Enclosure system for supporting a sink and hose reel assembly

Abstract

The instant invention combines the features of a sink and a hose reel for user convenience and space savings. The outer periphery of the device is surrounded by an enclosure for aesthetic appearance and internal storage. The sink is provided with a folding faucet and a cover plate which allows the top surface of the device to be utilized as a work table. The lower portion of the cabinet assembly is constructed and arranged to contain a hose storage reel. The reel employs a winding crank mounted near the top of the cabinet assembly and gears extend between the crank and the hose reel to minimize operator stooping when winding a hose about the reel. The reel may be provide with a low entry hose port which allows the hose to be pulled into the enclosure from near the bottom of the device to minimize the possibility of tipping the device during hose retrieval. The device is constructed and arranged for shipment in a disassembled state wherein the components may be snapped together without the need for additional fasteners or connectors. In addition, the combination sink and hose reel are provided with a folding handle assembly for reducing the shipping space required for shipping and storage of fully assembled devices.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of applicant's co-pending U.S. Application No. 29/154,133 filed Jan. 18, 2002, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a sink and hose reel assembly. More specifically, the present invention relates to an enclosure system for supporting a sink and hose reel assembly. The enclosure utilizes injection molded plastic structural panels having integrally formed connectors. Within a lower portion of the enclosure, a reel is rotatably mounted for take-up and pay-out of a flexible elongate member. The sink and hose reel assembly is capable of being packaged and shipped in a knock-down state and assembled into a secure and decorative enclosure having a sink and hose reel without additional connectors and/or fasteners.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Portable or mobile sinks are very convenient for use wherever access to a water supply and drain facilities are not readily available. It is also very beneficial if there is an area adjacent the sink that can be used to store items related to the washing or cleaning to be done in the sink.

Portable sinks have been used in the past to facilitate the preparation of food outdoors and to provide washing and cleaning facilities for patients in nursing homes and hospitals who do not have ready access to conventional washing facilities.

An example of a portable sink is U.S. Pat. No. 5,465,438 which discloses a mobile sink unit for use in a nursing home. The unit includes a fresh water reservoir, a gray water reservoir, a faucet assembly including a control valve, and a soap dispenser. The majority of the space in the sink enclosure is occupied by the fresh water tank and the gray water tank. Any items to be stored must be kept on the top surface of the enclosure. The enclosure cabinet is formed from an open frame which is overlaid with a sheet material. This type of structure is not subject to being knocked down for shipment and assembly by the consumer at their location. Nor does it provide the additional function of a hose cart.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,349,715 discloses another type of mobile sink. This sink is used in conjunction with a mobile cooking device. A water supply is connected to the lower portion of the device to supply water to the faucet adjacent the sink. The used water from the sink drains away from the device through an outlet hose. The device comprises a housing formed of front, back, side, top and bottom walls which are permanently attached. This construction is also not subject to being knocked down for shipment and assembly by the consumer.

Another type of portable sink is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,836,910. This sink is connected to a water supply to provide water for the sink. The drain empties onto the surface on which the sink is placed.

Garden hoses are a necessity for lawn and garden care, as well as general all-around home care. Typically, hoses are found either wound and left on the ground near a water spigot, or wound on one of many known hose reel-type storage devices. During the off-season, hoses are often found on the floor of a garage or other storage area.

The prior art has proposed a number of different structures for rewinding and storing a hose when it is not in use. These devices generally include stationary hose reel hangers that can be mounted to a surface of a building, such as an outer wall of a house, or portable hose reel carts that permit ready transport of the hose from one location to another.

Surface (or wall) mounted hose reels or hangers come in a wide variety of configurations. For example, one surface mounted hose hanger includes a simple, semi-circular metal or plastic support that is mounted to the building, over which the hose is looped or hung. Another surface mounted device or reel includes a rotatable fitting that is mounted to the building surface to which a manually rotated reel is mounted. Unfortunately, when hose is pulled out from such manually wound devices, it often becomes snarled or tangled and requires appreciable time and effort to correct the situation. Additionally, these surface mounted reels and hangers are often considered unsightly, particularly if they are mounted to the front of the building and are not covered or otherwise obscured by plants or foliage.

Portable hose reel carts for handling and storage of flexible water hoses, such as garden and air hoses, have gained wide public acceptance. While the construction of hose reel carts is quite varied, such carts are primarily constructed of molded plastic components having a centrally disposed rotatable reel for reeling of the flexible hose, a frame for supporting of the reel, wheels at one end of the base of the frame, and a frame handle for tilting the frame onto the wheels to facilitate moving the cart. A crank handle typically attaches directly to the center of the longitudinal axis of the reel on one side, and a water input tube is extended through the opposite side. The frame handle may, or may not be foldable for purposes of shipping and/or storage.

