PIVOTABLE REEL ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A pivotable reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The elongate mounting portion can include a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions. A spool drum can be connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool drum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivot axis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion and configured to roil about the pivot axis. The distal portion can position the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/409,300, filed on Oct. 17, 2016, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/431,740, filed on Dec. 8, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Field

The field relates to a pivotable reel assembly, and in particular, for a pivotable reel assembly for spooling and unspooling a linear element.

Description of the Related Art

Linear elements (such as hoses for conducting fluid, electrical cords, air hoses, etc.) can be cumbersome and difficult to manage. Mechanical reels have been designed to help spool hoses onto a drum-like spool apparatus. Some conventional reels are manually operated, requiring the user to physically rotate the reel, or drum, to spool the hose. This can be tiresome and time-consuming for users, especially when the hose is of a substantial length. Moreover, conventional reels may be mounted to a fixed structure, such that the reel does not move in response to the user moving to a different location. Accordingly, there remains a continuing need for improved reel assemblies.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The elongate mounting portion can comprise a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions. A spool drum can be connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool drum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivot axis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion and configured to roll about the pivot axis. The distal portion can position the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame. The spool drum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. A spooling support can be coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis. The spooling support can be configured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis. A motor can be operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis and can be operably connected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support to translate about the spooling support axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. A spool drum can be connected with the mounting portion of the frame. The spool drum can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with the pivot axis, A motor can be operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool to rotate about the rotational axis. A motor controller can be in electrical communication with the motor, the motor controller configured to transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor.

In one embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the elongate mounting portion comprising a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a wheel connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion and configured to roll about the pivot axis, wherein the distal portion positions the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame, and a spool drum connected with the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a spooling support coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis, the spooling support configured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis. The reel assembly can include a motor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis and operably connected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support to translate about the spooling support axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with the pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a motor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis. The reel assembly can include a controller in electrical communication with the motor, the controller configured to transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a connector axis, the connector positioned such that the connector axis is aligned with the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the base having a lower surface that defines a lateral dimension of the base, the lower surface to be supported by a support surface during use of the reel assembly. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the spool drum having a width along the rotational axis, the width of the spool drum less than the lateral dimension of the base.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the base having a lower surface to be supported by a support surface during use of the reel assembly, wherein, at least during use of the reel assembly, the base does not translate relative to the support surface and is not required to penetrate the support surface. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and a mounting portion. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a first connector connected to the frame, the first connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a first connector axis non-parallel to the rotational axis. The reel assembly can include a second connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a second connector axis parallel to the rotational axis. The reel assembly can include a conduit having a first end portion connected to the first connector and a second end portion connected to the second connector, at least a portion of the conduit extending non-parallel relative to the first connector axis, the conduit being bent so as to pass through or around the mounting portion of the frame to provide fluid or electrical communication between the first and second connectors.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base, a mounting portion, and a bearing disposed between the base and the mounting portion, the mounting portion being configured to pivot relative to the bearing and the base about a pivot axis, the bearing comprising an annular ridge disposed about the pivot axis, the annular ridge providing a bearing surface along which the mounting portion slides when the mounting portion pivots about the pivot axis. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame comprising a base and a mounting portion, the base having a stored profile with a first lateral dimension and a deployed profile with a second lateral dimension, the second lateral dimension larger than the first lateral dimension. The reel assembly can include a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a motor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis. The reel assembly can include a controller in electrical communication with the motor, the controller configured to transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor, the controller having processing circuitry configured to place the reel assembly in a sleep mode when the reel assembly is inactive. The reel assembly can include a battery to supply electrical power to the controller, wherein, when the reel assembly is in the sleep mode, the controller is placed in a limited power mode that draws little or no current from the battery. The controller can be configured to detect a signal from the motor indicative of user activity, the controller configured to move the reel assembly from the sleep mode to an active mode based on the detected signal.

In another embodiment, a reel assembly is disclosed. The reel assembly can include a frame and a spool drum connected with the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element. The reel assembly can include a wear ring assembly coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis, the wear ring assembly comprising an opening through which the linear element is to be disposed, the wear ring assembly comprising a wear ring having a first portion configured to removably engage with a second portion to enclose the linear element therebetween.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic rear perspective view of a reel assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the reel assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top plan view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic front elevational view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic left side elevational view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic right side elevational view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a reel assembly similar to the reel assembly of FIGS. 1-6.

FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C illustrates a connector used to connect to a linear element.

FIG. 8 illustrates a spool configured for use in various embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a reel assembly according to various embodiments.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front, right perspective view of a reel assembly according to various embodiments.

FIG. 10B is a schematic front view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a schematic front, left perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a schematic right elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B is a schematic left elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are exploded views of various components of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 13A is a schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 13B is a magnified schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a disc bearing used in conjunction with the reel assembly of FIGS. 10A-13B.

FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the disc bearing of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 14C is a schematic side sectional view of the disc bearing of FIGS. 14A-14B.

FIG. 15 is a schematic top plan view of a reel assembly, according to another embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic top plan views of a base that incorporates pivoting extensions for improved stability.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic top plan views of a base that incorporates sliding extensions for improved stability.

FIG. 18 is a schematic system diagram of a reel assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 19A is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ring assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 19B is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ring assembly, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 19C is a schematic perspective view of the wear ring assembly of FIG. 19A in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 20A is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly incorporated into a housing, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20B is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly incorporated into a housing, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 20C is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly integrated with a housing that is coupled to a spooling support.

FIG. 20D is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly, incorporated into a housing, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a schematic front view of a reel assembly that incorporates a wear ring assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly of FIG. 21, with the linear element in a spooled or stored configuration.

FIG. 23 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly of FIG. 21, with the linear element in a partially unspooled configuration.

FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 22.

FIG. 25A is a schematic perspective view of a reel assembly, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 25B is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 25A, with vertical wheel segments installed on the frame.

FIG. 25C is a top plan view of the reel assembly shown in FIGS. 25A-25B.

FIG. 25D is a schematic perspective view of an example vertical wheel segment and wheel.

FIG. 26A is a schematic perspective view of a reel assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 26B is a schematic view of a switch for powering the reel assembly on and/or off.

FIG. 26C is a front perspective view of a gear assembly for spooling and/or unspooling a linear element.

FIG. 26D is a rear perspective view of the gear assembly.

FIG. 26E is a front perspective view of the gear assembly with planetary gears omitted for ease of illustration.

FIG. 26F is a schematic left perspective view of a reel assembly, having a plurality of wheels.

FIG. 26G is a schematic right perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 26F.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a reel assembly configured to support, spool, and/or unspool a linear element, such as a water hose, an air hose, an electrical cord, etc. In some embodiments, the reel assembly can comprise a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis. The elongate mounting portion can include a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions. A spool can be connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion. The spool can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, with the rotational axis being generally transverse to the pivot axis. A wheel can be connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion. The wheel can be configured to roll about the pivot axis. The distal portion of the mounting portion can position the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis. The wheel can rotate about the transverse axis so as to cause the wheel to roll along a pathway disposed about the pivot axis.

Beneficially, therefore, the reel assembly can pivot about a fixed pivot point, e.g., a pivot axis that does not translate during operation of the reel assembly. In various embodiments, the base of the reel assembly can be wider than the spool and can be dimensioned so as to resist overturning moments due to a user pulling the linear element and/or due to the weight of the reel assembly. In some embodiments, the base need not penetrate a support surface (e.g., the ground) during operation. Moreover, in various embodiments, the reel assembly can comprise conduits and connectors that enable the user to operate the linear element (e.g., a hose or cord) without tangling from an input line. Advantageously, the base of the reel assembly can comprise a connector having a connector axis aligned with the pivot axis. A conduit can connect to the connector, and can be routed around or through the frame to a second connector at an end of the spool drum. A conduit in the spool drum can provide communication with a proximal end of the linear element connected to the spool drum.

