U.S. patent application number 11/024499 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-29 for portable cord station.
This patent application is currently assigned to Fiskars Brands, Inc.. Invention is credited to Thomas E. Kramer, Kristine E. Lichtscheidl, Mark A. Schaffner, Fusu Thao.
Application Number | 20060138270 11/024499 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36610275 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060138270 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lichtscheidl; Kristine E. ;
et al. |
June 29, 2006 |
Portable cord station
Abstract
A portable cord station includes a body and a reel rotatably
coupled to the body. A handle system is coupled to the body and
configured for movement between an extended position and a
retracted position. A mobility system is coupled to the body to
permit movement of the body and the reel relative to a work
surface. A locking system is coupled to the body and movable
between a first position and a second position to provide a locking
interaction with the reel.
Inventors: |
Lichtscheidl; Kristine E.;
(St. Francis, MN) ; Schaffner; Mark A.; (Maple
Grove, MN) ; Kramer; Thomas E.; (Coon Rapids, MN)
; Thao; Fusu; (St. Paul, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FOLEY & LARDNER LLP
777 EAST WISCONSIN AVENUE
SUITE 3800
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202-5308
US
|
Assignee: |
Fiskars Brands, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
36610275 |
Appl. No.: |
11/024499 |
Filed: |
December 29, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
242/396.1 ;
242/401; 242/403.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 75/4465 20130101;
B65H 75/403 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
242/396.1 ;
242/403.1; 242/401 |
International
Class: |
B65H 75/40 20060101
B65H075/40 |
Claims
1. A portable cord station, comprising: a body; a reel rotatably
coupled to the body; a handle system coupled to the body and
configured for movement between an extended position and a
retracted position; a mobility system coupled to the body and
configured to permit movement of the body and the reel relative to
a work surface; and a locking system coupled to the body and
movable between a first position and a second position to provide a
locking interaction with the reel.
2. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the handle system
comprises at least one telescopingly extendable and retractable
member.
3. The portable cord station of claim 2 further comprising a handle
portion coupled to the telescopingly extendable and retractable
member and extending at least partially over the reel.
4. The portable cord station of claim 2 wherein the telescopingly
extendable and retractable member is spring biased toward one of
the extended position and the retracted position.
5. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the handle system
comprises at least one foldable member configured to articulate
about a hinged joint for movement between the extended position and
the retracted position.
6. The portable cord station of claim 5 wherein the foldable member
comprises at least two pairs of elongated members pivotally coupled
at the hinged joint.
7. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the body further
comprises an integrally formed carrying handle extending at least
partially over the reel.
8. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the handle system
comprises at least one panel member configured for telescopic
expansion and retraction relative to the body.
9. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the mobility system
comprises at least one rotatable member.
10. The portable cord station of claim 9 wherein the rotatable
member comprises a wheel.
11. The portable cord station of claim 10 wherein a lower surface
of the wheel is disposed at an elevation above a lower surface of
the body.
12. The portable cord station of claim 11 wherein the lower surface
of the body is pivotally movable above the lower surface of the
wheel to facilitate movement of the body and the reel.
13. The portable cord station of claim 10 wherein the wheel is
substantially concealed by the body.
14. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the lower surface
of the body further comprises at least one pad.
15. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the locking system
comprises a spring-biased member configured to engage an opening on
the reel.
16. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the locking system
comprises a lever having a hook portion configured to engage the
reel.
17. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the locking system
comprises a member having a cam profile movable to create a
frictional interaction with the reel.
18. The portable cord station of claim 1 wherein the locking system
comprises a flexible member configured to interact with the reel
and create a resistance to rotation of the reel.
19. A portable cord station comprising: a body having a mounting
surface; a cord storage device rotatably coupled to the mounting
surface; at least one rotatable member coupled to the body adjacent
a lower edge area of the body; a handle device coupled to the body
and movable between a first position and a second position.
20. The portable cord station of claim 19 further comprising a
biasing device configured to bias the cord storage device in a
rotational direction.
21. The portable cord station of claim 19 wherein the cord storage
device further comprises a utility connection device.
