the locking rib.

Preferably one of the couplers is provided with a guide recess operative to receive a guide formation of the other coupler in use.

Preferably the guide formation on the coupler is of triangular form. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a connector assembly comprising a connector according to the first aspect of the invention.

The connector assembly may comprise a plurality of connectors.

Other aspects of the present invention may include any combination of the features or limitations referred to herein. The present invention may be carried into practice in various ways, but embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a partially exploded perspective view of a connector in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the connector of Figure 1 with part of the connector cutaway;

Figure 3 is a side view of a coupler of the connector of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 is a sectional side view of the coupler of Figure 3 taken on line A-A;

Figure 5 is an end view of the collar of the connector of Figures 1 to 4;

Figure 6 is a side view of a collar of the connector of Figures 1 to 5;

Figure 7 is a sectional side view of the collar of Figure 6, taken on line B-B;

Figures 8a to 8c are schematic sectional side views of the connector of Figures 1 to 7 in different locking conditions;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a fluid connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8, with part of the wall of the connector cutaway; Figure 10 is a sectional side view of the connector of Figure 9;

Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the connector of Figures 10 and 11 , with the locking collar removed and fluid pipes attached to each coupler;

Figure 12 is a perspective sectional view of the connector of Figures 10 to 11 with the collar in place;

Figure 13 is partially exploded perspective view of a modified fluid connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a camera tripod leg connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figures 15a to 15c are schematic sectional side views of the tripod leg assembly of Figure 14 in different locking conditions;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a data connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figure 17 is a perspective part cutaway view of a coupler and locking collar of the data connector assembly of Figure 16; Figure 18 is a perspective view of another coupler of the data connector assembly of Figures 16 and 17; Figure 19 is a perspective exploded view of an electrical connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figures 20a and 20b are perspective part cutaway views of the electrical connector assembly of Figure 19 in an unlocked condition;

Figure 21 is a sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly of Figures 19 and 20;

Figure 22 is an exploded perspective part cutaway view of a light connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figure 23 is a perspective part cutaway view of a tubular connector assembly in accordance with the present invention comprising the connector of Figures 1 to 8;

Figure 24 is a front view of one coupler of a modified connector assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the coupler of Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a side view of the coupler of Figures 24 and 25 ;

Figure 27 is a plan view of the coupler of Figures 24 to 26;

Figure 28 is a side view of another coupler of the modified connector assembly of Figures 24 to 27;

Figure 29 is a plan view of the coupler of Figure 28; Figure 30 is a perspective view of a locking collar of the modified connector assembly of Figures 24 to 29;

Figure 31 is a plan view of the locking collar of Figure 30;

Figure 32 is a side view of the locking collar of Figures 30 and 31 ; Figure 33 is a sectional side view of the locking collar of

Figures 30 to 32 taken on line A- A of Figure 32;

Figure 34 is a perspective sectional side view of the modified connector assembly of Figures 24 to 33 in a locked condition;

Figure 35 is an exploded perspective view of another connector in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 36 is a perspective sectional view of the connector of Figure 35 , in an unlocked condition;

Figure 37 is a perspective sectional view of the connector of Figure 35 , in a locked condition; Figures 38a to 38c are schematic sectional side views of the connector of Figures 35 to 37 in different locking conditions; and

Figure 39 is a schematic plan view of part of the inside of another connector in accordance with the present invention.

Referring initially to Figures 1 to 8, a tubular connector 1 comprises three primary components : a first coupler 3 , a second coupler 5 , and an intermediate locking collar 7 operative to lock the couplers 3 , 5 together. Each coupler 3, 5 is of generally hollow tubular form comprising an wider diameter tubular intermediate portion 9 one end of which leads to a narrower diameter, hollow boss 11. A tubular adaptor 13 depends from the other end of the intermediate portion 9 and in this example is provided with fixings in the form of ribs 14 that enable the coupler 3 to be connected to another object such as a hose for example.

In this example, two locking formations in the form of planar, radially outwardly extending flanges 15 extend from the top of the boss 11 , in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 19 of the coupler 3. Each flange 15 is of arcuate form, having a curved outer periphery that together define part of a circle about the longitudinal axis 19 dimensioned to be received in the collar 7 as will be further described below.

