US20070187529A1 - Fluid control system for gas/liquid - Google Patents
Fluid control system for gas/liquid Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070187529A1 US20070187529A1 US11/738,167 US73816707A US2007187529A1 US 20070187529 A1 US20070187529 A1 US 20070187529A1 US 73816707 A US73816707 A US 73816707A US 2007187529 A1 US2007187529 A1 US 2007187529A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- fluid
- hose
- control device
- liquid
- outlet
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/02—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge
- B05B7/04—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge
- B05B7/0408—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing two or more liquids
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/02—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge
- B05B7/04—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge
- B05B7/0416—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/02—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge
- B05B7/04—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge
- B05B7/0416—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid
- B05B7/0425—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid without any source of compressed gas, e.g. the air being sucked by the pressurised liquid
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
- B05B7/2489—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device an atomising fluid, e.g. a gas, being supplied to the discharge device
- B05B7/2497—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device an atomising fluid, e.g. a gas, being supplied to the discharge device several liquids from different sources being supplied to the discharge device
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
- B05B7/26—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device
- B05B7/262—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device a liquid and a gas being brought together before entering the discharge device
- B05B7/267—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device a liquid and a gas being brought together before entering the discharge device the liquid and the gas being both under pressure
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
- B05B7/26—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device
- B05B7/28—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device in which one liquid or other fluent material is fed or drawn through an orifice into a stream of a carrying fluid
- B05B7/32—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device in which one liquid or other fluent material is fed or drawn through an orifice into a stream of a carrying fluid the fed liquid or other fluent material being under pressure
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B3/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
- B08B3/02—Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
- B08B3/026—Cleaning by making use of hand-held spray guns; Fluid preparations therefor
Abstract
A fluid system has a fluid control device that can receive a gas hose and fluid hose. The fluid control device can also have a gas source and can be configured to receive the liquid hose. The fluid control device is provided to output a fluid flow into an output hose. The fluid control device can be positioned near a liquid source or a nozzle of the output hose. In another arrangement, the fluid control device can receive low pressure fluid and deliver high pressure fluid to a high pressure device. The fluid system can have a hose reel apparatus for spooling a hose connected to the fluid control device and the high pressure device.
Description
- This application is a continuation of, and claims a priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/823,916, filed Apr. 12, 2004, which claims a benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/462,571, filed Apr. 11, 2003, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to fluid systems having hoses and particularly to controlling flow through those hoses.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Pressure washers are commonly used for washing. Typically, a pressure washer has a nozzle attached to one end of a hose and the other end of the hose is attached to a liquid source that supplies a pressurized liquid, normally water. A user can adjust the nozzle to change the velocity of water flowing out of the nozzle. For example, a garden hose may be used for cleaning areas outside of a house. One end of the garden hose is fitted to a faucet (e.g. outside of the house), with a traditional manual spigot or valve for turning the water flow off or on. The other end of the garden hose may have a nozzle, such as a spray gun. The spray gun enables the user to adjust the water sprayed out of the nozzle. Unfortunately, the liquid source (e.g., a faucet) provides a liquid at a generally low pressure which may not be suitable for many sprayers, such a high pressure sprayers.
- The liquid source also provides a liquid at a generally constant pressure, thereby limiting the output velocity of the water. Further, the user can not use this configuration to spray air because the typical garden hose configuration supplies only water. On the other hand, there are known devices that have an air source providing pressure for spraying a liquid. The air source may be a conventional air compressor which generates sufficient pressure to spray the liquid. Unfortunately, the user cannot use these sprayers to spray both air and a liquid.
- Another approach for cleaning is to use an air hose with a nozzle attached to one end and a blower or air supply attached to the other. Normally, the air supply is an air compressor that provides pressurized air to the air hose. These air pressure devices are commonly used to blow debris in a desired direction. For example, wood or metal shops have these air pressure devices to blow wood chips or metal shavings off of equipment and into disposal systems. These air systems, however, do not supply any water.
- Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved device for supplying a fluid.
- Accordingly, it is a principle object and advantage of the present invention to overcome some or all of these limitations and to provide a control device for providing a fluid and gas.
- In one aspect, a hose system comprises a fluid control device and a hose reel device. The fluid control device comprises an inlet and an outlet. The fluid control device is configured to receive liquid at a first pressure through the inlet and to provide liquid at a second pressure through the outlet. The first pressure is less than the second pressure. The hose reel device is in fluid communication with the outlet of the fluid control device. The hose reel device comprises a rotatable drum onto which a hose can be spooled and is configured to convey fluid from the outlet to a hose spooled onto the drum.
- In another aspect, a fluid control device for a pressure fluid system comprises a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, an outlet, and a valve system. The liquid inlet is configured to be coupled to a hose. The outlet is configured to be coupled to a hose. The valve system is configured to allow into the outlet a liquid flow from the liquid inlet while stopping a gas flow from the gas inlet. The valve system is configured to allow into the outlet the gas flow from the gas inlet while stopping the liquid flow from the liquid inlet. The valve system is configured to allow into the outlet a mixed flow comprising the liquid flow and the gas flow.
- In another aspect, a method of providing fluid flow comprises receiving a liquid flow from a liquid inlet. A gas flow is received from a gas inlet. The liquid flow from the liquid inlet is conveyed into an output hose while preventing the gas flow from the gas inlet from flowing into the output hose. The gas flow from the gas inlet is conveyed into the output hose while preventing the liquid flow from the liquid inlet from flowing into the output hose. A mixed flow comprising the liquid flow and the gas flow is conveyed into the output hose.
- In another aspect, a hose system comprises a fluid control device, an inlet hose, and an output hose. The fluid control device comprising an inlet and an outlet. The inlet hose is in fluid communication with the inlet, the inlet hose having an inlet hose lumen with a first cross sectional area. The output hose is in fluid communication with the outlet. The output hose has an output hose lumen with a second cross sectional area that is smaller than the first cross sectional area. The fluid control device is configured to receive liquid from the inlet at a first pressure and convey the liquid to the outlet at one of a second and a third pressure. The first pressure is less than the second and third pressures, and the second pressure is less than the third pressure. The second pressure is at about a level sufficient to induce a flow rate in the output hose that is generally equivalent to a flow rate of a similar liquid flowing at said first pressure in a lumen having said first cross sectional area. The third pressure is at least 500 psi. Optionally, the third pressure is at least 1200 psi. Alternatively, the third pressure is within 500-5000 psi. Alternatively, the third pressure is at least 2000 psi. Optionally, the first pressure is within 40-60 psi.
- In another aspect, a fluid control device for a pressure fluid system comprises a gas inlet system, a liquid inlet system, an output hose, and a valve system. The valve system is located between the liquid inlet system and an outlet and between the gas inlet system and the same outlet. The valve system is configured to allow liquid flow from the liquid inlet system and gas flow from the gas inlet system into the outlet, separately or together. Preferably, the system is particularly configured to mate with hoses capable of operating at elevated pressures (preferably at least 1200-1500 psi) and can convert ordinary water flow from household taps into a power spray source, while also allowing use of the same system for blower and watering applications.
- In another aspect, a fluid control device for a fluid system comprises a plurality of flow paths. The plurality of flow paths comprises a liquid flow path positioned between liquid inlet and an outlet, an air flow path between an air inlet and the same outlet, and a pressurized liquid flow path extending to the outlet. Further, a valve system is configured to selectively allow flow along one of the liquid flow path, air flow path, and pressurized liquid flow path.
- In another aspect, a fluid control device for a pressure fluid system comprises a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, an outlet, and a valve system. The valve system is configured to allow into the outlet a liquid flow from the liquid inlet while stopping a gas flow from the gas inlet. The valve system is configured to allow into the outlet the gas flow from the gas inlet while stopping the liquid flow from the liquid inlet, the valve system configured to allow into the outlet a mixed flow comprising the liquid flow and the gas flow. In one arrangement, the fluid control device further comprises a gas inlet system comprising the gas inlet and a gas passage, a gas hose and the gas passage coupled to the gas inlet therebetween. In another arrangement, the fluid control further comprises a liquid inlet system comprising the liquid inlet and a liquid passage, a liquid hose and the liquid passage coupled to the liquid inlet therebetween and an output hose coupled to the outlet. In some embodiments the liquid inlet and the outlet are configured to couple with a conventional garden hose, while in other embodiments they are configured to couple with a hose capable of operating at elevated pressures (e.g., at least 1200-1500 psi). In another arrangement, the valve system is within a single housing, and the gas inlet, the liquid inlet, and the outlet are disposed on the housing and providing fluid communication with the valve system. In one arrangement, the valve system is configured to selectively provide the mixed flow ranging between mostly comprising the fluid flow and mostly comprising the gas flow. Preferably, the fluid flow is water and the gas flow is air.
