REFRIGERANT PORT ADAPTER

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of and claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 19/006,075 filed Dec. 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to service interfaces for vapor-compression refrigeration and air-conditioning (HVAC/R) systems, and more particularly to adapters that mechanically and fluidly couple a first, original refrigerant service port built to a first port standard to a second, adapted refrigerant service port built to a second port standard (e.g., R-134a→R-1234yf, R-444a→R-456a), without removing the original port.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Service ports, integral components of air conditioning systems, are typically orifices designed for quick-connect coupling. They incorporate a valve core that precisely controls the flow of refrigerant. As a crucial safety and compatibility measure, service ports for one refrigerant (e.g., R-1234yf) are intentionally designed with different dimensions than those for another refrigerant (e.g., R-134a). This dimensional disparity serves as a vital safeguard, significantly reducing the risk of inadvertently filling a system designed for one refrigerant with another, which could lead to performance issues or even system damage.

Despite these differences, there is a growing desire to fill existing systems with a different refrigerant. This desire is often motivated by pressing environmental concerns, as well as considerations of cost and refrigerant availability. Fundamentally, a system for one refrigerant (e.g., an R-134a) may be substantially similar to a system for another refrigerant (e.g., R-1234yf), with the primary distinctions being the differing port dimensions and inclusion of an inline heat exchanger within the accumulator. While such a heat exchanger can be retrofitted into a system, even without it, a system may still operate with another refrigerant, albeit with a potentially reduced cooling capacity.

Heretofore, the conventional approach for coupling supply and servicing equipment for a new refrigerant to an older system has necessitated the complete replacement of the existing ports. This replacement process not only introduces additional material and labor costs but also creates a new potential point of failure within the system. Consequently, there is a clear and urgent need for an efficient and reliable adapter that can effectively convert existing OEM ports to ports compatible with newer hydrofluoroolefins, (HFO) or reduced-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, without requiring costly and labor-intensive component replacement.

There is a need for an adapter architecture that (i) positively locks to the original port without port removal, (ii) presents a second-standard service interface, (iii) provides robust alignment and sealing while resisting angular and torsional loads, (iv) optionally includes or omits an internal valve as required, and (v) generalizes across port/refrigerant standards.

The present invention is specifically directed to overcoming one or more of these aforementioned problems and addressing these critical needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Objects of the invention include: providing a mechanically secure, leak-resistant adapter that converts an original service port built to a first port standard to an adapted service port built to a second port standard without removing the original port; providing a retention system that resists axial pull-off and angular wobble; providing guided anti-rotation between a retaining ring and an adapter body; providing selectable embodiments that include or omit an internal valve; and enabling broad applicability across multiple refrigerant/port standards (e.g., 134a↔1234yf, 444a↔456a).

In one embodiment, an adapter includes a body with a port section, an intermediate section, and an engagement section. The engagement section has longitudinal slots forming flexible fingers with an internal concave annulus that nests around an annular external collar of an original service port. An external annular flange on the body cooperates with a slidable retaining ring having spaced tabs and an internal groove such that, in a locked position, the ring prevents the fingers from splaying and captures the body flange, thereby resisting pull-off. One or more spacers occupy the annular gap between the original port and body to maintain coaxial alignment and may also provide sealing. Anti-rotation ribs on the body mate with grooves inside the ring to permit axial travel while preventing relative rotation. The port section presents a second-standard service interface and may include an internal valve (e.g., poppet) or be coreless. In another embodiment particularly suited for standards where the adapter is not intended to add a valve (e.g., certain 444a→456a use cases), the port section is free of any internal valve, relying on the valve present in the original port or in attached service couplers. The spacer is formed from an elastomer that both centers the original port and seals the interface.

A method of adapting a first port to a second port standard includes inserting the original port into the engagement section until its collar nests in the internal concave annulus, sliding the retaining ring from an unlocked position at the intermediate section to a locked position where ring tabs capture the body flange, thereby blocking finger splay, placing a bushing-like spacer between the original port tip and the body to resist angular motion, and thereafter servicing the system through the second-standard interface with or without an internal valve according to the selected embodiment.

References to particular refrigerants (e.g., R-1234yf, R-444a, R-456a, R-134a) are exemplary and non-limiting. “First/second port standard” broadly encompasses dimensional, thread, and quick-connect specifications as adopted for particular refrigerants and pressure sides (high/low).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 presents an exploded perspective view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its various components according to the principles of the invention.