In this example each flange 15 extends through 90°, the flanges 15 being circumferentially opposed by 180° about axis 19 so as to define an arcuate space 21 between each flange 15.

Each flange 15 comprises a lower surface 25 and an upper surface 26.

The underside 25 of each flange 15 and the top surface 27 of the boss 11 face one another, and together with the outer side wall 29 of the boss 11 define a circumferential channel 31 that in use receives a locking rib of the locking collar 7.

The second coupler 5 is of identical construction and like features have been given like references. The intermediate locking collar 7 comprises a hollow cylinder formed with a circular cross section through bore 41 defined by an internal bore wall 42 which extends between opposed collar ends 43, 44. The exterior of the collar 7 may comprise spaced apart protruding grips 45 to facilitate gripping and rotation of the collar 7.

The collar 7 is provided with locking ribs 47, 49 that project radially inwardly from the internal bore wall 42 toward the longitudinal axis 19 of the collar 7. Each locking rib 47, 49 is elongate and arcuate, following the curved contour of the wall 42. In this example, each rib 47, 49 extends through substantially 90°.

In this example, four ribs 47, 49 are provided in two longitudinally and circumferentially spaced pairs, the pair of ribs 47 being nearer end 43, and the pair of ribs 49 being nearer collar end 44.

The ribs 47 are in the first pair are opposed by substantially 180° around the circumference of the bore 41 , about longitudinal axis 19. The ribs 49 in the second pair are also opposed by substantially 180° about the circumference of the bore 41. The pair of ribs 47 however, are circumferentially non-aligned with the pair of ribs 49. Thus the ribs 47 are spaced at 0° and 180° about axis 19, whilst the ribs 49 are spaced at 90° and 270° in this example.

The ribs 47, 49 may provided with end stops (not shown) .

In use of the connector 1 , each coupler 3, 5 is inserted into a respective end 43, 44 of the collar 7, and the collar 7 is rotated relative to each coupler 3, 5 to a position wherein the collar 7 locks the couplers 3, 5 together. With particular reference to Figure 8a, the coupler 3 is inserted into the bore 41 at collar end 43 with the coupler flanges 15 aligned with the spaces between one pair of ribs 47 in the collar 7. This alignment enables the coupler 3 to be further inserted into the bore 41 to a position where the coupler flanges 15 pass the ribs 47, with the lower surface 25 of the flanges 15 beyond, but adjacent, the upper surface of the ribs 47. The upper surface 27 of the boss 11 of the coupler 3 abuts the underside of the ribs 47. The flanges 15 are thus located in a circumferential space 50 located between the two pairs of ribs 47, 49. With particular reference to Figure 8b, the coupler 5 is inserted into the bore 41 at collar end 44 with the coupler flanges 15 aligned with the spaces between the other pair of ribs 49. The coupler 5 can continue to be inserted to a position wherein the upper surface 26 of the flanges 15 is beyond, but adjacent, the lower surface of ribs 49. The lower surface 25 of flanges 15 abuts the upper surface of ribs 47.

When in this position, the flanges 15 of each coupler 3, 5 are longitudinally aligned, with the flanges 15 of one coupler 3 being received in the arcuate spaces 21 between the flanges 15 of the other coupler 5. The flanges 15, when in this position, form a continuous flange that extends through 360° such that the couplers 3, 5 form a continuous, rotationally connected component that can only rotate together.

With particular reference to Figure 8c, when in this position, one coupler 3, 5 and the collar 7 can be held by an operator, and the collar 7 rotated relative to the couplers 3, 5. This relative rotation alters the angular position of the ribs 47, 49 of the collar 7 relative to the flanges 15 of the couplers 3, 5. Thus, ribs 47 are rotated through 90° such that their upper surfaces are angularly aligned with the lower surfaces 25 of flanges 15. Thus any load applied longitudinally to the coupler 3 to try to pull the coupler 3 from the collar 7 is resisted by the upper surfaces of ribs 47 engaging the lower surfaces 25 of flanges 15. Likewise, ribs 49 are rotated through 90° such that their lower surfaces are rotationally aligned with the upper surfaces 26 of flanges 15. The lower surfaces of ribs 49 thus engage the upper surfaces 26 of flanges 15 to resist the coupler 5 being pulled from the collar 7.

