Quick connector coupling for semi-rigid hose

Claim 1

A quick connector coupling for semi-rigid hose of the type providing a tight, self-gripping connection by simply inserting the hose end into the coupling, which comprises a hollow body having formed therein a first shoulder constituting an abutment for the hose end to limit the hose length that can be introduced into the coupling, a retaining ring having an external annular portion engaging a second shoulder of said hollow body and a central portion apertured and formed with a plurality of radial slits providing as many lugs adapted to grip said hose to counteract any outward movement thereof, means for locking the retaining ring in place, a push member adapted to slide in relation to said body and formed with an internal tapered head adapted to engage said lugs so as to bend them away from the hose surface when said push member is moved inwardly of said body and resilient sealing means disposed axially inwardly of said lugs, wherein abutment means is resiliently fitted in said hollow body axially inwardly of said lugs in order to permit a bending movement of said lugs by said push member to provide an aperture substantially greater than a normal movement and a normal aperture and to prevent an excess amount of said bending, said sealing means comprising an O-ring disposed between a shoulder provided in said hollow body and said abutment means to permit a slight axial movement of said abutment means.