FIG. 2 provides an assembled section view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter, offering a clear understanding of its internal structure and component relationships when fully assembled.

FIG. 3 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter alongside a port to be adapted, showcasing how these elements relate before connection.

FIG. 4 is a section assembled view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter engaged with a port to be adapted, providing insight into the secure and sealed connection.

FIG. 5 offers a detailed view of a specific portion of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter with a port to be adapted, specifically illustrating the intricate nesting arrangement of the port collar, the concave receptacle, and the annular groove, highlighting the secure interlocking mechanism.

FIG. 6 is a side view of an exemplary adapter body for a refrigerant port adapter, showing its overall external shape and features.

FIG. 7 provides a first end view of an exemplary adapter body for a refrigerant port adapter, illustrating the opening and internal configuration from one perspective.

FIG. 8 is a section view of an exemplary adapter body for a refrigerant port adapter, revealing its internal chambers, grooves, and critical structural elements.

FIG. 9 presents a perspective view of an exemplary adapter body for a refrigerant port adapter, offering a three-dimensional representation of its design.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its unique features and components.

FIG. 11 provides a first end view of an exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, showing its internal geometry and tab configurations.

FIG. 12 is a second end view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, offering an alternative perspective of its structural details.

FIG. 13 is a first section view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, detailing its cross-sectional characteristics.

FIG. 14 is a second section view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, providing further insight into its internal design.

FIG. 15 offers a detailed view of a specific portion of the second section view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, emphasizing particular design elements.

FIG. 16 is a third section view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, presenting another cross-sectional perspective.

FIG. 17 provides a detailed view of a specific portion of the third section view of the exemplary retaining ring for the refrigerant port adapter, highlighting intricate details.

FIG. 18 is a side section view of an exemplary coupler attached the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its design and functionality.

FIG. 19 is a side view of an exemplary coupler attached the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its design and functionality.

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary coupler attached the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its design and functionality.

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary coupler attached the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its design and functionality.

FIG. 22 provides an exploded perspective view of an exemplary port adapter with an alternative retaining mechanism according to principles of the invention.

FIG. 23 provides an assembled section view of the exemplary port adapter of FIG. 22.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the figures are not intended to be drawn to any particular scale; nor are the figures intended to illustrate every conceivable embodiment of the invention. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments depicted in the figures or the specific components, configurations, shapes, relative sizes, ornamental aspects, or proportions as shown therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, “adapted port,” “original port,” or “first-standard port” refers to the existing port on the system being converted; “adapter port,” “second-standard port,” or “second-standard service interface” refers to the service interface presented by the adapter. Unless expressly stated otherwise, embodiments are compatible with either (i) an internal valve in the adapter port section, or (ii) a coreless adapter port section. In coreless embodiments, fluid closure/control is provided by the original port's internal valve and/or by a service coupler valve.

In automotive applications, external geometries for R-134a service ports are size-differentiated quick-connect fittings. The low-pressure (suction) port presents a relatively larger diameter cylindrical post with a small peripheral lip sized for a ball-locking coupler, whereas the high-pressure (discharge) port presents a smaller diameter post with a similar lip profile. By way of non-limiting example, the low-pressure port diameter is about 13 mm and the high-pressure port diameter is about 11 mm. The visual and dimensional offset prevents a high-side coupler from engaging the low-side port and vice-versa.

R-1234yf service ports are intentionally incompatible with R-134a ports. The low-pressure R-1234yf port employs a smaller nominal diameter than the R-134a low-pressure port and incorporates a distinct annular groove located below the coupler engagement region with a thicker, shouldered base. The high-pressure R-1234yf port employs a nominal diameter smaller than the R-134a high-pressure port. By way of non-limiting example, the low-pressure R-1234yf port diameter is about 12.5 mm and the high-pressure port diameter is about 10.5 mm. The shouldered profile and groove geometry require a mating coupler with a different locking mechanism (e.g., pawl or segment engagement) that is incompatible with the simpler R-134a design.

R-444a and R-456a are commonly introduced to legacy R-134a systems via retrofit. In such deployments, OEM service ports are typically covered by adapter fittings presenting new external geometries that are incompatible with standard R-134a/R-1234yf couplers. For A2L refrigerants such as R-456a, retrofit guidance commonly specifies a reverse (left-hand) thread on at least the low-pressure service interface so that a standard right-hand threaded coupler cannot be attached. The high-pressure interface may also present a unique threaded or quick-connect geometry; however, the left-hand thread on the low-side is a prominent safeguard against mis-charging.

