Pipes and tubular conduits – Flexible – Braided – interlaced – knitted or woven
Reexamination Certificate
2000-10-26
2001-10-16
Hook, James (Department: 3752)
Pipes and tubular conduits
Flexible
Braided, interlaced, knitted or woven
C138S109000, C138S127000, C138S133000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06302152
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
I. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a flexible connector for conducting fluids and, in particular, to a flexible connector with a braided sheathing formed of PVC coated strands of stainless steel for improved cut and burst resistance.
II. Description of the Prior Art
Hoses are widely used to deliver fluids, such as water, from a source to an end use such as an appliance. A specific example includes a hose connected between a spigot and a washing machine for controlled delivery of water to the washer. The flexibility of a hose lends itself to convenient connection between the source and appliance. Simple hoses have been manufactured of rubber or plastic. However, such materials are unable to withstand the relatively high internal pressures particularly if environmental factors have corroded or degraded the hose material. Since these hoses are used within the home, a ruptured hose can result in substantial water damage.
In order to reduce the potential of a ruptured hose, a variety of reinforcing materials have been employed. Reinforcing materials have been molded into the rubber material as the hose is formed. A more recent development is the application of a reinforcing braid to the exterior of the hose. Stainless steel or other metals have been used as the braiding material. However, these metals are subject to corrosion and tend to reduce the strength of the connector hose. More recently, a plastic or polyester filament has been employed as the braiding material. However, these braiding materials are easily cut with any sharp object. Cutting or puncturing of the hose may occur when the product is installed or when the product is removed from its packaging using sharp tools.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior known hose connectors by providing a reinforced flexible hose connector having an improved outer sheathing braided with strands of plastic coated stainless steel.
The flexible hose connector of the present invention generally comprises a flexible hose body and end connectors for attaching the hose connector to a fluid source, an appliance or other device. Typically, the connectors are female threaded connectors which are rotatable independently of the hose body. However, end connectors of other configurations can be employed in accordance with the present invention. The flexible hose body includes an interior tube having an inner fluid passageway and an outer reinforcing braided sheathing.
In order to provide improved resistance to corrosion and cutting of the connector, the braided sheathing is formed of plastic coated strands of stainless steel or other metals. The plastic coating prevents corrosive agents from coming in contact with the stainless steel or other metals. As an alternative, the plastic coating may be applied to various other materials according to the desired properties of the fluid connector.
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Brass-Craft Manufacturing Company
Doigan Lloyd D.
Hook James
Zarins Edgar A.
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