U.S. patent application number 11/108442 was filed with the patent office on 2005-08-18 for vacuum hose storing device.
Invention is credited to Albritton, Charles Wade, Higer, Landen, Small, Steven D..
Application Number | 20050178089 11/108442 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34119817 |
Filed Date | 2005-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050178089 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Small, Steven D. ; et
al. |
August 18, 2005 |
Vacuum hose storing device
Abstract
A method and apparatus for vacuum hose management is illustrated
and described. In one embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for
use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose having a
first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a holding
component coupled to the hose. The holding component is tension
mounted to a housing of the vacuum appliance. The holding component
has a first and a second position, the first position corresponding
to the hose within the housing, and the second position
corresponding to the hose partially outside the housing. The
apparatus also includes a connector connected to the second end of
the hose, the connector sized larger than an opening in the housing
through which the hose is threaded. The holding component may be a
wheel mounted on an arm, with the arm rotatably coupled to the
housing through a pivot and a spring.
Inventors: |
Small, Steven D.; (Novato,
CA) ; Higer, Landen; (Alameda, CA) ;
Albritton, Charles Wade; (Hercules, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PERKINS COIE LLP
P.O. BOX 2168
MENLO PARK
CA
94026
US
|
Family ID: |
34119817 |
Appl. No.: |
11/108442 |
Filed: |
April 18, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11108442 |
Apr 18, 2005 |
|
|
|
10873416 |
Jun 21, 2004 |
|
|
|
60491785 |
Jul 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
60556338 |
Mar 24, 2004 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/432 ;
53/510 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F04B 39/123 20130101;
B65B 31/041 20130101; A47L 9/0063 20130101; A47L 9/0036
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
053/432 ;
053/510 |
International
Class: |
B65B 031/02 |
Claims
1-53. (canceled)
54. An attachable hose storage apparatus for storing a vacuum hose
for use with a home vacuum packaging appliance, the attachable hose
storage apparatus comprising: means for storing a vacuum hose; and
means for attaching said attachable hose storage apparatus to a
working surface.
55. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 54, wherein said
means for storing a vacuum hose is a spool shaped mechanism around
which said vacuum hose may be wrapped.
56. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 54, wherein said
means for attaching said attachable hose storage apparatus is a
mechanical attachment device.
57. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 54, wherein said
working surface is a surface of a home vacuum packaging
appliance.
58. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 54 wherein said
working surface is a surface of kitchen counter or wall.
59. A vacuum packaging appliance capable of convenient storage of a
vacuum hose, said vacuum packaging appliance comprising: a hood
having an underside that is only exposed when said hood is open;
and a hose storage management system built into said underside of
said hood.
60. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 56, wherein said
mechanical attachment device is a hooking mechanism.
61. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 56, wherein said
mechanical attachment device is at least one pair of mating snaps
such that a first snap of said at least one pair of mating snaps is
attached on said working surface and a second snap of said at least
one pair of mating snaps is located on said attachable hose storage
apparatus.
62. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 54, wherein said
means for attaching said attachable hose storage apparatus is an
attachment pad.
63. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 62, wherein said
attachment pad is double-sided tape.
64. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 62, wherein said
attachment pad is velcro.
65. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 57, wherein said
means for storing a vacuum hose is a spool shaped mechanism around
which said vacuum hose may be wrapped, and wherein said means for
attaching said attachable hose storage apparatus is a mechanical
attachment device.
66. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 65, wherein said
mechanical attachment device is a hooking mechanism.
67. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 65, wherein said
mechanical attachment device is at least one pair of mating snaps
such that a first snap of said at least one pair of mating snaps is
located on said working surface and a second snap of said at least
one pair of mating snaps is located on said attachable hose storage
apparatus.
68. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 57, wherein said
means for storing a vacuum hose is a spool shaped mechanism around
which said vacuum hose may be wrapped, and wherein said means for
attaching said attachable hose storage apparatus is an attachment
pad.
69. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 68, wherein said
attachment pad is double-sided tape.
70. The attachable hose storage apparatus of claim 68, wherein said
attachment pad is velcro.
71. The vacuum packaging appliance of claim 59, wherein said hose
storage management system comprises one or more clamps attached to
said underside of said hood and a vacuum hose spool, attached to
said one or more clamps, wherein said vacuum hose is stored by
wrapping said vacuum hose around said vacuum hose spool.