It will be appreciated that when in this locked position, each coupler 3, 5 is prevented from being pulled from different ends 43, 44 of the collar 7. Likewise this also prevents either coupler 3, 5 from being pushed through the collar 7, due to the engagement of the ribs 47, 49 with the flanges 15 of the other coupler 3, 5.

It will also be appreciated that when so locked together, one coupler 3, 5 cannot rotate relative to the other. Thus a relative torque applied between the couplers 3, 5 does not unlock them, relative rotation between the collar 7 and couplers 3, 5 being instead required.

In this example, each coupler 3, 5 is provided with two flanges 15 spaced apart by 180°. Likewise the collar 7 is provided with a pair of ribs 47, 49 for each coupler 3, 5, the ribs 47, 49 of each pair being spaced apart by 180°. This enables the collar 7 to be rotated through 90° to angularly align the flanges 15 with the appropriate ribs 47, 49. However, it is envisaged that any other suitable number of flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 could alternatively be provided, and that the collar 7 could be rotated through any other desired angle to achieve the desired angular alignment. Thus each coupler 3, 5 may be provided with only one flange 15, or indeed more than two flanges 15. The collar 7 may be provided with one rib 47, 49 per coupler 3, 5, or multiple ribs 47, 49. It is envisaged that the collar 7 may be provided with only one rib altogether, the flange 15 of one coupler 3 engaging with an upper surface of the rib, the flange 15 of the other coupler 5 engaging with a lower surface of the rib.

Likewise, it is envisaged that the collar 7 need not be rotated such that the flanges 15 are fully aligned with the ribs 47, 49, partial alignment being sufficient.

The tolerances of the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 may be such that the respective surfaces of the flanges 14 and ribs 47, 49 only engage relatively loosely such that a small amount of longitudinal movement is possible between the collar 7 and each coupler 3, 5.

It is preferred however, that the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 are manufactured with an interference fit, such that when the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 are angularly aligned, their respective surfaces engage to prevent longitudinal movement between the collar 7 and each coupler 3, 5. The magnitude of any interference fit can be varied as required.

It is possible that the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 could be formed with an engagement means such as a protrusion on one of the flange 15 and rib 47, 49, and a recess in the other of the flange 15 and rib 47, 49, the protrusion being received in the recess when the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49 are angularly aligned. This would firstly provide a positive feedback to the operator that the couplers are securely locked together, and secondly would provide an initial resistance to unlocking the couplers 3, 5. The protrusion may comprise a circular convex formation and the recess may comprise a circular concave formation. The collar 7 has been described above as being rotated clockwise to angularly align the flanges 15 and ribs 47, 49, but could routinely be modified to require anti-clockwise rotation.

The above described collar 7 and couplers 3, 5 when locked together form a through bore extending from one coupler 3, 5 to the other. This through bore may form a fluid conduit through which fluid can be transferred. Alternatively an elongate component may be inserted through, or partially into, the through bore. The elongate element may comprise a hose or plumbing pipe or the like, a rigid element such as a leg of a piece of electrical or camera equipment, or a flexible element such as an electricity or data cable for example. The collar 7 and/or couplers 3, 5 may be provided with suitable seals to ensure a liquid or gas tight seal between them, when in the locked position. Such seals could comprise an o-ring seal or seals between each component. The collar 7 may comprise a fluid valve operative to open or close the through bore, or to restrict fluid flow through the bore.

In an alternative embodiment, each coupler 3, 5 may be substantially solid, the through bore being omitted.

The adaptor 13 of each coupler 3, 5 may be provided with any suitable fixing to enable the coupler 3, 5 to be joined to the desired external componentry. For example each adaptor 13 may comprise an external boss to be received inside a pipe or hose to which the coupler 3, 5 is to be fixed. Each adaptor 13 may comprise an external boss which is threaded to enable mating with a suitable threaded part of an external component. Each adaptor 13 may be provided with a bayonet type fitting. The couplers 3, 5 and collar 7 may be formed from any suitable material including metal and metal alloy materials, and/or plastics and/or rubber materials. The couplers 3, 5 and collar 7 may be cast, moulded, pressed or machined as required. The external appearance of the couplers 3, 5 and the collar 7 may be modified to match the appearance of external componentry to which the couplers 3, 5 are fixed in use.

