U.S. patent application number 13/797890 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for hose reel assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to GREAT STUFF, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is GREAT STUFF, INC.. Invention is credited to Craig Gallagher, Edwin Kretzschmar, John Sedovic, James B. A. Tracey, Johnathan R. Tracey.
Application Number | 20140261766 13/797890 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51522000 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140261766 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tracey; James B. A. ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
HOSE REEL ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A reel assembly includes a rotatable member that rotates about a
first axis to wind and unwind a hose from the rotatable member,
where the rotatable member also rotates about a second axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the first axis. A housing
substantially encloses the rotatable member and has a first
aperture that receives the hose therethrough and a second aperture
spaced apart from the first aperture. A conduit assembly is at
least partially disposed within the housing and extends between a
first end and a second end, the first end being releasably and
operatively coupleable with a liquid source, the first end being
accessible through the second aperture and positioned substantially
along the second axis. The second end is in fluid communication
with a connector on the rotatable member that releasably couples to
the hose. The conduit assembly also has a flow control valve
coupled to a conduit portion of the conduit assembly and configured
to selectively allow fluid flow through the conduit assembly from
the liquid source to the connector. The conduit assembly and the
rotatable member can move together about the second axis relative
to at least a portion of the housing during operation of the
rotatable member.
Inventors: |
Tracey; James B. A.;
(Austin, TX) ; Sedovic; John; (Austin, TX)
; Gallagher; Craig; (Austin, TX) ; Kretzschmar;
Edwin; (Cedar Park, TX) ; Tracey; Johnathan R.;
(Austin, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GREAT STUFF, INC. |
Austin |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GREAT STUFF, INC.
Austin
TX
|
Family ID: |
51522000 |
Appl. No.: |
13/797890 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
137/355.27 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 75/4478 20130101;
B65H 2701/33 20130101; B65H 75/4413 20130101; B65H 75/403 20130101;
B65H 75/4471 20130101; Y10T 137/6958 20150401 |
Class at
Publication: |
137/355.27 |
International
Class: |
B65H 75/44 20060101
B65H075/44 |
Claims
1. A hose reel assembly comprising: a rotatable member configured
to rotate about a first axis to wind a hose onto the rotatable
member or unwind the hose from the rotatable member, the rotatable
member also configured to rotate about a second axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the first axis; a housing
substantially enclosing the rotatable member, the housing
comprising a first aperture configured to receive the hose
therethrough and a second aperture spaced apart from the first
aperture; and a conduit assembly at least partially disposed within
the housing and extending between a first end and a second end, the
first end configured to releasably and operatively couple with a
liquid source, the first end being accessible through the second
aperture and positioned substantially along the second axis, and
the second end being in fluid communication with a connector on the
rotatable member that releasably couples to the hose, the conduit
assembly further comprising a flow control valve coupled to a
conduit portion of the conduit assembly, the flow control valve
configured to selectively allow fluid flow through the conduit
assembly from the liquid source to the connector; wherein the
conduit assembly and the rotatable member are configured to move
together about the second axis relative to at least a portion of
the housing during operation of the rotatable member.
2. The hose reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the conduit assembly
further comprises a hollow shaft portion in fluid communication
with the second end and extending along the first axis.
3. The hose reel assembly of claim 2, wherein the connector
comprises a hose fitting on the rotatable member, the hose fitting
configured to be coupled with the hose that may be wound upon the
rotatable member, the hollow shaft portion being connected to the
hose fitting so that fluid may flow from the conduit assembly
through the hose fitting into the hose coupled to the hose
fitting.
4. The hose reel assembly of claim 2, wherein the hollow shaft
portion extends along the first axis into an interior of the
rotatable member.
5. The hose reel assembly of claim 1, further comprising the
hose.
6. The hose reel assembly of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of
the conduit assembly extends through the second aperture.
7. The hose reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the flow control
valve is disposed proximate the second end of the conduit
assembly.
8. The hose reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the flow control
valve is disposed proximate the first end of the conduit
assembly.
9. A hose reel assembly comprising: a rotatable member configured
to rotate about a first axis to wind a hose onto the rotatable
member or unwind the hose from the rotatable member, the rotatable
member also configured to rotate about a second axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the first axis; a conduit assembly
extending between a first end and a second end, the first end at
least partially extending along the second axis and configured to
releasably and operatively couple with a liquid source, and the
second end being in fluid communication with a connector on the
rotatable member that releasably couples to the hose, the conduit
assembly further comprising a flow control valve coupled to a
conduit portion of the conduit assembly, the flow control valve
configured to selectively allow fluid flow through the conduit
assembly from the liquid source to the connector; and a housing
substantially enclosing the rotatable member and conduit assembly,
the housing comprising an upper housing portion and a lower housing
portion, the upper housing portion being movable relative to the
lower housing portion, the upper housing portion defining a first
aperture configured to receive the hose therethrough, the housing
comprising a second aperture aligned with the first end of the
conduit assembly, wherein the conduit assembly and the rotatable
member are configured to rotate together about the second axis
relative to at least a portion of the housing.
10. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, further comprising a hollow
shaft portion in fluid communication with the hollow conduit
assembly at said second location and extending along the first axis
into an interior of the rotatable member.
11. The hose reel assembly of claim 10, further comprising a hose
fitting on the rotatable member, the hose fitting configured to
couple with the hose that may be wound upon the rotatable member,
the shaft portion being connected to the hose fitting at an
interior of the rotatable member so that fluid may flow from the
hollow conduit assembly through the hose fitting into the hose
coupled to the hose fitting;
12. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, further comprising a
reciprocating mechanism configured to produce relative
reciprocating rotation between the rotatable element and the
housing about the second axis.
13. The hose reel assembly of claim 12, further comprising a
support frame configured to support the rotatable element, wherein
the reciprocating mechanism is pivotally connected to the support
frame to produce relative reciprocating rotation between the
rotatable element and the support frame about the second axis.
14. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, further comprising a ring
centered about the second axis, and a support frame coupled to the
conduit assembly, the support frame supported by the ring such that
the rotatable member, the conduit assembly, and the support frame
rotate together, relative to the ring, about the second axis.
15. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the first axis is
substantially horizontal, and the second axis is substantially
vertical.
16. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the lower housing
portion comprises a second aperture for accessing the first end of
the hollow conduit assembly.
17. The hose reel assembly of claim 16, wherein at least a portion
of the hollow conduit assembly extends through the second
aperture.
18. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the housing
comprises a generally curvilinear shape, and the hollow conduit
assembly comprises a curved section extending generally along a
curved inner portion of the housing.
19. The hose reel assembly of claim 18, wherein the housing
comprises a generally spherical shape.
20. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the portion of the
housing comprises an upper housing portion, wherein the conduit
assembly and the rotatable member are configured to rotate together
about the second axis relative to the first aperture
21. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the flow control
valve is disposed proximate the second end of the conduit
assembly.
22. The hose reel assembly of claim 9, wherein the flow control
valve is disposed proximate the first end of the conduit assembly.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field
[0002] This invention relates generally to reels for spooling
linear material and, in particular, to a reel including an improved
flow control mechanism for a reciprocating reel.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Reels for spooling linear material, such as a hose or wire,
onto a rotating drum have incorporated reciprocating motion of a
guide through which the linear material passes, to advantageously
cause the linear material to be wrapped substantially uniformly
around most of the surface area of the drum.
[0005] Several methods have been utilized in the past for achieving
such reciprocating motion. One common approach is to use a rotating
reversing screw which causes a guide to translate back and forth in
front of a rotating drum. For example, such an approach is shown in
U.S. Pat. No. 2,494,003 to Russ. However, such reversing screws
tend to wear out quickly, degrading reel performance and
necessitating frequent replacement. Further, such reversing screws
are bulky and increase the size of the reel assembly.
[0006] Another approach for producing reciprocating motion of the
guide is to use a motor to control a rotating screw upon which the
guide translates. In this class of reels, the motor reverses the
direction of rotation of the screw whenever the guide reaches an
end of the screw. Unfortunately, the repeated reversing of the
motor increases the spooling time and causes the motor to wear down
sooner. Other reels have incorporated significantly more
complicated gear mechanisms for achieving the reciprocating
motion.
[0007] Many reel constructions include exposed moving parts, such
as the reel drum, guide, and motor. Over time, such moving parts
can become damaged due to exposure. For example, an outdoor reel is
exposed to sunlight and rain. Such exposure can cause the moving
parts of the reel to wear more rapidly, resulting in reduced
performance quality. Additionally, many reel constructions include
additional parts outside the reel assembly, which increases the
number of steps that the user has to take to use the reel or the
number of parts the user must interconnect to use the reel, which
increases the complexity of using the reel and is inconvenient for
the user.
[0008] Thus, there is a need for a compact reel assembly having a
reel with an improved reciprocating mechanism for efficiently
distributing linear material across the reel drum and having an
improved flow control mechanism.
SUMMARY
[0009] Accordingly, it is a principle object and advantage of the
present invention to overcome some or all of these limitations and
to provide an improved reel incorporating a reciprocating mechanism
and an improved flow control mechanism.
[0010] In accordance with another embodiment, a hose reel assembly
is provided. The hose reel assembly comprises a rotatable member
configured to rotate about a first axis to wind a hose onto the
rotatable member or unwind the hose from the rotatable member. The
rotatable member is also configured to rotate about a second axis
that is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The reel
assembly further comprises a housing substantially enclosing the
rotatable member, the housing comprising a first aperture
configured to receive the hose therethrough and a second aperture
spaced apart from the first aperture. The reel assembly further
comprises a conduit assembly at least partially disposed within the
housing and extending between a first end and a second end. The
first end is configured to releasably and operatively couple with a
liquid source, the first end being accessible through the second
aperture and positioned substantially along the second axis. The
second end is in fluid communication with a connector on the
rotatable member that releasably couples to the hose, the conduit
assembly further comprising a flow control valve coupled to a
conduit portion of the conduit assembly. The flow control valve is
configured to selectively allow fluid flow through the conduit
assembly from the liquid source to the connector. The conduit
assembly and the rotatable member are configured to move together
about the second axis relative to at least a portion of the housing
during operation of the rotatable member.