72. A method for storing a vacuum hose in a vacuum packaging
appliance, said method comprising: opening a hood of a vacuum
packaging appliance; storing said vacuum hose using a hose storage
management system coupled to an underside of said hood exposed by
opening said hood; and closing said hood.
73. The method of claim 72, wherein said hose storage management
system comprises one or more clamps attached to said underside of
said hood and a vacuum hose spool, attached to the one or more
clamps, wherein said vacuum hose is stored by wrapping said vacuum
hose around said vacuum hose spool.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application claims priority to Higer et al.'s
Provisional App. No. 60/491,785, filed on Jul. 31, 2003, and
entitled VACUUM HOSE MANAGEMENT, and to Small's Provisional App.
No. 60/556,338, filed on Mar. 24, 2004 and entitled RETRACTABLE
CANISTER HOSE AND FITTING, both of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of storage
technology. More particularly, the present invention relates to
managing a hose in a vacuum appliance for consumer and industrial
applications.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Consumer products involving vacuuming and sealing plastic
bags have grown in popularity over the years. The basic model
available includes a seal wire, which seals the length of the bag,
and a vacuum pump which pumps air out of the bag before sealing.
This model works well enough to have sold and inspired
imitation.
[0004] Unfortunately, the model described provides vacuum
capability only for plastic bags. Much food and similar material is
better stored in jars. Jars with a lid having an aperture or
one-way vent of some form may be vacuumed through use of a hose,
but cannot be inserted into a slit-shaped opening for this
purpose.
[0005] Adding a hose to a vacuum appliance provides another part
that may be lost, located away from the appliance, or damaged
during storage. Accordingly, it may be preferable to implement a
system in which a hose for a vacuum appliance may be stored or
managed in a useful manner for a consumer. Moreover, containing the
hose may be more difficult or different from containing a cord, as
the cord may have different properties and may be subject to
flexing motion such as winding.
SUMMARY
[0006] A method and apparatus for vacuum hose management is
illustrated and described. In one embodiment, the invention is an
apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a
hose having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also
includes a holding component coupled to the hose. The holding
component is tension mounted to a housing of the vacuum appliance.
The holding component has a first and a second position, the first
position corresponding to the hose within the housing, and the
second position corresponding to the hose partially outside the
housing. The apparatus also includes a connector connected to the
second end of the hose, the connector sized larger than an opening
in the housing through which the hose is threaded. The holding
component may be a wheel mounted on an arm, with the arm rotatably
coupled to the housing through a pivot and a spring.
[0007] In an alternate embodiment, the invention is a method of
managing a vacuum hose in a vacuum appliance housing. The method
includes moving a hose-holding component responsive to tension on
the vacuum hose, thereby allowing extension of the hose outside of
the housing. The method also includes moving the hose-holding
component responsive to release of tension on the vacuum hose,
thereby allowing retraction of the hose into the housing.
[0008] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the invention is
an apparatus for managing a vacuum hose in a vacuum appliance. The
apparatus includes a means for holding the hose within the vacuum
appliance, with the means for holding also for moving responsive to
tension on the hose from outside the vacuum appliance. The
apparatus also includes a means for guiding the hose through an
opening in a housing of the vacuum appliance.
[0009] In another alternate embodiment, the invention is an
apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a
hose having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also
includes a bracket connected to the hose, the bracket to hold the
hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus further
includes a connector connected to the second end of the hose, the
connector coupled to a vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0010] In still another alternate embodiment, the invention is an
apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a
hose having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also
includes a bracket connected to the hose, the bracket to hold the
hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus further
includes a connector connected to the second end of the hose, the
connector coupled to a vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0011] In an embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for use with
a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose having a first
end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a bracket
connected to the vacuum appliance. The bracket is to hold the hose
in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus also includes a
nozzle mounted on the vacuum appliance. The nozzle is suitable for
connection to the second end of the hose. The nozzle couples to a
vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0012] In another embodiment, the invention is a method of storing
a vacuum hose on a housing of a vacuum appliance. The vacuum
appliance has a first bracket and a second bracket. The first
bracket mounts opposite the second bracket. The first bracket is
facing away from the second bracket and the second bracket is
facing away from the first bracket. The method includes wrapping
the vacuum hose around the first bracket. The method also includes
wrapping the vacuum hose around the second bracket.