Unless stated otherwise, dimensional values given herein (e.g., about 13 mm, about 12.5 mm, about 11 mm, about 10.5 mm) are approximate and may vary within manufacturing tolerances and across OEM implementations of the applicable port standards. References to particular standards (e.g., industry or SAE specifications) are illustrative and non-limiting; embodiments of the adapter are configured to interface with geometries consistent with such standards without restricting the scope of the claims.

An exemplary adapter body may be segmented into a port section, an intermediate section, and an engagement section with fingered geometry. A retaining ring slides axially between unlocked and locked positions; ribs/grooves provide anti-rotation guidance; a bushing-like spacer occupies the annular space between the received original port and the body to enforce coaxial alignment and may function as an additional seal.

An exemplary refrigerant port adapter, embodying the innovative principles of the present invention, provides a secure and efficient connection between disparate refrigerant systems. This adapter features a robust adapter body that is precisely configured to fit seamlessly over an adapted port, such as an existing R-134a port on a vehicle's air conditioning system. A paramount aspect of this design is the establishment of a fluid-tight seal between the adapted port and the interior of the adapter body, ensuring the integrity of the refrigerant system and preventing any leakage. Integral to the adapter body is an adapter port, which extends outwardly and functions as a compatible connection point for modern refrigerant equipment. This adapter port, which may be an R-1234yf port, is in direct and efficient fluid communication with the original adapted port, allowing for the intended flow of refrigerant.

Referencing FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view provides a comprehensive illustration of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter according to the principles of the invention. The adapter body 100 is clearly delineated into three primary sections: a port section 105 specifically designed for engagement with various service equipment, an engagement section 115 meticulously engineered for receiving and firmly engaging with a portion of an adapted port (i.e., the port to be converted), and an intermediate section 110 strategically positioned between the port section 105 and the engagement section 115, serving as a transitional and reinforcing element.

A spacer 200 is provided, acting as a critical alignment and support component. As depicted in FIG. 4, this spacer is positioned between the tubular tip of the received portion of an adapted port 400 and the engagement section 115. The primary function of the spacer 200 is to maintain precise central alignment of the adapted port 400 within the engagement section 115, preventing any lateral movement or misalignment that could compromise the seal or connection. Structurally, the spacer 200 is a tubular component featuring a central channel with an inner diameter that is approximately equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the tubular tip of the adapted port 400 and the channel portion 154 at the intersection of the port section 105 and intermediate section 110. Conversely, the spacer 200 has an outer diameter that is approximately equal to or slightly less than the inner diameter of the channel portion 156 of the engagement section 115 and the intermediate section 110, ensuring a snug fit without excessive friction during assembly.

A pivotal component of the retention mechanism is the retaining ring 300, which includes a proximal end 305 and an opposite distal end 310. The retaining ring 300 is designed to be movable between an unlocked position, typically located at the intermediate section 110 of the adapter body, and a locked position, where it resides at the engagement section 115.

FIG. 2 provides an assembled section view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter, vividly illustrating the retaining ring 300 in its fully locked position, with its distal end 310 positioned approximately even with (aligned with) the free end of the engagement section 115. In this locked state, the retaining ring 300 serves a crucial function by effectively preventing outward deflection of the flexible fingers, such as finger 118, which are integral to the engagement section 115 of the adapter body 100. Conversely, when moved to its unlocked position at the intermediate section 110, the retaining ring 300 disengages from the fingers, allowing them to deflect outwardly as required for installation or removal of the adapted port.

The invention is not limited to the illustrated retaining ring 300. Other retaining rings and ring assemblies that prevent outward deflection of the flexible fingers 118 integral to the engagement section 115 of the adapter body 100 may be used without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

FIG. 3 presents an exploded perspective view of an exemplary refrigerant port adapter alongside a port to be adapted 400, providing a clear depiction of how these components interact. A cap 10, equipped with internal threads, is configured to threadedly engage with the external threads 107 (as further illustrated in FIG. 5) of the port section 105 of the adapter body 100. A cap seal 20 is strategically disposed between the cap 10 and the port section 105 of the adapter body 100. When the cap 10 is tightened, urging the seal 20 against the opening 150 (shown in FIG. 9) at the port section 105 of the adapter body 100, the seal 20 provides a robust and fluid-tight closure over the opening 150, protecting the internal valve and preventing contaminant ingress or refrigerant escape when the system is not actively being serviced.