Other known hose carts include an enclosure to keep the hose hidden from view and to protect the hose from the elements while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. These carts generally include four side wall members and a pivotally mounted lid member that allows a user to inspect the internal components of the hose reel cart.

An example of a portable hose cart is U.S. Pat. No. 5,007,598 illustrating a commonly found portable hose cart. The device includes a molded plastic handle connected to the plastic frame sides.

Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 6,338,360 shows a hose reel carrier assembly with a tray for storage. The cart also has two plastic wheels which can be mounted on common or separate axles.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,976,649, assigned to Suncast Corporation, the assignee of the instant invention, shows a hose cart combining the features of an off-set handle, a hose tracker and a protective housing. The device further includes a plurality of gears that permit the crank to offset from the center of the reel, such that it is elevated to a more convenient cranking position.

While the foregoing described prior art devices have improved the art and in some instances enjoyed commercial success, there remains nonetheless a need in the art for a device that provides the combined functionality of a portable sink and a hose rewinding and storage device. Such a hose rewinding and storage device should include a sink basin as well as a hose cart that can be safely used to retract and “hide-away” hoses stored therein when not in use. The combination portable sink and hose rewinding device should also be constructed for easy transport and storage while maintaining an overall compact profile. The enclosure utilized to support the sink and hose reel should be capable of assembly without the necessity of additional fasteners to provide a structurally sound enclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an enclosure system for supporting a portable sink assembly in combination with a hose reel. The assembly is formed from a plurality of injection molded plastic components having integrated connectors. The panels and other components are capable of being packaged and shipped in a knock-down state and constructed to form an aesthetically pleasing sink and hose reel cart enclosure. The integrated connection of the side wall panels, back wall panel, front wall panel, bottom panel, sink and hose reel components simplifies the construction of the assembly. The plastic components are formed from injection molded plastic so as to interlock with one another without the need for separate fasteners or connectors. This construction incorporates a minimum number of components by integrally forming the connectors into the injection molded components. The components may then be snapped together to complete the assembly. This construction eliminates the need for separate connectors or fasteners to assemble the combination sink and hose cart assembly. Injection molding allows the panels and other components to be formed with a single wall having integral cross-bracing, ribs and gussets for increased rigidity and reduced weight when compared to blow molded or rotationally molded assemblies. The same side wall and bottom panel components can be used to create a variety of different assemblies useful for outdoor activities and home maintenance. The assembly of these components requires minimal hardware and a minimum number of hand tools.

The base, front wall and back wall panels have integrally formed, outwardly projecting bosses for interlocking engagement with the left and right side wall panels. The left and right side wall panels are constructed with integrally formed, inwardly contoured sockets for interlocking, cooperative engagement with the bosses formed on the base, front wall and back wall panels. The engagement between the bosses and sockets serve to connect the panels together into a rigid and weather resistant enclosure. The enclosure is configured for receiving a rotatable reel for storing a length of flexible hose within the enclosure.

Alternatively, at least one of the front panels pivots about a pair of hinges that mount the front panel to the enclosure for movement between a closed position and an open position. Each hinge includes a pocket formed in a respective side wall panel and a pin associated and cooperative with each pocket. The front panel can be formed having a depending lip, and the pins can extend from the lip. Preferably, the pins are formed as cylindrical elements extending from the lip, axially aligned to one another to facilitate rotational movement. In this manner, the hose reel assembly may be easily accessed and additional storage space may be utilized for hose accessories and the like.

To facilitate take-up and pay-out of the hose with the front panel closed, the front panel includes a cut-out portion. In one embodiment the cut-out portion extends downward from the top edge thereof, while in another embodiment the cut-out portion extends upwardly from a bottom edge thereof. In either arrangement, when the cover is closed, the cut-out accommodates traversing a portion of the flexible hose therethrough.

The hose is wound around the reel by use of a remotely located crank providing an indirect rotational link between the crank and the winding of the reel. In the preferred embodiment, the crank is positioned in a foldable handle assembly that allows for ease of transporting fully assembled devices and subsequent storage. A hand-grip on the crank can also be placed in a storage position by pivoting the hand-grip about one end of the crank arm. The hand-grip includes a releasable lock for securing the hand-grip in a parallel position with the crank arm for storage and securing the crank hand-grip in a perpendicular position to the crank arm for operation. In one embodiment the hand-grip is provided with a rotatable sleeve to allow a user to retain a firm grip on the handle while retrieving the hose.

In at least one embodiment a reciprocating hose guide assembly is operationally linked to the hose reel. When the hose reel is rotated, the reciprocating hose guide will move back and forth across the reel to uniformly and smoothly wrap the hose on the reel to provide a compact storage configuration.