The couplers 3 , 5 may be symmetrical in the sense that they are each formed with identical flanges 15 such that either coupler 3 , 5 can be inserted into either end 43, 44 of the collar 7. Alternatively the couplers 3, 5 may be asymmetrical in the sense that they are formed with non-identical flanges 15 such that the coupler 3 can only be inserted in end 43 of the collar 7, coupler 5 only in end 44 of collar 7.

The above described connector 1 may be used for any desired application. Example applications include as a connector between pipework to transfer fluid, as a conduit for electrical wiring or other flexible material, as an electrical or data connector whereby when in the closed position the couplers 3, 5 and collar 7 form an electrically conductive connection, as a connector in mechanical frames, or as a connector for domestic or commercial lighting fixtures.

Example applications of the connector will now be described in more detail.

Referring additionally to Figures 9 to 13 , a connector 1 as described with reference to Figures 1 to 8 is shown comprising part of a fluid connector assembly 91. In this example, the adaptor 13 of each coupler 3, 5 comprises a suitable bore 93, 95 into which ends of a fluid conduit such as a hosepipe, or copper or plastic building plumbing pipe is inserted. The inside of each bore 93, 95 is formed with a respective annular rib 97, 99 against which the end of the fluid conduit abuts in use.

One of the couplers 3 is provided with a hollow tubular extension 101 that projects beyond the flanges 15. A seal in the form of a rubber or plastic o-ring 103 is provided on the outside of the tubular extension 101 and forms a fluid seal with the bore of the other coupler 5 , when the tubular extension 101 is received in the bore and the couplers 3, 5 are locked together. When so locked, the couplers 3, 5 and collar 7 together define a substantially constant diameter through bore that functions as a fluid conduit.

Referring additionally to Figure 13, a modified fluid connector assembly 131 is provided comprising three connectors 1 arranged in Y-shaped configuration, the longitudinal axis 19 of each connector 1 being relatively spaced by substantially 120°.

Referring now to Figures 14 and 15, a tripod leg connector assembly 141 comprises a connector 1 as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8.

In this example, the adaptor of one coupler 3 is adapted to be secured to a tripod foot 143 by way of a threaded bore in the adaptor 13 into which a threaded shaft of the foot 143 is inserted.

The adaptor 13 of the other coupler 5 is adapted to be secured to a leg 145 of the tripod, again by way of a threaded bore in the adaptor into which a threaded shaft of the leg 145 is inserted. In use, the couplers 3, 5 are each inserted into the collar 7, and the collar 7 rotated relative to the couplers 3, 5 to lock the foot 143 to the leg 145.

Likewise the connector 1 may comprise part of an extendible or removable chair or table leg.

It will be noted that the connector 1 resists the couplers 3, 5 being pulled apart under tensile force applied in the general direction of the longitudinal axis 19.

Referring now to Figures 16 to 18, a data connector assembly 161 comprises a connector 1 as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8.

In this example, the bore of one of the couplers 3 is provided with a data cable 163 connected to a male data interface comprising, in this example, a plurality of data pins 165 that project in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis 19 at a position within the flanges 47.

The bore of the other coupler 5 is also provided with a data cable 167 connected to a female data interface comprising, in this example, a plurality of data ports 169 into which the data pins 165 of the coupler 3 are received in use. As above, rotation of the collar 7 relative to the couplers 3, 5 locks the couplers 3, 5 together and retains the data pins 165 in the data ports 169. It will be appreciated that any other suitable data interface may be used instead of the pins 165 and 169. For example a USB type data interface could be provided, or indeed any desired arrangement and number of data pins and data ports as required. Referring now to Figures 19 to 21 , an electrical connector assembly 191 comprises a connector 1 as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8.

The bore of the coupler 3 is also provided with an electric cable 193 connected to a three pin plug 195 comprising earth, live and neutral pins as is well known.

The bore of the other coupler 5 is provided with an electric cable 197 connected to a three pin socket 199 comprising earth, live and neutral sockets as is well known.

Rotation of the collar 7 relative to the couplers 3 , 5 locks the couplers 3, 5 together and retains the plug 199 in the socket 195.

Referring to Figure 22, the socket 195 and plug 199 of electrical connector assembly 191 may be an integral part of a light fitting 221.