The adapted port 400 represents the existing service port of a system that is to be converted or “adapted” by the present invention. This port may be connected to a refrigerant line, such as a tubular passage within an air conditioning system. In the context of automotive air conditioning systems, both high-pressure and low-pressure lines are indispensable for circulating refrigerant and facilitating efficient heat exchange, and these lines are equipped with such service ports. The port 400 serves as a non-limiting exemplary illustration of such a service port. It typically includes a service port stub 405, which is an open-ended hollow cylindrical tip. An essential feature of the adapted port is an external annular collar 410 that protrudes outwardly, serving as a critical retaining element for a mating female connector. This collar 410 is intelligently designed with chamfered leading and trailing edges, which act as ramp-like structures to significantly facilitate both the connection and removal processes of the mating connector. A narrow neck 415 is precisely disposed between the opposed chamfers of the collar 410 and the base 420 of the port. The neck 415 is characterized by an outer diameter that is notably less than the outer diameter of the stub 405, the collar 410, and the base 420, a feature crucial for the adapter's retention mechanism. While an exemplary male quick-connect fitting is conceptually illustrated, the invention is not limited to this specific configuration; it can be readily adapted to work with any male quick-connect fitting that incorporates an annular outward projection for retention, similar to, but not limited to, collar 410.

Turning to FIGS. 4 and 5, detailed assembled section views illustrate the exemplary refrigerant port adapter engaged with an adapted port. The cap 10, with its internal threads 14, is shown threadedly engaging the external threads 107 of the port section 105 of the adapter body 100. The cap seal 20 is positioned precisely between the cap 10 and the port section 105 of the adapter body 100. When tightened, the interior surface 12 of cap 10 urges the seal 20 against the opening 150 at the port section 105 of the adapter body 100, thereby creating a secure and fluid-tight closure. The spacer 200 is clearly shown positioned between the stub 405 of the received portion of the adapted port 400 and the engagement section 115. A significant design detail is that the port section 105 has an internal diameter that is less than the external diameter of the spacer 200, effectively preventing the spacer from entering into the port section 105 and ensuring its proper positioning. The stub 405 of the adapted port 400 extends into the intermediate section 110 of the adapter body 100 and abuts the spacer 200, establishing a stable base for the connection. A key aspect of the retention mechanism is the external annular collar 410 of the adapted port, which is securely received and precisely nests within a concave receptacle 158 (best seen in FIG. 8) formed on the interior surface of the flexible fingers 116-120 of the adapter body. This concave receptacle 158 is specifically designed as an annular trough, a ring-shaped indentation, on the interior surface of the fingers that is configured (i.e., optimally located, sized, and shaped) to perfectly receive the collar 410 when the adapted port 400 is fully engaged. The concave receptacle 158 essentially forms a “negative impression” of the collar 410, ensuring an exceptionally snug and secure fit. The collar 410 itself features chamfered leading and trailing edges, acting as ramp-like structures to facilitate both the connection and subsequent removal. Concurrently, at that same strategic location on the exterior of the adapter body 100, an annular flange 150 is formed, also incorporating chamfered leading and trailing edges. This annular flange 150 is ingeniously designed to be received between the proximal tabs (e.g., tabs 320-330 in FIG. 10) and distal tabs (e.g., tabs 350-354 in FIGS. 10 and 11) of the retaining ring 300. These tabs are precisely configured (i.e., located, sized, and shaped) to abut the chamfered edges of the annular flange 150 while simultaneously providing a defined space 360 between the proximal (e.g., tab 330) and distal tabs (e.g., tab 350) to securely receive the annular flange 150. Un-tabbed portions 335-339 appear as recesses or notches defined between immediately adjacent tabs 320-330. The abutting edges of these tabs are themselves chamfered to precisely match the chamfer of the leading and trailing edges of the annular flange 150. This meticulous chamfering of the abutting edges significantly facilitates the smooth and controlled movement of the retaining ring 300 between its locked and unlocked positions, enhancing user experience and reliability.

