Patent attributes
A connector for use in securing a length of flexible tubing with another object is set forth. The connector comprises a fitting and a collar. The fitting includes a neck that is adapted to receive the flexible tubing thereon. The neck, in turn, includes an exteriorly disposed barb for engaging the interior walls of the flexible tubing. The collar is adapted to engage the fitting at least about the neck and barb and includes an interiorly disposed flange portion having a contour that is shaped to cooperate with the surfaces of the barb to drive the flexible tubing over the barb and the neck as the collar and fitting are assembled with one another. The shape and contour of the flange portion also cooperates with the surfaces of the barb to provide a compressive force that may be used to provide a seal between the flexible tubing and neck. For example, the compressive force may be used to prevent disengagement of the flexible tubing and neck where the contents of the tubing is pressurized and/or where a pulling force is exerted on the tubing with respect to the neck. In one embodiment, the flange portion has a generally hour-glass shaped cross-section with smooth overall contour.