In this example, the coupler 5 is an integral part of a mounting plate 223 comprising part of the light fitting 221. The electrical supply in the ceiling is connected to the three pin socket 199. The mounting plate 223 is then secured to, for example, the ceiling of a building, using screws or the like through mounting apertures 225 in the mounting plate 223. The collar 7 is an integral part of a ceiling rose 227 that is adapted to be removably mounted on the mounting plate 223. The collar 7 is integral with the ceiling rose 227 so that rotation of the rose 227 also rotates the collar 7. The other coupling 3 comprises the plug 195 connected to electric cable 193. The lower end of cable 197 is connected to a standard light bulb fitting as is well known. The coupling 3 is arranged such that it is rotatably placed in the collar 7 such that the ceiling rose 227, the collar 7 and the cable 193 comprise a sub assembly. In use the ceiling rose 227 is offered up to the mounting plate 223 such that the plug 195 of coupling 3 is received in the socket 199 of coupling 5. Simultaneously the coupling 5 is received in the collar 7.

The ceiling rose 227 can then be rotated relative to the mounting plate 223. This rotation rotates the collar 7 relative to the couplings 3, 5 and thus locks the couplings 3, 5 together as described above. This also locks the plug 195 in the socket 199. Finally this also locks the ceiling rose 227 to the mounting plate 223.

It will be appreciated that the mounting plate 223 is intended to be affixed to the ceiling in a permanent manner whilst the ceiling rose 227 may be interchangeable, depending on the particular style of light required. Thus a variety of ceiling roses are envisaged, each of differing style as required, but each including the collar 7, coupling 5 and plug 195.

Referring additionally to Figure 23, a tubular connector assembly 231 comprises multiple connectors 1 , as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8. In this example, three connectors 1 are provided, arranged at 90° to one another to form the corner of a tubular frame. Such a frame may be for any desired use, one example of which is a display stand.

Any number of connectors 1 may be connected together as desired. Referring additionally to Figures 24 to 34, a modified tubular connector assembly 301 comprises first and second couplers 303, 305 and an intermediate locking collar 307. The couplers 303, 305 and locking collar 307 are substantially as described above with reference to the couplers 3, 5 and collar 7 of Figures 1 to 8 and like features have been given like references. Couplers 303, 305 are arranged to facilitate ease of coupler to coupler engagement.

Thus, each coupler 303, 305 is of generally hollow tubular form and is provided with two locking formations in the form of planar, radially outwardly extending flanges 315A, 315B extend from the top of the boss 11 , in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 19 of each coupler 303, 305.

In this example, the coupler 303 comprises four circumferentially equispaced arcuate flanges 315A.

The coupler 303 further comprises three guide formations in the form of triangular projections 304 which project from the top of the boss 11 in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 19.

The other coupler 305 also comprises four circumferentially equispaced arcuate flanges 315B. However, flanges 315B also function as guide formations in that the upper surfaces 325 of flanges 315B are of triangular form, the lower surface 326 comprising a planar locking surface. The apex 318 of the triangular formation of each flange 315B projects away from the boss 11 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 19.

A guide recess 319, of triangular form, is provided between each pair of flanges 315B, the flanges 315B and the guide recesses 319 defining triangular castellations extending around the periphery of one end of the coupler 305.

The collar 307 also comprises guide formations in the form of inclined surfaces 321 forming part of locking ribs 347, 349. In this example, four ribs 347, 349 are provided in two longitudinally and circumferentially spaced pairs, the pair of ribs 347 being nearer end 43, and the pair of ribs 349 being nearer collar end 44.

In use, the inclined surfaces 321 of collar ribs 347, 349 engage the triangular projections 304 of coupler 303 and engage the triangular upper surfaces 325 of flanges 315B, as the couplers 303, 305 are inserted into opposed ends of the collar 307. This engagement causes relative rotation about axis 19 of the couplers 303, 305 relative to the collar 307 by virtue of continued insertion of the couplers 303, 305 into collar 307 causing the triangular projections 304 and the triangular upper surfaces 325 sliding along the inclined surfaces 321.