In some embodiments, a motor can be operably connected with the spool to cause the spool to rotate about the rotational axis. A motor controller can be in electrical communication with the motor. The motor controller can be configured to transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor. In some embodiments, the reel assembly can include a spooling support coupled with the frame and offset from the spool along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis. The spooling support can be configured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis. In various embodiments, the motor can be operably connected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support to translate about the spooling support axis.

Beneficially, the embodiments disclosed herein can utilize a motor and motor controller to automatically spool and/or unspool a linear element, such as a hose, cord, etc. In various embodiments, for example, a controller can be configured to automatically shut off the supply of water to a water hose and can automatically spool (e.g., retract) the hose along the reel. In various embodiments, a controller can be configured to automatically unspool a water hose and begin supplying water to the hose. In some embodiments, the controller can comprise a timer that automatically starts and/or shuts off the supply of water after a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the reel assembly can be controlled by a handheld remote control unit that communicates with the controller and/or motor controller over a wireless network.

In some embodiments; the reel assembly can comprise a power switch that can be used to turn the reel assembly on and/or off when pressed by a user. The reel assembly can also comprise a wind-in switch that, when pressed by the user, automatically turns off the supply of fluid (e.g., liquid or gas) or current to the linear element (whether the linear element comprises a fluid hose or an electrical cord) and automatically winds in the linear element to spool the linear element about the spool. In various embodiments, when the reel assembly is turned OFF by the user, the battery may be preserved. In various embodiments, when the reel assembly is turned ON by the user and is inactive for a predetermined period of time, a controller can place the reel assembly into a sleep mode to conserve battery power.

In the sleep mode, the controller may not communicate with external devices (such as a handheld remote control) over a communications network (such as a wireless network), which can significantly conserve battery power and lengthen battery life. When a user pulls the hose when the reel assembly is in sleep mode, the force induces a back electromotive force (EMF) in the motor, which sends an alert signal to the controller indicative of the back EMF. The controller can comprise processing electronics (which may be active processing components and/or passive electronic components) that can determine whether the user wishes to use the reel assembly based on the alert signal. If the alert signal indicates that the user wishes to use the reel assembly, then the controller can activate the reel assembly into an active state for operation by the user.

Moreover, the embodiments disclosed herein can beneficially enable the user to pivot the reel assembly about a pivot axis that is non-parallel to (e.g., generally transverse to) the rotational axis of the spool. For example, the user may desire to direct a water hose (or other linear element) along a different direction or orientation. The embodiments disclosed herein can comprise a wheel offset from a pivot axis such that the user can pull, push, or otherwise move a distal portion of a frame so as to cause the reel assembly to pivot relative to the pivot axis. In some embodiments, the user can manually pivot the reel assembly about the pivot axis. In other embodiments, a motor can automatically cause the reel assembly to pivot. In addition, the embodiments disclosed herein can advantageously enable the linear element (e.g., hose, cord, etc.) to spool uniformly across a lateral width of the spool. For example, a spooling support can translate along a spooling support axis that is generally parallel to the rotational axis of the spool so as to evenly spool the linear element along the spool.

FIGS. 1-6 illustrate one embodiment of a reel assembly 1. For example, FIG. 1 is a schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic top plan view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-3. FIG. 5 is a schematic left side view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-4. FIG. 6 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-5. The reel assembly can be used to support, reel and/or unreel a linear element that has a length larger (e.g., at least five times larger or at least ten times larger) than its width. For example, the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can be used to reel and/or unreel a hose having a lumen through which a fluid can flow, e.g., a water hose, an air hose, etc. In other arrangements, the reel assembly 1 can be used to spool and/or unspool an electrical cord or other linear element.

The reel assembly 1 can comprise a frame 2 having a base 3 and an elongate mounting portion 4 extending from and/or otherwise coupled with the base 3. The base 3 can comprise a relatively wide mounting surface that can rest on a support surface, such as the ground. In some embodiments, the base 3 can be supported on the support surface (e.g., the ground) without any penetrating fasteners to secure the base 3 to the support surface. In such arrangements, the base 3 can be sufficiently wide so as to reduce overturning moments due to the weight of the components of the assembly 1. In other embodiments, the base 3 may include one or a plurality of fasteners (such as stakes) to affix the base 3 to the ground. In one embodiment, the base 3 can have a generally circular shape. In other embodiments, the base 3 can have other suitable shapes.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2 can comprise a pair of spaced apart, elongate arms 4a, 4b extending from a proximal portion 5 to a distal portion 7. Although a pair of arms 4a, 4b is shown in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, only a single elongate arm may be used. The proximal portion 5 can extend between and interconnect the pair of arms 4a, 4b and be pivotally coupled with the base 3 such that the mounting portion 4 can pivot about a pivot axis P relative to the base 3. Thus, the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can provide the pivoting connection to the base 3, such that the proximal portion 5 (and hence the frame can pivot relative to the base 3, with the base 3 being generally stationary, during use. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal portion 5 can be a planar piece with a length that is smaller than the outer effective diameter of the base 3. In other embodiments, the proximal portion 5 can be about the same size and shape as the base, can be slightly smaller than the base 3, or can be slightly larger than the base.

A spool drum 8 can be mounted to an intermediate portion 6 of the mounting portion 4 disposed between the proximal 5 and distal portions 7. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the spool drum 8 can be rotatably coupled with the intermediate portion 6 such that the spool drum 8 can rotate about a rotational axis R that is non-parallel with (e.g., generally transverse to) the pivot axis P. In the illustrated embodiment, the spool drum 8 is disposed (e.g., offset) relative to the pivot axis P such that the pivot axis P and the rotational axis R do not intersect. The spool drum 8 can comprise a first end piece 9 and a second end piece 10 spaced apart along the rotational axis R. A spooling surface 11 can be defined between the first and second end pieces 9, 10. In operation, the spool drum 8 can rotate about the rotational axis R in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise about the axis R as illustrated in FIG. 1) to spool the linear element (not shown) onto the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. The spool can rotate about the rotational axis R in a second opposite direction (e.g., clockwise about the axis R as illustrated in FIG. 1) to unspool the linear element (not shown) from the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. The end pieces 9, 10 can assist in retaining the linear element on the spooling surface 11.

The distal portion 7 of the mounting portion 4 can extend distally of the intermediate portion 6. In the illustrated embodiment, a bend 18 in the mounting portion 4 can be defined at or near the intermediate portion 6 so as to angle the distal portion 7 relative to the proximal portion 5. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the distal portion 7 can comprise a segment angled generally along a transverse axis T which is non-parallel to (e.g., generally transverse to) the rotational axis R and the pivot axis P. The distal portion 7 of the mounting portion 4 can also comprise a horizontal segment 16 coupled with a vertical segment 17. The horizontal and vertical segments 16, 17 can optionally be planar, a width of the vertical segment 17 being smaller than a length of the horizontal segment 16. A wheel 12 can be rotatably coupled with the vertical segment 17 of the distal portion 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the wheel 12 comprises two rollers parallel to one another, but it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the wheel 12 may comprise only a single roller. The horizontal segment 16, the vertical segment 17, and the wheel 12 can be dimensioned such that a lowermost portion of the wheel 12 contacts the support surface, e.g., the lowermost portion of the wheel 12 may be generally coplanar with a lowermost portion of the base 3 in various arrangements. In one embodiment, the wheel 12 can contact and roll on the support surface (e.g., ground surface) as the reel assembly 1 is pivoted about the pivot axis P. In use, the pivot axis P may be generally fixed such that the pivot axis P does not translate along and/or tip relative to the support surface during use. For example, the weight of the reel assembly 1 and/or the width of the base 3 may be configured to reduce or eliminate translation of the reel assembly 1 along the ground when subjected to normal pulling forces on the linear element. In another embodiment, the wheel 12 can contact and roll on a track (e.g., circular track) disposed or implemented on the support surface.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, the wheel 12 can be disposed along the transverse axis T. For example, in the illustrated arrangement, the wheel 12 can be positioned such that the transverse axis T is positioned generally transverse to a major surface of the wheel 12. The pair of end pieces 9, 10 can define a corresponding pair of planes disposed parallel to the transverse axis T, with the wheel 12 disposed between the corresponding pair of planes. The wheel 12 can rotate about the transverse axis T so as to cause the reel assembly 1 to roll along a path disposed about the pivot axis P. In some embodiments, the user can manually pull the distal portion 7 of the frame 2 (for example, by pulling a linear element transverse to the axis T) to as to cause the wheel 12 to roll about (and the mounting portion 4 and spool drum 8 to pivot about) the pivot axis P. In other embodiments, a motor can be operated to automatically cause the mounting portion 4 to pivot about the pivot axis P and base 3, e.g. based on a sensed pulling direction by the user.