22. The portable cord station of claim 19 wherein the body further
comprises a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the
handle device when the handle device is in the first position.
23. The portable cord station of claim 19 wherein the handle device
in the second position is configured to tilt the body from a first
position where the wheels are substantially free from contact with
a surface and a second position where the wheels engage the surface
to at least partially support the body and cord storage device and
facilitate movement of the body and cord storage device.
24. The portable cord station of claim 19 wherein the handle device
is configured for carrying the body and the cord storage device in
the first position and to wheel the body and the cord storage
device in the second position.
25. The portable cord station of claim 19 further comprising a
locking system coupled to the body and configured to engage the
cord storage device to substantially prevent movement of the cord
storage device relative to the body.
26. The portable cord station of claim 25 wherein the locking
system comprises at least one of a plunger, a cam member, a hook
member and a flexible member.
27. The portable cord station of claim 19 wherein the body is
pivotable about the wheel between a stationary configuration and a
mobile configuration.
28. A portable cord station, comprising: a cord storage device; a
frame having a support surface for receiving the cord storage
device and a lower surface; at least one rotational member operably
coupled to the frame adjacent the lower surface of the frame; a
handle member coupled to the frame and movable between a storage
position and an extended position; so that the handle in the
extended position is movable from a first orientation where the
lower portion of the frame engages the floor surface and the
rotational member is substantially free from contact with the floor
surface and a second orientation where the lower surface of the
frame is substantially free from contact with the floor surface and
the rotational member is configured to engage the floor surface for
transporting the cord storage device.
29. The portable cord station of claim 28 wherein the frame further
comprises a compartment to at least partially receive the handle
member.
30. The portable cord station of claim 28 wherein the cord storage
device comprises a reel configured for rotation relative to the
frame.
31. The portable cord station of claim 30 further comprising a
locking system configured to substantially prevent rotation of the
reel.
32. The portable cord station of claim 31 wherein the locking
system comprises a twist-lock device.
33. The portable cord station of claim 31 wherein the locking
system comprises at least one flexible fin member coupled to the
frame and configured to engage the reel.
34. The portable cord station of claim 31 wherein the locking
system comprises a member having a cam profile and movable between
an unlocked position where the cam profile is substantially free of
contact with the reel and a locked position wherein the cam profile
engages the reel in a frictional interaction.
35. The portable cord station of claim 31 wherein the locking
system comprises a lever having a hook member configured to
releasably engage a portion of the reel.
36. The portable cord station of claim 28 wherein the handle member
in the stored position is configured to provide a carry handle for
a user.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a portable cord station,
and more specifically to a portable power cord station having a
reel with an extendable handle, wheels, and a reel locking
mechanism.
BACKGROUND
[0002] It is well known to provide a cord reel for storing an
electrical cord and for permitting the electrical cord to be
removed (e.g. extended, withdrawn, etc.) from the reel and to be
returned (e.g. retracted, coiled, etc.) to the reel. However, such
known cord reels do not realize certain advantageous features
(and/or combinations of features). The known types of cord reels
typically are fixed or not otherwise generally conducive to
mobility. For example, certain cord reels include a mounting
bracket for attachment to a wall or other mounting surface for
permanent placement of the cord reel.
[0003] The known types of cord reels that are not permanently
fixed, such as those having a base or stand with legs or feet that
are intended to hold the cord reel in a desired location (e.g.
without slippage) also tend to have certain disadvantages. For
example, the cord reels are often heavy when loaded with a long
length of cord and are difficult to lift, carry, slide, push, pull,
or otherwise maneuver from one location to another. Accordingly,
these types of known cord reels often are not conveniently mobile
or maneuverable when a user (such as a do-it-yourselfer, light
contractor, etc.) desires to move the cord reel from one location
to another (e.g. within a job site or work location, between job
sites, etc.). Some of the known cord reels include handles, but the
handles are typically located near the reel, requiring a user to
bend over and "lift" or "drag" the cord reel for transport.
[0004] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a portable cord
station having a reel that permits an electrical cord or the like
to be conveniently removed and returned. It would also be desirable
to provide a portable cord station having various electrical
receptacles and other features such as surge protection, ground
fault interruption, etc. It would also be desirable to provide a
portable cord station that is easily and conveniently maneuverable.
