Quick disconnect locking coupler

Abstract

A quick disconnect mechanical coupler includes a housing having a longitudinal slot within which is positioned an elongated coupling pin which is displaceable within the slot along the length thereof. A first end of the housing is adapter to receive a mounting lug coupled to a first structure while a lateral portion of the housing is adapted for coupling to a second structure. With the mounting lug positioned in the first end portion of the housing, the elongated pin, which includes a knob at one end, is spring-biased in a firt direction for insertion in an aperture in the mounting lug to securely couple the housing thereto. Displacement of the coupling pin in a second, opposite direction disengages the housing from the lug and disconnects the first and second structures. The pin is provided with first and second locking projections positioned along the length thereof and extending transversely therefrom. The housing includes first and second linear slots oriented transversely relative to the coupling pin and respectively adapted to receive the first locking projection when the pin is rotated in the lug engaging configuration and when the pin is rotated after being retracted from the lug in locking the pin in position. A second opposite end of the housing includes a pair of slots radially extending from the longitudinal slot for receiving and engaging the second locking projection with the coupling pin in the lug engaging, locked configuration for inhibiting rotation of the coupling pin.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.