In some embodiments, the reel assembly 1 can advantageously include a spooling support 13 coupled with the frame 2 and offset from the spool drum 8. The spooling support 13 can cause the linear element to be spooled onto the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8 in a relatively uniform manner, which can reduce tangling and kinking of the linear element. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, the spooling support 13 can be disposed along the transverse axis T. As shown in FIG. 2, for example, the spooling support 13 can comprise an opposing pair of bearings 13a, 13b between which the linear element can extend. The spooling support 13 can capture the linear element between the bearings 13a, 13b during operation of the reel assembly 1. The spooling support 13 can be configured to translate along a spooling support axis S that is generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis R. In some embodiments, a spooling actuator 23 can be configured to cause the spooling support 13 to translate along the spooling support axis S. For example, the spooling actuator 23 can comprise a screw or threaded member that converts rotational movement to translational movement to move the spooling support 13 along the axis S.

As shown in FIGS. 2-5, the reel assembly 1 can comprise a motor 19 that may be controlled by a motor controller (not shown). The motor controller can optionally be controlled via a remote control and/or one or more user interface controls (e.g., control buttons) on the reel assembly 1. The motor 19 can comprise any suitable type of motor that converts an electrical input into mechanical motion. The motor 19 can cause a motor shaft (not shown) to rotate, which in turn can cause a first gear 20 to rotate (see FIGS. 2-5). Rotation of the first gear 20 can cause a second gear 22 (FIG. 3) to rotate, which in turn can cause a third gear 21 (see FIGS. 2 and 5) to rotate. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, for example, the third gear 21 can comprise a ring gear with teeth on an inner surface thereof. Rotation of the third gear 21 (induced by the motor 19) can cause the first end piece 9 and the spool drum 8 to rotate about the rotational axis R to cause the linear element to spool and/or unspool from the spooling surface 11.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, rotation of the second gear 22 (induced by the motor 19) can impart rotation to the spooling actuator 23. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the second gear 22 can impart rotation to the spooling actuator 23 by way of a connecting element 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 24 can comprise a belt that imparts rotation of the spooling actuator 23 upon corresponding rotation of the second gear 22 and the motor 19. The belt can comprise a loop of material disposed about a pin or bearing of the spooling actuator 23. Rotation of the spooling actuator 23 can cause the spooling support 13 to translate along the spooling support axis S. For example, as explained above, the spooling actuator 23 can comprise a threaded connector that causes translation of the spooling support 13 when rotated. Beneficially, therefore, the motor 19 can cause the linear element (not shown) to be automatically spooled and/or unspooled from the reel assembly 1, and can simultaneously or concurrently ensure that the linear element is uniformly distributed across the spooling surface 11. The same motor 19 can be used to cause the spooling and/or unspooling rotation of the spool drum 8 about the rotational axis R, and the translation of the spooling support 13 along the axis S that is parallel to and offset from the rotational axis R.

As shown in FIGS. 2-6, the reel assembly 1 can further include a controller 25 configured to receive and/or transmit electrical signals from and/or to a handheld remote control. Additional details of the controller 25 are provided below with respect to FIG. 18. In some embodiments, the controller 25 can comprise a wireless controller having an antenna 49 in communication with processing electronics configured to process signals received from and/or transmitted to the handheld remote control. In operation, the user can activate the handheld remote control to actuate the motor controller and motor 19 to cause the linear element to unspool from the spool drum 8. In embodiments that utilize a linear element comprising a liquid or gas hose, the user can interact with the handheld remote control to cause liquid or gas to flow through the linear element at predetermined or desired flow rates and/or pressures. In some embodiments, the user can interact with the handheld remote control to shut off the flow of liquid or gas through the linear element, and can cause the linear element to retract and/or spool about the spool drum 8. In some embodiments, a battery can also be coupled to the frame 2 so as to provide power to the controller 25 and/or the motor 19. It should be appreciated that, although the controller 25 is illustrated as being on the side of the vertical segment 17 nearer the motor 19, in other embodiments, the controller 25 can instead be disposed on the opposite side of the vertical segment 17, e.g., opposite the motor 19, Additional details of reel assemblies and their operation can be found throughout US 2012/0168003, US 2016/0003400, US 2014/0021283, US 2012/0267466, US 2013/0015284, US 2006/0266868, and US 2006/0000936, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety and for all purposes. It should be appreciated that the disclosed embodiments can be utilized in combination with any of the features and functionalities provided in the aforementioned disclosures.

Due to the pivoting of the reel assembly 1 about the pivot axis P and the rotation of the reel 8 about the rotational axis R, it can be challenging to connect a conduit to the reel 8 for subsequent connection to the output linear element, e.g., a garden hose, an electrical cord, etc. The reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can connect to various source conduits that connect to a source. For example, in some embodiments, the source conduits can comprise tubular members connected to a water faucet for implementations in which the linear element comprises a water hose. In other embodiments, the source conduits can comprise cord segments that connect to an electrical outlet for implementations in which the linear element comprises an electrical cord.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6, the base 3 can comprise a first connector 14 configured to connect to a source conduit. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the first connector 14 can extend laterally from the base 3 generally parallel to the support surface (e.g., the ground). In embodiments that utilize a linear element comprising a water hose, for example, the first connector 14 can comprise a male or female connection that interconnects with a tubular conduit configured to convey water. The tubular conduit can connect to a water faucet or other source of water. The first connector 14 can communicate with an internal conduit (not shown) disposed within the base 3. For example, the internal conduit can comprise one or more internal tubes, channels or hoses (for conveyance of water or gases one or more internal cables (for conveyance of electrical signals or power), or any other suitable type of conduit. The internal conduit can communicate with a second connector 15, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3. The second connector 15 can provide fluidic or electrical communication between the conduit within the base 3 and another conduit that connects to the spool drum 8 and ultimately the working linear element, as explained below in connection with FIGS. 7A-7C.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a reel assembly similar to the reel assembly of FIGS. 1-6. FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C illustrates a connector used to connect to a linear element. The features of FIGS. 7A-7C may be the same as or generally similar to the features described above in connection with FIGS. 1-6. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, the reel assembly 1 can comprise a third connector 27, which may be the same as or complementary to the first and second connectors 14, 15. A conduit 28 can extend between the second connector 15 and the third connector 27. For example, the conduit 28 can be routed around and/or through various portions of the frame 2. In the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7B, for example, the conduit 28 can extend from the second connector 15 on the base 15, through an aperture 29 of the frame 2, and to the third connector 27. In one embodiment, the conduit can be a tube made of a substantially rigid material (e.g., a plastic material such as polyvinyl chloride or PVC, a metal, etc.). Advantageously, the connectors 14, 15, 27 and conduits (e.g., conduit 28) that extend between them allow the reel assembly 1 to rotate 360 degrees, for example without affecting the flow of water from the water source (e.g., water faucet) to the hose or linear material on the spool drum 8. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second connector 15 can extend from the base 3 and through the proximal portion 5, and can have a connector axis C along which fluid (for hoses) or electrical current (for cords) flows. The connector axis C can beneficially be aligned with the pivot axis P, which can enable fluidic or electrical communication to the spooled linear element without tangling when the user pivots the spool drum 8.