In a further embodiment, the reciprocating hose guide can be released from its double-helix lead-screw in the event that its path becomes blocked, such as by debris or when a hand or arm is mistakenly placed in the opening. Alternatively, the hose guide may be manually disengaged to facilitate easy hose pay-out and can thereafter be repositioned before being manually re-engaged to the double-helix lead-screw.

A sliding seal fluid inlet joint permits the hose outlet joint to rotate with the hose reel without disconnecting the hose. This arrangement permits rotating the reel without twisting or torquing internal components, while maintaining sealed fluid communication between the water supply and the hose.

The lower surface of the base panel includes a plurality of integrally formed bosses which are constructed and arranged to cooperate with casters or feet to allow for easy movement or fixed placement of the sink assembly.

Accordingly, it is an objective of the instant invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly.

It is a further objective of the instant invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly composed of panels formed by injection molding which provide increased structural integrity to the assembly.

It is another objective of the instant invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly wherein the side wall panels, front wall panel, back wall panel, bottom panel and sink are integrally interlocked without the use of separate fasteners or connectors.

It is yet another objective of the invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly constructed of modular panels which has an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

It is still another objective of the instant invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly wherein the hose is retracted from a position below the axial centerline of the hose reel to prevent tipping of the assembly during hose retraction.

It is a further objective of the invention to provide a combination sink and hose cart assembly which is capable of being packaged and shipped in a knock-down state and constructed into a secure assembly at a desired site.

It is yet a further objective of the invention to provide a combination sink and hose reel cart assembly wherein the components used for the assembly include integrally formed connectors for quick assembly without the need for additional fasteners.

Other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the combination sink and hose cart assembly of the instant invention;

FIG. 2 is a left plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a right plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a section view taken along lines 7-7 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a section view taken along lines 9-9 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a section view taken along lines 10-10 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a low hose entry embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 12 is a front exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a rear exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a front exploded view having the front panel removed for clarity;

FIG. 15 is a right side view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 16 is a front view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 17 is a section view taken along lines 17-17 of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the sink utilized with the instant invention;

FIG. 19 is a top view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the sink utilized with the instant invention;

FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view of the sink embodiment shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sink assembly;

FIG. 23 is top perspective view of the sink embodiment shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 25 is a rear view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 26 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 25 illustrating the cover panel in the storage position;

FIG. 27 is a bottom view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 28 is a section view taken along lines 29-29 of FIG. 25;

FIG. 29 is a section view taken along lines 30-30 of FIG. 16.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-30, there is shown various combination sink and hose reel assemblies embodying the principles of the present invention. The preferred embodiment combines the features of a sink and a hose reel for user convenience and space savings. The outer periphery of the device is surrounded by an enclosure for aesthetic appearance and internal storage. The sink is provided with a folding faucet and a cover plate which allows the top surface of the device to be utilized as a work table. The lower portion of the cabinet assembly is constructed and arranged to contain a hose storage reel. The reel employs a winding crank mounted near the top of the cabinet assembly and gears extend between the crank and the hose reel to minimize operator stooping when winding a hose about the reel. The reel may be provided with a low entry hose port which allows the hose to be pulled into the enclosure from near the bottom of the device to minimize the possibility of tipping the device during hose retrieval. The device is constructed and arranged for shipment in a disassembled state, wherein the components may be snapped together without the need for additional fasteners or connectors. In addition, the combination sink and hose reel are provided with a folding handle assembly for reducing the shipping space required for shipping and storage of fully assembled devices.

Referring to FIGS. 1-30, various views and embodiments of the combination sink and hose reel assemblies 10, according to the teachings of the instant invention are illustrated. In these preferred, albeit non-limiting, embodiments of the invention, the combination sink and hose reel assemblies are formed from a plurality of components connected together without the need for additional fasteners. The enclosure 12 includes a base panel 100, a right side panel 200, a left side panel 300, a back panel 400, at least one front panel 500, and the sink assembly 600. In the preferred embodiment the panels and the sink are formed of, but not limited to, a suitable plastic such as polystyrene, polypropylene, or polyethylene, through the process of injection molding. The result is that the panels which form the assembly are formed as unitary single wall panels with integral connectors and cross bracing. It should be noted that the sink and enclosure panels may be formed from suitable materials other than injection molded plastics. These materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, fiberglass, metal and suitable combinations thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, the base panel 100 is formed with a top surface 104, a bottom surface 106, a front edge 108, a back edge 110, a left edge 112 and a right edge 114. Integrally formed along, at least, the left and right base panel edges are a plurality of bosses 116 for attaching the base panel to the left and right side panels. The bosses 116 extend outwardly from each edge to cooperate with integrally formed sockets 210 which extend inwardly along the bottom portions 206 and 306 of the right and left side panels respectively. The bosses and sockets are constructed and arranged so that the bosses 116 matingly engage the sockets 210 thereby securing the panels together in a perpendicular and inter-fitting engagement. Detent or spring lock fasteners 118 are integrally formed on the bosses 116. Apertures 208 are formed in the end portions of the sockets 210. The spring lock fasteners 118 cooperate with the apertures 208 to secure the bosses in the sockets. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the spring lock fasteners 118 and socket apertures 208 can be used throughout the combination sink and hose cart assembly to mount or secure components to one another and facilitate connection of the assembly from an unassembled state without the use of tools. The overlapping boss 116 and socket 210 arrangement increases the structural integrity of the sink assembly by preventing panels 200, 300, 400 and 500 from bowing or bending inwardly or outwardly and thus, adversely affecting the appearance or operation of the enclosure assembly 12. Also, integrally formed on the bottom of the base panel are ribs 202 and gussets 107 which add structural rigidity and strength to the base panel (FIG. 6).

As shown in FIG. 6 the left side panel 300 is configured with a first edge 312 and a second edge 314. Both edges include integrally formed elongated sockets 210 extending inwardly in a linear fashion along each edge. The sockets 210 are generally constructed and arranged to cooperate with the bosses 116 provided along an edge of the back panel 400 and the front panel(s) 500. The top edge of the left side panel is provided with an upstanding lip 315 integrally formed thereon. The lip cooperates with an underside portion of the sink 600 to facilitate their mechanical connection. The interior surface of the left side panel is provided with integrally formed ribs 202 which add structural rigidity and strength to the panel.

Referring to FIG. 4, the right side panel is configured with a first edge 212 and a second edge 214. Both edges include integrally formed elongated sockets 210 extending inwardly in a linear fashion along each edge. The sockets 210 are generally constructed and arranged to cooperate with the bosses 116 provided along an edge of the back panel 400 and the front panel 500. The top edge of the right side panel is provided with an upstanding lip 215 integrally formed thereon. The lip cooperates with an underside portion of the sink 600 to facilitate their mechanical connection. The interior surface of the right side panel is provided with integrally formed ribs 202 which add structural rigidity and strength to the panel.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 4, 5 and 8, one arrangement of the front panel(s) is illustrated. In this embodiment, the hose reel 700 is provided with a mid-level hose entry port 701 (FIG. 1). To facilitate the mid-level entry point, an upper front panel 500 is attached to the left and right side panels 300, 200 by inserting the bosses 116 of the front panel into the sockets 210 of the left and right side panels until the spring lock fasteners 118 integrally formed on the bosses 116 engage the apertures 208 in the sockets of the left and right side panels. Located below the upper front panel 500 is a pivotally mounted lower front panel 500′. The lower front panel provides access to the hose reel assembly 700 as well as a small storage area below the reel. This area may be used for the storage of items used in conjunction with the sink or for hose attachments, such as, spray heads, nozzles and the like. The lower front panel 500′ is hingedly mounted to the base panel 100 and upper front panel 500 by hinge pins 504 integrally formed on the lower front panel. The hinge pins fit into and cooperate with apertures 506 integrally formed in the base panel and front panel to permit pivotal opening and closing of the lower front panel. A handle 508 may also be provided on the lower front panel to assist the opening and closing thereof. The outer surface of the lower front panel 500′ is constructed as generally smooth and has a plurality of inwardly curved grooves 230 integrally formed thereon for added strength, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance. These are similar to grooves 230 formed in the side, back and front panels.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-17, an alternative arrangement of the front panel(s) is illustrated. In this embodiment, the hose reel 700 is provided with a low hose entry port 703 (FIG. 11). To facilitate the low entry point, an upper front panel 501 is attached to the left and right side panels 300, 200 by inserting the bosses 116 of the front panel into the sockets 210 of the left and right side panels until the spring lock fasteners 118 integrally formed on the bosses 116 engage the apertures 208 in the sockets of the left and right side panels. Located below the upper front panel 501 is a lower front panel 501′. The outer surface of the front panels 501, 501′ are constructed generally smooth and have a plurality of inwardly curved grooves 230 integrally formed thereon for added strength, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance. These are similar to grooves 230 formed in the side, back and front panels.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 24-26, the back portion of the combination sink and hose reel enclosure is illustrated. The back panel 400 includes integrally formed bosses 116 along the length of the left and right edges thereof. The bosses have spring lock fasteners 118 integrally formed thereon. The back panel is attached to the left and right side panels by inserting the bosses 116 of the back panel into the sockets 210 of the left and right side panels until the spring lock fasteners 118 engage the apertures 208 formed in the sockets 210. The back panel is provided with an aperture 402 through which a drain hose may be positioned. The opposite end of the drain hose (not shown) is connected to the drain 604 (FIG. 22) of the sink to provide a means to drain the fluids from the sink. The back panel is also provided with a fitting 404 which is connectable to a source of water. A hose or tube 607 is connected to the faucet inlet 608 to supply liquid thereto.

A storage area for the sink cover panel 606 is provided on the back panel 400. Clips 610 are positioned on a lower portion of the back panel to hold the sink cover panel in a vertical position adjacent the back panel while upper clips 612 located on the upper portion of the back panel are flexible or spring type clips to allow the sink cover panel to be snapped into a storage position as illustrated on FIG. 26. Removal of the sink cover panel from the storage position merely requires the upper portion of the sink cover panel to be pulled outwardly to release the upper clips, and thereafter the cover panel may be pulled upward to release the sink cover panel from the lower clips.

The outer surface of the panels 200, 300, 400 and 500 are constructed as generally smooth and have a plurality of inwardly curved grooves 230 integrally formed thereon for added strength, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance. The insides of the panels 200, 300, 400 and 500 are provided with strengthening ribs 202 as seen in FIGS. 1-10. The ribs add to the structural integrity provided by the grooves 230. The increase in structural integrity prevents the panels 200, 300, 400 and 500 from bowing or bending inwardly or outwardly, adversely affecting the appearance or operation of the sink assembly. As illustrated herein these features are achieved by injection molding. Injection molding offers significant strength and stability advantages over blow-molding or rotational molding as utilized in the prior art. In this manner the enclosure assembly of the present invention is capable of handling a significant amount of weight and abuse as compared to prior art enclosure assemblies.

The base panel 100 is attached to the right 200 and left 300 side panels by inserting the bosses 116, integrally formed on the base panel, into sockets 210, integrally formed in the side panels, until the spring lock fasteners 118 engage the apertures 208 in the sockets of the left and right side panels. The back panel 400 is attached to the right and left side panels by inserting the elongated bosses 116, integrally formed on the back panel, into the sockets 210, integrally formed in the side panels, until the spring lock fasteners 118 engage the apertures 208 in the sockets of the left and right side panels. The front panel(s) 500 are attached to the right and left side panels by inserting the elongated bosses 116, integrally formed on the front panel, into sockets 210, integrally formed in the side panels, until the spring lock fasteners 118 engage the apertures 208 in the sockets of the left and right side panels. It will be appreciated that the purpose of the elongated bosses 116 are to align the two joined panels in a perpendicular relationship and to facilitate their mechanical connection. The result is a mechanically secure connection between the panels, high structural integrity and reliable operation. The overlapping edges between the panels (as described above) provides a secure connection, snap-together assembly and offers several advantages. First, the design allows the panels to be connected without the need for separate connectors. Second, the design creates a positive lock which prevents separation of the panels. Third, the design maintains alignment of the panels in the same plane and prevents bowing or bending of either panel relative to each other.

Referring to FIGS. 1-10, the left and right side panels 300, 200 support a reel 700 at about the lower portion thereof. The reel 700 is rotatable and provides for pick-up, storage and pay-out of the hose. The reel 700 includes a central hub 704 and a pair of radially extending flanges 706 that are configured to accommodate a length of flexible hose wrapped around the hub 704 between the flanges. In a typical arrangement, the reel assembly may store about 100 to 300 feet of a ⅝ inch common hose. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the reel assembly may include a water/air inlet port or in-tube 708 (FIG. 4) and an outlet port or out-tube 710. The in-tube is mounted to the left side panel 300 at about the axis of rotation A of the reel 700. The in-tube is connected to the out-tube by a sliding seal arrangement so that the in-tube remains fixed to the side panel, while the out-tube 710 rotates with the reel 700, and the in-tube and out-tube remain in fluid communication with one another. This arrangement permits rotation of the reel 700 without twisting or torquing internal components, while maintaining sealed fluid communication between the water/air supply and the hose. The preferred in-tube and coupling arrangement can be viewed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,998,552, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

A crank assembly 712 is rotatably supported and journaled in the upper portion of one side panel, preferably the right side panel 200, and connected to the reel 700 via a gear-train 714 to facilitate reel rotation from an elevated position. A first gear-train 714 arrangement for rotating the reel is illustrated in FIGS. 4-5, while a second gear-train arrangement 715 is illustrated in FIG. 30. The crank assembly 712 includes a folding handle 713. The folding handle includes a sleeve rotatable mounted thereon to allow a firm grip during rotation of the crank assembly. Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 10, the hose reel assembly can include an automatic guide assembly 716 or a manual guide assembly (not shown) to guide the hose as it is picked-up onto the reel 700 to distribute the hose evenly across the reel. In one embodiment, the guide assembly 716 (FIG. 14) is positioned at about a mid-point of the enclosure assembly 12. In a second embodiment, shown in FIGS. 11-17 and 30, the guide assembly is positioned below the axis of rotation A to provide a low center of pulling force to the device while retrieving the hose.

Referring to FIG. 14, the guide assembly 716 is automatically reciprocated with rotation of the reel 700. The guide assembly 716 includes a double-helix lead screw 718 suitably supported and journaled in the left and right side panels for rotational movement, and a single guide rod 720 extends between the side panels to prevent rotation of the guide 722. It should be noted that other structures suitable for preventing rotation of the guide may be substituted for the rod without departing from the scope of the invention. Such structures may include, but should not be limited to, beams, integrally formed guides, cables and the like. In operation, when the reel 700 is rotated, a guide gear train 724 or 726 illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 14 respectively, transfers rotary motion from the reel 700 to the double-helix lead screw 718. A guide 722 cooperates with the double-helix lead screw 718 and slides along the guide rod 720 to cause the guide 722 to reciprocate back and forth across the reel 700 facilitating even distribution of the flexible elongate member onto the reel.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 6 and 29, a first embodiment of the gear-train is illustrated. In order to provide manual rotation of the hose reel 700 and reciprocation of the guide assembly 716 (FIG. 14), a rotational drive means is positioned along an inner surface of one of the side panels 200 or 300. The rotational drive means includes the crank assembly 712, the reel gear-train 714, and optionally the hose guide gear-train 724. The crank assembly 712 includes an input shaft 728 constructed and arranged to extend inwardly through an opening 730 in the outer surface of the right side panel 200 and rotatable with respect thereto. The input shaft 728 is secured to the input gear 732 of the gear train 714 at a position adjacent to the right side panel 200. The reel gear 734 is suitably secured to the reel 700 so as to be rotatable therewith. Idler gear 736 is positioned adjacent to the right side panel 200 to be freely rotating with respect to the side panel 200 and directly meshed with the input gear 732 and the reel gear 734 to provide direct gear powering therebetween. Thus, rotational movement of the input gear 732 with crank assembly 712 will cause similar rotational movement of the reel gear 734 and reel 700. Preferably the reel gear 734 will be larger in pitch diameter than the input gear 732 thereby achieving a torque increasing gear reduction desired by the present invention. In addition, the use of the idler gear(s) to provide a predetermined amount of spacing allows the crank assembly to be positioned at a higher level to reduce the amount of stooping required to rotate the crank for retrieving the hose.

The hose guide gear-train 724 utilizes rotation of the crank assembly 712 to cause rotation of the double-helix lead screw 718. The lead screw gear 738 is suitably secured to the lead screw 718 to be rotatable therewith. Idler gears 740A and 740B are positioned substantially adjacent to the side panel 200 to be freely rotating with respect thereto and directly meshed with the input gear 732, one another, and the lead screw gear 738 to provide direct gear powering therebetween. Thus, rotational movement of the input gear 732 will cause similar rotational movement of the lead screw gear 738 and reciprocation of the hose guide 722. Preferably the reel gear 734 will be larger in pitch diameter than the lead screw gear 738 thereby achieving the desired amount of hose guide 722 travel per reel 700 revolution for a compact hose storage configuration.

Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 29, a second embodiment of the rotational drive means is illustrated. In this embodiment the reel is rotated in an opposite direction with respect to the previously discussed embodiment. In addition, the hose guide assembly is positioned below the axis of rotation A of the hose reel 700. In this manner, a low pulling point is provided for the elongated hose to provide additional stability to the sink and hose reel assembly. In order to provide manual rotation of the hose reel 700 and reciprocation of the guide assembly 716, a rotational drive means is positioned along an inner surface of one of the side panels 200 or 300. The rotational drive means includes the crank assembly 712, the reel gear-train 715 and optionally the hose guide gear-train 726. The crank assembly 712 includes an input shaft 728 constructed and arranged to extend inwardly through an opening 730 in the outer surface of the right side panel 200 and rotatable with respect thereto (see FIG. 4). The input shaft 728 is secured to the input gear 732 of the gear train 714 at a position adjacent to the side panel 200. The reel gear 734 is suitably secured to the reel 700 so as to be rotatable therewith. The reel gear 734 is directly meshed with the input gear 728 to provide direct gear powering therebetween. Thus, rotational movement of the input gear 728 with crank assembly 712 will cause similar rotational movement of the reel gear 734 and reel 700. Preferably the reel gear 734 will be larger in pitch diameter than the input gear 728 thereby achieving a torque increasing gear reduction desired by the present invention. It should also be noted that the various gear ratios, including those where the input gear is larger in pitch diameter than the reel gear, could be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-17 and 30, the hose guide gear-train 726 utilizes rotation of the reel assembly 700 to cause rotation of the double-helix lead screw 718. The lead screw gear 738 is suitably secured to the lead screw 718 to be rotatable therewith. Idler gears 740A and 740B are positioned substantially adjacent to the right side panel 200 to be freely rotating with respect thereto and directly meshed with the reel gear 734, one another, and the lead screw gear 738 to provide direct gear powering therebetween. Thus, rotational movement of the reel gear 734 will cause similar rotational movement of the lead screw gear 738 and reciprocation of the hose guide 722. Preferably the reel gear 734 will be larger in pitch diameter than the lead screw gear 738 thereby achieving the desired amount of hose guide 722 travel per reel 700 revolution for a compact hose storage configuration. Utilization of the idler gear(s) permits the level wind assembly to be positioned a sufficient distance from the reel to permit expanded hose capacity, and additional or fewer gears than those shown are contemplated within the scope of the invention.

It should be noted that in the preferred embodiment, hose guide 722 may be manually or automatically released, repositioned and re-secured to the lead screw 718. Further description of the releasable hose guide can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,742,740 and 6,976,649, assigned to the assignee of the instant invention, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 18-23, various embodiments of the sink assembly 600 are illustrated. The sink assembly generally includes a basin 608, a faucet 602 and a water control valve 603. The faucet is generally constructed and arranged to supply water from a source to the sink. The faucet is pivotally mounted for movement between an upright, operative position as shown in FIG. 18 and a folded, inoperative position as shown in FIG. 20. A water control valve 603 is located in the sink for controlling water flow from the water source to the faucet. The faucet and valve assembly are illustrated in FIG. 22. In this embodiment, the valve is secured to the underside of the sink and the faucet extends through an integrally formed aperture 620. In this manner, the valve remains stationary while the faucet is allowed to rotate throughout a predetermined range of motion. A drain 604 is provided at the lowermost portion of the sink to remove the contents of the sink. A drain hose (not shown) connects the drain to the outside of the sink assembly through an aperture 402 provided in a lower portion of the back panel 400 (FIG. 25). As shown in FIG. 24, a cover panel 606 is constructed and arranged to cover the sink basin so that the top surface 610 of the sink assembly 600 may be employed as a work surface or storage area. As shown, the sink basin includes a recessed perimeter 612 constructed and arranged to accept the cover so that the top surface of the cover and the top surface of the sink are substantially flush with respect to each other. The cover 606 may be stored on the back panel 400 when the sink is in use (FIG. 26) as described above. The sink basin 608 and upper surface 610 may be supplied as a single piece construction as shown in FIGS. 18, 20 and 21 or alternatively the sink basin 614 may be formed separate from the top surface 616 as shown in FIGS. 22-23. When formed as separate components, the sink basin 614 includes an integrally formed depending lip 612. The depending lip includes a plurality of integrally formed spring clips 118 which cooperate with apertures 208 formed into one of the two depending lips formed onto the lower surface of the top panel 616 forming a socket 211. The sink basin 614 is attached to the top panel 616 by inserting the depending lip 612 on the upper perimeter 618 of the sink basin into the socket 211, integrally formed onto the lower surface of the upper panel, until the spring lock fasteners 118 engage the apertures 208.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, 12-14 and 20-23, attachment of the sink 600 and/or top panel will now be described. A plurality of independently formed bosses 120 are inserted into the sockets 210 formed at the upper ends of the right and left side panels. The spring lock fasteners 118 on the bosses 120 engage the apertures 208 formed in the sockets 210. The sink is then placed over the top portion of the bosses which extend upwardly beyond the ends of the sockets 210 of the side panels. These top portions of the bosses are inserted into sockets 210 formed on the underside of the sink at each corner thereof. Spring lock fasteners 118 on the top portion of the bosses engage apertures 208 formed in the sockets 210 formed in the sink. As shown, each boss 120 has at least two spring lock fasteners 118 formed thereon, thereby assuring that each boss will be securely attached to both the side panel and the sink or top panel. An underlying portion of the sink may be constructed and arranged to cooperate with the upstanding lips 215, 315, 415 and 515 of the right, left, back and front panels to align the joined elements in a perpendicular relationship and facilitate their mechanical connection. As a result the sink is securely attached to the other panels. When the sink 600 is formed by injection molding or casting, the sockets 210 are formed simultaneously therewith. Further, if the sink is formed from metal or fiberglass the sockets may be attached subsequently, as by welding, rivets, glue, for example.

Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 27, the feet 130 and their associated bosses are illustrated. The feet include a stem 126 that is constructed and arranged to cooperate with an aperture 132 integrally formed into the lower surface of the base panel 100, as well as a second aperture 138 formed in a top portion of each foot. To attach the feet to the enclosure assembly, the stem 126 is inserted into the aperture 132 of the boss 134 until a retaining ring 136 snaps into a corresponding groove formed in the aperture. This results in a mechanically secure connection. The feet are also provided with a non-skid pad 140 to prevent the enclosure assembly from unwanted moves on sloped and uneven surfaces. The non-skid pads each include a spring tab 142 that is constructed and arranged to cooperate with the lower portion of each foot for securement thereof.