This relative rotation is such that the flanges 315A, 315B are circumferentially aligned with the spaces between the collar ribs 347, 349. This facilitates the full insertion of each coupler 303, 305 into the collar 307, without the flanges 315A, 315B being impeded by the collar ribs 347, 349. When the couplers 303, 305 are full inserted into the collar 307, as can best be seen with reference to Figure 34, the triangular projections 304 of coupler 303 are received in and mate with the triangular guide recesses 319. The collar 307 can then be rotated relative to the mated couplers 303, 305 to lock the couplers 303, 305 together as described above.

The provision of guide formations on the couplers 303 and collar 307 enables the couplers to be easily mated together no matter what their initial angular orientation relative to the collar 307.

Referring additionally to Figures 35 to 38, another connector 401 comprises two couplers 403, 405 and a locking collar 407. In this example the locking collar 407 is internal of the couplers 403, 405.

Thus one coupler 403 comprises a disc 409, one circular face 411 of which is provided with six equispaced radially inwardly extending locking flanges 415A arranged in a circle. Each flange 415A comprises part of a lug upstanding from the face 411. The disc 409 is formed with a central aperture 418 radially inside the flanges 415A.

The other coupler 405 comprises a cylinder 417, a circular end 419 of which is also provided with six equispaced radially inwardly extending locking flanges 415B, arranged in a circle. Each flange 415B defines an angularly extending recess 416.

The locking collar 407 comprises a cylindrical body 421 provided with twelve radially outwardly projecting ribs 423 arranged in two longitudinally spaced rings of six ribs 423A, 423B. The ribs 423A, 423B in each set are axially spaced apart by a distance sufficient to accommodate a locking flange 415. The ribs 423 A, 423B in one set are offset about the longitudinal axis to the ribs 423A, 423B in the other set.

One end of the cylindrical body 421 is provided with a handle 425. In use, and with reference in particular initially to Figure 36 and Figures 38a) and b) , the locking collar 407 is mated against the circular end 419 of the second coupler 405 with the ribs 423A of the lower ring of the collar 407 in the spaces between the flanges 415B of the second coupler 405. The circular face 411 of the first coupler 403 is mated against the locking collar 407 and the circular end 419 of the second coupler 405 with the flanges 415A of the first coupler 403 located between the ribs 423B of the upper ring of the collar 407. The lower end of each flange 415A is aligned with, and projects over, the ribs 423A of the lower ring of the collar 407 in the spaces between the flanges 415B of the second coupler 405. In this initial condition the mating of the flanges 415 A, 415B of the two couplers 403, 405 is such that relative rotation therebetween in prevented.

With additional reference to Figure 37 and Figure 38c) , the couplers 403, 405 are locked together by rotation of the collar 407 relative to the couplers 403, 405. Thus, the mated couplers 403, 405 are held against rotation and the handle of the collar 407 used to twist the collar 407 within the couplers 403, 405. This forces the ribs 423 A of the lower ring into the recesses 416B of the flanges 415B of the second coupler 405, and also forces the ribs 423B against the undersides of the flanges 415 A of the first coupler 403. The engagement of the ribs 423A, 423B by the longitudinally opposed faces of the recess 416 and the underside of the flanges 415 A prevents relative longitudinal movement between any of the couplers 403, 405 and the collar 407. Likewise rotation of one coupler 403 relative to the other 405 is prevented by the mating between the flanges 415A, 415B of the couplers 403, 405.

It is envisaged that the collar 407 and couplers 403, 405 can be arranged to require any desired degree of rotation of the collar 407 to lock the couplers 403, 405 together. For example, the flanges 415A, 415B and ribs 423A, 423B can be arranged to require a 90° or 180 ° rotation of the collar 407 relative to the couplers 403, 405, or a much smaller degree of rotation such as 5° or 10° as required. Likewise it is again envisaged that any desired number of flanges 415A, 415B and ribs 423A, 423B can be provided as required.

It will be appreciated that the particular form of couplers 403, 405 described above are examples only. The couplers 403, 405 may take any form as required for the particular application in question. Likewise the internal collar 407 may take any form as required.

For example, the internal collar 407 need not have the handle actuator 425 projecting through the aperture 418 in the first coupler 403 in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis of the connector. Thus, the first coupler need not have the aperture 418, and the handle of the internal collar could comprise an arm actuator projecting radially outwardly between the interface of the two couplers 403, 405 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Thus the handle actuator may project between adjacent flanges 415A, 415B of the couplers 403, 405. It is also possible that the collar 407 be electronically actuated using a suitable actuator such as a motor or solenoid contained in one or other coupler 403, 405.