It would also be desirable to provide a portable cord station
having a handle that is movable to improve the mobility of the cord
station. It would further be desirable to provide a portable cord
station having wheels or the like configured in a manner to
facilitate movement of the cord station when desired and to permit
temporary placement in a fixed position when mobility is not
desired. It would also be desirable to provide a portable cord
station having a reel that is rotatable, yet may be temporarily
"locked" in a desired position with an easily activatable locking
mechanism.
[0005] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a portable
cord station having any one or more of these or other advantageous
features.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present invention relates to a portable cord station
having a body and a reel rotatably coupled to the body. A handle
system is coupled to the body and configured for movement between
an extended position and a retracted position. A mobility system is
coupled to the body to permit movement of the body and the reel
relative to a work surface. A locking system is coupled to the body
and movable between a first position and a second position to
provide a locking interaction with the reel.
[0007] The present invention also relates to a portable cord
station having a body with a mounting surface and a cord storage
device rotatably coupled to the mounting surface. At least one
rotatable member is coupled to the body adjacent a lower edge area
of the body. A handle device coupled to the body is movable between
a first position and a second position.
[0008] The present invention further relates to a portable cord
station having a cord storage device. A frame includes a support
surface for receiving the cord storage device. At least one
rotational member is coupled to the frame adjacent a lower surface
of the frame. A handle member is coupled to the frame and movable
between a storage position and an extended position, so that the
handle in the extended position is movable from a first orientation
where the lower portion of the frame engages the floor surface and
the rotational member is free from contact with the floor surface
and a second orientation where the lower surface of the frame is
free from contact with the floor surface and the rotational member
is configured to engage the floor surface for transporting the cord
storage device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1A is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of a portable cord station with a handle in one position
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 1B is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of the portable cord station shown in FIG. 1A with the handle
in another position.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of a portable cord station with a handle in one position
according to another exemplary embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 2B is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of the portable cord station shown in FIG. 2A with the handle
in another position.
[0013] FIG. 3A is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of a portable cord station with a handle in one position
according to another exemplary embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 3B is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of the portable cord station shown in FIG. 3A with the handle
in another position.
[0015] FIG. 3C is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of the portable cord station shown in FIG. 3A with the handle
in a further position.
[0016] FIG. 4A is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of a portable cord station with a handle in one position
according to a further exemplary embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 4B is a schematic representation of a front perspective
view of the portable cord station shown in FIG. 4A with the handle
in another position.
[0018] FIG. 5A is a schematic representation of a partial side view
of a portable cord station with wheels in a first position
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5B is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station shown in FIG. 5A with wheels in a second
position.
[0020] FIG. 5C is a schematic representation of a partial rear
elevation view of the portable cord station with wheels shown in
FIG. 5A.
[0021] FIG. 6A is a schematic representation of a partial side view
of a portable cord station with wheels in a first position
according to another exemplary embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 6B is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station shown in FIG. 6A with wheels in a second
position.
[0023] FIG. 6C is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of the portable cord station with wheels shown in FIG. 6A.
[0024] FIG. 7A is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of a portable cord station with a locking mechanism shown according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 7B is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of the portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in
FIG. 7A in a first position.
[0026] FIG. 7C is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of the portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in
FIG. 7B in a second position.
[0027] FIG. 7D is a schematic representation of a partial rear
perspective view of the portable cord station with the locking
mechanism shown in FIG. 7A.
[0028] FIG. 7E is a schematic representation of a cross sectional
view of the portable cord station with the locking mechanism in the
first position as shown in FIG. 7B.
[0029] FIG. 7F is a schematic representation of a cross sectional
view of the portable cord station with the locking mechanism in the
second position as shown in FIG. 7C.
[0030] FIG. 8A is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of a portable cord station with a locking mechanism shown according
to another exemplary embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 8B is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in FIG. 8A
in a first position.
[0032] FIG. 8C is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in FIG. 8A
in a second position.
