Thomas Clifford Trent

Title: Thomas Clifford Trent: Inventor of Fluid Couplings and Closure Designs

Introduction

Thomas Clifford Trent is an inventor based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, whose work includes fluid-handling couplings and closure components. He is associated with Parker-Hannifin Corporation and holds 3 patents.

Latest Patents

One of Trent’s latest inventions is the **Twist-to-connect dry break coupling**. Its female and male couplers connect in two stages. First, detents in the female coupler engage a recess in the male coupler. Then, threads on the male coupler engage a release sleeve, opening valves in both couplers to permit fluid flow. This arrangement reduces the force needed for initial engagement and helps prevent damage between the detents and the male coupler’s threads.

Another invention is the **Cap with threaded gasket vent**. The cap has an annular gland that holds a seal, along with a skirt containing an internal fastening thread. A venting thread in the gland helps release air that could otherwise become trapped behind the seal. The patent also describes a method for molding the cap.

Career Highlights

Trent’s disclosed patent work addresses practical design challenges in fluid connections and sealed closures. His inventions focus on connection mechanics, component protection, and venting during assembly.

Collaborations

Trent is associated with Parker-Hannifin Corporation. His listed coworker is Jeffrey M. Grau.

Conclusion

Thomas Clifford Trent’s patents reflect engineering work on safer, more manageable fluid couplings and effective closure designs.