[0011] In accordance with another embodiment, a hose reel assembly
is provided. The hose reel assembly comprises a rotatable member
configured to rotate about a first axis to wind a hose onto the
rotatable member or unwind the hose from the rotatable member. The
rotatable member is also configured to rotate about a second axis
that is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The hose
reel assembly further comprises a conduit assembly extending
between a first end and a second end. The first end at least
partially extends along the second axis and is configured to
releasably and operatively couple with a liquid source. The second
end is in fluid communication with a connector on the rotatable
member that releasably couples to the hose. The conduit assembly
further comprises a flow control valve coupled to a conduit portion
of the conduit assembly, the flow control valve configured to
selectively allow fluid flow through the conduit assembly from the
liquid source to the connector. The hose reel assembly further
comprises a housing substantially enclosing the rotatable member
and conduit assembly. The housing comprises an upper housing
portion and a lower housing portion, the upper housing portion
being movable relative to the lower housing portion. The upper
housing portion defines a first aperture configured to receive the
hose therethrough, the housing comprising a second aperture aligned
with the first end of the conduit assembly. The conduit assembly
and the rotatable member are configured to rotate together about
the second axis relative to at least a portion of the housing.
[0012] For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages
achieved over the prior art, certain objects and advantages of the
invention have been described herein above. Of course, it is to be
understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages may
be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the
invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will
recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a
manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of
advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other
objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
[0013] All of these aspects are intended to be within the scope of
the invention herein disclosed. These and other aspects of the
present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in
the art from the appended claims and from the following detailed
description of the preferred embodiments having reference to the
attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular
preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present invention will now be described in connection with a
preferred embodiment of the invention, in reference to the
accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiment, however, is
merely an example and is not intended to limit the invention. The
drawings include the following figures.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a disassembled reel,
including a housing, in accordance with one embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a drum assembly with
reciprocating mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment
disclosed herein.
[0017] FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of a gear reduction
between a motor and a gear of the reciprocating mechanism shown in
FIG. 2.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a top and side perspective view of one embodiment
of a drum assembly.
[0019] FIG. 4 is bottom and side perspective view of the drum
assembly in FIG. 3.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a top partially cut-away perspective view of the
reciprocating mechanism shown in FIG. 2.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a bottom partially cut-away view of the
reciprocating mechanism for a reel shown in FIG. 2.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a bottom and side partially cut-away perspective
view of reciprocating mechanism of FIG. 2.
[0023] FIG. 8A is a top view of the drum assembly of FIG. 2
illustrating one position in the reciprocating rotation of the
drum.
[0024] FIG. 8B is a top view of the drum assembly of FIG. 2
illustrating another position in the reciprocating rotation of the
drum.
[0025] FIG. 8C is a top view of the drum assembly of FIG. 2
illustrating another position in the reciprocating rotation of the
drum.
[0026] FIG. 8D is a top view of the drum assembly of FIG. 2
illustrating another position in the reciprocating rotation of the
drum.
[0027] FIG. 8E is a top view of the drum assembly of FIG. 2
illustrating another position in the reciprocating rotation of the
drum.
[0028] FIG. 9A is a top and front perspective view of the reel
assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating one position in the reciprocating
rotation of the drum.
[0029] FIG. 9B is a top and front perspective view of the reel
assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating another position in the
reciprocating rotation of the drum.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a top partially cut-away perspective view of
another embodiment of a reciprocating mechanism.
[0031] FIG. 11 shows a partial bottom view of another embodiment of
a drum assembly.
[0032] FIG. 12 shows a partial bottom view of the drum assembly of
FIG. 11, rotated 90 degrees.
[0033] FIG. 13 shows a partial perspective bottom view of the drum
assembly of FIG. 11.
[0034] FIG. 14 shows a partial bottom view of another embodiment of
a drum assembly.
[0035] For ease of illustration, some of the drawings do not show
certain elements of the described apparatus.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] In the following detailed description, terms of orientation
such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," and
"end" are used herein to simplify the description of the context of
the illustrated embodiments. Likewise, terms of sequence, such as
"first" and "second," are used to simplify the description of the
illustrated embodiments. Because other orientations and sequences
are possible, however, the present invention should not be limited
to the illustrated orientation. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that other orientations of the various components
described above are possible.
