Importance

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Abstract

A quick-disconnect apparatus for quickly and conveniently disconnecting and reconnecting an inflator hose and a diver's buoyancy jacket. The invention is disclosed in the form of an elbow configuration for use on the buoyancy jacket in the place of conventional 'screw' type connection devices used throughout the diving industry. The quick-disconnect of the present invention comprises a plastic right angle elbow which couples the inflation hose to the buoyancy jacket. This coupling is accomplished by a novel lock ring member and a complementary pin ring. The lock ring member provides a plurality of slotted pin guides and an expandable gap which permits the lock ring to selectively engage a nut ring secured to the buoyancy jacket. Rotation of the lock ring in one direction closes the gap and reduces the inner diameter of the lock ring to engage the nut ring. Rotation of the lock ring in the other direction opens the gap and expands the inner diameter of the lock ring, disengaging the lock ring from the nut ring and permitting the user to easily and simply remove the elbow-shaped disconnect from the buoyancy jacket.

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First Claim