[0013] In still another embodiment, the invention is an apparatus
for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose
having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a
bracket connected to the vacuum appliance. The bracket is to hold
the hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus
further includes a connector connected to the second end of the
hose. The connector couples to a vacuum pump of the vacuum
appliance.
[0014] In yet another embodiment, the invention is a method of
storing a vacuum hose on a housing of a vacuum appliance. The
vacuum appliance has a first external bracket and a second external
bracket. The first external bracket mounts opposite the second
external bracket. The first external bracket faces away from the
second external bracket. The second external bracket faces away
from the first external bracket. The method includes wrapping the
vacuum hose around the first external bracket. The method also
includes wrapping the vacuum hose around the second external
bracket.
[0015] In another embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for use
with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose having a
first end and a second end. The apparatus further includes a first
bracket mounted on the vacuum appliance. The first bracket is to
hold the hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus
also includes a second bracket mounted on the vacuum appliance. The
second bracket is also to hold the hose in proximity to the vacuum
appliance. The apparatus further includes a connector connected to
the second end of the hose, the connector coupled to a vacuum pump
of the vacuum appliance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus with a
retractable vacuum hose in a first configuration.
[0017] FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus with a
retractable vacuum hose in a second configuration.
[0018] FIG. 2A illustrates an alternate embodiment of an apparatus
with a retractable vacuum hose in a first configuration.
[0019] FIG. 2B illustrates an alternate embodiment of an apparatus
with a retractable vacuum hose in a second configuration.
[0020] FIG. 3A illustrates another alternate embodiment of an
apparatus with a retractable vacuum hose in a first
configuration.
[0021] FIG. 3B illustrates another alternate embodiment of an
apparatus with a retractable vacuum hose in a second
configuration.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a vacuum appliance that
may include a vacuum hose management system.
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a vacuum appliance with
a vacuum hose management system.
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a method of managing a
vacuum hose.
[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a vacuum appliance
with a vacuum hose management system.
[0026] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged view of a portion of the vacuum
appliance of FIG. 7.
[0027] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the vacuum appliance of
FIG. 7 with the base plate removed.
[0028] FIG. 10 shows another perspective view of the vacuum
appliance of FIG. 7 with the base plate removed.
[0029] FIG. 11 illustrates the vacuum appliance of FIG. 7 with a
hose pulled out of the appliance and extended to attach to an
embodiment of a canister lid.
[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a vacuum appliance
with a vacuum hose management system.
[0031] FIG. 13 illustrates the vacuum appliance of FIG. 12 in a
different configuration.
[0032] FIG. 14 illustrates the hose and canister fitting of the
appliance of FIG. 7 connecting to a stem feature on an embodiment
of a canister lid.
[0033] FIG. 15 illustrates the hose and canister fitting of the
appliance of FIG. 7 in an exploded view.
[0034] FIG. 16 illustrates a hose pulled out of an appliance and
extended to attach to another embodiment of a canister lid.
[0035] FIG. 17 illustrates a hose pulled out of an appliance and
attached to another embodiment of a canister lid.
[0036] FIG. 18 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a process of
managing a vacuum hose.
[0037] FIG. 19 illustrates another alternate embodiment of a
process of managing a vacuum hose.
[0038] FIG. 20 illustrates a storage side of an attachable hose
storage apparatus according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0039] FIG. 21 illustrates one suitable attachment side of the
attachable hose storage apparatus of FIG. 20, according to one
aspect of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 22 illustrates another suitable attachment side of the
attachable hose storage apparatus of FIG. 20, according to another
aspect of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 23 illustrates the attachable hose storage apparatus of
FIG. 20 attached to the back of a vacuum packaging appliance.
[0042] FIG. 24 illustrates a hose storage system disposed in an
underside of a lid of a vacuum packaging appliance according to the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] The present invention teaches a variety of apparatus and
methods for vacuum hose management. In one embodiment, the
invention is an apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The
apparatus includes a hose having a first end and a second end. The
apparatus also includes a holding component coupled to the hose.