[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a reel assembly 100
substantially enclosing a drum assembly 10 in a housing. In the
illustrated embodiment, the housing includes an upper or top shell
portion 22 and a lower or bottom shell portion 24. Additionally,
the upper and lower shell portions 22, 24 have the shape of upper
and lower domes 26, 28, respectively, so that the reel assembly 100
has a generally spherical shape. However, the upper and lower shell
portions 22, 24 can have any suitable shape, such as cylindrical
and aspherical. As shown in FIG. 1, the upper shell portion 22
includes a guide member 30 with an aperture (not shown), which
preferably guides a linear material, such as a water hose, into and
out of the housing of the reel assembly 100 as the linear material
is wound onto or unwound from the drum assembly 10. Additionally,
the lower shell portion 24 is preferably supported by a plurality
of legs 32. However, other types of legs or support structures can
be used. In one embodiment, a circumferential stand supports the
lower shell portion 24 on a support surface. Preferably, the lower
shell portion 24 is movably supported with respect to a lower
support surface, so that the reel assembly 100 is capable of moving
along the surface. For example, the legs 32 or support structure
can have rollers.
[0038] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the drum assembly 10 defines a
first or drum axis X about which the drum rotates. Additionally, a
housing or second axis Y extends through the reel assembly 100. In
a preferred embodiment, the housing axis Y is generally vertical
and the drum axis X is generally horizontal, so that the housing
axis Y is generally orthogonal to the drum axis X. Further details
on reel assemblies can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,848, the
entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference and
should be considered a part of this specification.
[0039] FIGS. 2-7 illustrate one embodiment of a reciprocating
mechanism 200 for a reel assembly. In one embodiment, the
reciprocating mechanism 200 can be used with the reel assembly 100
illustrated in FIG. 1. The reciprocating mechanism 200 preferably
includes a frame 210 comprising a top frame and a bottom frame. In
the illustrated embodiment, the top frame includes an upper ring
212 and the bottom frame includes a lower ring 214 (see FIG. 1). In
a preferred embodiment, the upper ring 212 is coextensive with and
removably disposed on the lower ring 214. In another embodiment,
the upper ring 212 overlaps the lower ring 214. The upper and lower
rings 212, 214 are preferably fastened to the upper and lower shell
portions 22, 24, respectively, via any suitable method. In one
embodiment, the shell portions 22, 24 can be fastened to the rings
212, 214, respectively, using bolts or screws. In another
embodiment, the shell portions 22, 24 can be clamped, welded, or
adhesively secured to the rings 212, 214.
[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the upper ring 212 can rotate
relative to the lower ring 214. For example, bearings (not shown)
can be disposed between the upper and lower rings 212, 214.
Preferably, the rings 212, 214 are sized to enclose a drum assembly
220, which consists of first and second endplates 222, 224 and a
drum 226 disposed between the endplates 222, 224. As shown in FIGS.
2 and 5, a ring gear 230 is preferably attached to the first
endplate 222.
[0041] The ring gear 230 is coupled to a shaft 232, which
preferably extends into a hollow portion 228 of the drum 226 and
rotatingly couples to a shaft support 234 disposed inside the
hollow portion 228 (see FIG. 3). In one preferred embodiment, the
shaft support 234 is disposed generally at the center of the upper
ring 212. In another embodiment, the shaft support 234 can be
offset from the center of the upper ring 212. Preferably, the shaft
support 234 allows the shaft 232 to rotate freely therein. For
example, in one embodiment, the shaft 232 can couple to the shaft
support 234 via a bearing (not shown) disposed therein. As
explained more fully below, the shaft 232 is preferably hollow so
as to convey water. Additionally, the connection between the shaft
232 and the shaft support 234 preferably inhibits the leakage of
fluid therebetween, as further discussed below. For example, in one
embodiment, the connection between the shaft 232 and the shaft 234
includes a substantially water-tight seal.
[0042] The shaft 232 also connects to a fitting 236. The fitting
236 couples to a conduit member 262 disposed within the lower shell
portion 24 and disposed below the lower ring 214. In the
illustrated embodiment, the conduit member 262 is curved and has a
first end 264 that connects to the fitting 236, which in turn
connects to the shaft 232. The conduit member 262 has a second end
266 disposed generally along an axis Y2 extending generally
perpendicular to the upper and lower rings 212, 214. In one
embodiment, the shell axis Y and the axis Y2 are coaxial.
Preferably, the second end 266 extends through an aperture (not
shown) in the lower shell portion 24. In one preferred embodiment,
the fitting 236 is not coupled to the upper ring 212. Further
description of the fitting 236 and the conduit member 262 is
provided below.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 5, an upper ring support member 238 extends
from a surface 240 of the upper ring 212. In the illustrated
embodiment, the upper ring support member 238 defines a slot 239
therein. Preferably, the slot 239 extends along the length of the
support member 238 and is sized to slidingly receive one end 245a
of a support frame 245 coupled to the conduit member 262. As shown
in FIG. 5, the support frame 245 has a horizontal portion and a
vertical portion, and the end 245a extends from the horizontal
portion of the support frame 245. In one embodiment, at least one
bearing (not shown) is disposed in the slot 239 to facilitate the
sliding of the end 245a of the support frame 245 relative to the
slot 239. However, other suitable methods for facilitating the
sliding of the support frame 245 in the slot 239, such as, for
example, applying a lubricant to at least one of the slot 239 and
the end 245a of the support frame 245.