- In one aspect, a fluid control device for a pressure fluid system comprises a gas inlet system, a liquid inlet, an outlet, and a valve system. The valve system is configured to selectively provide one of a liquid flow from the liquid inlet, a gas flow from the gas inlet system, or a pressurized liquid. In one arrangement, the fluid control device further comprising a fluid mixing chamber in communication with the gas inlet system and the liquid inlet, the fluid mixing chamber configured to contain liquid and gas and feed the valve system the pressurized liquid. Preferably, the liquid inlet and outlet are on a device housing, and the valve system and the fluid mixing chamber located within the device housing. In one arrangement, the gas inlet system comprises a gas pressure device. In one embodiment, the gas inlet system includes an external air compressor and a gas inlet on a device housing. Alternatively, the gas inlet system includes an internal gas compressor and an air intake on a device housing.
- In another aspect, a fluid control device for a pressure fluid system comprising a housing, an outlet on the housing, and a valve system. The valve system is in fluid communication with a gas source and a liquid source and provides a flow to the outlet. The valve system is capable of selectively switching the flow from among the liquid source, the gas source, and a pressurized liquid source. In one embodiment, the valve system and pressurized liquid source are within the housing
- All of these aspects are intended to be within 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.
- These and other aspects of this invention will be readily apparent from the detailed description below and the appended drawings, which are meant to illustrate and not to limit the invention, and in which:
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FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a hose system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-section of a fluid control device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 1C a schematic cross-section of a fluid control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 1D is a schematic illustration of a valve system of a fluid control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of a hose system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, having a fluid control device in combination with a hose reel in accordance with the another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2B is a schematic cross-section of a fluid control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of a hose system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3B is a schematic cross section of a fluid control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3C is a schematic cross section of the valve system of the fluid control device ofFIG. 3B , in accordance with one embodiment. -
FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of a hose system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4B is an illustration of an integrated hose reel apparatus and fluid control device ofFIG. 4A in accordance with one embodiment of the hose system. -
FIG. 4C is a schematic cross section of one embodiment of the fluid control device ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 5A is a cross section view of one embodiment of a multi-lumen hose of the present invention. -
FIG. 5B is a cross section view of another embodiment of a multi-lumen hose of the present invention. -
FIG. 5C is a cross section view of another embodiment of a multi-lumen hose of the present invention. -
FIG. 6A is a schematic cross section view of one embodiment of a nozzle of the present invention. -
FIG. 6B is a schematic cross section view of another embodiment of a nozzle of the present invention. -
FIG. 6C is a schematic cross section view of another embodiment of a nozzle of the present invention. -
FIG. 6D is a schematic cross section view of another embodiment of a nozzle the present invention. - While illustrated in the context of hoses for household applications, the skilled artisan will readily appreciate that the principles and advantages of the preferred embodiments are applicable to other types of hose products. To assist in the description of the components of the present invention, proximal and distal are used in reference to the upstream and downstream, respectively. That is, proximal locations are upstream from distal locations.
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FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of ahose system 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. A fluid source is illustrated in the form of a liquid source, particularly awater faucet 10. Agas supply 40 is illustrated as an air source, such as an air compressor or blower, that provides pressurized gas to agas hose 46. Thewater faucet 10 andgas supply 40 are in communication with afluid control device 30. Thefluid control device 30 is in communication with anozzle 22. - The
faucet 10 is illustrated as extending from the wall of abuilding 12 to anoutlet 8. It will be understood that, in other arrangements, the faucet can extend from another building structure or the ground. Thefaucet 10 includes a valve or spigot with amanual control 14. Thefaucet outlet 8 is conventionally configured to receive a liquid orwater hose 16. In the illustrated embodiment, thefaucet outlet 8 is threadably coupled to aproximal end 18 of theliquid hose 16. Thedistal end 20 of theliquid hose 16 is conventionally configured and coupled to aliquid inlet 32 of thefluid control device 30. Theliquid hose 16 thus is in communication with thefaucet 10 and thefluid control device 30 and extends from theproximal end 18 to adistal end 20 of theliquid hose 16. Theliquid hose 16 can be a hose, pipe, tube, or the like. While not illustrated, it is understood that theliquid inlet 32 can in other arrangements be directly coupled to theoutlet 8 of thefaucet 10. - The gas or
air hose 46 is in communication with the gas (air)supply 40 and thefluid control device 30 and extends from aproximal end 44 to adistal end 48. Thegas hose 46 is located between thegas supply 40 andfluid control device 30. Thegas supply 40 has agas supply outlet 42 that is coupled to theproximal end 44 of thegas hose 46. Thegas hose 46 has adistal end 48 that is coupled to agas inlet 34 of thefluid control device 30. Thegas hose 46 can be a hose, pipe, tube, or the like. - The
fluid control device 30 has afirst inlet 32, asecond inlet 34, anoutlet 36, and ahousing 58. Theoutlet 36 offluid control device 30 is coupled to aproximal end 52 of anoutput hose 50. Thefluid control device 30 includes passages (discussed below) that are formed of a material that can contain pressurized fluids, such as liquid and air. The passages define flow paths and can be tubing, pipes, hoses, conduit, or the like. The user can command acontrol input device 38, disposed on the outside ofhousing 58 in the illustrated embodiment, to obtain a desired output from thefluid control device 30. In other arrangements, thecontrol device 38 can wirelessly communicate with valve-controlling electronics within thehousing 58. Theinlets outlet 36 are threaded so that they can be coupled to thehoses hoses inlet 32 and theoutlet 36 having a standard diameter and pitch to receive the threads ofhoses hoses inlets hoses outlet 36 to thehose 50. Preferably, the seals formed by the coupling of theinlets hoses outlet 36 to thehose 50 will prevent pressure loss due to leaking. - The
output hose 50 is in fluid communication with thefluid control device 30 and thenozzle 22. Theoutput hose 50 is interposed between theends distal end 54 ofoutput hose 50 preferably terminates in anozzle 22, which may be an independent attachment with anozzle coupler 24. For example, thedistal end 54 of theoutput hose 50 may have external threads of a conventional type that can be received by internal threads of thenozzle coupler 24. Preferably, the seal formed by thedistal end 54 andnozzle coupler 24 will not leak fluid, thereby preventing reduction of fluid pressure. Theoutput hose 50 is a conduit that can provide fluid communication between thefluid control device 30 and thenozzle 22, such as a hose, pipe, tube, or the like. In one embodiment, theoutput hose 50 is a conventional garden hose. In another embodiment, theoutput hose 50 is a hose capable of operating at elevated pressures (preferably up to 1200-1500 psi, or up to 2000 psi, or up to 2500 psi, or up to 5000 psi). - The
nozzle 22 is attached to the distal end of thenozzle coupler 24 and has anozzle outlet 28 at its distal end. Thedistal end 54 of thehose 50 ornozzle 22 can be configured to receive other attachments (e.g., a spray gun) or can be a conventional sprayer nozzle having a rotating distal end to control the fluid flow out of the nozzle. Those skilled in the art recognize will that there are a variety of nozzle attachments for various circumstances. -
FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-section of thefluid control device 30 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Aliquid passage 60,gas passage 62, andfluid mixing chamber 64 are defined within thehousing 58. Theliquid passage 60 defines a fluid flow path and is positioned at some point between thefluid mixing chamber 64 and theinlet 32. Thegas passage 62 defines a second fluid flow path and is positioned between theinlet 34 and thefluid mixing chamber 64. Thefluid mixing chamber 64 is sized to hold both liquid from theliquid passage 60 and gas from thegas passage 62. Anoutput passage 78 is positioned between and connects thefluid mixing chamber 64 and theoutlet 36. A second orbypass gas passage 68 is positioned between thegas passage 62 and theoutput passage 78. - The illustrated
fluid control device 30 includes a plurality of valves for selecting the flow type. These valves can optionally comprise check valves, allowing flow in the distal direction and blocking flow in the proximal direction. For example, theliquid valve 80 and thegas valve 82 can be check valves that are positioned at some point between thepressure chamber 64 and theinlets liquid valve 80 can pass through theliquid valve 80 located along theliquid passage 60. Liquid or gas that is on the distal side of theliquid valve 80, however, will not be permitted to pass therethrough. Similarly, thegas valve 82 located along thegas passage 62 prevents the flow of gas or liquid back through thevalve 82 into thedistal end 48 of thegas hose 46. Gas from the proximal side of thegas valve 82 can pass throughvalve 82 in the distal direction. The control input device 38 (FIG. 1A ) commands anoutlet valve system 84 so that either gas passes from thebypass gas passage 68 or liquid passes from thefluid mixing chamber 64 into theoutput passage 78. Further, thecontrol input device 38 may either allow or stop pressurized gas and/or liquid from entering thefluid mixing chamber 64 by controlling theliquid check valve 80 andgas check valve 82. The user can use thecontrol input device 38 to allow gas flow from thegas passage 68 to pass throughoutlet valve system 84 into theoutput passage 78 and inhibit liquid flow throughvalve system 84. Alternatively, the user can use thecontrol input device 38 to allow pressurized or unpressurized liquid flow from thefluid mixing chamber 64 to pass throughoutlet valve system 84 and intooutput passage 78 and to inhibit gas flow throughvalve system 84. -