The holding component is tension mounted to a housing of the vacuum
appliance. The holding component has a first and a second position,
the first position corresponding to the hose within the housing,
and the second position corresponding to the hose partially outside
the housing. The apparatus also includes a connector connected to
the second end of the hose, the connector sized larger than an
opening in the housing through which the hose is threaded. The
holding component may be a wheel mounted on an arm, with the arm
rotatably coupled to the housing through a pivot and a spring.
[0044] In an alternate embodiment, the invention is a method of
managing a vacuum hose in a vacuum appliance housing. The method
includes moving a hose-holding component responsive to tension on
the vacuum hose, thereby allowing extension of the hose outside of
the housing. The method also includes moving the hose-holding
component responsive to release of tension on the vacuum hose,
thereby allowing retraction of the hose into the housing.
[0045] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the invention is
an apparatus for managing a vacuum hose in a vacuum appliance. The
apparatus includes a means for holding the hose within the vacuum
appliance, with the means for holding also for moving responsive to
tension on the hose from outside the vacuum appliance. The
apparatus also includes a means for guiding the hose through an
opening in a housing of the vacuum appliance.
[0046] In another alternate embodiment, the invention is an
apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a
hose having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also
includes a bracket connected to the hose, the bracket to hold the
hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus further
includes a connector connected to the second end of the hose, the
connector coupled to a vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0047] In still another alternate embodiment, the invention is an
apparatus for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a
hose having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also
includes a bracket connected to the hose, the bracket to hold the
hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus further
includes a connector connected to the second end of the hose, the
connector coupled to a vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0048] In an embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for use with
a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose having a first
end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a bracket
connected to the vacuum appliance. The bracket is to hold the hose
in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus also includes a
nozzle mounted on the vacuum appliance. The nozzle is suitable for
connection to the second end of the hose. The nozzle couples to a
vacuum pump of the vacuum appliance.
[0049] In another embodiment, the invention is a method of storing
a vacuum hose on a housing of a vacuum appliance. The vacuum
appliance has a first bracket and a second bracket. The first
bracket mounts opposite the second bracket. The first bracket is
facing away from the second bracket and the second bracket is
facing away from the first bracket. The method includes wrapping
the vacuum hose around the first bracket. The method also includes
wrapping the vacuum hose around the second bracket.
[0050] In still another embodiment, the invention is an apparatus
for use with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose
having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a
bracket connected to the vacuum appliance. The bracket is to hold
the hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus
further includes a connector connected to the second end of the
hose. The connector couples to a vacuum pump of the vacuum
appliance.
[0051] In yet another embodiment, the invention is a method of
storing a vacuum hose on a housing of a vacuum appliance. The
vacuum appliance has a first external bracket and a second external
bracket. The first external bracket mounts opposite the second
external bracket. The first external bracket faces away from the
second external bracket. The second external bracket faces away
from the first external bracket. The method includes wrapping the
vacuum hose around the first external bracket. The method also
includes wrapping the vacuum hose around the second external
bracket.
[0052] In another embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for use
with a vacuum appliance. The apparatus includes a hose having a
first end and a second end. The apparatus further includes a first
bracket mounted on the vacuum appliance. The first bracket is to
hold the hose in proximity to the vacuum appliance. The apparatus
also includes a second bracket mounted on the vacuum appliance. The
second bracket is also to hold the hose in proximity to the vacuum
appliance. The apparatus further includes a connector connected to
the second end of the hose, the connector coupled to a vacuum pump
of the vacuum appliance.
[0053] FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus with a
retractable vacuum hose in a first configuration. Vacuum appliance
100 includes a pump, a hose, and an apparatus to manage the vacuum
hose. Housing 115 holds vacuum pump 110 that has a vacuum nozzle
112 connected to vacuum hose 114. Vacuum hose 114 is threaded about
fixed wheel 116, movable wheel 122, guide wheels 130a and 130b and
then through opening 130. Fixed wheel 116 is mounted rotatably upon
an axis. Movable wheel 122 is mounted on bar 126, which is
connected to spring 124 and thereby coupled to anchor 128. Bar 126
rests against block 118a with spring 124 extended in the first
configuration, in which hose 114 is pulled out of housing 115 for
use. Hose 114 is connected at one end to a fastener 136, which in
turn may be connected to a nozzle or valve 134 of a lid 138. When
vacuum pump 110 is active in the illustrated configuration,
container 140 may be evacuated through hose 114.