The collar 407 may comprise a disc located between the two couplers 403, 405, the disc being provided with ribs 423 A, 423B radially inwardly of the periphery of the disc. The disc may be provided with a handle in the form of a tab actuator projecting radially outwardly in the plane of the disc.

Referring additionally to Figure 39, a modified version of the connector 401 comprises a push button actuator instead of the handle to achieve the rotation of the collar 407. In this example, the outer periphery of the collar is attached to two diametrically opposed actuating arms 431 by suitable pivot mounts 433. Each arm 431 extends radially outwardly to project beyond the outer periphery of the couplers 403, 405, the end of each arm 431.

In use, one or each arm 431 is pressed toward the couplers 403, 405. This linear movement exerts a moment on the collar 407, causing the collar 407 to rotate about longitudinal axis 19 to lock the couplers 403, 405 together. Pulling of the or each arm 431 in the opposite direction causes the collar to rotate in the other direction (anticlockwise in the view shown in Figure 39) to unlock the couplers 403.

In a modified example of any of the connectors described above, the ribs and flanges may be arranged to induce a linear motion of the couplers in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis as the collar is rotated. Thus, rotation of the collar can be arranged to pull the couplers together or to push the couplers apart. The pulling together of the couplers could be used to exert a clamping force on a seal located between the couplers, or mounted on one coupler and engaged by the other. The locking force can be arranged to increase as the degree of rotation of the collar increases . This linear movement of the couplers can be achieved by using helical flanges and ribs, or at least flanges and ribs with helical engagement surfaces. Thus the flanges may be arranged as a non- continuous screw thread.

In all of the examples of Figures 1 to 38 and as describe above, any number of flanges and ribs may be provided as required. Likewise, the flanges and ribs can be arranged to require any desired degree of rotation to lock and unlock the couplers . It is thought that the tensile strength of the locked connector may be higher if a relatively high number of flanges and ribs are provided, requiring a relatively small degree of rotation to lock and unlock. The collar may comprise a suitable formation for engagement with an actuating tool to rotate the collar. If an external collar, a hex type formation may be provided on the outer surface of the collar for engagement by a socket or the like, or two , opposed, parallel faces may be provided for engagement by a spanner or the like. If an internal collar, the collar may be provided with a recessed formation such as a socket for engagement with an allen-key or the like, or a slot for engagement with a screw driver or the like.

The flanges and or/ribs may be reinforced as required to add strength, or may be cut away to add flexibility as required.

Any reference to a fluid seal includes fluid such as a gas or a liquid.

Claims

1. A connector comprising first and second tubular couplers and a tubular locking collar, the locking collar comprising at least one radially extending locking rib comprising longitudinally opposed locking faces, each coupler being formed with a respective locking formation, the connector being arranged such that each coupler can be mated together such that each locking formation is adjacent a respective one of the locking faces of the locking rib, rotation of the collar relative to the couplers being operative to cause each locking formation to engage with a respective locking face to lock the couplers together such that relative movement between each coupler and the collar along the longitudinal axis is resisted.

2. The connector of claim 1 wherein the locking collar comprises a longitudinally extending through bore defined by an internal wall provided with the at least one radially extending locking rib, the locking rib extending radially inwardly, the connector being arranged such that each coupler can be partially inserted into the through bore of the locking collar to a position wherein each locking formation is adjacent a respective one of the locking faces of the locking rib.

3. The connector of claim 1 wherein an internal cavity is defined by at least one coupler, the locking formations being located in the internal cavity when the couplers are mated together, the collar being located in the internal cavity and connected to an actuator operative to rotate the internal collar relative to the mated together couplers.

4. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein rotation of the collar relative to the couplers is operative to cause each locking formation to engage with a respective locking face to lock the couplers together such that relative rotational movement between each coupler about the longitudinal axis is resisted.

5. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein when so mated, the locking formations of each coupler engage to resist relative rotation between the couplers.

6. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the collar comprises at least two locking ribs axially spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the through bore, a locking face of one rib engaging the locking formation of the first coupler, a locking face of the other rib engaging the locking formation of the second coupler.

