Integrated fuel pipe clamp with simple ergonomic fitting structure

Abstract

An integrated clamp assembly for fluid tubes, a fluid tube assembly and a method of connecting automotive fuel tubes. The assembly includes a clamp body with side-by-side channels for receiving complementary-sized side-by-side fluid tubes, a clamp cover, numerous quick connectors to fluidly join the ends of fluid tubes together, and a retaining clip for each quick connector to keep the end of one of the joined fluid tubes secured to the quick connector. The size of the quick connectors is such that when placed within a corresponding section of the channel formed in the clamp body, the smaller quick connector length provides an axially-compliant fit within the respective channel. This compliance makes it easier for an installer, manufacturer, assembler or related personnel to fluidly connect the ends of axially-adjacent fluid tubes together within the clamp in situations where manufacturing tolerances cause one of the side-by-side fluid tubes that is to be secured by the quick connector and retaining clip to project a different length along a fluid flow dimension than that of its neighboring fluid tube.