[0054] After use of the hose 114, a second configuration may be
suitable. FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus with a
retractable vacuum hose in a second configuration. Bar 126 rests
against block 118b in the second configuration, with spring 124 in
a contracted state, and holding bar 126 against block 118b.
Fastener 136 includes an annular ring which prevents the end of
hose 114 from being completely pulled into housing 115, and may
further have a cap 135 which diminishes the entry of dust into the
vacuum pump 110 through hose 114 in this configuration.
[0055] An alternate embodiment may involve use of a cartridge that
may be removed from a vacuum appliance 200. FIG. 2A illustrates an
alternate embodiment of an apparatus with a retractable vacuum hose
in a first configuration. Cartridge 225 may be stored in a vacuum
appliance 200 and removed for use when a hose (214) is needed.
Cartridge 225 includes a first connector 250 that may be connected
to or coupled to a vacuum pump (not shown). Hose 214 is connected
to connector 250 and is threaded around wheel 216 and wheel 222,
through guides 230a and 230b and through opening 232 in the housing
of cartridge 225. Wheel 216 is rotatably mounted on an axis that is
connected to the housing of cartridge 225. Wheel 222 is rotatably
mounted to a first end of a bar 226 which has a second end
rotatably mounted to a pin. Bar 226 is connected to spring 228
which is connected to anchor 224. In the first configuration, bar
226 rests against block 218a, with spring 228 extended, and with
hose 214 pulled out of cartridge 225. Hose 214 has at one end a
connector 236 that may be connected to a nozzle or aperture of a
jar 240.
[0056] Before or after use of vacuum hose 214, the cartridge may be
in a second configuration. FIG. 2B illustrates an alternate
embodiment of an apparatus with a retractable vacuum hose in a
second configuration. Spring 228 is compressed, thereby holding bar
226 against block 218b, and thereby holding hose 214 inside of
cartridge 225. Hose 214 may have a connector 236 that holds a
portion of hose 214 outside of cartridge 225, allowing access to
hose 214. Moreover, connector 236 may have a cap 235 that
diminishes the entry of unwanted material into hose 214 and any
connected vacuum pump.
[0057] In another alternate embodiment, a spiral holder for a
vacuum hose may be used in a vacuum appliance 300. FIG. 3A
illustrates another alternate embodiment of an apparatus with a
retractable vacuum hose in a first configuration. Vacuum pump 310
has a connector 312 that is connected to the first hose 313. First
hose 313 is connected to a connector on the end of hose 314. The
connector is also mounted on platform 315, which is mounted on a
rotatable spring (not shown). Hose 314 is wound around the
connector on platform 315 and is threaded through rollers 330a and
330b and through outlet 332 of housing 325. Rollers 330a and 330b
are fixedly mounted on pins connected to housing 325. When hose 314
is pulled out of housing 325 in the first configuration, platform
315 rotates in direction 317, thus allowing hose 314 to be uncoiled
under tension. Hose 314 has at one end a connector 336 that may be
coupled to a lid of a jar 340 to evacuate the contents of jar
340.
[0058] When hose 314 is stored, it is stored in a second
configuration. FIG. 3B illustrates another alternate embodiment of
an apparatus with a retractable vacuum hose in a second
configuration. When hose 314 is not in use, it is pulled back
inside housing 325 as platform 315 rotates in direction 319
(opposite direction 317). Hose 314 stops coming in when connector
336 reaches housing 325, as connector 336 has an annular ring
larger than the size of opening 332. Connector 336 may have a
covering that is pushed aside by contact with a connector of a lid,
but otherwise blocks the entry of particles into hose 314.
[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a vacuum appliance that
may include a vacuum hose management system. In particular, FIG. 5
shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a vacuum appliance 500
having a base 505 and a movable top portion or hood 510 engaging a
plastic bag 580 with at least two plastic layers 585 and 590. Two
release buttons 515 and 520 are provided on the hood 510 to
disengage the hood 510 from the base 505, thereby releasing the
plastic bag 580 from the vacuum appliance 500. Touch buttons 530
and 540 may control operation of the vacuum appliance 32. The diode
525 that is indicated as an LED, may be positioned on the hood 510
as an indicator light for vacuum appliance 500.
[0060] In such an embodiment, a vacuum hose may be stored within
appliance 500, such as within base 505 for example. In one
embodiment, a vacuum hose for use with a vacuum pump of appliance
500 may be accessible through an opening in base 505, such as is
illustrated with in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 3A and 3B for example. In an
alternate embodiment, a cartridge such as that illustrated in FIGS.
2A and 2B may be stored within base 505 for use with a vacuum pump
of appliance 500. Alternately, a nozzle or similar attachment may
be mounted on the exterior of appliance 500 at an appropriate
location, allowing for connection of a hose to the nozzle, with the
nozzle internally connected or coupled to a vacuum pump of
appliance 500.
[0061] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a vacuum
appliance with a vacuum hose management system. Vacuum appliance
500 includes connector 555 that is coupled or connected through an
opening in base 505 to an internal vacuum pump. Also connected to
connector 555 is hose 550, which may be used to evacuate containers
as previously described with respect to the hoses of other
embodiments. As illustrated, hose 550 is held against the exterior
of base 505 through clips 560 and 565. Other brackets or mounting
devices may also be useful for the same purpose. Note that in some
embodiments, connector 555 may not be necessary, as hose 550 may be
extended through base 505. Moreover, note that in other
embodiments, hose 550 may not be permanently connected to appliance
500, rather it may be a hose which is either clipped to appliance
500, or removed from appliance 500 for connection to a nozzle such
as that described above with respect to FIG. 4.
[0062] A method of managing a vacuum hose may be implemented using
the devices described previously or using similar mechanical
assemblies. FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a method of
managing a vacuum hose. At module 410, the hose is held within the
housing of a vacuum appliance. The hose may be held using a
hose-holding component, such as the previously described rotating
platforms and tension mounted wheels. At module 420, the
hose-holding component moves responsive to a tug on the hose and
the hose is released from the housing for use. At module 430, the
hose now connected to a jar for evacuation has vacuum applied
through use of a vacuum pump. At module 440, the vacuum is stopped.
At module 450, the hose is released from the now evacuated jar. At
module 460, the hose-holding component moves and thereby pulls the
hose back inside the housing.
[0063] Other embodiments of vacuum hose management systems may be
used, along with similar or different embodiments of vacuum
appliances. FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a vacuum
appliance with a vacuum hose management system. Appliance 700
includes a slot for vacuum sealing bags and an extendable hose for
vacuuming air from containers, and may be an embodiment similar to
the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, for example. In particular,
appliance 700 includes housing 710, cover 720 coupled to housing
710 (such as through a hinge, allowing for rotation), slot 730
(defined by housing 710 and cover 720), recess 740, and canister
fitting 750. Slot 730 may be the area where a bag is fed into
appliance 700 for sealing, or where a bag is dispensed out of
appliance 700 (or both) in various embodiments. FIG. 8 shows an
enlarged view of a portion of the vacuum appliance of FIG. 7. As
illustrated, fitting 750 nestles within recess 740, preferably
allowing for access by a person to draw fitting 750 out of recess
740.
[0064] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the vacuum appliance of
FIG. 7 with the base plate removed. As illustrated, appliance 700
also includes a bag distributor, a hose chamber, a pump assembly,
and other internal components, along with a base plate (not shown).
Bag distributor 945 may hold a spool of vacuum sealable bags, and
may release those automatically. Internal wall 935 separates bag
distributor 945 from hose chamber 913. Hose chamber 913 provides a
space internal to appliance 700 in which hose 915 may be stored.
Hose 915 is coupled at end 905 to fitting 750 and at end 925 to an
internal fitting, which in turn is coupled to pump assembly 953,
allowing for use of the hose 915 in vacuum operations. As
illustrated, hose 915 doubles back along the length of chamber 913.
Chamber 913 may be further defined by portions of housing 710,
cover 720 (not shown) and one or more internal walls as necessary
depending on internal configurations of various embodiments. For
example, an internal wall may be provided by a vacuum or sealing
trough in some embodiments.
[0065] Reversing the perspective provides an illustration of other
aspects of the embodiment. FIG. 10 shows another perspective view
of the vacuum appliance of FIG. 7 with the base plate removed. As
illustrated, fitting 750 nestles in recess 740. In one embodiment,
a through hole (not visible) in recess 740 allows for passage of
the hose 915 into and out of chamber 913. However, the through hole
is sized such that the diameter of the hose 915 at end 905 does not
fit through the through hole. While this will be described in
greater detail below, it may be understood that end 905 flares out
to a wider diameter when frictionally attached to a tubular or
cylindrical projection of fitting 750.