[0044] Preferably, the shaft 232 includes a worm gear section 242,
which extends along at least a portion of the shaft 232. In one
embodiment, the worm gear section 242 extends along substantially
the entire length of the shaft 232. The shaft 232 is preferably
integrally formed with the worm gear section 242. In another
embodiment, the shaft 232 is removably coupled to the worm gear
section 242 via, for example, a spline connection.
[0045] As shown in FIGS. 2, 6 and 7, the worm gear section 242
preferably meshingly engages a top or driven gear 244 mounted on
and below the support frame 245. As used herein, the "engagement"
of two gears means that the teeth of one gear are engaged with the
teeth of the other gear. The top gear 244 is in turn coupled to a
lever 246 (see FIG. 5), for example, via a pin 246a (see FIG. 8B)
that extends along an axis of rotation of the top gear 244. As
shown in FIG. 5, the lever 246 defines an elongated slot 247
therein. In a preferred embodiment, the top gear 244 and lever 246
are lockingly coupled, so that rotation of the top gear 244 results
in rotation of the lever 246. In another embodiment, the top gear
244 and lever 246 are integrally formed. The lever 246 is
preferably coupled to an elongate member 248, so that a first end
or portion 248a of the elongate member 248 extends through and is
adapted to slidingly move along the slot 247, while a second end or
portion 248b of the elongate member 248 is pivotably secured to the
support member 238. In one embodiment, the first end 248a of the
elongate member 248 extends completely through the slot 247 of the
lever 246 and at least partially or completely through the slot 252
of the guide member 250 (described below). In another embodiment,
the lever 246 is below the guide member 250, and the first end 248a
of the elongate member 248 extends completely through the slot 252
and at least partially or completely through the slot 247 of the
lever 246.
[0046] As best shown in FIG. 5, a guide member or track 250 is
disposed adjacent the lever 246, so that the guide member 250
extends along a plane generally parallel to a plane within which
the lever 246 rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide
member 250 defines an encircling slot 252. In the illustrated
embodiment, the enclircling slot 252 extends only partially through
the guide member 250, so as to define a groove or recess. In
another embodiment, the encircling slot 252 can extend completely
through the guide member 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the
first end 248a of the elongate member 248 extends partially through
and is adapted to move along the encircling slot 252 of the guide
member 250, so that the elongate member 248 pivots about an axis
generally perpendicular to the plane of the encircling slot 252. In
another embodiment, the first end 248a of the elongate member 248
can extend completely through the encircling slot 252 of the guide
member 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide member 250 is
disposed between the support frame 245 and the lever 246 and is
preferably secured to the support frame 245. However, in another
embodiment, the lever 246 can be positioned between the support
frame 245 and the guide member 250. As used herein, encircling
means surrounding, but is not necessarily limited to a circular
surrounding. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide member 250 is
shaped somewhat in the form of a "D" (see FIG. 8A). However, the
guide member 250 can have other suitable shapes, such as circular,
oval, triangular and trapezoidal.
[0047] As shown, for example in FIG. 2, the reciprocating mechanism
200 includes a motor 254 mounted to the support frame 245. In the
illustrated embodiment, the motor 254 is disposed below the lower
ring 214 and is housed in the lower shell portion 24. Preferably,
the motor 254 is an electric motor. The motor 254 preferably
operatively connects to the ring gear 230 via a drive gear 256. For
example, the motor 254 can, through a gear reduction comprising
multiple gears, drive the drive gear 256, which can operatively
drive the ring gear 230 at a desired speed. One example of a gear
reduction is shown in FIG. 2A, which includes a motor gear 254a
that meshingly engages and drives the drive gear 256. In the
illustrated embodiment, another gear 257 (also shown in FIG. 6),
which is preferably co-axial with the drive gear 256, meshingly
engages and drives the ring gear 230. However, the gear reduction
can include any number of gears and have other configurations for
operatively coupling the motor 254 to the ring gear 230.
Additionally, any desired gear ratio can be used. In one
embodiment, the gear reduction has a gear ratio of 2 to 1. In
another embodiment, the gear reduction has a gear ratio of 4 to 1.
In still another embodiment, the gear reduction has a gear ratio of
between about 2 to 1 and about 25 to 1. One example of a gear
reduction between the motor 254 and the ring gear 230 is
schematically shown in FIG. 2A
[0048] The reel 100 can also employ an electronic motor controller
and associated electronic componentry for controlling the speed and
direction of the motor 254. For example, while spooling the linear
material 268 (see FIG. 9A) onto the drum 226, a motor-controller
can be employed to vary the motor speed based upon the length of
unwound linear material 268. It will be appreciated that if the
motor speed is constant, the inwardly pulled linear material 268
tends to move increasingly faster due to the increasing diameter of
the spool itself. A motor-controller can adjust the motor speed to
more safely control the motion of the linear material 268 during
spooling. Also, a motor-controller can be used to slow or stop the
motor 254 just before the linear material 268 becomes completely
spooled onto the drum 226. Otherwise, the linear material 268 would
get pulled into the housing or, if there is an object at the end of
the linear material 268 (e.g., a nozzle), the object may whip
against or otherwise impact the housing or a person near the
housing. In addition, a motor-controller can even be used to assist
the user during unspooling of the linear material 268 (i.e.,
powered unspooling). One example of a motor-controller for a reel
is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,350,736 to Caamano et al., entitled
Systems and Methods for Controlling Spooling of Linear Material,
the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference
and should be considered a part of this specification. Also, the
motor 254 and/or motor-controller can be operated via a remote
control. An exemplary remote control system for a motorized reel is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,338 to Harrington et al., the
entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference and
should be considered a part of this specification. In a preferred
embodiment, a remote control is engaged on the spooled linear
material 268 at or near its outward end. The remote control can
send signals wirelessly (e.g., via radio frequency signals) or
through a wire within the linear material.