[0033] FIG. 9A is a schematic representation of a partial rear view
of a portable cord station with a locking mechanism shown according
to a further exemplary embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 9B is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in FIG. 9A
in a first position.
[0035] FIG. 9C is a schematic representation of a side view of the
portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown in FIG. 9A
in a second position.
[0036] FIG. 10A is a schematic representation of a partial
perspective view of a portable cord station with a locking
mechanism shown according to yet another exemplary embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 10B is a schematic representation of a cross sectional
view of the portable cord station with the locking mechanism shown
in FIG. 10A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] Referring to the FIGURES, a portable cord station 10 (e.g.
cord reel, utilities connection device, cord storage device, etc.)
is shown according to various exemplary embodiments for use in
providing an easily maneuverable cord station for removal and
return of a desired length of cord (not shown for clarity) that is
spooled (e.g. wound, reeled, wrapped, etc.) about the reel for
storage. The reel is shown to include various utility connectivity
devices (shown for example as receptacles 14 for various sized
electrical plugs, but may also include surge protectors, power
indicator lights, ground fault interrupters, etc.) that are
operably connected to the cord in a conventional manner for the
convenience of a user (such as a do-it-yourselfer, light
contractor, etc.) in interconnecting devices at a remote work
location or the like. The portable cord station may be positioned
at a desired work location and the cord extended for
interconnection with a distant or remote utility supply source.
Portable cord station 10 is shown schematically to include a body
portion 20 having a handle system 40, 140, 240, 340 and a mobility
system 60, 160 and a locking system 80, 180, 280, 380. Although the
portable cord station is shown and described for use with an
electrical cord (e.g. line, cable, etc.) according to the various
illustrated embodiments, the portable cord station is also
adaptable for use with other generally flexible members such as
hoses, tubing, rigging material, chain and the like.
[0039] Referring to the FIGURES, body 20 (e.g. base, holder, stand,
support structure, frame, etc.) is shown schematically according to
an exemplary embodiment to include a support portion 22 configured
to support a cord storage device (e.g. spool, bobbin, etc.--shown
as a reel 30). According to a preferred embodiment, the reel is
oriented with its axis of rotation generally horizontal and
rotatably mounted to the support portion using conventional
components such as an axle and bushing or bearing assembly or the
like. However, the reel may be non-rotatably mounted to the support
portion according to an alternative embodiment. The body portion 20
is also shown to include projections 24 (feet, etc.) configured to
rest upon a work surface (such as a floor, table, ground, etc.) as
desired to facilitate operation by a user. Although the body is
shown having distinctive contours and shapes providing an
aesthetically pleasing appearance, the body may be provided with
any suitable shape for functional interaction with the handle
system, the mobility system and the locking system. The body and
reel may be made of any suitable material, such as acrylonitrile
butiadene styrene (ABS) plastic formed in a molding operation or
other suitable operation, and configured for supporting the reel
and/or utility connectivity devices, and for interacting with the
handle, mobility, and locking systems. According to an alternative
embodiment, the body may have any suitable shape and contour, and
may be made of other materials, such as those having other
lightweight, durable and/or electrical insulating properties.
According to another alternative embodiment, a handle may be
provided on the reel to assist a user in rotating the reel to
"wind" the cord onto the reel. According to yet another alternative
embodiment, the reel may be configured with a retraction mechanism,
such as a torsion spring or the like, that is biased to rotate the
reel in a direction to retract the cord onto the reel when the cord
is extended and the locking mechanism is released.