7. The connector of any preceding claim wherein the collar comprises a plurality of locking ribs circumferentially spaced apart on the internal wall of the bore about the longitudinal axis, that is, one locking rib is at a different angular position on the internal wall to another locking rib, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the collar.

8. The connector of claim 7 wherein two pairs of ribs are provided, each pair of ribs being longitudinal spaced apart, the ribs in each pair being angularly spaced apart about the longitudinal axis.

9. The connector of any preceding claim wherein one locking rib is circumferentially non-aligned with the other locking rib, that is, one locking rib is at a different angular position on the internal wall to the other locking rib, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the collar.

10. The connector of any one of claims 6 to 9 the locking ribs are relatively spaced along the longitudinal axis such that a circumferential slot is defined between the locking ribs, the dimension of the slot in the direction along the longitudinal axis being sufficient to receive the locking formations of the first and second couplers.

11. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the, or each, locking rib of the collar may comprise an end stop to resist rotational movement of the respective locking formation beyond the end stop.

12. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein each coupler comprises a boss, each locking formation comprising a flange that projects radially outwardly from the boss and the longitudinal axis of the coupler, each flange comprising opposed, planar locking surfaces.

13. The connector of claim 12 wherein each flange is arcuate and comprises a radially outer arcuate wall dimensioned to be received within the bore of the locking collar.

14. The connector of claim 12 or claim 13 wherein each coupler comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart flanges.

15. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the locking formation of one coupler is axially aligned, in the direction of the longitudinal axis, with the locking formation of the other coupler when the couplers are received in the bore of the locking collar and the locking collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together.

16. The connector of claim 15 wherein the locking formations are angularly spaced apart about the longitudinal axis such that the locking formations of each coupler form a substantially continuous locking flange, when the couplers are received in the bore of the locking collar.

17. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each locking formation is axially spaced from an intermediate wider diameter portion of the coupler such that a circumferential channel is defined therebetween, the locking ribs of the collar being received in the channel when the collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together.

18. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the locking ribs and locking formations are arranged such that the collar is rotated substantially 90° relative to the couplers to reach the position in which the couplers are locked together.

19. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the locking ribs and locking formations are arranged such that the collar is rotatable clockwise to lock the couplers together.

20. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the, or each, coupler comprises an adaptor, distal from the locking formations, and operative to enable the coupler to be joined to a desired object.

21. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the couplers and the locking collar are of substantially cylindrical outer shape.

22. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein a protrusion is formed on one of the collar and couplers, and a recess is formed on the other of the collar and couplers, rotation of the collar relative to the couplers being operative to force the protrusion into the recess.

23. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein the collar and couplers are so arranged that rotation of the collar relative to the couplers causes a relative longitudinal movement between the couplers to force the couplers longitudinally together.

24. The connector of any one of the preceding claims wherein comprising a fluid connector comprising a seal operative to form a fluid seal between the couplers.

25. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 24 comprising a data connector, one coupler being provided with a male data interface, the other coupler comprising a female data interface, the data interfaces being locked together to transfer data therebetween when the collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together.

26. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 25 comprising an electrical connector, one coupler being provided with an electrical plug, the other coupler comprising a an electrical socket, the plug being received in the socket to form an electrically conductive connection therebetween when the collar is rotated to the position in which the couplers are locked together.

27. The connector of any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one guide formation on a coupler operative to engage with at least one corresponding guide formation provided on the collar, the guide formations engaging as the coupler is inserted into the collar, the shape of the guide formations being such as to cause relative rotation between the coupler and the collar such that the coupler is in the angular position relative to the collar where the coupler can be inserted into the through bore of the locking collar to the position in which the locking formation on the coupler is adjacent the locking rib of the collar.

28. The connector of claim 27 wherein each coupler is provided with a respective guide formation.

29. The connector of claim 27 or claim 29 wherein the guide formation on the coupler comprises an inclined wall of the locking formation.

30. The connector of any one of claims 27 to 29 wherein the guide formation on the locking collar comprises an inclined wall of the locking rib.

31. The connector of any one of claims 27 to 30 wherein one of the couplers is provided with a guide recess operative to receive a guide formation of the other coupler in use.

32. The connector of any one of claims 27 to 31 wherein the guide formation on the coupler is of triangular form.