FIG. 1C is a schematic cross-section of afluid control device 30 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Agas passage 100 is located between anoutlet valve system 66 and thegas inlet 34. Aliquid passage 102 is located between theoutlet valve system 66 and theliquid inlet 32. Anoutlet passage 104 is positioned between theoutlet valve system 66 andoutlet 36. - The
outlet valve system 66 is thus connected to thegas passage 100, theliquid passage 102 and theoutlet passage 104. Preferably, theoutlet valve system 66 permits flow within theinlet passages outlet passage 104. Specifically, thevalve system 66 is fed both gas from thegas passage 100 and liquid from theliquid passage 102 and feeds into outlet passage 104 a fluid flow that can be conventional (non-pressurized, e.g. tap water) liquid flow, a pressurized liquid flow or a gas flow. The control input device 38 (FIG. 1A ) communicates with theoutlet valve system 66 to selectively allow gas flow from thegas passage 100 and/or liquid flow from theliquid passage 102 to pass through thevalve system 66 intooutput passage 104. When mixing flows, thevalve system 66 can preferably vary the relative amounts of liquid and gas fed intooutput passage 104 to ensure proper flow tonozzle 22. - The
valve system 66 thus preferably includes a three-way valving system such that fluid can flow from either thegas flow passage 100 or thewater flow passage 102, or from both simultaneously. Of course, both flows can be shut off as well. For example, in one embodiment thevalve system 66 has two valves. In one embodiment, each of these valves is a solenoid valve that can be actuated electronically or pneumatically and selectively permits or inhibits flow into theoutput passage 104. In one embodiment, each valve of the two valves can be partially opened in order to achieve an optimal fluid flow (gas/liquid) through thehose 50 and thenozzle 22. Those skilled in the art recognize will that theoutlet valve system 66 can comprise any number of different valves. Theoutlet valve system 66 may have a check valve for preventing liquid flow into thegas passage 100. In one embodiment, thevalve system 66 can comprise valves that are manually controlled. - In operation of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1C , and with reference toFIG. 1A , the user that desires pressurized liquid or water flowing from thenozzle 22 can open thefaucet 10 by using themanual control 14 and turn ON thegas supply 40. The liquid flows from theoutlet 8 throughliquid hose 16 and into thefluid control device 30. Thegas source 40 causes gas to pass through thegas hose 46 and into thefluid control device 30. The user sets thecontrol input device 38 such thatvalve system 66 allows both gas and liquid to pass intooutlet passage 104. Thus, the fluid (e.g., liquid and gas) can flow through theoutlet passage 104,outlet 36, andoutput hose 50 and can be sprayed out ofnozzle 22. If the user desires only gas (air) or only liquid flowing from thenozzle 22,valve system 66 can stop the flow of one fluid (e.g. liquid) and permit the flow of the other fluid (e.g., air), or vice versa. Alternatively, both valves can be closed. -
FIG. 1D is a schematic illustration of the valve system of a fluid control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thevalve system 66 comprises a y-adapter 320 and valves such as ball or globe valves. For example, agas valve 340 is located between thegas passage 100 and aninternal gas channel 322 of the y-adapter 320. Aliquid valve 342 is located between theliquid passage 102 and aliquid channel 324 of the y-adapter 320. A y-adapter output channel 326 is located betweenpassages outlet passage 104.Channels adapter output channel 326 so that the pressurized liquid (gas and liquid) flows through y-adapter channel 326 and into theoutlet passage 104. The user can open thevalves valve system 66 and into theoutput passage 104. Preferably, the user can adjust the valve settings among variable settings to obtain an optimal output gas/liquid flow. - Further, the
valve system 66 is preferably capable also of feeding theoutput passage 104 with an exclusive gas flow or an exclusive liquid flow. The user can inhibit gas flow through the y-adapter 320 by closing thegas valve 340 and permit liquid flow through the y-adapter 320 by opening theliquid valve 342, thereby causing liquid to flow from the y-adapter 320 into theoutlet passage 104. Similarly, the user can permit gas flow through the y-adapter 320 by opening thegas valve 340 and inhibit liquid flow through the y-adapter 320 by closing theliquid valve 342, thereby causing gas to flow from the y-adapter 320 into theoutlet passage 104. Thus, thevalve system 66 can feed theoutput hose 50 a mixed liquid-gas flow, an exclusive gas flow, or an exclusive liquid flow. -
FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of ahose system 201 having afluid control device 30 between two lengths of hose in accordance with the another embodiment of the present invention. Aliquid hose 16 a communicates fluid from the liquid source orfaucet 10 to thefluid control device 30. Thefluid control device 30 is in fluid communication with ahose reel apparatus 210. Thehose reel apparatus 210, in turn, is in fluid communication with thenozzle 22. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
hose reel apparatus 210 includes thefluid control device 30 inside a hose reel apparatus housing 212 (represented by dashed lines), although in other arrangements thefluid control device 30 can be connected outside the hosereel apparatus housing 212. A fluid path connection between thefluid control device 30 and asecond hose section 50 b can be direct, but is preferably conducted via afirst hose section 50 a. Theproximal end 52 a of thefirst hose section 50 a connects to theoutlet 36, and the distal end 54 a of thefirst hose section 50 a connects to the hose reel, where internal passages communicate fluid from thefirst hose section 50 a to thesecond hose section 50 b. A section of thesecond hose section 50 b wraps around thehose reel drum 200 and terminates at thedistal end 54 in ahose nozzle 22 or other attachment device, such as spray gun or extension rod (not shown). Thehose system 201 can have thefluid control device 30 as described above with respect to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1A, 1B , 1C, and 1D. - While not illustrated, it will be understood that the hose reel preferably includes a mechanism to distribute the hose across the surface of the drum as it winds, thereby avoiding tangling and maximizing efficiency. Most preferably, the
hose reel apparatus 210 employs a mechanism similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,500 issued to Mead, Jr. on Jul. 23, 2002, and assigned to the assignee of the present application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, that application illustrates at Figures 8A and 8B and related text a method of distributing hose across the hose reel drum by relative rotation between a housing shell with a hose aperture and the drum housed within. Mechanisms for linking the rotation of the drum along the horizontal axis and the rotation of the surrounding shell can include the spiral groove as illustrated in the incorporated patent, or can include any of a number of other linkage systems. -
FIG. 2B is a schematic cross-section of thefluid control device 30, as shown inFIG. 2A , in accordance with one embodiment. Aliquid passage 220 is positioned and defines a fluid flow path between theliquid inlet 32 and anoutlet valve system 260. Asecond liquid passage 222 is located between theliquid passage 220 and afluid mixing chamber 240. The secondliquid passage 222, the firstliquid passage 220, and theliquid inlet 32 form aliquid inlet system 400. Apressurized liquid passage 242 is located between thevalve system 260 and thefluid mixing chamber 240, although theoutlet valve system 260 may be directly connected to thefluid mixing chamber 240. Anoutput passage 262 defines a flow path and is located between theoutlet valve system 260 and theoutlet 36. - A
gas passage 232 is positioned and defines a gas flow path between anair intake 230 and thevalve system 260. Asecond gas passage 234 defines a flow path and is in fluid communication with agas pressurization device 300 and thefluid mixing chamber 240. Agas inlet system 402 includes thesecond gas passage 234, thefirst gas passage 232, thegas pressurization device 300, and thegas inlet 230. In the illustrated embodiment, thesecond gas passage 234 branches thegas passage 232 and thefluid mixing chamber 240. Alternatively, thesecond gas passage 234 can be positioned between thegas pressurization device 300 and thefluid mixing chamber 240, such that the distal end ofpassage 234 is directly connected to thefluid mixing chamber 240. Theair intake 230 is disposed at an outside surface of the fluidcontrol device housing 58 a and defines a gas flow path between the ambient air outside thehousing 58 a and thegas pressurization device 300. Thegas pressurization device 300 may be a gas (air) compressor, such as a pump, with fixed or variable displacement, that causes the air pressure withingas passage 232 to be greater than the ambient air pressure. Alternatively, thegas pressurize device 300 may be a fan or blower driven by a motor. - The
fluid mixing chamber 240 is sized to hold both liquid that is fed from the secondliquid passage 222 and compressed gas from thesecond gas passage 234. In operation, the liquid pressure inchamber 240 may be greater than a regular liquid pressure withinliquid passage 220. Although not shown, a valve (e.g., a check valve) is preferably positioned between thefluid mixing chamber 240 and theinlet 32, preferably along the secondliquid passage 222. The valve allows liquid flow into thefluid mixing chamber 240 and inhibits liquid and gas flow into theliquid passage 220. Similarly, a check valve can be positioned along thesecond gas passage 234. - A control input device 214 (shown on the hose