[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, an extendable handle system 40
for the portable cord station is shown according to an exemplary
embodiment. Handle system 40 is shown to include a handle portion
42 (grip, cross member, holder, etc.) coupled to a pair of
elongated, telescopingly extendable and retractable members 44
(legs, columns, struts, posts, etc.) movable between an extended
use position (as shown in FIG. 1A) and a retracted storage position
(as shown in FIG. 1B). The elongated members 44 are shown as
rectangular members having two telescoping stages, but may by any
suitable shape with any number of stages for extension to a desired
height. Body 20 includes suitable cavities (compartments, openings,
pockets, etc.) to receive the elongated members. The elongated
members may also include "positioners" of a conventional type (such
as spring-biased pins configured to interact with suitably located
apertures, or the like--not shown) to temporarily "fix" the
elongated members in an extended position, a retracted position, or
any one of a variety of intermediate positions (such as for
accommodating users of various heights, etc.). Handle portion 42 is
shown "offset" in a generally horizontal orientation according to
the illustrated embodiment, and is shown partially "centered" over
reel 30 for use as a "carry handle" and is intended to permit a
user to carry the portable cord station when the handle portion is
retracted, and with the cord station generally balanced beneath the
carry handle. The handle portion is also shown to include a cover
46 (sheath, sleeve, tube, etc.) that is intended to provide
cushioning and a non-slip grip for a user. However, according to an
alternative embodiment, the handle portion may be provided without
a separate cover material or may be provided with an ergonomic grip
surface or the like. According to another alternative embodiment,
the telescopingly extendable and retractable members may be
spring-biased toward either the extended position or the retracted
position.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an extendable handle system
140 for the portable cord station is shown according to another
exemplary embodiment. Handle system 140 is shown to include a
handle portion 142 coupled to a pair of elongated, telescopingly
extendable and retractable members 144 movable between an extended
use position and a retracted storage position, similar to those
shown and described for FIGS. 1A and 1B. Body 20 is shown to
include a second handle portion 26 that may be integrally formed
with body 20 and configured to extend at least partially over reel
30 as a "carry handle" and is intended to generally align with the
approximate center of gravity of the portable cord station with a
fully-loaded reel, so that a user can carry the portable cord
station in a generally balanced manner when the extendable handle
portion is retracted.
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, a folding handle system 240 for
the portable cord station is shown according to an exemplary
embodiment. Handle system 240 is shown to include a handle portion
242 coupled to a first pair of elongated members 244 (legs,
columns, struts, poles, etc.) that are pivotally hinged to a second
pair of elongated members 246, which are pivotally hinged to body
20 at a hinge member 248. The members 244, 246 are pivotally
hingable about another hinge member 248 so that the handle system
may articulate at the hinge members for movement of the handle
system between an extended use position (as shown in FIG. 3A) and a
folded storage position (as shown in FIG. 3C). The elongated
members 244, 246 are shown as rectangular members having two
folding stages, but may by any suitable shape with any number of
folding stages for use at a desired height. Body 20 includes
suitable recesses (compartments, openings, pockets, etc.) to
receive the folded elongated members in the storage position. The
elongated members or hinge members may also include "positioners"
of a conventional type (such as spring-biased pins, linkages, or
the like--not shown) to temporarily "fix" the elongated members in
the extended position (FIG. 3A) or the folded position (FIG. 3C).
Handle portion 242 is shown "offset" in a generally horizontal
orientation according to the illustrated embodiment, that is shown
partially "centered" over reel 30 as a "carry handle" and is
intended to permit a user to carry the portable cord station in a
generally balanced manner when the handle portion is folded to the
storage position.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an extendable panel-type
handle system 340 for the portable cord station is shown according
to an exemplary embodiment. Handle system 340 is shown to include a
handle portion 342 coupled to telescopingly extendable and
retractable panel members 344, 346 (sleeves, channels, etc.)
movable between an extended use position (as shown in FIG. 4A) and
a retracted storage position (as shown in FIG. 4B). The panel
members 344, 346 are shown as generally rectangular members having
two telescoping stages, but may by any suitable shape with any
number of stages for extension to a desired height. Body 20
includes a suitable cavity (compartment, pocket, etc.) to receive
the panel members. The panel members may also include "positioners"
of a conventional type (such as spring-biased pins, linkages, or
the like--not shown) to temporarily fix the panel members in the
extended position or the retracted position. Handle portion 342 is
shown "offset" and partially "centered" over reel 30 for use as a
carry handle when the panel members are retracted.
[0044] According to any preferred embodiment, a handle system is
provided to improve the ability of a user to move and maneuver the
portable cord station with ease. The handle system may be
extendable to any desired height and configured to be fixed at a
desired height by a user until the handle system is released and
moved to the storage position. The handles may have any suitable
number of stages or segments and may be configured for movement
between a first position and a second position by any suitable
method, such as telescope, fold, collapse, swing, etc. The handle
system may be configured for permanent attachment to the body, or
may be configured for removable attachment to the body. For
example, portions of the handle system may be designed as
multi-purpose tools, such as a handle member for the cord station,
and also as tool for use by the user at the jobsite. Accordingly,
all such applications are included within the scope of the
disclosure.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, a mobility system 60 for a
portable cord station is shown according to an exemplary
embodiment. A lower portion of body 20 that provides a base or
foundation for the cord station includes feet 24 that are shown to
include pads 62 that are positioned on the bottom of feet 24 and
intended to provide direct contact with a work surface 12 (e.g. to
provide a layer having any one or more of non-slip properties,
vibration and/or shock absorbing properties, electrically
insulating properties, abrasion resistance properties, etc.). A
rotational member (e.g. caster, bearing, roller, ball, etc.--shown
as wheel 64) is rotatably mounted by a pin 66 (axle, rod, etc.
mounted through a bushing on the wheel or the like) within an
opening 68 adjacent a rear lower edge area 70 of body 20 so that
the wheel is largely concealed and enclosed along its sides by body
20, while remaining exposed along the lower edge area 70. The
partial enclosure of the wheels is intended to minimize intrusion
of debris and other materials that might interfere with rotation of
the wheels. The pin 66 is located on body 20 so that a lowermost
surface of the wheels is slightly above a lowermost surface of pads
62 (as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C). The relative position of the pads
and wheels is intended to position wheels 64 slightly above work
surface 12 when the portable power station rests securely on the
pads (i.e. when mobility is not desired). The portable cord station
10 may easily become mobile and maneuverable by "tilting" (e.g.
tipping, angling, etc.) the body (such as by tilting the handle),
so that the lowermost surface of the wheels contact the work
surface and the lowermost surface of the pads 62 are pivoted
upwardly about the wheels and no longer contact the work surface
12. The portable cord station is then freely movable by "wheeling"
the station to a desired location. The degree of "tilting"
necessary for mobility is determined by the relative distance
between the lowermost surfaces of the pads and wheels, and is
preferably a relatively small angle to promote ease of mobility for
a user operating the handle. The handle may be tilted to an angle
whereby the weight of the reel and cord are approximately centered
over the wheels to improve the maneuverability and ease of
transporting the cord station. According to an alternative
embodiment, the body may be provided with integrally formed pads,
or may be provided without separate or distinct pads. According to
another alternative embodiment, the rear surface of the body may be
provided with durable, low friction "glides" (bars, plates,
inserts, ribs, etc.) to facilitate slidably guiding the portable
cord station over edges, such as steps or the like, without
damaging the body.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, a mobility system 160 for a
portable cord station is shown according to another exemplary
embodiment. The rotational member (shown as wheel 164) is rotatably
mounted by a pin 166 within an opening 168 along a side of body 20
and adjacent a rear lower edge area 170 of body 20, whereby the
wheel 164 is largely exposed along its outward sides.
[0047] According to any preferred embodiment, the mobility system
is intended to permit easy and convenient mobility of the portable
cord station, and to enhance the maneuverability of the cord
station. The wheels are configured to engage a floor or other
surface only when mobility of the cord station is desired, such as
by a deliberate act of the user (e.g. tilting the handle, etc.).
The wheels may be generally concealed within the body, or exposed
along the body in any suitable manner to provide the desired
mobility, according to the geometry of the body. According to
alternative embodiments, the wheels may be activated in other
manner, such as spring-activation, lever activation, etc. The
wheels may also be configured for continuous contact with the
floor, but may be provided with locks (e.g. brakes, etc.) that may
be set by the user at the jobsite and released when mobility of the
cord station is desired. Accordingly, all such applications are
included within the scope of the disclosure.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 7A-7E, a twist-turn locking system 80 for
a reel of the portable cord system 10 is shown according to an
exemplary embodiment. Reel 30 is shown to include a rearward
surface having circular ribs 32 and radially extending ribs 34 that
are interconnected to form compartments 36, according to the
illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A and 7E. Locking system 80
includes a plunger mechanism 82 configured to interact with ribs
32, 34 to releasably "lock" the reel in a fixed position and
prevent rotation. Plunger mechanism 82 is configured as a
"quarter-turn" or "twist-lock" device and is shown to include a
handle 84, a stem 86, a spring 88, and a plug 90. The spring 88 is
shown a compression-type coil spring configured to bias the plug 90
into a compartment 36 on the rearward surface of reel 30 so that
the reel is prevented from rotating. A rearward surface of body 20
includes arcuate ramps 92 that interact with handle 84, so that
when the handle is turned from the locked position (shown in FIGS.
7C and 7F) to the unlocked position (shown in FIGS. 7B, 7D and 7E),
the spring 88 is compressed and the plug 90 is withdrawn from
compartment 36 to permit the reel to freely rotate. Ramps 92 are
shown to include flats 94 at the unlocked position, whereby the
force provided by spring 88 is intended to be sufficient to
maintain the handle in the unlocked position until the handle is
moved by a user to the locked position and the spring biases the
plug into the compartment. According to an alternative embodiment,
the plug may have any suitable shape and may be configured to
engage any suitable structure on the rearward surface of the reel,
such structure may be formed as intermeshing teeth, lugs, ribs,
etc. According to another alternative embodiment, the plug and
compartment may have any other shape configured for selective
engagement (e.g. circular, etc.) and the spring may be configured
in any desired manner to bias the plug in a desired direction.
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 8A-8C, a lever-action locking system 180
for the reel 30 of the portable cord system 10 is shown according
to an exemplary embodiment. Reel 30 is shown to include a lower
circular rim 38 and radially extending ribs 34. A lever 182 (e.g.
toggle, latch, etc.) having a hook end 184 and a handle end 186 is
shown slidably and pivotally coupled to a lower surface of body 20.
A spring 188 interacts between lever 182 and body 20 to bias the
lever rearwardly and in a clockwise direction so that hook end 184
of lever 182 is biased upwardly and inwardly to "catch" the rim 38
between a pair or ribs 34 to "lock" the reel from moving in a
rotational direction. The hook end 184 is shown to include an
angled leading edge 190 to facilitate the hook end sliding onto,
and over, the rim 38. The lever may be configured for hand or foot
actuation, and may be located at any suitable location on the body
to engage a suitable structure on the reel (such as a rim, flange
or the like).
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9C, a cam-actuated locking system 280
for reel 30 of the portable cord system 10 is shown according to an
exemplary embodiment. Reel 30 is shown to include rearward surface
282. A lever 284 (e.g. toggle, latch, etc.) having a cam profile
286 and a handle end 288 is shown pivotally coupled within a
"window" of the body 20 for interaction with the rearward surface
282. The lever 284 is movable between an unlocked position (shown
in FIG. 9B) where handle end 288 is shown rotated upwardly so that
a leading edge of the cam profile 286 does not contact rearward
surface 282 and the reel is free to rotate, and a locked position
(shown in FIG. 9C) where the handle end 288 is shown rotated
downwardly so that a leading edge of the cam profile 286 contacts
rearward surface 282 and is intended to prevent rotation of reel
30. The cam profile 286 of the lever and the rearward surface 282
may be made from (or have applied thereto) a material having a
relatively high frictional coefficient to provide an effective
frictional "wedging" interaction between the cam profile and the
rearward surface of reel when the lever is in the locked position.
A spring member (not shown) may also be provided to facilitate
operation of the lever in an over-center manner, so that the lever
is biased toward a desired direction (i.e. locked or unlocked) once
the handle end is moved beyond an over-center point by the user.
The lever may be configured for hand or foot actuation, and may be
located at any suitable location on the body to engage a suitable
structure on the reel (such as a rim, flange or the like). The
rearward surface of the reel and the face of the cam profile may
have any suitable texture or structure (e.g. rough, ribbed, etc.)
to facilitate a frictional interaction when the handle end is moved
to the locked position.