In some embodiments, the conduit 28 can be a hose that extends between the second and third connectors 15, 27. In another embodiment, the linear element (e.g., hose) can optionally have one end connected to the water source (e.g., faucet) and the opposite end connected to the third connector 27, though the angular range of motion may be less than 360 degrees, such as less than 270 degrees, less than 180 degrees, etc. As shown in FIG. 7C, for example, the third connector 27 can comprise a male connection 33 with external threads for connecting to a corresponding female connection of a water hose. An internal conduit (e.g., a fluid conduit, such as a hose, or an electrical conduit, such as a cord or cable) can be disposed within or on the spool drum 8. The internal conduit of the spool drum 8 can fluidly or electrically communicate with a fourth connector 26 exposed on an outer surface of the spool drum 8, such as the spooling surface 11. Another conduit (not shown) can connect to a proximal end of the linear element, and the linear element can be wound or spooled around the spooling surface 11. In another embodiment, the proximal end of the linear element (e.g., hose) can connect to the fourth connector 26.

FIG. 8 illustrates a spool drum 8 configured for use in various embodiments. The spool drum 8 of FIG. 8 can be the same as or substantially similar to the spool drum 8 described and illustrated in connection with FIGS. 1-7C, except, the spool drum 8 can comprise a contour 30 on an outer surface of the end pieces 9, 10. The contour 30 can define a plurality of recesses separated by outwardly-projecting webs to define a mesh-shaped structure.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a reel assembly 1 according to various embodiments. The reel assembly 1 can be the same as or similar to the reel assembly 1 of FIGS. 1-8, except the reel assembly 1 can include a housing 31 disposed about the reel. The housing 31 can comprise any suitable shape or design. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the housing 31 can define a frog-shaped profile.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front, right perspective view of a reel assembly according to various embodiments. FIG. 10B is a schematic front view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B is a schematic front, left perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 11A is a schematic right elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 11B is a schematic left elevational view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIGS. 12A and 12B are exploded views of various components of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 13A is a schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 10A. FIG. 13B is a magnified schematic rear perspective view of the reel assembly of FIG. 13A. Unless otherwise noted, the components illustrated in FIGS. 10A-13B can be the same as or substantially similar to like-numbered components shown and described in connection with FIGS. 1-9. The features shown in FIGS. 10A-13B can be readily combined with the features described in connection with FIGS. 1-9.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, a linear element 32 can be spooled about the spooling surface 11 of the spool drum 8. As explained above, in various embodiments, the linear element 32 can comprise a fluid hose (e.g., a water hose, an air hose, etc.) or an electrical cord. An outlet 39 can be provided at a distal end of the linear element 32, and the linear element 32 can be disposed between the bearings 13a, 13b with the outlet 39 positioned distal the bearings 13a, 13b. The outlet 39 can comprise a nozzle or other connector when the linear element 32 comprises a fluid hose. The outlet 39 can comprise an electrical connector when the linear element 32 comprises an electrical cord. In addition, FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate a battery 34 that provides power to the controller 25. The battery 34 can comprise any suitable type of battery, such as a lithium ion battery. As explained below in connection with FIG. 18, a power switch and/or a wind-in switch can be provided at or near the controller 25 to turn the reel assembly 1 ON or OFF, and/or to automatically wind in the linear element 32.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 10B, the base can have a lower surface that defines a lateral dimension L of the base 3, such that the lower surface is to be supported by the support surface (e.g., the ground) during use of the reel assembly 1. The spool drum 8 can have a width w along the rotational axis R defined by a distance between the outer surfaces of the end pieces 9, 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the width w of the spool drum 8 is less than the lateral dimension L of the base. Dimensioning the base 3 to be wider than the spool drum 8 may provide improved stability for the reel assembly 1 when the user pulls on the linear element 32. For example, when a user pulls the linear element 32 along a direction tangent to the pivot axis P, the resulting moment may tend to cause the reel assembly 1 to overturn. Providing a sufficiently wide base 3 can assist in preventing such overturning moments. In various embodiments, the lateral dimension L of the base 3 can be in a range of 9 inches to 24 inches, in a range of 9 inches to 18 inches, in a range of 10 inches to 15 inches, in a range of 9 inches to 13 inches, in a range of 9 inches to 12.5 inches, o rin a range of 10 inches to 12 inches, e.g., about 12 inches. In some embodiments, the width w of the spool drum 8 can be in a range of 3 inches to 8 inches or in a range of 4 inches to 8 inches.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, additional components can be provided to assemble the reel assembly 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, a bushing 37 and a sleeve 36 can be provided to connect the conduit 28 to the spool drum 8. As explained above, the conduit 28 can provide fluidic communication (when the linear element is a fluid hose, such as a water or air hose) or electrical communication (when the linear element is an electrical cord) between the second connector 15 and the third connector 27. Internal conduit(s) of the spool drum 8 can provide fluidic or electrical communication to the linear element, e.g., by way of the fourth connector 26 shown in FIG. 7A. An axle shaft 38 can provide a smooth surface about which the spool drum 8 can rotate. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 12A, a fastener 41 can connect the wheel 12 to the horizontal segment 16. The wheel 12 can rotate about the fastener 41. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12B, the spooling support 13 can further comprise a spooling guide 40. The spooling guide 40 can comprise a rod along which the bearings 13a, 13b can slide, e.g., along the axis S shown in FIG. 2. A bushing 42 can connect to the spooling actuator 23 to couple the spooling actuator 23 to the frame 2.

Turning to FIGS. 13A and 13B, as explained above, the first connector 14 can connect an input line (such as an input hose or cord) to one or more conduits in the base 3 (not shown). The one or more conduits in the base 3 can connect to the second connector 15. The second connector 15 may be coupled with the base 3 and/or the proximal portion 5. For example, the second connector 15 can extend from the base 3 through an aperture of the proximal portion 5. The second connector 15 can have a connector axis C that provides communication (whether fluidic or electrical) vertically from the base 3 and to the conduit 28 by way of a fitting 50. The connector axis C can be non-parallel relative to the rotational axis R and can be aligned with the pivot axis P. The fitting 50 can provide horizontal communication between the second connector 15 and the conduit 28. Further, as shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, the conduit 28 can be angled so as to define a first conduit segment 28a and a second conduit segment 28b angled relative to the first conduit segment 28a by way of an intervening bend. The angled conduit 28 can provide fluidic or electrical communication to the third connector 27 as explained herein. For example, as shown in FIG. 13B, and as explained above with respect to FIG. 7B, the conduit 28 can be disposed around or through the frame 2 so as to communicate with the third connector 27. For example, the conduit 28 can extend through the aperture 29, which may comprise a hole or a slot in the frame 2. By orienting the second connector 15 along the pivot axis P and by routing the conduit 28 around or through the frame 2, the arrangement shown in FIGS. 13A-13B can beneficially enable the user to pivot the frame 2 and spool drum 8 about the pivot axis P without tangling the linear element during use. The third connector 27 can be configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element 32 along a second connector axis parallel to the rotational axis R, e.g., to provide fluid or current through the spool drum 8. The conduit 28 can therefore have a first end portion connected to the second connector 15 and a second end portion connected to the third connector 27, with at least a portion of the conduit 28 extending non-parallel relative to the connector axis C. The conduit 28 can be bent so as to pass through or around the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2 to provide fluid or electrical communication between the connectors 15, 27.

The proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can be coupled with the base 3 by way of an intervening disc bearing 36 (also illustrated in FIG. 12A). As explained below in connection with FIGS. 14A-14C, the disc bearing 36 can provide a relatively hard, low friction surface that supports the pivotable proximal portion 5 of the frame 2. Although the proximal portion 5 is illustrated as having a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) profile, in other arrangements, the proximal portion 5 can be rounded. As the frame 2 pivots about the pivot axis P, a bottom surface of the proximal portion 5 can bear or press downwardly against an upper surface of the disc bearing 36. The relatively low friction surface provided by the disc bearing 36 can enable smooth pivoting motions relative to the stationary base 3. The disc bearing 36 can comprise a sufficiently hard material that can bear the weight of the reel assembly 1 while also enabling smooth pivoting of the spool drum 8 about the pivot axis P. In various embodiments, the disc bearing 36 can comprise a polymer, such as Delrin® (acetal or polyoxymethylene), manufactured by DuPont™. In other embodiments, however, the disc bearing 36 can comprise one or a plurality of bearings or rollers that can provide smooth pivoting motions relative to the base 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 13B, an upper surface of the base 3 can comprise one or a plurality of projections 35 extending therefrom. The projections 35 can have a height h that is less than a thickness t of the disc bearing 36 (shown in FIG. 14C). During operation, the frame 2 and/or spool drum 8 may tilt (e.g., due to user-applied forces to the linear element 32) so that the outer portions of the proximal portion 5 extending beyond the disc hearing 36 may contact or rub against the base 3, and/or may induce excessive pressure against regions of the disc bearing 36. For example, if the frame 2 tilts excessively to one side, then the corresponding underlying region of the disc bearing 36 may experience excessive wear, and/or the frame 2 may experience increased friction during pivoting.

The projections 35 extending from the base 3 can beneficially provide support to the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 if the frame 2 and/or spool drum 8 tilt during operation. The support provided by the projections 35 can reduce the load on the disc bearing 36 and can accordingly improve the pivoting motion of the frame 2. In some embodiments, the height h of the projections 35 can be only slightly smaller than the thickness t of the disc bearing 36. For example, in some embodiments, the height h of the projections 35 can be shorter than a thickness t of the disc bearing 36 by an amount in a range of 1/16 inches to 1/64 inches, or in a range of 1/20 inches to 1/36 inches, e.g., about 1/32 inches. In some embodiments, the height h of the projections 35 may be no more than 99% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, no more than 95% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, no more than 90% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, no more than 75% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, or no more than 50% of the thickness t of the disc hearing 36. For example, the height h of the projections 35 may be in a range of 50% to 99% of the thickness t of the disc hearing 36, in a range of 75% to 99% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, or in a range of 75% to 95% of the thickness t of the disc bearing 36. In addition, a plurality of projections 35 are shown in an annular pattern around the pivot axis P; however, in other embodiments, only a single projection 35 (e.g., a ridge) can extend annularly around the pivot axis P. In various embodiments, the projections 35 can be rounded so as to improve the support for the disc bearing 36.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of the disc bearing 36 shown in FIG. 13B. FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the disc bearing of FIG. 14A. FIG. 14C is a schematic side sectional view of the disc bearing of FIGS. 14A-14B. The disc bearing 36 can comprise an opening 45 through which components may extend to provide mechanical connection, fluid communication, and/or electrical communication between the base 3 and the frame 2. For example, the second connector 15 can extend through the opening 45 to connect to the conduit 28 by way of the fitting 50. Other rotating shafts or components may also extend through the opening 45.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the disc bearing 36 can comprise a plurality of annular ridges 43 projecting upward and spaced apart by intervening annular grooves 44. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the disc bearing 36 can comprise a first outer ridge 43a, a second ridge 43b, and a third inner ridge 43c. A first outer groove 44a can be disposed between the first outer ridge 43a and the second ridge 43b. A second outer groove 44b can be disposed between the second ridge 43b and the third inner ridge 43c. Beneficially, the annular ridges 43 can provide a low surface area (and hence low friction) bearing surface on which the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can pivot. For example, the annular ridges 43 can provide a bearing surface along which the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2 slides when the mounting portion 4 pivots about the pivot axis P.

Moreover, the use of multiple grooves 44 can advantageously trap debris within the groove 44 such that the debris does not increase the friction when the proximal portion 5 pivots relative to the disc bearing 36. For example, debris (dirt, sand, dust, etc.) may enter the reel assembly 1 and may pass over or on top of the first outer ridge 43a. Such inwardly-moving debris can beneficially be trapped in the first outer groove 44a. For example, if debris passes on top of the ridge 43a, movement of the frame 2 and/or gravity may cause the debris to fall off the ridge 43a and into the groove 44a. Similarly, debris may pass over or on top of the third inner ridge 43c, Such outwardly-moving debris can beneficially be trapped in the second inner groove 44b. Thus, the grooves 44 can trap debris so as to provide a receptacle for debris that passes over the grooves, thereby reducing friction. Although a plurality of ridges 43 are shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, only a single ridge may be provided. As explained above, the thickness t of the disc bearing 36, as measured from an uppermost surface of the disc bearing 36 (e.g., a top surface of the ridges 43) to a lowermost surface of the disc bearing 36, can be in a range of ⅛ inches to ½ inches, e.g., about ¼ inches.

FIG. 15 is a schematic top plan view of a reel assembly 1, according to another embodiment, Unless otherwise noted, components shown in FIG. 15 may be the same as or similar to like-numbered components shown in FIGS. 1-14C. For example, as with the above embodiments, the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can be pivotally connected to the base 3, such that the frame 2 and the reel drum 8 can pivot about the pivot axis P. The pivot axis P can be relatively stationary during use. Further, the reel drum 8 can rotate about the rotational axis R, which can be transverse to the pivot axis P.

Unlike the embodiments shown above, however, the pivoting motion of the frame 2 and reel drum 8 about the pivot axis P can be provided by a pivoting engagement between the base 3 and the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 may be similar in size and shape to the base 3, such that the proximal portion 5 fits over the base 3. Thus, as shown by the hidden lines of FIG. 15, the proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 is wider than the underlying base 3 so as to obscure the base 3 in the top view of FIG. 15, In other embodiments, however, the proximal portion 5 can be narrower than the base 3. As shown in FIG. 15, the base 3 can comprise a channel 47 defining an outer channel wall 47a and an inner channel wall 47b. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rollers 46 can be provided side by side in the channel 47 in an annular arrangement about the pivot axis P. In various embodiments, the rollers 46 can comprise ball bearings or other suitable rolling components. The proximal portion 5 of the frame 2 can be disposed over the rollers 46 such that, when the linear element is pulled by the user (e.g., in a direction tangent to the base 3), the frame 2 and spool drum 8 can freely pivot about the pivot axis P. Although a plurality of rollers 46 are shown in FIG. 15, in other embodiments, the spool drum 8 can connect to a wheel (similar to the wheel 12 shown herein) that can roll along the channel 47 in the base 3.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic top plan views of a base 3 that incorporates pivoting base extensions 48 for improved stability. As explained herein, it can be desirable to dimension the base 3 such that the base 3 can accommodate overturning moments due to external forces (e.g., a user pulling the linear element) and/or the weight of the reel assembly 1. However, the lateral dimension L may be limited by packaging constraints, user preferences, and other factors. For example, it can be important to dimension the base 3 with the lateral dimension L sufficiently large so as to account for overturning moments, but small enough to fit within packaging constraints that may be set by the customer or another entity. Furthermore, the user may prefer that the lateral dimension L be small enough to store in small closets, etc.