reel apparatus housing 212 inFIG. 2A ) and theoutlet valve system 260 are in electrical communication so that thevalve system 260 functions as a 3-way switch that permits flow within one of thepassages output passage 262. Theoutlet valve system 260 may include any number of valves of different types, such as a liquid valve, pressurized liquid valve, and gas valve. A liquid valve can be positioned between theliquid passage 220 and theoutput passage 262. A pressurized liquid valve can be positioned between thepressurized liquid passage 242 and theoutput passage 262. As used herein, a “pressurized liquid valve” refers to a liquid valve capable of withstanding elevated liquid pressure, e.g., 40-5,000 psi. A gas valve can be positioned between thegas passage 232 and theoutput passage 262. Each of these valves selectively permits or inhibits flow therethrough. Preferably, thecontrol input device 214 can open either the liquid valve, pressurized liquid valve, or gas valve and close the other two valves. Skilled artisans will recognize that theoutlet valve system 260 can be a single three-way valve or plurality of independent valves as described above that control liquid/gas flow, and can be actuated electronically, mechanically, or pneumatically. For example, in one embodiment thevalve system 260 may comprise three pneumatic solenoid valves, each of the three valves opening and closing one of thepassages - In operation of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2A , thehose reel apparatus 210 and thefluid control device 30 can be connected to the liquid source orwater faucet 10 and placed at any convenient position. When not in use, thesecond hose section 50 b may be wound upon thehose reel drum 200 with perhaps only thenozzle 22 protruding from the hosereel apparatus housing 212. When thefluid control device 30 is in an off position during non-use, there is no pressure in thesecond hose section 50 b, even though thefaucet 10 is open. There is a reduced risk of leakage, at least downstream of thefluid control device 30, and thesecond hose section 50 b readily winds upon thehousing reel drum 200 and can be slightly compressed, depending on the nature of the hosing. When it is desired to operate the hose, the user can pull upon thenozzle 22 and freely unwind the hose from thedrum 200. In alternative embodiments, thereel drum 200 may by operatively connected to a motor for powered winding and unwinding of thehose 50 b. - When the user desires liquid flowing from the
nozzle 22, the user can open the faucet by using themanual control 14. The liquid flowing from theoutlet 8 of the faucet has the “regular” liquid pressure (e.g., 40 to 60 psi for residential, municipal or county water sources). The liquid from thefaucet 10 flows through theliquid hose 16 a and into thefluid control device 30. The user can set thecontrol input device 214 so that thefluid control device 30 outputs liquid at regular pressure. In this mode, the liquid flows through theliquid passage 220, theoutlet valve system 260, theoutput passage 262 and intofirst hose section 50 a. Thevalve system 260 inhibits the flow of pressurized liquid and gas withinpassages first hose section 50 a. - Alternatively, the user can set the
control input device 214 for pressurized liquid. This setting both allows flow through the pressurizedliquid passage 242 to theoutput passage 262 and turns on thegas pressurization device 300. In this mode, the pressurized liquid within thepressurization chamber 240 is at a high pressure (greater than regular liquid pressure) and flows throughpressurized passage 242, thevalve system 260, theoutput passage 262 and into thefirst hose section 50 a. Theoutlet valve system 260 inhibits the flow of liquid at regular pressure (e.g., pressure in the range of about 40 psi to about 60 psi) fromliquid passage 220 directly to theoutput passage 262 and of gas fromgas passage 232 directly to theoutput passage 262. Rather, liquid and gas can flow only through thefluid mixing chamber 240. Thus, only pressurized liquid passes into thefirst hose section 50 a. - Similarly, the user can set the
control input device 214 to have thefluid control device 30 output air flow. In this mode, thegas pressurization device 300 is ON and draws air through theair intake 230. Air passes throughgas passage 232 andvalve system 260, while thevalve system 260 inhibits the flow of liquid frompassages output passage 262 and into thefirst hose section 50 a. - The fluid (i.e., liquid at regular pressure, pressurized liquid, or gas) passes through the
first hose section 50 a and thesecond hose section 50 b. Then the fluid passes through thenozzle coupler 24 and out thenozzle outlet 28 of thenozzle 22 as a spray. Differently configured nozzles may be attached to thehose 50 b for spraying. Advantageously, the user can choose to spray either gas, ordinary household water flow or pressurized liquid depending on various applications. The fluid flow can be changed from liquid to gas or vice versa through thecontrol input device 214. -
FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of ahose system 301 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Aliquid hose 16 b communicates fluid from the liquid source orfaucet 10 to afluid control device 330. Thefluid control device 330 is in fluid communication with thehose reel apparatus 210, which, in turn, is in fluid communication with afluid device 322. Thefluid control device 330 preferably provides high pressure fluid to thefluid device 322, which is preferably a high pressure device, such as a high pressure sprayer or nozzle. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
faucet 10 provides liquid at a regular or low pressure (e.g., about 40 to about 60 psi). Thefaucet 10 delivers this low pressure liquid to theproximal end 18 b of theliquid hose 16 b. Adistal end 20 b of theliquid hose 16 b is preferably configured and coupled to aliquid inlet 332 of thefluid control device 330. Theliquid hose 16 b thus is in fluid communication with thefaucet 10 and thefluid control device 330 and extends from theproximal end 18 b to thedistal end 20 b. Theliquid hose 16 b can be a hose, pipe, tube or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, theliquid hose 16 b has a diameter in the range of about ½ inch to about ¾ inch. In one arrangement, the liquid hose has a diameter of about ⅝ inch, which is fairly standard size for garden hoses. However, theliquid hose 16 b can have any diameter suitable for delivering liquid from thefaucet 10 to thefluid control device 330. In another embodiment, for example, theliquid hose 16 b has a diameter of about 1 inch. One of ordinary skill in the art can determine the appropriate type and size ofhose 16 b that will achieve the desired flow to thefluid control device 330. - The
fluid control device 330 has theinlet 332, anoutlet 334, and ahousing 338 and is positioned at some point between thenozzle faucet 10 and thenozzle 322. Thefluid control device 330 can define a fluid flow path between theinlet 332 and theoutlet 334. Theinlet 332 of thefluid control device 330 is coupled to thedistal end 20 b of theliquid hose 16 b. Theoutlet 334 of thefluid control device 330 is coupled to aproximal end 340 of anoutput hose 343. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
fluid control device 330 is a pressure generator or pump which can control the pressure of the fluid delivered to theoutput hose 343. Thefluid control device 330 is preferably a pump which can achieve the desired delivery pressure to theoutput hose 343 andnozzle 322. For example, thefluid control device 330 can be a centrifugal pump, reciprocating pump (e.g., single piston pump or a radial piston pump), propeller pump, or any other suitable device for delivering the fluid at the desired pressure to thenozzle 322. For example, thefluid control device 330 can be a high pressure, low volume pump for providing fluid at a generally high pressure and low flow rate to thenozzle 322. Thefluid control device 330 thus can receive liquid at a first pressure from theliquid hose 16 b and provide the liquid at a second pressure to theoutput hose 343. In one embodiment, for example, thefluid control device 330 can receive liquid at a low pressure from thehose 16 b and deliver high pressure liquid out of theoutlet 334 of thefluid control device 330 and into theproximal end 340 of theoutput hose 343. The second pressure is preferably significantly higher than the first pressure. Theoutput hose 343, in turn, provides the high pressure liquid to thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, thefluid control device 330 is a pump adapted for both high pressure and low flow rates. However, thepump 330 can be any pump suitable for delivering fluid at the desired parameters (pressure, flow rate, and the like). Thefluid control device 330 thus can provide fluid flow in a range of pressures and flow rates as described herein. - The
fluid control device 330 can have acontrol input device 388 to obtain the desired output from thefluid control device 330. The user can command thecontrol input device 388 to obtain, e.g., the desired flow rate of fluid sprayed from thenozzle 322. Thecontrol input device 388 can be used to set, for example, a relative pressure change between the upstream fluid (e.g., the liquid in thehose 16 b) and the downstream fluid (e.g., the liquid in the output hose 343) or an absolute pressure of the fluid flow. In one embodiment, thecontrol input device 388 can be used to control a relative pressure change so that thefluid control device 330 receives fluid at a first pressure from thehose 16 b and provides liquid at a second pressure greater or less than the first pressure by a desired amount. For example, the user can control thefluid control device 330 to obtain a relative pressure increase of 20 psi. Thefluid control device 330 thus can receive liquid at low pressure (e.g., 60 psi) and output liquid at higher pressure (e.g., 80 psi). Alternatively, the user can control thefluid control device 330 to obtain fluid at an absolute pressure. For example, thefluid control device 330 can receive liquid at various pressures, preferably in the range of about 40 psi to about 60 psi, and output liquid at an absolute pressure (e.g., a pressure of about 1,500 psi). Thecontrol input device 388 can be similar or different than thecontrol input 38 as discussed herein. Additionally, in some embodiments thefluid control device 330 can deliver a plurality of different fluid flows to theoutput hose 343 as described herein. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
control input device 388 is disposed on thehousing 338. Alternatively, the control input device can be in the form of a remote control as described in the co-pending application Ser. No. 10/799,362 entitled REMOTE CONTROL FOR HOSE OPERATION, filed on Mar. 12, 2004, which claims priority to the U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/455,229 filed on Mar. 13, 2003, the entire disclosures of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. For example, a remote control can be used to transmit wireless command signals to electronic components of thefluid control device 330, such as wireless receiver and associated circuitry, to thereby control thevalve system 364. The remote control can be used to control the flow rate out of thenozzle 322. Additionally, thehose reel apparatus 210 can be motorized and electrically controllable, as disclosed in application Ser. No. 10/799,362, and controllable by a remote control. In a preferred embodiment, the remotely controllablefluid control device 330 and the remotely controllablehose reel apparatus 210 are controlled by a single remote control. - The
fluid control device 330 can be in electrical communication with a power supply. In one embodiment, the fluid control device includes a power supply 339 (shown inFIG. 3B ), such as a battery, which provides power to electrical components (e.g., pumps or the valves) of the fluid control device. Thepower supply 339 can be a battery that is preferably disposed within thehousing 338 of thefluid control device 330, or in thehousing 212 of thehose reel apparatus 210. In one arrangement, the battery is a rechargeable battery that can be connected to and recharged by an AC power supply, such as a typical residential electrical outlet. Alternatively, thefluid control device 330 can be directly powered by an AC power supply. The power supply can provide power to several components of the hose system. For example, the power supply can provide power to a plurality offluid control devices 330 and/or a flow control unit. - In one embodiment, for example, the