[0049] As shown in FIGS. 3-4, the reciprocating mechanism 200 also
has a platform 258 that extends between the shaft support 234 and
the edge of the upper ring 212. As shown in FIG. 8A, the platform
258 is disposed generally opposite the upper ring support member
238. The platform 258 preferably extends into the hollow portion
228 of the drum 226. In one embodiment, the platform 258 can
support a battery (not shown) thereon so that the battery is
disposed between the second endplate 224 and the upper ring 212.
Preferably, the battery provides power to the motor 254. Details of
one suitable battery for use with the reciprocating mechanism 200
can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,320,843 to Harrington, entitled
Battery Assembly With Shielded Terminals, the entire contents of
which are hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered
a part of this specification.
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the platform 258 preferably
supports the shaft support 234 thereon. In the illustrated
embodiment, a pin 234a of the shaft support 234 pivotably extends
through an opening 258a of the platform 258, permitting the shaft
support 234 to rotate with respect to the platform 258 about a
vertical axis extending through the opening 258a. This pivot
connection advantageously allows the reciprocating mechanism 200 to
reciprocatingly rotate the drum 226 about the shell axis Y, as
further discussed below.
[0051] As discussed above, the fitting 236 couples to the conduit
member 262. In one embodiment, the second end 266 of the conduit
262 is configured to removably attach to a water hose (not shown).
For example, the second end 266 can have a threaded surface for
threaded engagement with a corresponding thread on the hose (e.g.,
a standard hose fitting). In another embodiment, the second end 266
can have a quick-disconnect portion configured to removably engage
a corresponding quick-disconnect portion on the hose. Other
mechanisms for connecting the hose and the conduit 262 are also
possible. Preferably, water provided through the hose flows through
the conduit 262 and through the fitting 236 and shaft 232 into the
shaft support 234. In one preferred embodiment, the shaft support
234 communicates, for example, via a second conduit (not shown),
with a second fitting 268 (see FIGS. 2 and 8A) disposed on the
surface of the drum 226. In this manner, water can be supplied to a
hose that has been spooled on the drum 226 and has been removably
fastened to the second fitting 268. Any suitable mechanism for
removably fastening the hose and the second fitting 268 can be
used, such as a threaded engagement or a quick-disconnect
connection. Further details on such an arrangement is shown, for
example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,981,670 to Harrington, entitled Reel
Having Apparatus for Improved Connection of Linear Material, the
entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference and
should be considered a part of this specification.
[0052] The rings 212, 214 and gears 230, 242, 244, 256 of the
reciprocating mechanism 200 are preferably made of a strong
material resistant to breaking. In one embodiment, the rings 212,
214 and gears, 230, 242, 244, 256 can be made of a metal or metal
alloy, such as stainless steel and aluminum. However, other
materials can also be used. In another embodiment, the rings 212,
214 and gears 230, 242, 244, 256 of the reciprocating mechanism 200
can be made of a hard plastic. In still another embodiment, the
gears 230, 242, 244, 256 may be formed of acetyl, such as
Delrin.RTM. sold by Dupont, headquartered in Wilmington, Del.
Various combinations of these materials are also possible.
[0053] The use of the reciprocating mechanism 200 to
reciprocatingly rotate the drum assembly 220 is illustrated in
FIGS. 8A-8E. Actuation of the motor 254 preferably rotates the ring
gear 230 in one direction via the drive gear 256 and, optionally, a
gear reduction assembly (see e.g., FIG. 2A) operatingly coupling
the motor 254 to the drive gear 256. Rotation of the ring gear 230
in turn rotates the reel drum 226 via the first endplate 222.
Rotation of the ring gear 230 also rotates the shaft 232 in the
same direction, causing the worm gear section 242 to also rotate.
Rotation of the worm gear section 242 rotates the top or driven
gear 244, which in turn rotates the lever 246 about the axis of the
top gear 244. As the lever 246 rotates, it guides the first end
248a of the elongate member 248 about the axis of the top gear 244
and along the encircling slot 252 of the guide member 250, thus
moving the elongate member back and forth. As the lever 246 rotates
and guides the first end 248a of the elongate member 248 about the
axis of the top gear 244, the first end 248a also slides along the
slot 247 of the lever 246. The movement of the elongate member 248
in turn reciprocatingly rotates the drum 226 relative to the upper
ring 212 about the shell axis Y via the pivot connection 234a, 258a
between the shaft support 234 and the platform 258. In one
embodiment (e.g., if the slot 252 is circular), the reciprocating
mechanism 200 reciprocatingly rotates the drum 226 so that an
angular velocity of the drum about the shell axis Y fluctuates
generally sinusoidally.
[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the slot 247 on the lever 246 and
the encircling slot 252 on the guide member 250 allow the drum 226
to reciprocate about the shell axis Y at a generally constant
angular velocity between endpoints of the reciprocation for a given
drum 226 rotation speed about the drum axis X. It is the general
D-shape of the slot 252 that produces this outcome. It will be
appreciated that other sizes and shapes of the slot 252, slot 247,
lever 246, and elongate member 248 can achieve the goal of a
generally constant angular velocity between endpoints of the
reciprocation.
[0055] In one embodiment, the upper shell portion 22, which is
preferably fixed with respect to the upper ring 212, and the
aperture guide 30 in the upper shell portion 22, remain in a fixed
position while the drum 226 reciprocatingly rotates inside the
housing to spool and unspool the linear material 268, as shown in
FIGS. 9A-9B. In another embodiment, the reciprocating mechanism 200
reciprocatingly rotates the upper shell portion 22 about the shell
axis Y, while the drum 226 is preferably in a substantially fixed
angular position.
[0056] The substantially constant angular velocity of the drum 226
about the shell axis Y that is generated by the reciprocating
mechanism 200 advantageously allows the spooling and unspooling of
linear material onto the drum 226 with increased efficiency. Such
increased efficiency allows the use of a drum 226 having a smaller
width to spool the same amount of linear material, requires less
power to spool the same amount of linear material, and allows for
an overall reduction in the size of the reel assembly 100. The
reciprocating mechanism 200 according the embodiments discussed
above also advantageously require about 30% less parts to operate
than conventional reciprocating mechanisms.
[0057] FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a reciprocating
mechanism 200'. The reciprocating mechanism 200' is similar to the
reciprocating mechanism 200, except as noted below. Thus, the
reference numerals used to designate the various components of the
reciprocating mechanism 200' are identical to those used for
identifying the corresponding components of the reciprocating
mechanism 200 in FIG. 5, except that a "'" has been added to the
reference numerals.
[0058] The reciprocating mechanism 200' includes a top or driven
gear coupled to a lever 246' via a pin 246a' that extends along the
axis of the top gear. The top gear and the lever 246' are
preferably lockingly coupled, so that rotation of the top gear
about the top gear axis results in rotation of the lever 246' in
the same direction. In another embodiment, the top gear and the
lever 246' can be integrally formed. The lever 246' is preferably
pivotably coupled to an elongate member 248' at a first pivot point
248a'. The elongate member 248' is also pivotably secured to a
support member 238' at a second pivot point 248b'. The relative
motion between the lever 246' and the elongate member 248'
advantageously generates a reciprocating motion of the drum 226'
about a drum axis.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the gear ratio of the gear
reduction and size of the ring gear 230, worm gear 242, drive gear
256, and top gear 244, as well as the lengths of the levers 246 and
elongate member 248, are selected to reciprocatingly rotate the
drum 226 relative to the upper ring 212 about the shell axis Y so
as to cause a linear material to be generally uniformly wound onto
the reel drum. Thus, the reciprocating mechanism 200 advantageously
allows a linear material to be uniformly wound onto the drum
226.
[0060] As discussed above, the upper ring 212 and drum assembly 220
preferably rotate freely relative to the lower ring 214, preferably
through 360 degrees and more, as desired. Therefore, the upper
shell portion 22 coupled to the upper ring 212 can advantageously
rotate freely relative to the lower shell portion 24, which is
preferably fixed with respect to the lower ring 214.
[0061] FIGS. 11-13 show another embodiment of a drum assembly 10'.
The drum assembly 10' is similar to the drum assembly 10 in FIGS.
2-7 and includes all of the components of the drum assembly 10 in
FIGS. 2-7, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used
to designate the various components of the drum assembly 10' are
identical to those used for identifying the corresponding
components of the drum assembly 10 in FIGS. 2-7 and described
above, except that a "'" has been added to the reference
numerals.
[0062] With reference to FIGS. 11-13, a flow control valve 270 is
attached to the ring support member 238'. The flow control valve
270 is fluidly coupled to a proximal end 262a' of a conduit member
262' and to a distal end 267b of a conduit section 267. A distal
end 262b' of the conduit member 262' is coupled to the conduit end
portion 266' (that extends along the axis Y2). In one embodiment,
the conduit member 262' and conduit end portion 266' are a single
piece. The conduit section 267 has a proximal end 267a that can be
in fluid communication with a hose fitting (not shown) on the drum
226' to which a hose can be attached, the hose being wound and
unwound about the drum. The conduit end portion 266' can be coupled
to a fluid source for providing a fluid flow from the fluid source,
through the conduit end portion 266', through the conduit member
262', through the flow control valve 270, through the conduit
section 267 and through the hose fitting into the hose. The conduit
member 262' can be rigid or semi-rigid and be made of a hard
plastic or other suitable material (e.g., metal). In the
illustrated embodiment, the conduit member 262' can be curved and
have a curvature that generally corresponds to an inner curvature
of one of the upper and lower shell portions 22, 24 of the housing
of the reel assembly 100 that defines a space into which the
conduit member 262' extends.