[0066] In use with a canister or other container, the hose may be
extended and attached or coupled to a container lid. FIG. 11
illustrates the vacuum appliance of FIG. 7 with a hose pulled out
of the appliance and extended to attach to an embodiment of a
canister lid. When appliance 700 is used to vacuum contents from a
container, hose 915 is extended through an opening such as a
through hole in recess 740 from within housing 710. End 915 of hose
915 is attached to fitting 750, which is attached or coupled to lid
1110. More will be described with respect to attachment of the lid
1110 and similar lids to fitting 750 below.
[0067] While the vacuum hose management system of FIG. 7 stores a
hose within a housing, other embodiments may store the hose outside
a housing. FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a vacuum
appliance with a vacuum hose management system. Vacuum appliance
1200 may be an appliance such as that of FIG. 7 or FIG. 5, for
example. The appliance 1200 includes a housing, cover, vacuum hose,
hose coupling, hose fitting, and hose brackets, along with other
necessary components such as controls and a pump for example. As
illustrated, housing 1210 is coupled to cover 1220, and houses a
number of other components that are not shown. Coupling 1230
couples an internal vacuum system of appliance 1200 to hose 1215 at
a first end of hose 1215. Hose 1215 is coupled at a second end to
fitting 1250, which may be similar to fitting 750, for example.
Brackets 1260A and 1260B protrude from housing 1210, and may be
formed as a single piece with housing 1210 or as separate pieces.
Hose 1215 is coiled, wound or wrapped around brackets 1260A and
1260B such that it is held in place frictionally. In some
embodiments, a recess in housing 1210 may hold fitting 1250. In
other embodiments, fitting 1250 may couple to another portion of
hose 1215 to provide tension in hose 1215. FIG. 13 illustrates the
vacuum appliance of FIG. 12 in a different configuration. In the
configuration illustrated, hose 1215 is unwound from brackets 1260A
and 1260B, allowing for use with a container or canister for
example.
[0068] The various embodiments may be used with a variety of
containers, such as canisters, and corresponding lids or portions
of such containers. FIG. 14 illustrates the hose and canister
fitting of the appliance of FIG. 7 connecting to a stem feature on
an embodiment of a canister lid. Canister lid 1110 includes stem or
male fitting 1120 which is an essentially cylindrical fitting with
an inner passage through the lid 1110. Furthermore, stem 1120 also
includes notches or groove 1125 at the top of stem 1120, thereby
ensuring airflow through stem 1120. Furthermore, as illustrated,
end 905 of hose 915 is frictionally attached to fitting 750.
[0069] The fitting used may be further illustrated, too. FIG. 15
illustrates the hose and canister fitting of the appliance of FIG.
7 in an exploded view. Fitting 750 includes a housing, ball, spring
or coil, and a cap. Moreover, fitting 750 includes housing 780,
which includes channel 783, an essentially cylindrical passage
through housing 780, with a through hole in the hidden end of
housing 780. Into channel 783 goes ball 775 and spring 785. Ball
775 is sized to block the through hole of housing 780 while being
small enough to move freely within channel 783.
[0070] Cap 790 fits onto housing 780, using cylindrical projection
793 to engage with channel 783, providing an airtight channel.
Aligned with projection 793 is fitting 795, through which a through
hole passes, allowing communication with channel 783. Moreover, cap
790 causes spring 785 to hold ball 775 against the through hole of
housing 780, thus closing off channel 783 when ball 775 is not
dislodged. When fitting 750 is engaged with stem 1120, ball 775 is
dislodged. While ball 775 may block the surface of stem 1120, notch
1125 allows for airflow and thus vacuum operations.
[0071] Alternate embodiments of a canister lid may be used with
fitting 750 or similar fittings, and thus with various vacuum hose
management systems. FIG. 16 illustrates a hose pulled out of an
appliance and extended to attach to another embodiment of a
canister lid. As illustrated, canister 1600 includes lid 1600 and
vessel 1620 that engages with lid 1600 to form an airtight
container.