fluid control device 330 can deliver a fist fluid (e.g., water) at a first pressure and a second fluid (e.g., air) of a second pressure to amulti-passage hose 343, as described below. Thecontrol input device 388 can be used to selectively control the different fluid flows from thefluid control device 330. - The
output hose 343 is in fluid communication with thefluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. Theoutput hose 343 has aproximal end 340 and adistal end 346. Thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343 preferably terminates in thehigh pressure nozzle 322. Thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343 is preferably coupled to thehigh pressure nozzle 322. The diameter of theoutput hose 343 is preferably less than or equal to about ½ inch. For example, theoutput hose 343 can be a conventional hose that is configured to be coupled to a high pressure nozzle. In another embodiment, theoutput hose 343 is a hose capable of operating at elevated pressures (e.g., pressures up to 1200-1500 psi, or up to 2000 psi, or up to 2500 psi, or up to 5000 psi). Further, theoutput hose 343 can be capable of providing high pressure fluid flows to thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, theoutput hose 343 is a typical high pressure hose configured to provide fluid flow to a sprayer or nozzle. - The
nozzle 322 can be any device suitable for delivering (e.g., spraying) a fluid. In one embodiment, thenozzle 322 is preferably a high pressure nozzle adapted for receiving liquid at a pressure which is significantly higher than the pressure of the fluid delivered by thefaucet 10 in the form of a residential water faucet. For example, many typicalhigh pressure nozzles 322 are adapted to spray fluid at a pressure in the range of about 500 psi to 5,000 psi. The liquid at a pressure of about 40 to 60 psi delivered by thefaucet 10 thus may not be suitable for operating thehigh pressure nozzle 322. The low pressure of the liquid can result in a low flow rate out of thenozzle 322 thereby providing undesirable spray from thenozzle 322. Thefluid control device 330 can advantageously increase the pressure of the fluid delivered by thefaucet 10 to a suitable pressure to operate thehigh pressure nozzle 322. For example, thefluid control device 330 can receive water at a pressure in the range of about 40 to 60 psi and then pressurize the water sufficiently so that theoutput hose 343 delivers the water at a high pressure in the range of about 400 psi to about 5,000 psi to thehigh pressure nozzle 322. In one embodiment, for example, thefluid control device 330 provides liquid at a high pressure of about 500 psi to about 5,000 psi. In another embodiment, thefluid control device 330 provides liquid at a high pressure of at least about 2,000 psi. In yet another embodiment, thefluid control device 330 delivers liquid at a high pressure of at least about 1,200 psi. Thus, thefluid control device 330 can deliver liquid at various pressures suitable for operating different types of high pressure devices. Optionally, the user can use thecontrol input device 388 to control the pressure of the fluid provided by thefluid control device 330. - In operation of the embodiment in
FIG. 3A , the user that desires high pressure liquid or water flowing from thehigh pressure nozzle 322 can open thefaucet 10 by using themanual control 14. Liquid flows from theoutlet 8 through theliquid hose 16 b and into thefluid control device 330. - The
fluid control device 330 can pressurize fluid and provide high pressure fluid through theoutlet 334 and into theoutput hose 343. The user can command thecontrol input device 388 to obtain the desired pressure of the fluid provided by thefluid control device 330. In one embodiment, thefluid control device 330 can provide fluid flows at various different pressures. Thefluid control device 330 thus can provide fluid flow at different flow rates for certain periods of time. For example, if a user wishes to operate a high pressure device (e.g., nozzle 322) with low pressure water in the range of about 40 psi to about 60 psi, the low pressure water may be inadequate to effectively operate thenozzle 322. For example, thenozzle 322 may operate effectively when it receives a liquid at a pressure of at least 1200 psi. Thefluid control device 330 can be conveniently connected to theliquid hose 16 b (in the form of either a conventional or high-pressure hose), which is typically connected to thefaucet 10. Thefluid control device 330 provides liquid at a high pressure to theoutput hose 343 for effective operation of thenozzle 322. - The
fluid control device 330 can also provide fluid at a regular or low pressure to thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, the low pressure flow is generally equal to or slightly greater than the pressure of the water provided by thefaucet 10. The diameter of theoutput hose 343 may be less than the diameter of a conventional garden hose in order to operate as an air hose, as described below. For example, theoutput hose 343 may have a diameter of about ½ inch or less and thehose 16 b may have a diameter of about ⅝ inch. Thefluid control device 330 can output liquid at a pressure greater than the pressure of the fluid within theliquid hose 16 b so that the volume flow rate (i.e., volumetric flow rate) through theoutput hose 343 is similar to the volume flow rate that would be produced if only the conventionally sized,large diameter hose 16 b was connected to the faucet 10 (i.e., without thedevice 330 and remaining downstream apparatus). Thefluid control device 330 can preferably increase or decrease the pressure of the liquid it outputs for decreased or increased cross sectional area, respectively, of theoutput hose 343. One of ordinary skill in the art can determine the desired pressure provided by thefluid control device 330 depending on, for example, the density of the working fluid and the desired flow rates. For example, theoutput hose 343 may be adapted for high pressure fluid flows (e.g., flows at about 500 psi to about 1500 psi). These high pressure hoses have a diameter that is less than or equal to about ½ inch. Thus, thefluid control device 330 can slightly pressurizes liquid it receives at a “regular” liquid flow to maintain a desirable flow rate. In one embodiment, thefluid control device 330 is configured to operate at a first level and at a second level. When thefluid control device 330 operates at the second level the fluid control device receives a liquid at a first pressure from theliquid hose 16 b and pressurizes the liquid to a second pressure based on the difference between the cross-sectional area of thehose 16 b and the cross sectional area of theoutput hose 343. Preferably, thefluid control device 330 can be operable at the second level to create a volumetric flow rate throughoutput hose 343 that is similar to the volumetric flow rate throughhose 16 b at a regular volumetric flow rate. The regular volumetric flow rate can be the same or different than the flow rate in a hose which is receiving water from a residential water source providing water in the range of about 40 psi to about 60 psi. Additionally, thefluid control device 330 can be operable at the first level to create a volumetric flow rate suitable for a high pressure device. - In one arrangement, the
fluid control device 330 is configured to receive liquid from theinlet 332 at a first pressure and convey the liquid to theoutlet 334 at one of a second and a third pressure. The first pressure can be less than the second and third pressures, and the second pressure can be less than the third pressure. The second pressure can be at about a level sufficient to induce a flow rate in theoutput hose 343 that is generally equivalent to a flow rate of a similar liquid flowing at said first pressure in a lumen having said first cross sectional area, the third pressure may be at least 500 psi. - Additionally, the
fluid control device 330 can preferably also permit the fluid from theliquid hose 16 b to flow into theoutput hose 343 without a substantial pressure change (e.g., unpressurized fluid). Thefluid control device 330 thus can provide any desired flow rate to thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, thefluid control device 330 is adapted to attach to hosereel apparatus housing 212. In another embodiment, thefluid control device 330 is not attached to the hosereel apparatus housing 212. - The fluid flow, preferably at a high pressure, from the
fluid control device 330 can flow through theoutput hose 343, which is wound around thehose reel apparatus 210 and out of thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343 to thenozzle 322. Thenozzle 322 can, in turn, spray out the fluid. -
FIG. 3B is a schematic cross section of thefluid control device 330 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Thefluid control device 330 can receive at least two fluid flows and provide at least one fluid flow to theoutput hose 343. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
fluid control device 330 includes aliquid passage 360, agas passage 362, avalve system 364, and anoutput passage 368 which are preferably disposed within thehousing 338. Theliquid passage 360 defines a fluid flow path and is positioned at some point between theliquid inlet 332 and thevalve system 364. Thegas passage 362 defines a second fluid flow path and is positioned between aninlet 342 and thevalve system 364. Thevalve system 364 is configured to receive liquid (e.g., water) from theliquid passage 360 and gas (e.g., air) from thegas passage 362 and provide liquid, gas, and mixtures thereof to theoutput passage 368. Theoutput passage 368 defines a fluid flow path and is positioned between thevalve system 364 and theoutlet 334, which is adapted to be in fluid communication with theoutput hose 343. - The
valve system 364 can selectively output fluid flow to theoutput hose 343. In the illustrated embodiment, thevalve system 364 includes a two-way valving system such that fluid can flow from theliquid passage 360, thegas passage 362, or from both simultaneously and into theoutput passage 368. Of course, both of the flows can be shut off as well to stop the fluid flow to theoutput passage 368. Furthermore, thevalve system 364 can include a pressure generator or pump which can pressurize so that pressurized fluid is provided to theoutput hose 343. Furthermore, thevalve system 364 can be similar to the valve systems described herein. For example, thevalve system 364 can be similar to thevalve system 66. Of course, thevalve system 66 can be modified depending on the pressure provided by thefluid control device 330. -