Accordingly, in the embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16B, the base 3 can have a first stored profile as shown in FIG. 16A, and a second deployed profile as shown in FIG. 16B. In the stored profile of FIG. 16A, the extensions 48 may be disposed under the body of the base 3. To deploy the base 3 to the deployed profile of FIG. 16B, the user can rotate the extensions 48 outwardly about respective extension pivot axes r such that a proximal portion of each extension 48 is connected with an outer periphery of the base 3 at the respective extension pivot axis r, and a distal portion of each extension 48 extends outwardly from the periphery of the base 3. As shown in the deployed profile of FIG. 16B, the extensions 48 can provide an increased footprint as compared with the stored profile of FIG. 16A. Beneficially, the stored profile of FIG. 16A can enable the base 3 to fit within small packages and/or to be stored in small spaces. For example, in various embodiments, the stored profile can have a largest lateral dimension L in a range of 8 inches to 15 inches, or in a range of 10 inches to 15 inches e.g., about 12 inches. The deployed profile of FIG. 16B can improve the stability of the base 3 and its ability to withstand overturning moments, by increasing the footprint of the base 3 during use. The largest lateral dimension of the base 3 with extensions 48 extended outwardly in FIG. 16B can be in a range of 12 inches to 36 inches, in a range of 15 inches to 36 inches, or in a range of 15 inches to 24 inches. In the deployed profile, the largest lateral dimension can be measured as the maximum dimension measured between two outermost points of the base 3 and extensions 48.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic top plan views of a base 3 that incorporates sliding base extensions 48 for improved stability. The base 3 shown in FIGS. 17A-17B is generally similar to the base 3 and extensions 48 shown in FIGS. 16A-16B, except in FIGS. 17A-17B, the extensions 48 are slideable relative to the body of the base 3, as opposed to rotatable. For example, in the stored profile of FIG. 17A, the extensions 48 are disposed underneath the body of the base 3. The stored profile of FIG. 17A can enable the assembly 1 to be packaged or stored within a compact footprint. To improve the stability of the assembly 1 during use, the user can slide the extensions 48 outwardly along a slider s. Thus, as with the embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16B, the extensions of 48 of FIGS. 17A-17B can improve the stability of the reel assembly while enabling packaging or storage within a smaller footprint. As with FIGS. 16A-16B, in the embodiment of FIGS. 17A-17B, the stored profile can have a largest lateral dimension L in a range of 8 inches to 15 inches, or in a range of 10 inches to 15 inches e.g., about 12 inches. The deployed profile of FIG. 16B can improve the stability of the base 3 and its ability to withstand overturning moments, by increasing the footprint of the base 3 during use. The largest lateral dimension of the base 3 with extensions 48 extended outwardly in FIG. 16B can be in a range of 12 inches to 36 inches, in a range of 15 inches to 36 inches, or in a range of 15 inches to 24 inches.

FIG. 18 is a schematic system diagram of a reel assembly, according to various embodiments. Unless otherwise noted, the components of FIG. 18 may be the same as or generally similar to like-numbered components shown and described in connection with FIGS. 1-17B. For example, the reel assembly 1 can comprise a controller 25 that includes processing electronics configured to control the operation of the assembly 1. The controller 25 can comprise active integrated device dies such as processors that can be programmed to execute instructions stored on non-transitory computer readable storage media. The controller 25 can also include passive circuit elements, such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors that cooperate to perform various functions.

As explained above, the battery 34 (such as a lithium ion battery) may provide electrical power to the controller 25 and other components of the reel assembly such as the motor 19. The controller 25 can comprise processing electronics that sends instructions to the motor to cause the spool drum 8 to rotate and/or the spooling actuator 23 to translate to spool and/or unspool the linear element. For example, the controller 25 can send electrical signals to the motor 19 to drive the motor, which in turns imparts rotation to the gears 20-22, for example, by way of a motor shaft.

In some embodiments, the user can operate a handheld remote control 55 to control the operation of the reel assembly 1. For example, as explained in the references appended hereto, the handheld remote control 55 can communicate with the antenna 49 of the reel assembly 1 over a wireless communications network. In addition, a control mechanism 58 may be switchably connected to the spool drum 8 (e.g., to the connectors and/or conduits coupled with the spool drum 8) and the linear element 32. In embodiments in which the reel assembly 1 includes a fluid hose as the linear element 32, the control mechanism 58 can comprise a control valve that selectably controls the flow of water to the linear element 32. The user can interact with the remote control 55 to turn on or turn off the supply of fluid (e.g., water) to the fluid hose. In embodiments in which the reel assembly 1 includes an electrical cord or cable as the linear element 32, the control mechanism 58 can comprise an electrical switch that selectably controls the supply of current to the linear element 32. The user can interact with the remote control 55 to turn on or turn off the current supplied to the linear element 32. In addition, in various embodiments, the user can interact with the control mechanism 58 to automatically turn off the supply of fluid and/or current and to initiate re-spooling of the linear element 32 onto the spool drum 8.

As shown in FIG. 18, a wind-in switch 56 and a power switch 57 can be provided on the reel assembly 1. In some arrangements, the controller 25 may continuously monitor the wireless network for any incoming commands transmitted from the remote control 55 to the controller 25. Such continuous monitoring may draw power from the battery 34, reducing the overall lifetime of the battery 34. Beneficially, in the embodiments disclosed herein, the controller 25 and the reel assembly 1 can have an OFF mode in which the user presses the power switch 57 to OFF and an ON mode in which the user presses the power switch 57 to ON. When the power switch 57 is switched to OFF, the reel assembly 1 can shut down such that the battery 34 provides no power to the other components (e.g., the controller 25) of the reel assembly 1. In the OFF mode, therefore, in some embodiments, the controller 25 may not monitor any activity of the reel assembly 1.

When the power switch 57 is switched to ON, the user can pull the linear element 32 from the spool drum 8 to unspool the linear element 32. For example, in some embodiments, the user can manually activate the control mechanism 58 (e.g., a water faucet in embodiments in which the linear element 32 is a water hose) to supply fluid and/or current to the linear element 32. In other embodiments, the user can interact with the remote control 55 to activate the control mechanism 58 (e.g., a smart water valve for embodiments that utilize a water hose) to supply fluid or current to the linear element 32. When the user is finished using the linear element 32 and reel assembly 1, the user can depress the manual wind-in switch 56, which can automatically shut off the flow of fluid or electricity to the linear element 32 and automatically wind in the linear element 32 to re-spool the linear element 32 about the spool drum 8. For example, the controller 25 can send a shut-off signal to the control mechanism 58, and/or can send a wind signal to the motor 19 to cause the motor 19 to spool the linear element 32 onto the drum 8. In other embodiments, the user can interact with the remote control 55 to communicate with the controller 25 (e.g., over a wireless network) to shut off the flow of fluid or electricity to the linear element 32 and/or to wind in the linear element 32. In still other arrangements, when the user depresses the power switch 57 to the OFF position, the controller 25 can automatically cause the flow of fluid or electricity to shut off and the linear element to spool onto the drum 8.

In some embodiments, the controller 25 can be programmed to place the reel assembly 1 in a sleep mode if a predetermined amount of time passes with little or no activity. For example, the controller can comprise processing electronics (including active and/or passive components) that can determine whether the motor 19 is operating to spool the linear element 32, and/or whether the linear element 32 is being unspooled from the drum 8. For example, in some embodiments, the user can manually unspool the linear element 32 from the drum 8 by pulling the linear element. Pulling the linear element 32 can induce a back electromotive force (EMF) in the motor 19 that can be monitored by the controller 25. If the motor 19 has been inactive for a predetermined time period, e.g., the linear element 32 is not being spooled onto or unspooled from the spool drum 8, then the controller 25 can place the reel assembly in the sleep mode. In still other arrangements, the reel assembly can include one or a plurality of sensors that can detect system activity. For example, one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers, gyroscopes, position sensors, etc.), one or more optical sensors, or other types of sensors can be provided on the controller 25, on the spool drum 8, on various portions of the linear element 32, or on any other suitable portion of the reel assembly 1. The sensors can send signals to the controller 25, and based on the signals from the sensors, the controller 25 can determine whether to place the assembly 1 in sleep mode.