Referring now comprehensively to FIGS. 6-9, the intricate structure and conceptual design of the adapter body 100 are clearly illustrated. The external threads 107 at the valve section 105 are a crucial feature, providing a robust and standardized means for attaching various charging hoses and service equipment. It is important to note that, in alternative embodiments, a quick-connect coupling may be seamlessly integrated at the valve section 105 in lieu of external threads, offering enhanced speed and convenience for technicians.

A particularly advantageous structural feature includes at least one rib 111-113 extending from the end of the threads 107 to the free end of the engagement section 115. In a highly refined embodiment, at least two such ribs, and more preferably three evenly spaced ribs 111-113, are strategically provided. These ribs 111-113 extend longitudinally, maintaining precise parallelism with the central axis (centerline) of the adapter body 100, and they project outwardly. Their precise configuration allows them to slide smoothly into complementary grooves 340, 342, and 344 (as detailed in FIGS. 10 and 11) within the retaining ring 300. The synergistic interaction between these ribs and grooves serves a critical dual purpose: when the grooves 340-344 receive the ribs 111-113, any rotation of the retaining ring 300 relative to the adapter body 100 is effectively prevented, ensuring stability. However, linear motion of the retaining ring 300 relative to the adapter body 100 remains unimpeded, allowing for its controlled movement between locked and unlocked positions. Thus, these ribs 111-113 ingeniously function as internal guides for the retaining ring 300. Furthermore, a significant benefit of these ribs is their ability to structurally reinforce the flexible fingers on which they extend, contributing to the overall durability and reliable operation of the engagement mechanism.

The engagement section 115 of the adapter body 100 is further characterized by a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal grooves 125-129. These grooves extend from an opening 136 located at the free end of the engagement section 115 of the adapter body 100. They continue their extension to the intermediate section 110 of the adapter body 100, terminating at a point precisely situated between the valve section 105 and the engagement section 115 of the body. Each of these grooves 125-129 culminates at a carefully engineered radiused terminus 138. For optimal performance, these grooves 125-129 are typically equal in length, evenly spaced, and perfectly parallel. Critically, each pair of adjacent grooves 125-129 precisely defines a distinct flexible finger 116-120 therebetween.

These flexible fingers 116-120 are specifically designed to bend and expand the opening at the free end of the engagement section 115, thereby facilitating the smooth and efficient reception of an adapted port 400. Each finger 116-120 includes a raised fingertip 130 for optimal contact and engagement. The fingers 116-120 exhibit controlled flexibility, behaving in a manner analogous to a cantilever beam. It is worth noting that fingers without the reinforcing ribs 111-113 may inherently exhibit a greater degree of flexibility, which can be advantageous in certain design contexts. When the engagement section 115 is urged over an adapted port 400, the fingers are designed to deflect outwardly just enough to comfortably receive the engaged portion of the port 400. Once the engaged portion is fully received, and the collar 410 of the adapted port aligns perfectly with the internal concave receptacle 158 of the fingers, the external deflection force is relaxed, and the fingers 116-120 resiliently return to their original, undeflected position, either gently abutting or immediately adjacent to the outer surface of the engaged portion of the port 400, thereby securing the connection.

The inherent elasticity of the fingers 116-120 is fundamental to the adapter's reliable operation. This elasticity refers to their ability to deform under applied stress (during port insertion) and then resiliently return to their original shapes once that stress is removed. This behavior is precisely governed by Hooke's Law, which dictates that deformation is directly proportional to the applied force, provided the material remains within its elastic limit. The critical design principle here is that the deflection experienced by the fingers 116-120 during normal operation always remains well within the elastic limit of the chosen material, ensuring repeated, reliable performance without permanent deformation.

The exterior of the adapter body 100 prominently features the aforementioned annular flange 150, which is distinguished by its chamfered leading and trailing edges. This flange is strategically positioned between the free end of the engagement section 115 and the termini 138 of the flexible fingers 116-120. As previously detailed, the annular flange 150 is precisely received between the proximal tabs (e.g., tabs 320-330 in FIG. 10) and distal tabs (e.g., tabs 350-354 in FIGS. 10 and 11) of the retaining ring 300. These tabs are meticulously configured (i.e., located, sized, and shaped) to abut the chamfered edges of the annular flange 150 while simultaneously providing a dedicated space 360 between the proximal (e.g., tab 330) and distal tabs (e.g., tab 350) to securely receive the annular flange 150. The abutting edges of these tabs are also chamfered to perfectly match the chamfer of the leading and trailing edges of the annular flange 150. This harmonious chamfering of the abutting edges is a vital design element, significantly facilitating the smooth and controlled movement of the retaining ring 300 between its locked and unlocked positions, contributing to the adapter's ease of use and long-term reliability.