FIG. 3C is a schematic cross section of thevalve system 364 ofFIG. 3B in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, thevalve system 364 includes a plurality of valves and a pump or compressor that can pressurize fluid that is delivered to theoutput hose 343. Thevalve system 364 has two valves, each of which selectively permits or inhibits flow into theoutput passage 368. In one embodiment,valves valve 370 is positioned at some point upstream of aproximal end 372 of theoutput passage 368. Thegas valve 374 is positioned at some point along thegas passage 362 that is upstream of theproximal end 372 of theoutput passage 368. Additionally, thevalves valves valve system 364. - The
valve system 364 can include a plurality of compressors or pumps. In the illustrated embodiment, apump 378 is preferably upstream of theproximal end 372 of theoutput passage 368 at some point along theliquid passage 360. Thepump 378 can increase the pressure of the liquid provided by theliquid passage 360. For example, thepump 378 can receive liquid at a pressure of about 40 psi to 60 psi and provide liquid at a pressure of about 500 psi to about 5,000 psi to thepassage 368. Of course, thevalve 370 is preferably a high pressure valve that can withstand fluid pressures up to, in one embodiment, about 5,000 psi. - In the illustrated embodiment, a
pump 380 is preferably upstream of theproximal end 372 of thepassage 368 and can draw ambient air outside of thehousing 338 through the inlet 342 (shown inFIG. 3B ) and through thepassage 362. Thepump 380 can provide air flow through thepassage 362 and thevalve 374 to theproximal end 372 of theoutput passage 368. Thus, bothpumps proximal end 372 of theoutput passage 368 such that their respective fluids can pass either alone or in combination through theoutput passage 368 and to theoutput hose 343. One of ordinary skill in the art can determine the appropriate combination ofpumps valves output hose 343. Although not illustrated, theproximal end 340 of theoutput hose 343 can be directly connected to thevalve system 364. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
control input device 388 ofcontrol device 330 commands thevalve system 364. Thevalve system 364 can be in communication with thecontrol input device 388 such that a user can selectively control the flow rate, type of flow (e.g., a liquid flow, gas flow, or mixture thereof), pressure of the fluid flows, and/or other parameters of the fluid flow to theoutput hose 343. The user thus uses thecontrol input device 388 to allow liquid, gas, or mixtures thereof to flow from thefluid control device 330 and through theoutput hose 343 and thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, thecontrol input device 388 is disposed on thehousing 338. Alternatively, the control input device can be in the form of a remote control as described in co-pending application Ser. No. 10/799,362. For example, a remote control can be used to transmit wireless command signals to electronic components of thefluid control device 330 to thereby control thevalve system 364. Additionally, the remote control device can control several components of the hose system. For example, a single remote control device can control thefluid control device 330 and thehose reel apparatus 210. In one embodiment theapparatus 210 is operatively connected to an electronically controllable motor and controllable via remote control as disclosed in co-pending application Ser. No. 10/799,362. - In operation of the embodiment in
FIG. 3B , the user that desires liquid (e.g., water) flowing from thehigh pressure nozzle 322 can open thefaucet 10 as described above. Water flows through theliquid hose 16 b to thefluid control device 330. The water passes throughinlet 332 and through theliquid passage 360 and thevalve system 364 and into theoutput passage 368. The liquid passes through theoutlet 334 and theoutput hose 343 and can be sprayed out of thehigh pressure nozzle 322. If the user desires a mixed flow of liquid and gas (e.g., a flow comprising water and air), the user can use thecontrol input device 388 to command thevalve system 364 so that it allows both air from thepassage 362 and liquid from thepassage 360 to pass into theoutput passage 368. The mixture can then flow through theoutlet 334, theoutput hose 343, and can be sprayed out of thenozzle 322. If the user desires only air being sprayed from thenozzle 322, the user sets thecontrol input device 388 such that thevalve system 364 allows air to pass through thepassage 362 and thevalve system 364 and into theoutput passage 368. Thevalve system 364 prevents liquid from passing into theoutput passage 368. Thus, only air flows through theoutput passage 368,outlet 334, and theoutput hose 343 and can be sprayed out of thenozzle 322. -
FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of ahose system 401 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Theliquid hose 16 b provides gas from the liquid source orfaucet 10 to thefluid control device 330. Thegas supply 40 provides fluid (e.g., pressurized air) to thegas hose 46, which in turn provides the gas to thefluid control device 330. Thus, thewater faucet 10 and thegas supply 40 are in fluid communication with thefluid control device 330. Thefluid control device 330 is in fluid communication with thehose reel apparatus 210. Thehose reel apparatus 210, in turn, is in fluid communication with thenozzle 322. Theoutput hose 343 preferably comprises a first section interconnected between theoutlet 334 and thereel drum 200, and a second section interconnected between thereal drum 200 and thenozzle 322. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
fluid control device 330 is coupled to thehose reel apparatus 210. In one embodiment, thefluid control device 330 has ahousing 338 that may be attached directly to the hosereel apparatus housing 212. For example, mechanical fasteners can couple thehousing 338 of thefluid control device 330 to thereel apparatus housing 212. The mechanical fasteners can be nut and bolt assemblies, screws, snap fittings, or other suitable coupling devices. For example, thereel apparatus housing 212 can have a bracket or fitting that is configured to engage and hold thefluid control device 330. However, adhesives or other suitable means can be employed for coupling thedevice 330 to thehose reel apparatus 210. -
FIG. 4B is an illustration of the fluid control device 330 (hoses FIG. 4A coupled to the outside of thereel apparatus housing 212. This provides convenient access to thefluid control device 330 for repair and coupling of thehose 16 b to thedevice 330. The outlet or connector 334 (shown inFIG. 4A ) can be disposed through the wall of the hosereel apparatus housing 212 and theproximal end 340 of theoutput hose 343 can be connected to theoutlet 334. Alternatively, although not shown, thefluid control device 330 can be disposed within the hosereel apparatus housing 212. For example, mechanical fasteners can couple thefluid control device 330 to the inner surface of thehousing 212. Although not illustrated, thefluid control device 330 ofFIG. 3A can be attached to thereel apparatus housing 212 in a similar or different manner. Thus, thefluid control device 330 can be connected to thehose reel apparatus 210 via a hose or directly to thehousing 212. -
FIG. 4C is a schematic illustration of thefluid control device 330 in accordance with another embodiment. Theoutput passage 368 andoutlet 334 can be configured to provide fluid flow to anoutput hose 343 that has a plurality of lumens or passages. For example, theoutput passage 368 can have a plurality of passages, each passage corresponding to one of a plurality of passages of theoutput hose 343. In one embodiment, theoutput passage 368 has afirst passage 369 a and a second passage 369 b. Thevalve system 364 receives liquid from theliquid passage 360 and provides the liquid to the first passage 369 b. The first passage 369 b, in turn, provides the liquid to a first passage of themulti-passage output hose 343. Thevalve system 364 can receive gas from thegas passage 362 and provide the gas to thesecond passage 369 a of theoutput passage 368. Thesecond passage 369 a, in turn, provides the gas to a second passage of themulti-passage output hose 343. Thevalve system 364 can provide fluid to the first and second passages of theoutput hose 343 simultaneously or at different times. It is contemplated that theoutput passage 368 can have co-axial passages, side-by-side passages, or other configurations configured to mate with theoutput hose 343. Of course, theoutlet 334 can alternatively be coupled directly to thevalve system 346, without the need for anextended outlet passage 368. -
FIG. 5A is a cross sectional view of theoutput hose 343 along line 5-5 ofFIG. 4A . Theoutput hose 343 can have a plurality of passages or lumens. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, theoutput hose 343 is a coaxial hose that includes a pair of generally concentric tubes orhoses passages passage 402 is defined by theinner surface 406 of thehose 398. Thepassage 404 is defined by anouter surface 410 of thehose 398 and aninner surface 412 of thehose 400. Although not illustrated, theoutput hose 343 can have any number of passages suitable for providing fluid to thenozzle 322. For example, theoutput hose 343 can be a triaxial hose. Furthermore, the hoses can be in any configuration suitable for providing fluid flow between thefluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. - In operation, the
hose 343 preferably has at least one passage for providing liquid communication between thefluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5A , thepassage 402 provides liquid between thefluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. Thepassage 404 preferably provides gas or a mixture of gas/liquid betweenfluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. Thepassages nozzle 322. However, thepassages passage 402 can provide a mixture of water and an additive (e.g., chemicals, surfactants, detergents, and the like) and thepassage 404 can provide water to thehigh pressure nozzle 322. Thehoses passages nozzle 322. -
FIG. 5B is a cross sectional view of the another embodiment of theoutput hose 343 along line 5-5. Theoutput hose 343 can have a plurality of passages or lumens that are side-by-side. In the illustrated embodiment, theoutput hose 343 has a pair of side-by-side passages output hose 343 can have any number of passages for delivering fluid to thehigh pressure nozzle 322. It is contemplated that theoutput hose 343 can have any configuration suitable to provide fluid communication between thefluid control device 330 and thenozzle 322. For example, as shown inFIG. 5C , theoutput hose 343 has a plurality ofpassages fluid control device 330 andnozzle 322. In the illustrated embodiment, thepassages output hose 343. Theoutput hose 343 ofFIGS. 5B and 5C can provide flows similar to theoutput hose 343 ofFIG. 5A and thus will not be discussed in further detail. Thefluid control device 330 and/or thenozzle 322 can be used to control the flow rate in each lumen of theoutput hose 343. -
