Fluid coupling, system for varying the deadweight of apparatus in which such a coupling can be incorporated, and a fluid control valve incorporable in such a system

Abstract

A system for varying the deadweight of apparatus incorporates a fluid coupling (10) and fluid flow control valve. The fluid coupling comprises first and second connectors (20, 30) each configured for attachment (at respective ends 21 and 31) to respective fluid conduits (not shown), for example hydraulic hoses. Each connector (20,30) has a cylindrical body (3,3) configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis A having a bore or lumen (22,32) for fluid flow therethrough in a predetermined orientation as indicated by arrows D. Registration of the respective lumens (22,32) at ends (23,33) of the connectors permits fluid to flow between the connectors (20,30) at maximum rate when lumens (22,32) are aligned with apertures (24′,34)′ , fluid to be stopped when lumens butt against shutters (24,34), and fluid to flow at intermediate rate when lumens are registered in intermediate positions. In practice the fluid coupling provides a clear path with little resistance for the fluid to flow through resulting in low pressure drop and energy dissipation. The coupling also features the function of controlling the flow rate. The fluid flow control valve, compared to conventional valves, features large flow capacity and more reliable compression and lip seals rather than the less reliable O-ring sliding and diaphragm seals.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.