Rapid coupling device for snap-fastening a tubular member or a set of tubular members to one or more endpieces

A rapid coupling device comprising:

• at least one tubular member, each tubular member having a longitudinal axis, an open end and at least one radial opening directed substantially perpendicularly to said longitudinal axis;
• a corresponding endpiece for each said tubular member, each endpiece having a cylindrical free end positioned within the corresponding tubular member, a smaller diameter portion adjacent said cylindrical free end, a frustoconical ramp adjacent to said smaller diameter portion, a larger diameter portion adjoining said frustoconical ramp, and at least one radial groove formed in said larger diameter portion adjacent to said frustoconical ramp and positioned to correspond with said at least one radial opening in said tubular member;
• a planar uniting element, means for affixing said planar uniting element to said tubular member and said planar uniting element disposed transversely to said longitudinal axis in the vicinity of said radial opening, said planar uniting element having a plurality of tabs, said tabs defining a plurality of notches adjacent thereto;
• at least one sealing gasket interposed between and sealingly engaging each said tubular member and its corresponding endpiece and located inwardly from said open end beyond said radial opening;
• and
• at least one spring clip, said clip having a web portion and branches extending from the web portion, one of said branches extending into said at least one radial opening of said tubular member and penetrating into said at least one radial groove in said endpiece to thereby snap fasten the endpiece to the tubular member, and the ranch terminating at its free end in a bent-back lug, the lug engaging and cooperating with one of said notches adjacent said tabs of said uniting element.