Abstract A torsional disconnect unit particularly suited for use in releasably coupling distal ends of mutually displaceable, coaxially related portions of a fluid conduit, characterized by a substantially rigid tube, wound to a configuration conforming to a uniform helix and having an end thereof fixedly secured to one rotatably supported coupling component, of a pair of concentrically mated coupling components, while its opposite end rigidly is fixed against rotation. A particular feature of the invention resides in utilizing those characteristics of a helix which cause a helix to unwind, as it is elongated, in developing torque of a magnitude sufficient to overcome static friction as a mutual rotation between the components is initiated, whereby an axial separation of the components is attainable employing an axially directed force of magnitude sufficient to overcome sliding friction.
Inventors
👤 Donald J Starkey
👤 Kenneth C Curry
Bibliographic Details
Application Number—
JurisdictionUS
Data Sourcegoogle_patents
Last Synchronized2026-11-10 02:00
CPC Classifications
F; F16; F16L; F16L27/00
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 5
Claim 1
Independent Claim
115 words
A torsional disconnect unit comprising: a. an elongated member having a configuration conforming to a uniform helix concentrically related to an axis of symmetry; b. a torque-actuatable, coupling component rigidly coupled to a first end of the member adapted to be rotated about said axis of symmetry; c. a support means rigidly coupled to a second end of the member adapted to be displaced relative to said coupling along a path parallel to said axis of symmetry for developing tension in said member, whereby the member responsively is deformed about the axis of symmetry for applying torque to said coupling; and d. means for inhibiting rotation of said support means about said axis of symmetry.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
115 words
A torsional disconnect unit comprising: a. an elongated member having a configuration conforming to a uniform helix concentrically related to an axis of symmetry; b. a torque-actuatable, coupling component rigidly coupled to a first end of the member adapted to be rotated about said axis of symmetry; c. a support means rigidly coupled to a second end of the member adapted to be displaced relative to said coupling along a path parallel to said axis of symmetry for developing tension in said member, whereby the member responsively is deformed about the axis of symmetry for applying torque to said coupling; and d. means for inhibiting rotation of said support means about said axis of symmetry.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
25 words
The unit of claim 1 wherein said member comprises a tubular conduit communicating with said coupling and adapted to accommodate a passage of fluid therebetween.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
21 words
The unit of claim 2 wherein said coupling concentrically is seated on a nipple operatively associated with a body of fluid.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
21 words
The unit of claim 3 wherein said support means is coupled to a second nipple operatively associated with a fluid conduit.