Beneficially, when the system is in sleep mode, the battery 34 need not supply any electrical power to the controller 25 or any other components of the reel assembly 1. For example, in sleep mode, the controller 25 may not continuously monitor for wireless signals being transmitted by the remote control 55 or other signals from other components (such as the control mechanism 58). Thus, when in sleep mode, the life of the battery 34 may beneficially be extended. The reel assembly 1 can move from the sleep mode to the activated ON mode when the user pulls the linear element 32 (or if the user engages the ON switch in some embodiments). When the user pulls the linear element 32, the linear element 32 will tend to unspool from the spool drum 8, causing the spool drum 8 to rotate. Rotation of the spool drum 8 can induce the back EMF in the motor 19. The back EMF can be detected by processing circuitry in the controller 25, and the controller 25 can activate the reel assembly 1 for operation by the user. After activation from sleep mode, the user can operate the remote control 55 and/or the switches on the reel assembly 1 to use the reel assembly 1.

Thus, the embodiment of FIG. 18 enables automatic and/or manual control of the reel assembly. The use of the sleep mode can beneficially extend the battery life of the battery 34. It should be appreciated that other buttons and functionalities can be included in the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 19A-24 illustrate the incorporation of a wear ring assembly 60 into the reel assembly 1. The reel assembly 1 can be any suitable reel assembly, including those explained herein. FIG. 19A is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ring assembly 60, according to various embodiments. FIG. 19B is a schematic perspective exploded view of a wear ring assembly 60, according to another embodiment. FIG. 19C is a schematic perspective view of the wear ring assembly of FIG. 19A in an assembled configuration. The wear ring assembly 60 can comprise a wear ring 61 having first portion 61a configured to removably connect to a second portion 61b. The wear ring 61 can be disposed within a wear ring support 62. As shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, the wear ring support 62 can comprise a first support 62a configured to removably connect to a second support 62b. For example, as shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, the wear ring 61 can comprise a ridge 63 configured to be received within a corresponding groove 64 of the wear ring support 62. The wear ring 61 of FIG. 19B may be generally similar to the wear ring 61 of FIG. 19A, except the wear ring 61 of FIG. 19B may be thinner, e.g., may be entirely disposed within the wear ring support 62.

Beneficially, the wear ring assembly 60 of FIGS. 19A-19C can enable improved spooling and/or unspooling of the linear element 32 about the spool drum 8. For example, the wear ring 61 can comprise a smooth, relatively hard surface to enable the linear element 32 to slide through an opening 65 in the wear ring assembly 60 with reduced friction. The reduced friction provided by the wear ring 61 can enable the user to easily pull the linear element 32 from the spool drum 8. In various embodiments, the wear ring 61 can comprise a polymer, such as Delrin® (acetal or polyoxymethylene, manufactured by DuPont™ which can enable relatively low friction engagement between the linear element 32 and the inner surface of the wear ring 61. Moreover, as explained herein, the relatively constrained opening 65 can reduce kinking of the linear element 32 by smoothing out any bends or kinks in the linear element 32 prior to spooling onto the spool drum 8.

In addition, the use of a plurality (e.g., two) portions 61a, 61b of the wear ring 61 and the use of a plurality (e.g., two) supports 62a, 62b can beneficially enable the user to replace the wear ring 61 if the wear ring 61 were to degrade or otherwise experience reduced performance during use. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second portions 61a, 61b of the wear ring 61 can be removably engaged snapped, threaded, or otherwise engaged) to one another. In some arrangements, the first and second supports 62a, 62b can be removable engaged (e.g., snapped, threaded, or otherwise engaged) to one another. Moreover, removable engagement of the portions 61a, 61b of the wear ring 61 and of the supports 62a, 62b can enable the user to disposed the narrow opening 65 about the linear element 32 proximal the outlet 39, which may be wider than the linear element 32 and the opening 65.

FIG. 20A is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly incorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 20B is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60 incorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with various embodiments. FIG. 20C is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60 integrated with a housing 66 that is coupled to a spooling support 13. FIG. 20D is a schematic perspective view of a wear ring assembly 60 incorporated into a housing 66, in accordance with various embodiments. As explained herein, the housing 66 can connect with the spooling support 13 so as to improved spooling and/or unspooling of the linear element 32.

FIG. 21 is a schematic front view of a reel assembly 1 that incorporates a wear ring assembly 60, according to various embodiments. FIG. 22 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 21, with the linear element 32 in a spooled or stored configuration. FIG. 23 is a schematic right side view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 21, with the linear element 32 in a partially unspooled configuration. FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 22. As shown in FIGS. 21-24, the housing 66 to which the wear ring assembly 60 is coupled can be connected with the spooling support 13, such that the housing 66 and wear ring assembly 60 translate along the spooling support axis S (see FIG. 2) so as to provide a uniform spool onto the spool drum 8. As shown in FIGS. 22-24, for example, the housing 66 can couple with the spooling actuator 23 (such as a reversing screw) by way of connecting segment 67.

As explained above, as the linear element 32 is spooled onto the spool drum 8, the housing 66 and wear ring assembly 60 may translate along the spooling axis S. e.g., due to rotation of the spooling actuator 23 (e.g., a reversing screw). The translation of the wear ring assembly 60 can enable the linear element 32 to uniformly spool onto the spool drum 8. Moreover, the diameter or lateral major dimension of the opening 65 of the wear ring 61 may be larger than the outer dimension of the linear element 32, such that the opening 65 constrains the linear element 32 and reduces kinking or bending of the linear element 32. For example, the inner major dimension of the opening 65 can be in a range of 1.1 times to 2 times the outer major dimension of the linear element 32, in a range of 1.2 times to 1.8 times the outer major dimension of the linear element 32, or in a range of 1.2 times to 1.4 times the outer major dimension of the linear element 32.

FIGS. 25A-25D illustrate another embodiment of a reel assembly 1. The reel assembly 1 can be any suitable reel assembly, including any of the reel assemblies 1 described herein. FIG. 25A is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1, in which vertical wheel segments 17a, 17b can be removably attached to the frame 2. FIG. 25B is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1, with the vertical wheel segments 17a, 17b installed. FIG. 25C is a top plan view of the reel assembly 1 shown in FIGS. 25A-25B. Unless otherwise noted, reference numerals used in FIGS. 25A-25D represent components that are the same as or similar to like numbered components in FIGS. 1-24. For example, as with the embodiments described above, the reel assembly 1 can comprise a spool drum 8 that is pivotally coupled with a base 3, such that the spool drum 8 can pivot about a fixed pivot axis P.

Unlike the embodiments illustrated above, however, the frame 2 can connect to a plurality of wheels 12a, 12b that are offset from the rotational axis R of the spool drum 8. As shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, each wheel 12a, 12b can connect with a distal portion of the frame 2 by way of respective vertical wheel segments 17a, 17b, As shown in FIG. 25A, the wheel segments 17a, 17b can be removably coupled with the frame 2, such that the user can remove and/or replace the wheels 12a, 12b and wheel segments 17a, 17b. The use of multiple wheels 12a, 12b can improve the pivoting motion of the spool drum 8 in some embodiments. For example, as shown in FIG. 25C, the wheels 12a, 12b can be disposed at corner portions of the distal end of the frame 2. The wheels 12a, 12b can be angled relative to the rotational axis R of the spool drum 8 such that the wheels 12a, 12b can follow a pathway PW revolving around the pivot axis P. For example, the wheels 12a, 12b can be disposed at a wheel angle W relative to the rotational axis R to enable improved pivoting of the spool drum 8. The wheel angle W can be in a range of 5° to 45°, in a range of 10° to 45°, or in a range of 10° to 35°.