FIGS. 10-17 conceptually illustrate the intricate and highly functional structure of the retaining ring 300. As discussed, the internal grooves 340-344 are precisely configured to receive the corresponding ribs 111-113 of the adapter body, a design feature that effectively resists any rotational movement of the retaining ring 300 relative to the adapter body 100, while crucially permitting unhindered sliding motion of the ring 300 relative to the body 100. This innovative guidance system ensures that the retaining ring moves along a predictable and secure path.

Users can effortlessly actuate the retaining ring 300 into its locking and unlocked positions by simply pushing or pulling it. To enhance user ergonomics and facilitate ease of operation, a proximal flange 315 is integrated into the design, providing a convenient and tactile actuation surface for gripping and applying finger pressure.

A critical design feature on the interior side of the annular flange 150 is the formation of a concave receptacle 158 (as clearly shown in FIG. 8). This concave receptacle 158 is a meticulously engineered annular trough, a ring-shaped indentation, located on the interior surface of the flexible fingers 116-120. Its precise configuration (location, size, and shape) is optimized to perfectly receive the collar 410 of the adapted port 400 when the port is fully engaged. Essentially, the concave receptacle 158 forms a perfect “negative impression” of the collar 410, ensuring an exceptionally snug and secure fit that positively locks the adapted port within the adapter.

The intricate interplay continues with the annular flange 150 being securely received between the proximal tabs 320-330 and distal tabs 350-354 of the retaining ring 300. As emphasized, these tabs are designed with precise location, size, and shape to firmly abut the chamfered edges of the annular flange 150 while simultaneously defining a precise space 360 between the proximal (e.g., tab 330) and distal tabs (e.g., tab 350) for the secure reception of the annular flange 150. The chamfered abutting edges of these tabs, which perfectly match the chamfer of the leading and trailing edges of the annular flange 150, are paramount in facilitating the smooth and reliable movement of the retaining ring 300 between its locked and unlocked positions, enhancing both functionality and user experience.

FIGS. 18-21 conceptually illustrate an exemplary coupler 510 attached the refrigerant port adapter, illustrating its design and functionality. The coupler 510 includes an adapter end 520 with an opening with internal threads configured to receive and threadedly engage the external threads 107 of the port section 105 of the adapter body 100. A threaded valve core bushing 540 is threadedly received in the coupler 510. An elongated valve plunger 530 extends from the coupling end 515, through the bushing 540, through a central channel of a coupler seal 550, through the central channel of the spacer 201 in engagement section 115, and into the adapted port 400. The adapted port 400 is the service port of the AC system. It has a valve bore 430 that contains a poppet valve, such as a Schrader valve 500. More specifically, an end of the valve plunger 530 abuts and actuates the actuation shaft (pin) of the Schrader valve 500. Thus, the original valve of the adapted port 400 is maintained, intact and effective. The valve plunger 530 enables actuation of the Schrader valve 500. A connecter of an AC charging hose includes a pin configured to urge the plunger 530 towards the Schreder valve 500, when the connector attaches to the coupling end 515.

While the coupling end 515 is conceptually illustrated with external threads, the invention is not limited to such a configuration. In lieu of external threads, a quick-connect coupling structure may be provided on the exterior of the coupling end 515 to allow connection with a quick connect coupler.

FIGS. 22 and 23 conceptually illustrate an exemplary port adapter with an alternative retaining mechanism. A press lock snap ring 610 with an internal retaining ring 615 are slid onto an OEM port 605. The press lock snap ring 610 is a cup-shaped structure with a base and a tubular wall. The base includes a central aperture to receive a portion of the adapted port 605. The retaining ring 615 is an internal tooth washer. Its internal teeth bend and dig into the exterior geometry of the port 605 to prevent backing out. A smooth circular outer edge of the ring 615 fits into a groove within the snap ring 610, thereby coupling the snap ring 610 to the port 605. Together, the snap ring 610 and retaining ring 615 comprise a retainer or anchor.

A cup-shaped seal 620 with a central aperture is disposed over the end of the port 605. The cup-shaped seal 620 is an essential sealing element, usually made from an elastomeric material (like rubber or an appropriate synthetic polymer) to ensure a fluid-tight connection. Its cup shape means it has a base and a surrounding wall (or skirt). It is designed to fit snugly over the coupling end of the adapted port 605. The central aperture (or hole) in the base of the cup allows the fluid flowing through the adapted port 605 to pass through the seal. The outer diameter of the seal's wall or skirt is the primary sealing surface. When compressed, this wall provides a dynamic seal against the inner surface of the adapter body 625.

A port adapter body 625, with a port section, an intermediate section, and an engagement section is provided. The port section is opposite the engagement section. The engagement section, which has fingers, slides over the seal 620 on the port 605 until the engagement end of the body 625 is adjacent to or abuts the ring 615 and the seal 620 is fully seated within the adapter body 625. The seal 620 is fully seated when the base of the seal enters, abuts or is immediately adjacent to the intermediate section of the adapter body 625. Thus, the adapter body 625 operates as a female component that mates with a received portion of the adapted port 605, a male component.

A locking ring 630 slides over the port section of the adapter body 625 to the intermediate section, with a tubular portion surrounding the engagement section and extending to and mating with the press lock snap ring 610. The tubular portion prevents outward deflection of the fingers. A portion of the locking ring 630 cannot pass the intermediate section of the body 625, because the dimension (e.g., outer diameter) of the intermediate section exceeds the inner diameter of the impeded portion of the locking ring 630. Thus, the locking ring 630 engages the adapter body 625 by abutting a portion of it.

The locking ring 630 is mechanically fastened to the press lock snap ring 610 of the retainer, trapping the body 625 against the OEM port 605. In the exemplary embodiment, screws 635 extend through holes in the rim of the locking ring 630 into aligned threaded holes in the press lock snap ring 610, to mechanically fasten the press lock snap ring 610 to the locking ring 630.

In practical use, a refrigerant port adapter designed according to the principles of the present invention provides an indispensable fluid coupling with an adapted port 400. The air conditioning system on which such an adapter is installed can then be efficiently and safely serviced using the new adapter port. Notably, where the adapter port is an R-1234yf compatible port, the system can be conveniently serviced using environmentally friendlier R-1234yf refrigerant, even if the original adapted port 400 was an R-134a port or some other legacy type of port. This capability represents a significant advancement in refrigerant system maintenance and conversion.

Beyond refrigerant conversion, an adapter embodying the principles of this invention can also be invaluable for providing a new, fully functional port in place of a damaged existing port. If a port becomes internally damaged, for instance, by scratching from an improper tool, the adapter provides an immediate and reliable substitute port 105, restoring full system functionality without extensive repairs.

A crucial and universally advantageous feature across all embodiments is that the adapter port is implemented (i.e., made fully functional) without requiring the removal and replacement of the original adapted port 400. This is a profound benefit because conventional port removal and replacement procedures are not only tedious and costly in terms of both labor and materials, but they are also inherently prone to creating new potential leak points if not executed flawlessly. By avoiding removal and replacement, the present invention offers immense advantages, significantly saving time, materials, and overall cost, while dramatically reducing the risks associated with potential leaks, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of the entire system.

A port adapter constructed according to the principles of the invention can be fabricated from a wide range of suitable materials, including various metals, durable plastics, and advanced composites. Non-limiting examples of suitable metals include robust aluminum, resilient steel, and versatile brass, along with their respective alloys, chosen for their strength and corrosion resistance. For plastic components, non-limiting examples include Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polycarbonate (PC), and Nylon (PA), selected for their mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and ease of manufacturing. Critical sealing components such as gaskets, seals, O-rings, and similar elements are preferably comprised of other specialized materials, typically more resilient elastomers, chosen for their superior sealing performance, flexibility, and resistance to refrigerant chemicals and temperature fluctuations.

While an exemplary embodiment of the invention has been described in detail, it should be readily apparent that numerous modifications and variations are possible, all of which fall squarely within the true spirit and broad scope of the invention. With respect to the foregoing description, it is to be understood that the optimum relationships for the various components and operational steps of the invention, including variations in their order, form, content, function, and manner of operation, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and meticulously described in the specification are expressly intended to be encompassed by the present invention. The preceding description and accompanying drawings are illustrative only of the principles of the invention and serve to clarify the inventive concepts. It is further acknowledged that numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation explicitly shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.