Air distribution connector valve

Abstract

An air distribution connector valve mechanism includes a pair of mating cectors, each having a self-closing, one way valve arranged and adapted to interfere with the self-closing, one way valve of the other connector when the two connectors are coupled together, such that the two valves will then open for unrestricted passage of air therethrough. Each connector has a coupling mechanism for releasably coupling the two connectors together to cause the interference between them. Each of the valves includes a valve body, and a compression spring associated and aligned therewith, in a valve housing having an axis of symmetry within the associated connector. Each valve body is retained and slidable axially within the housing against the force exerted by the associated compression spring, the latter normally urging the valve body against an end wall of the housing to block an opening therein. The valve body has projecting spacers with passageways therebetween on its cylindrical surface for separation from the inner surface of the associated valve housing. Thus, air is allowed to pass from one end to the other of the coupled connectors by virtue of the respective valve bodies having been unseated from their associated end walls.