FIG. 25D is a schematic perspective view of an example vertical wheel segment 17a and wheel 12a. As explained above, the wheel segment 17a and wheel 12a can removably connect to the frame 2 by way of a tool-less quick connection. For example, as shown in FIG. 25D, the vertical wheel segment 17a can comprise a hollow tubular member in which a spring clip 71 can be disposed. The spring clip 71 can be biased outwardly such that the inner wall of the vertical wheel segment 17a compresses the spring clip 71 inwardly. The wheel segment 17a can be inserted into a corresponding opening in the frame 2. One or more projections 73 of the spring clip 71 can extend radially outwardly through apertures in the vertical wheel segment 17a. The projections 73 can be biased outwardly so as to engage a corresponding recess (not shown) in the frame 2 to secure the wheel segment 17a to the frame 2. The user can remove the wheel segment 17a by depressing the projections 73 inwardly into the hollow interior of the segment 17a, and can remove the wheel segment 17a from the frame if desired. An end cap 72 can be provided at an upper end of the vertical segment 17a.

FIG. 26A-26G illustrate various additional embodiments of a reel assembly 1. Unless otherwise noted, the components in FIGS. 26A-26G may be generally similar to or the same as like numbered components of FIGS. 1-25D. FIG. 26A is a schematic perspective view of the reel assembly 1. As explained above, a controller 25 can control the operation of the reel assembly 1. In the embodiment of FIG. 26A, the controller 26 can include electronic circuitry mounted within a weatherproof housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 26 (within the weatherproof housing) can be mounted to the mounting portion 4 of the frame 2. Further, as shown in FIG. 26B a switch 120 for powering the reel assembly 1 on and/or off can be provided on the weatherproof housing. The switch 120 can be turned on when the user desires to start using the reel assembly 1. Th user can turn the switch off to completely shut down the power, e.g., so as to avoid draining the battery.

FIGS. 26C-E illustrate a gear assembly 126, which can cause the spool drum 8 to rotate about the rotational axis R to cause the linear element to spool and/or unspool from the spooling surface 11. FIG. 26C is a front perspective view of the gear assembly 126. FIG. 26D is a rear perspective view of the gear assembly 126. FIG. 26E is a front perspective view of the gear assembly 126 with the planetary gears 121a-121c omitted for ease of illustration. As shown in FIG. 26E, the motor 19 can be integrally formed with a first gear 124, such that rotation of the motor 19 induces rotation of the first gear 124. The motor 19 and the first gear 124 can be disposed about, and can rotate relative to a shaft 123. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 123 may be stationary. As shown in FIGS. 26C and 26D, the first gear 124 can engage with corresponding teeth of a plurality of planetary gears 121a-121c, which can be disposed about the central first gear 124. A rear bearing 122 can be provided on the rear surface of the motor 19 to engage with the shaft 123. Rotation of the first gear 124 can impart corresponding rotation to the planetary gears 121a-121c, which can cause the linear element to spool and or unspool from the reel drum.

FIG. 26F is a schematic left perspective view of a reel assembly 1, having a plurality of wheels 12a, 12b. FIG. 26G is a schematic right perspective view of the reel assembly 1 of FIG. 26F. Unlike the embodiment of, e.g., FIG. 1, in FIGS. 26F-26G, more than one wheel (e.g., two wheels 12a, 12b) can be provided. In some embodiments, providing a plurality of wheels 12a, 12b can improve the pivoting motion of the reel assembly 1 as compared with embodiments that utilize a single wheel.

Having thus described various embodiments, those of skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure herein that yet other embodiments may be made and used within the scope of the embodiments attached hereto. For example, the reel assembly may be used with various types of linear elements, such as water hoses, air hoses, pressure washer hoses, vacuum hoses, electrical cords, and the like. Numerous advantages of the embodiments covered by this disclosure have been set forth in the foregoing description. It will be understood however that this disclosure is, in many respects, only illustrative. Changes may be made in details without exceeding the scope of the disclosure.

Although this disclosure has been described in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while several variations of the embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the disclosure. For example, features described above in connection with one embodiment can be used with a different embodiment described herein and the combination still fall within the scope of the disclosure. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another in order to form varying modes of the embodiments of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure herein should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above. Accordingly, unless otherwise stated, or unless clearly incompatible, each embodiment of this invention may comprise, additional to its essential features described herein, one or more features as described herein from each other embodiment of the invention disclosed herein.

Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Furthermore, certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shown in the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products.

For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms “generally parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, 0.1 degree, or otherwise.

The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments in this section or elsewhere in this specification, and may be defined by claims as presented in this section or elsewhere in this specification or as presented in the future. The language of the claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.

Claims

1. A reel assembly comprising:

a frame comprising a base and an elongate mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis, the elongate mounting portion comprising a proximal portion coupled with the base, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal portions;

a spool drum connected with the intermediate portion of the elongate mounting portion, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis generally transverse to the pivot axis; and

a wheel connected to the distal portion of the elongate mounting portion and configured to roll about the pivot axis, wherein the distal portion positions the wheel along a transverse axis that is generally transverse to the rotational axis and the pivot axis.

2. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the spool drum comprises a pair of end pieces spaced apart along the rotational axis, the spool drum defining a spooling surface between the end pieces, wherein the pair of end pieces defines a corresponding pair of planes disposed parallel to the transverse axis, the wheel disposed between the corresponding pair of planes.

3. The reel assembly of claim 1, further comprising a motor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis.

4. The reel assembly of claim 3, further comprising a motor controller configured to control operation of the motor.

5. The reel assembly of claim 3, further comprising a spooling support coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along the transverse axis, the spooling support configured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis

6. The reel assembly of claim 5, wherein the motor is operably connected with the spooling support to cause the spooling support to translate about the spooling support axis.

7. The reel assembly of claim 6, wherein the spooling support is translatable by way of a spooling actuator that converts rotation imparted by the motor to translation.

8. The reel assembly of claim 7 further comprising one or a plurality of gears mechanically coupled between the motor and the spooling support.

9. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the wheel is configured to rotate about the transverse axis so as to roll along a pathway disposed about the pivot axis.

10. The reel assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first connector on the base, a second connector on the base, and one or more conduits connecting the first and second connectors.

11. The reel assembly of claim 10, further comprising a third connector on the frame near the spool drum, a fourth connector on a spooling surface of the spool drum, and one or more conduits connecting the third and fourth connectors.

12. The reel assembly of claim 11, further comprising a conduit extending between the second connector and the third connector, the conduit extending through or around the frame.

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)

15. (canceled)

16. (canceled)

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. (canceled)

20. A reel assembly comprising:

a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis;

a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element, the rotational axis non-parallel with the pivot axis;

a motor operably connected with the spool drum to cause the spool drum to rotate about the rotational axis; and

a controller in electrical communication with the motor, the controller configured to transmit control signals to the motor to control the operation of the motor.

21. (canceled)

22. A reel assembly comprising:

a frame having a base and a mounting portion configured to pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis;

a spool drum connected with the mounting portion of the frame, the spool drum configured to rotate about a rotational axis to spool and unspool a linear element; and

a connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a connector axis, the connector positioned such that the connector axis is aligned with the pivot axis.

23.-66. (canceled)

67. The reel assembly of claim 22, further comprising a first connector connected to the frame, the first connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a first connector axis non-parallel to the rotational axis.

68. The reel assembly of claim 67, further comprising a second connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a second connector axis parallel to the rotational axis.

69. The reel assembly of claim 68, further comprising a conduit having a first end portion connected to the first connector and a second end portion connected to the second connector, at least a portion of the conduit extending non-parallel relative to the first connector axis, the conduit being bent so as to pass through or around the mounting portion of the frame to provide fluid or electrical communication between the first and second connectors

70. The reel assembly of claim 20, further comprising a connector configured to provide fluid or electrical communication with the linear element along a connector axis, the connector positioned such that the connector axis is aligned with the pivot axis.

71. The reel assembly of claim 20, further comprising a spooling support coupled with the frame and offset from the spool drum along the transverse axis, the spooling support configured to translate along a spooling support axis generally parallel to and offset from the rotational axis