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 10A-10B, a resilient locking system 380
for reel 30 of portable cord station 10 is shown according to
another exemplary embodiment. A rearward surface of reel 30 is
shown to include radially extending ribs 34. A resilient projection
(e.g. flap, card, etc.--shown as a fin 382) extends from body 20
and is configured to extend at least partially beyond a leading
edge of rib 34 to create an overlap (e.g. interference,
interaction, etc.). The fin 34 is formed as a relatively thin
member and is formed from a material having sufficient flexibility
to permit the fin to deflect over the leading edge of ribs 34 when
a certain minimum torque is applied to reel 30. The fins 382 may be
integrally formed with body 20, or may be removably attached
thereto for replacement in the event that the fins become worn or
damaged. The amount of "retention" force provided by locking system
380 may be varied by increasing or decreasing the number of fins,
or by varying the thickness or stiffness of the material, or by
increasing or decreasing the overlap of the fins and leading edge
of the radially extending ribs.
[0052] According to any preferred embodiment, the locking system is
intended to permit movement of the reel when a user extends cord
from, or retracts cord to the reel, and substantially prevents
rotation of the reel when a desired length of cord is established
(or when the cord is fully retracted, such as when the cord station
is moved to or from a jobsite). The locking mechanism may be
manually or automatically actuated, and configured to provide a
predetermined, controlled interference with the reel that is
intended to prevent the reel from rotating when the locking system
is actuated. The locking system may also be "non-actuatable" and
intended to provide a predetermined resistance to rotation that is
overcome by the deliberate actions of a user to extend and/or
retract the cord from the reel. Accordingly, all such applications
are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
[0053] According to any preferred embodiment, a portable cord
station is provided that includes a handle system, a mobility
system and a locking system to provide a mobile and maneuverable
cord station for providing utility connection capability from a
utility supply source to a remote jobsite, work station or other
desirable location. The handle system is movable between a use
position for "wheeling" the cord station and a stored position
concealing the handle and/or providing a "carrying" handle. The
mobility system may be concealed or exposed and is configured to
permit the cord station to transform from a stationary
configuration to a mobile configuration by actuating the mobility
system (e.g. tilting the cord station via the handle, etc.). The
locking system is configured to permit a use to selectively rotate
the reel for dispending or retrieving cord, and to prevent rotation
of the reel when a desired length of cord has been established by
the user.
[0054] According to any alternative embodiment, the portable cord
station may be equipped with suitable hardware of a conventional
type for receiving, transmitting, adapting, distributing or
splitting utilities (such as electrical power, telecommunication
signals, voice/data signals, etc.). The portable cord station may
also be equipped with suitable protection devices of a conventional
type (such as power surge arrestors, on-off switches, overload
protection, ground fault interruption, indicator lights, EMI/RFI
filters, "always-on" receptacles that are independent of on-off
switches, etc.). The reel may also be equipped with a counter
device that tracks the length of cord that has been withdrawn from
the reel (or conversely, the length of cord remaining on the
reel).
[0055] It is important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the elements of the portable cord station as shown
in the preferred and other exemplary embodiments is illustrative
only. Although only a few embodiments of the present inventions
have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in
the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that
many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes,
dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various
elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of
materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing
from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter
recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be
constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts
may be integrally formed, the operation of the handle system,
mobility system and locking system may be reconfigured,
actuation-assisted, or otherwise varied, or the length, width or
orientation of the structures and components or other elements of
the portable cord station may be varied. It should be noted that
the elements and/or assemblies of the portable cord station may be
constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide
sufficient strength, durability and electrical resistance, in any
of a wide variety of colors, textures, shapes and combinations. It
should also be noted that the body of the portable cord station may
be configured in any suitable shape and used in association with a
wide variety of reel configurations to support use in any of a wide
variety of orientations and applications. Accordingly, all such
modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the
present inventions. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and
omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and
arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments
without departing from the spirit of the present inventions.
[0056] The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be
varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the
claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the
structures described herein as performing the recited function and
not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.
Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be
made in the design, operating configuration and arrangement of the
preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from
the spirit of the inventions as expressed in the appended
claims.
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