Importance

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Abstract

A quick connect and quick disconnect connector assembly for connecting with a mating connector comprises a body and an engagement means. A retaining means is provided for securing the engagement means to the body. The engagement means includes an inner gripping member that is telescopically received in an outer actuation member. The inner gripping member has an outer wall surface that is formed with a first ramp portion and the outer actuation member has an inner wall surface that is formed with a second ramp portion, the first ramp portion being complementary to the second ramp portion. The first ramp portion of the outer wall surface of the inner gripping member is configured to interferingly engage and cooperate with the second ramp portion of the inner wall surface of the outer actuator member. The first ramp portion of the inner gripping member is formed with resilient fingers that are movable between a relaxed state and an inwardly urged state. The resilient fingers of the inner gripping member are moved inwardly from the relaxed state to the inwardly urged state for gripping engagement with the complementary connector when the second ramp portion is urged against the first ramp portion. The inner gripping member is moved outwardly from the inwardly urged state for disengagement with the complementary connector when the second ramp portion is moved away from the first ramp portion.

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First Claim