[0063] FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of a drum assembly 10''.
The drum assembly 10'' is similar to the drum assembly 10' in FIGS.
11-13, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to
designate the various components of the drum assembly 10'' are
identical to those used for identifying the corresponding
components of the drum assembly 10' in FIGS. 11-13, except that a
"''" has been added to the reference numerals. With reference to
FIG. 14, the flow control valve 270'' can be disposed between the
distal end 262b' of the conduit member 262' and the conduit end
portion 266'. In still another embodiment, the flow control valve
270'' can be disposed at the distal end 262b' of the conduit member
262' and the drum assembly 10'' can exclude the conduit end portion
266'. Advantageously, mounting the flow control valve 270, 270'' on
the drum assembly 10', 10'' allows for all components to be housed
in a housing of the reel.
[0064] In one embodiment, the flow control valve 270'' can be
mounted on a bottom portion (e.g. removable skid plate) of the
lower dome 28, which in one embodiment can be removably attached to
the rest of the lower dome 28 to advantageously facilitate access
to the flow control valve 270'' (e.g., to perform maintenance on
the valve 270'' or replace the valve 270'') without having to
detach the upper dome 26 from the lower dome 28. The skid plate can
be a circular portion (or other shaped circumference, such as
square, oval, triangular) of the lower dome portion 28 that is
removably attached to the rest of the lower dome portion 28 by one
or more fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts), and that has an opening
through which at least a connection portion of the conduit end
portion 266' extends, thereby allowing a water source to be fluidly
coupled to the conduit end portion 266'. In one embodiment, the
flow control valve 270'' can be mounted to the bottom portion of
the lower dome 28 via one or more bearings and/or via a slip ring
that allows rotation of the bottom portion (e.g., removable skid
plate, slip ring) relative to the rest of the bottom dome 28, to
thereby allow rotation of the flow control valve 270'' about the
axis Y2, as discussed above. In one embodiment, the one or more
bearings can be interposed between the bottom portion and the rest
of the bottom dome 28 (e.g., radially interposed between an outer
edge of the bottom portion and an inner edge of the opening in the
lower dome 28 that movably coupleably receives the bottom portion)
to allow relative rotation between the bottom portion and the rest
of the dome 28.
[0065] Additionally, mounting the flow control valve 270, 270'' on
the drum assembly 10', 10'' advantageously allows the valve 270,
270'' to be powered by the power source (e.g., battery) that powers
other components (e.g., motor 254', controller) of the reel, so
that the flow control valve 270, 270'' need not have its own
separate power source, thereby simplifying the construction of the
reel and providing for more efficient operation of the reel. In one
embodiment, the controller can be mounted on the ring support
member 238' and/or the support frame 245, 245' or platform 258.
[0066] The valve 270, 270'' can be an electrically actuated valve,
such as a solenoid valve, and selectively permit or inhibit fluid
flow therethrough. The valve 270, 270'' can be electrically
connected to a controller (not shown) of the reel assembly (e.g.,
the valve can be hardwired to the controller), and can be powered
by a battery (not shown) that powers the reel assembly.
Accordingly, the electrically actuated valve 270, 270'' need not
have its own power source.
[0067] The controller can have a wireless receiver configured to
receive electromagnetic signals from a remote source (e.g., a
remote control, such as remote control attached to the hose), and
to translate those signals into signals that may open or close the
electrically actuated valve 270, 270''. In one embodiment, the flow
control valve 270, 270'' can be controlled wirelessly (e.g., with a
remote control) as discussed above. In another embodiment, the flow
control valve 270, 270'' can be hard-wired to the controller.
Additionally, the controller that controls the operation of the
valve 270, 270'' can be electrically connected to the motor 254'
that drives rotation of a reel drum 226'. Thus, the controller can
send signals to control the operation of the motor 254' for the
reel, the motor command signals being conveyed to the motor via the
wire connection. The wire connection can also convey power to one
or both of the flow control valve 270, 270'' and the motor 254'. In
one embodiment, the motor 254' can be powered by connection of an
electrical plug to a power supply, the wire connection conveying
power to the flow control valve 270, 270''. Examples of
communication methods include infrared (IR) and radio frequency
(RF) communications.
[0068] Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, to which
various changes and modifications can be made without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, the
reel assembly need not feature all of the objects, advantages,
features and aspects discussed above. Thus, for example, those
skill in the art will recognize that the invention can be embodied
or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage
or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily
achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested
herein. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention
have been shown and described in detail, other modifications and
methods of use, which are within the scope of this invention, will
be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this
disclosure. It is contemplated that various combinations or
subcombinations of these specific features and aspects of
embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined
with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes
of the discussed reel assembly.
* * * * *