[0072] Lid 1610 includes recess 1630 that is large enough to allow
for insertion of the fitting 750 and for access to the fitting 750
therein. Stem 1625 rises from the inner surface of recess 1630, and
preferably does not protrude above, the outer surface of lid 1610,
thereby allowing for simple stacking of multiple containers 1600.
Stem 1625 may be formed in a similar manner to the channel of
fitting 750, with an internal ball and channel to allow for passage
of air out of container 1600 but blocking air flow back into
container 1600. As illustrated, container 1600 contains a material
1670 that is meant to be vacuum stored. FIG. 17 illustrates a hose
pulled out of an appliance and attached to another embodiment of a
canister lid. Fitting 750 is placed within recess 1630, such that
the through hole of fitting 750 covers and frictionally engages
stem 1625 with chamber 780 and displaces ball 775.
[0073] Processes for using vacuum hose management systems may be
used in conjunction with the apparatuses illustrated, or with other
apparatuses for example. FIG. 18 illustrates an alternate
embodiment of a process of managing a vacuum hose. In the process
illustrated and other processes of this description, process
modules are used, which may be used in a different order, or in a
parallel rather than serial fashion. At module 1810, process 1800
initiates with a hose held in a housing compartment. At module
1820, the hose is removed from the housing compartment for use. At
module 1830, the hose is coupled to or attached to a container for
vacuum operation. At module 1840, vacuum is applied through the
hose to the container. At module 1850, vacuum operation is
completed. At module 1860, the hose is detached or disengaged from
the container, and at module 1870, the hose is stored in the
housing again, such as through manual insertion back into the
housing.
[0074] Similarly, FIG. 19 illustrates another alternate embodiment
of a process of managing a vacuum hose, namely process 1900. At
module 1910, the process initiates with a hose held on the housing
(such as on brackets or with clips). At module 1920, the hose is
removed from the housing for use. At module 1930, the hose is
engaged or coupled to a container for vacuum operation. At module
1940, vacuum is applied to the container through the hose. At
module 1950, vacuum operation is complete and vacuum ceases. At
module 1960, the hose is detached or disengaged from the container,
and at module 1970, the hose is stored on the housing again, such
as through manual winding onto the housing.
[0075] FIG. 20 illustrates a storage side 802 of an attachable hose
storage apparatus 800 according to one embodiment of the present
invention. The hose storage apparatus 800 includes a hose spool 804
around which is coiled a vacuum hose 806. The attachable hose
storage apparatus can be attached to the back of a vacuum packaging
appliance, a counter wall, etc.
[0076] FIGS. 21-22 each show suitable attachment side embodiments
810 and 812 of the attachable hose storage apparatus 800. The
attachment side 810 includes snaps, hooks, or other mechanical
attachment device 814. The attachment side 812 includes an
attachment pad 816 that may be a Velcro pad, double-sided tape,
etc.
[0077] FIG. 23 illustrates a vacuum packaging appliance 820 in
accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.
The vacuum packaging appliance 820 has an attachable hose storage
apparatus 800 attached to a back of the appliance 820. The hose
storage apparatus 800 may be attached by snap, hooks, Velcro,
double-sided tape, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. The
disposition of the hose storage apparatus 800 may be determined by
the user, or may be predefined by an attachment mechanism (blocked
by apparatus 800) built into the appliance 820.
[0078] FIG. 24 illustrates a vacuum packaging appliance 830 in
accordance with the present invention. The appliance 830 has a hood
832 with an underside 834. Built into or attached to the underside
834 is a vacuum hose spool 836 for wrapping a vacuum hose around,
and clamps 838 or other suitable attachment mechanism for attaching
the vacuum hose thereto. This embodiment allows for convenient
storage of the vacuum hose in the hood 832 of the appliance
830.
[0079] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific
embodiments of the invention have been described herein for
purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be
made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In some instances, reference has been made to characteristics
likely to be present in various or some embodiments, but these
characteristics are also not necessarily limiting on the spirit and
scope of the invention. In the illustrations and description,
structures have been provided which may be formed or assembled in
other ways within the spirit and scope of the invention. Similarly,
methods have been illustrated and described as linear processes,
but such methods may have operations reordered or implemented in
parallel within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly,
the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims.
* * * * *