FIG. 6A is a partial cross sectional view of a nozzle for spraying fluid in accordance with a preferred embodiment. Thenozzle 322 is configured to mate with theoutput hose 343 having a plurality of passages. In the illustrated embodiment, thenozzle 322 is a spray gun coupled to thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343. Fluid from thefluid control device 330 thus can flow through theoutput hose 343 and through theoutlet 28 of thenozzle 322. - In one embodiment, the
nozzle 322 includes ahousing 420, aninlet 422, avalve system 424, achamber 426, and theoutlet 28. Theinlet 422 is at the proximal end of thehousing 420 and theoutlet 28 is at the distal end of thehousing 420. Thehousing 420 defines thechamber 426 which provides a flow path between theinlet 422 and theoutlet 28. In the illustrated embodiment, thehousing 420 includes ahand grip 430 that is configured to be gripped by a user such that the user can engage and actuate atrigger 432 to control the fluid flow out of thenozzle 322. However, thenozzle 322 can have any configuration and size suitable so that the nozzle can be conveniently gripped and held by the user when fluid flows out of theoutlet 28. - The
inlet 422 is configured to engage thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343 so that water can flow into theinlet 422 through thenozzle 322 and out of theoutlet 28. Theinlet 422 can be permanently or removably coupled to theoutput hose 343. In one embodiment, for example, theinlet 422 includes fittings that can each be coupled to one of the lumens of theoutput hose 343 at thedistal end 346. Theoutput hose 343 can be frictionally or threadably coupled to theinlet 422. For example, the inner surface of theinlet 422 can define threads that are configured to mate with threads on the outer surface of theend 346 of thehose 343 so that theoutput hose 343 can be threadably attached to thenozzle 322. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many suitable types of connections for coupling theoutput hose 343 to thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, for example, thenozzle 322 can have a nozzle coupler likenozzle coupler 24 described herein. Thevalve system 424 can be used to selectively control the fluid flow through thenozzle 322. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
valve system 424 includes a pair ofvalves output hose 343 into thenozzle 322. In the illustrated embodiment, thevalve system 424 includes at least one control input device that commands thevalves more switches 440 that can be actuated so that thevalves 436, 438 (e.g., electric or pneumatic solenoid valves) selectively permit or inhibit fluid flow throughpassages chamber 426. For example, each of the twovalves nozzle 322. Alternatively, one of thevalves passages nozzle 322. Of course, both flows through thepassages nozzle 322 by using theswitches 440 conveniently located on the nozzle. - In one embodiment, the
switches 440 are used to control whether the flow through thenozzle 322 is from thepassage switches 440 can be used to open thevalve 436 and close thevalve 438. Alternatively, theswitches 440 can be used to open thevalve 438 and close thevalve 436. Additionally, theswitches 440 can be used to partially open thevalves trigger 432 can be used to control the flow rate through the open or partially open valves of thevalve system 424. The user can move thetrigger 432 for movement of at least one of thevalves trigger 432 can control an additional valve downstream of thevalves nozzle 322. Thus, theswitches 440 can determine the type of flow through thenozzle 322 and thetrigger 432 can selectively control the flow rate through the nozzle. - The
chamber 426 is defined by the inner surface of thehousing 420 and provides a flow path between thevalve system 424 and theoutlet 28. In the illustrated embodiment, thechamber 426 tapers in the distal direction so that the fluid flow rate increases at the distal end of thenozzle 322. However, thechamber 426 can have any suitable shape for delivering fluid to theoutlet 28. For example, thechamber 426 can have a shape to promote mixing of the fluids from thepassages -
FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of a nozzle in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Thenozzle 322 includes aproximal end 442, a nozzle coupler orcollar 446, thehousing 420, thechamber 426, theoutlet 28, and one ormore passages 444. In operation, thepassage 444 draws ambient air into thenozzle 322 via venturi effect. Thenozzle 322 combines the ambient air that passes through thepassages 444 with fluid flowing from the output hose 343 (not shown). The mixed flow can flow through at least a portion of thechamber 426 and out of theoutlet 28 of thenozzle 322. It is expected that the introduction of ambient air via thepassage 444 will advantageously produce a finer, more dispersed output spray from thenozzle 322. Skilled artisans will appreciate that the quality of the output spray can be adjusted by varying the size and number ofpassages 444 in thenozzle 322. - The
distal end 346 of theoutput hose 343 can be coupled to theproximal end 442 of thenozzle 322, such that thedistal end 346 is disposed between thecollar 446 and the proximal end of thehousing 420. In one embodiment, thedistal end 346 of thehose 343 has threads configured to mate and threadably engage withthreads 448 of thecollar 446. However, thecollar 446 can have any structures suitable for receiving and coupling thedistal end 346 of theoutput hose 343. - The
chamber 426 can be configured to enhance mixture of fluid from theoutput hose 343 and fluid from another source. In the illustrated embodiment, thechamber 426 promotes mixture of liquid from theoutput hose 343 and gas, preferably ambient air, from the environment surrounding thenozzle 322. In one embodiment, thechamber 426 can comprise an elongated chamber wherein a portion of thechamber 426 has a reduced cross-sectional area. In the illustrated embodiment, thechamber 426 includes aproximal chamber 450, adistal chamber 452, and apassage 454 having a reduced cross-section therebetween. Thepassage 454 can produce a high flow rate between thechambers inlet 445 of thepassage 444 and out ofoutlet 447 and into thepassage 454 such that the fluid flow provided by thechamber 450 and the air flow from thepassages 444 are combined and fed to thechamber 452. The mixed flow can be agitated within thechamber 452 and then sprayed out of theoutlet 28. The mixed flow comprising liquid (e.g., water) and gas (e.g., air) can increase the spraying action of the fluid sprayed out of theoutlet 28. Preferably, thenozzle 322 is coupled to theoutput hose 343 having a single passage. However, thenozzle 322 can be coupled to themulti-passage output hose 343. Although not illustrated, thenozzle 322 can have one or more switches or a control devices, as described herein, for controlling the fluid flow through thenozzle 322. -
FIG. 6C is a cross-section view of a nozzle in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Thenozzle 322 is generally similar to thenozzle 322 ofFIG. 6B . However, thenozzle 322 ofFIG. 6C has apassage 460 having aninlet 461 andoutlet 463. Thepassage 460 defines a fluid path between thedistal end 346 of the output hose 343 (not shown) and thepassage 454. For example, theinlet 461 can receive fluid from a passage of themulti-passage output hose 343 and theinlet 422 can receive fluid from another passage of themulti-passage output hose 343. Theoutput hose 343 can thus deliver two separate flows (e.g., liquid and gas flow) to theinlet 422 and thepassage 460. These two flows can then be mixed within thechamber 452 and the mixture can flow out of theoutlet 28. Preferably, the flow provided by thechamber 450 and thepassage 460 are combined within thenarrow passage 454 so that mixing occurs at higher flow velocities. Although not illustrated, thenozzle 322 can have a control device, such as one or more switches, to permit or inhibit at least one of the fluid flows through the nozzle. Of course, thehose reel 210 can have a device to control the fluid flow as described herein. Alternatively, thefluid control device 330 can have a control input device, such ascontrol input device 388 ofFIG. 3A , that can control the fluid flow through thenozzle 322. -
FIG. 6D is a cross-section view of thenozzle 322 in accordance with the another embodiment of the present invention. Thenozzle 322 can include a pair ofinlets valve system 464, achamber 426, andhousing 420. Thenozzle 322 can be generally similar to the nozzles described herein. However, thenozzle 322 ofFIG. 6D can be coupled to theoutput hose 343 having a pair of tubes at itsdistal end 346. Each of theends 346 can be coupled to correspondinginlets hose 343 can be delivered through thedistal end 346 through theinlets valve system 464. Thevalve system 464 can be similar to the valve systems disclosed herein to selectively permit or inhibit flow from theoutput hose 343 through thenozzle 322. Although not illustrated, theoutput hose 343 can alternatively be a triaxial hose that terminates into three separate hoses at itsdistal end 346 coupled to thenozzle 322. Thevalve system 464 thus can permit or inhibit flow from any number of hoses of theoutput hose 343 through thenozzle 322 and out of theoutlet 28. Thevalve system 464 can also have one or more controllers or switches 468 so that the user can control the flow through thenozzle 422. - Although not illustrated, the
chamber 426 can have other configuration. In one embodiment, a substantial portion of thechamber 426 has a generally uniform cross sectional area between theinlet 422 and theoutlet 28 of thenozzle 322. In another embodiment, a substantial portion of thechamber 426 has a generally uniform cross sectional area and another portion of thechamber 426 has a cross sectional area that is reduced or tapered towards theoutlet 28. Additionally, thepassages nozzle 322. For example, theoutlet 463 of the passage 460 (FIG. 6C ) can be located at any point along thechamber 426. - It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various omissions, additions, and modifications may be made to the methods and structures described above without departure from the scope of the invention. For example, the valve system may have valves that the user manually opens and closes. Further, the methods which are described and illustrated herein is not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor is it necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention. All such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (24)
1. A hose system comprising:
a fluid control device comprising an inlet and an outlet, the fluid control device configured to receive liquid at a first pressure through the inlet and to provide liquid at a second pressure through the outlet, the first pressure being less than the second pressure when the liquid flows through a first liquid passage between the inlet and the outlet, the first pressure being substantially the same as the second pressure when the liquid flows through a second liquid passage between the inlet and the outlet; and
a hose reel device in fluid communication with the outlet of the fluid control device, the hose reel device comprising a rotatable element onto which a hose can be spooled, the hose reel device configured to convey fluid from the outlet to a hose spooled onto the rotatable element.
2. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the inlet of the fluid control device is in fluid communication with a fluid source and the outlet of the fluid control device is in fluid communication with the hose reel device, wherein the hose reel device has a housing to which the fluid control device is attached.
3. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the inlet of the fluid control device is in fluid communication with a fluid source and the outlet of the fluid control device is in fluid communication with a hose spooled onto the rotatable element of the hose reel device.
4. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device comprises a pump configured to pressurize the liquid received at the first pressure so that the second pressure is in the range of about 500 psi to about 5,000 psi.
5. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device comprises a pump configured to pressurize the liquid received at the first pressure so that the second pressure is at least about 1,200 psi.
6. The hose system of claim 1 , further comprising:
an output hose adapted to be spooled around the rotatable element of the hose reel device and in fluid communication with the outlet of the fluid control device; and
an input hose having one end in fluid communication with the inlet of the fluid control device and another end in fluid communication with a liquid source, the input hose having a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the output hose.
7. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the first pressure is between about 40 and 60 psi.
8. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device further comprises a check valve disposed within the second liquid passage.
9. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device further comprises a valve that has a first position in which the valve opens the first liquid passage and closes the second liquid passage, and a second position in which the valve opens the second liquid passage and closes the first liquid passage.
10. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device and the hose reel device are integrated within a single housing.
11. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid control device is within a first housing and the hose reel device is within a second housing.
12. The hose system of claim 11 , wherein the first housing is mechanically coupled to the second housing.
13. A fluid control device comprising:
an inlet;
an outlet downstream of the inlet;
a first fluid passage between the inlet and the outlet;
a second fluid passage between the inlet and the outlet, the second fluid passage including a pressurization chamber configured to increase a pressure of fluid flowing through the second fluid passage; and
a valve system having a first state in which the valve system (1) allows fluid to flow from the inlet through the first fluid passage to the outlet and (2) prevents fluid from flowing from the inlet through the second fluid passage to the outlet, the valve system having a second state in which the valve system (1) allows fluid to flow from the inlet through the second fluid passage to the outlet and (2) prevents fluid from flowing from the inlet through the first fluid passage to the outlet, wherein when the valve system is in the second state, fluid pressure at the outlet is substantially greater than fluid pressure at the inlet.
14. The fluid control device of claim 13 , wherein when the valve system is in the first state, fluid pressure at the inlet is substantially equal to fluid pressure at the outlet.
15. (canceled)
16. The fluid control device of claim 13 , further comprising a check valve configured to prevent fluid exiting the pressurization chamber from flowing back towards the inlet.
17. The fluid control device of claim 13 , further comprising a switch in electrical communication with the valve system, the switch configured to shift the valve system between the first state and the second state.
18. The fluid control device of claim 13 , further comprising a hose reel device in fluid communication with the outlet, the hose reel device comprising a rotatable element onto which a hose can be spooled, the hose reel device configured to convey fluid from the outlet to a hose spooled onto the rotatable element.
19. The fluid control device of claim 18 , wherein the inlet, the outlet, the first fluid passage, the second fluid passage, the valve system, and the hose reel device are integrated within a single housing.
20. The fluid control device of claim 18 , wherein the inlet, the outlet, the first fluid passage, the second fluid passage, and the valve system are within a first housing and the hose reel device is within a second housing.
21. The fluid control device of claim 20 , wherein the first housing is mechanically coupled to the second housing.
22. The hose system of claim 1 , wherein the rotatable element comprises a drum.
23. The hose system of claim 22 , wherein the drum is cylindrical.
24. The fluid control device of claim 18 , further comprising a hose spooled onto the rotatable element, the hose configured to receive fluid from the outlet.
Priority Applications (1)
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US11/738,167 US20070187529A1 (en) | 2003-04-11 | 2007-04-20 | Fluid control system for gas/liquid |
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US46257103P | 2003-04-11 | 2003-04-11 | |
US10/823,916 US20050011968A1 (en) | 2003-04-11 | 2004-04-12 | Fluid control system for gas/liquid |
US11/738,167 US20070187529A1 (en) | 2003-04-11 | 2007-04-20 | Fluid control system for gas/liquid |
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US11/738,167 Abandoned US20070187529A1 (en) | 2003-04-11 | 2007-04-20 | Fluid control system for gas/liquid |
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EP (1) | EP1615733A2 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2006525869A (en) |
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2004
- 2004-04-09 NZ NZ543333A patent/NZ543333A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-04-09 RU RU2005134668/12A patent/RU2356653C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-04-09 CN CNA2004800127280A patent/CN1787884A/en active Pending
- 2004-04-09 BR BRPI0409201-5A patent/BRPI0409201A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-04-09 CA CA002521622A patent/CA2521622A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-04-09 MX MXPA05010781A patent/MXPA05010781A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2004-04-09 JP JP2006509885A patent/JP2006525869A/en active Pending
- 2004-04-09 EP EP04749966A patent/EP1615733A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-04-09 WO PCT/US2004/011064 patent/WO2004091283A2/en active Application Filing
- 2004-04-09 AU AU2004229479A patent/AU2004229479B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2004-04-12 US US10/823,916 patent/US20050011968A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2007
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US20070278327A1 (en) * | 2006-06-05 | 2007-12-06 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Fluids mixing nozzle |
US20120241014A1 (en) * | 2010-08-30 | 2012-09-27 | Wise Todd W | Portable pressure washer |
US8556192B2 (en) * | 2010-08-30 | 2013-10-15 | Todd W. Wise | Portable pressure washer |
US20170299484A1 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2017-10-19 | Sick Ag | Apparatus for optical in-situ gas analysis |
US10156504B2 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2018-12-18 | Sick Ag | Apparatus for optical in-situ gas analysis |
CN106641731A (en) * | 2017-01-20 | 2017-05-10 | 荆州嘉华科技有限公司 | Pressure regulation and energy saving device and method of fluid transportation and distribution system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2004091283A2 (en) | 2004-10-28 |
CN1787884A (en) | 2006-06-14 |
EP1615733A2 (en) | 2006-01-18 |
NZ543333A (en) | 2007-06-29 |
RU2005134668A (en) | 2006-06-10 |
WO2004091283A3 (en) | 2005-09-15 |
US20050011968A1 (en) | 2005-01-20 |
AU2004229479A1 (en) | 2004-10-28 |
CA2521622A1 (en) | 2004-10-28 |
JP2006525869A (en) | 2006-11-16 |
RU2356653C2 (en) | 2009-05-27 |
MXPA05010781A (en) | 2006-05-25 |
AU2004229479B2 (en) | 2009-09-24 |
BRPI0409201A (en) | 2006-03-28 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |