Corrugated Hose With Bayonet Connector

What is this patent about?

’829 is related to the field of RV waste management , specifically addressing the connection between a corrugated waste hose and the bayonet fitting on a recreational vehicle's waste tank outlet. The background acknowledges the widespread use of RVs and the need for reliable and leak-free waste disposal systems, noting the limitations of existing hose and coupling designs, particularly the challenges of attaching rigid fittings to flexible corrugated hoses.

The underlying idea behind ’829 is to create a more secure and leak-proof connection between a corrugated hose and a bayonet connector by mechanically sandwiching a circumferential ridge on the hose between a locking ring and a flange on the bayonet coupling. This approach avoids the problems associated with traditional hose clamps, such as inconsistent clamping pressure and susceptibility to rust and loosening.

The claims of ’829 focus on a corrugated hose assembly comprising a hose, a bayonet coupling, and a locking ring. The hose has accordion-shaped corrugations and a proximal end with a cylindrical section and a circumferential ridge. The bayonet coupling includes a tubular section, a circumferential groove, and a circular collar forming a channel. The key feature is the frictional compression of the circumferential ridge between the locking ring and the bayonet coupling's circular collar.

In practice, the cylindrical section of the hose's proximal end is inserted into the circumferential channel of the bayonet coupling. The locking ring, positioned over the hose, is then slid towards the bayonet coupling, compressing the circumferential ridge against the collar. This creates a secure, leak-resistant connection without relying on external clamps. The locking ring may also include lugs that engage with tabs on the collar, preventing rotation and further securing the connection.

This design differentiates itself from prior art by providing a more robust and reliable connection compared to using simple hose clamps. The sandwiching mechanism ensures consistent pressure and prevents leaks, while the bayonet coupling allows for easy attachment and detachment from the RV's waste tank outlet. The swivel feature, created by the connection between the bayonet swivel and the slip swivel, further enhances usability by allowing the hose to rotate freely without twisting or kinking.