Thus, an enclosure system for supporting a sink and a hose reel has been described. The system is particularly adapted for assembly without the need for additional fasteners and/or connectors. The system incorporates components such as a folding crank assembly 712 which allows the sink and hose reel enclosure system to be shipped in a fully assembled condition for space savings during shipment. Alternatively, the sink and hose reel enclosure system may be shipped in a disassembled state for assembly upon a desired site.

All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.

One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A sink and hose reel enclosure system comprising:

an enclosure comprising a base panel and at least side three panels, wherein said side panels include a left side panel for substantially enclosing the left side of said enclosure, a right side panel for substantially enclosing the right side of said enclosure and a front panel for substantially enclosing the front of said enclosure;

a sink constructed and arranged to be supported by an upper portion of at least two of said side panels, said sink constructed and arranged to substantially enclose the top portion of said enclosure, said sink including a faucet and a water control valve for controlling water flow to said faucet;

a hose reel assembly positioned between and rotatably supported by at least two of said side panels for rotation about a first axis of rotation, said hose reel assembly constructed and arranged to store a predetermined length of hose in a coiled configuration;

whereby said base panel, said left side panel, said right side panel and said front panel include integrally formed connectors constructed and arranged for snap-together assembly for mechanically secure connection therebetween, whereby said sink member is constructed and arranged to include integrally formed connectors for snap-together assembly to a top portion of said enclosure.

2. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said hose reel assembly includes a guide assembly for facilitating even distribution of a hose onto said hose reel.

3. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 2 wherein said guide assembly is positioned above an axis of rotation for said hose reel.

4. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 2 wherein said guide assembly is positioned below an axis of rotation for said hose reel to provide a low center of pulling force to the device while retrieving said hose.

5. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said hose reel assembly includes a crank assembly being rotatably mounted and extending outwardly with respect to one of said side panels, said crank assembly in mechanical engagement with said hose reel assembly, whereby rotation of said crank assembly causes rotation of said hose reel assembly about said axis of rotation.

6. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 5 wherein said hose reel assembly includes a crank assembly being rotatably mounted and extending outwardly with respect to one of said side panels for rotation about a second axis of rotation, wherein said second axis of rotation is positioned above said first axis of rotation to provide an elevated point of rotation for said crank assembly, said crank assembly in mechanical engagement with said hose reel assembly via a reel gear-train, whereby rotation of said crank assembly about said second axis causes rotation of said hose reel assembly about said first axis of rotation.

7. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 6 wherein said reel gear-train includes an input gear secured to said crank assembly for rotation therewith and a reel gear secured to said reel assembly for rotation therewith, wherein said input gear is directly meshed with said reel gear to provide direct gear powering therebetween, whereby rotation of said input gear provides rotation to said reel assembly.

8. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 7 wherein said reel gear is larger in diameter than said input gear to provide a torque increasing gear reduction.

9. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 5 wherein said reel gear-train includes an input gear secured to said crank assembly for rotation therewith and a reel gear secured to said reel assembly for rotation therewith, at least one idler gear positioned between said input gear and said reel gear, wherein said at least one idler gear is directly meshed with said input gear and said reel gear to provide direct gear powering therebetween, whereby rotation of said input gear provides rotation to said reel assembly, whereby said gear-train provides for a predetermined amount of spacing between said first axis of rotation and said second axis of rotation to facilitate mounting said crank assembly at an elevated position.

10. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 9 wherein said reel gear is larger in diameter than said input gear to provide a torque increasing gear reduction.

11. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 5 wherein said crank assembly includes a folding handle for a compact storage configuration, said folding handle including a rotatable sleeve thereon.

12. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 5 including a hose guide assembly operably connected to said hose reel via a hose guide gear-train, whereby rotation of said hose reel causes reciprocating movement of a hose guide for uniformly and smoothly wrapping said hose about said reel.

13. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 12 wherein said hose guide gear-train includes a reel gear secured to said reel assembly for rotation therewith, at least one idler gear directly meshed with said reel gear to provide direct gear powering therebetween, a lead screw gear secured to a double helix lead screw for rotation therewith, said lead screw gear rotatably mounted and directly meshed with said at least one idler gear, said double helix lead screw positioned between and rotatably supported by at least two of said side panels for rotation substantially parallel to and spaced apart from said first axis of rotation, a hose guide constructed and arranged to cooperate with said double helix lead screw, whereby said hose guide reciprocates back and forth across said lead screw in response to rotation of said hose reel.

14. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 13 wherein said hose guide gear-train includes two idler gears, the first of said idler gears positioned in direct engagement with said reel gear and the second of said idler gears positioned in engagement with said first idler gear and said lead screw gear.

15. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 9 including a hose guide assembly operably connected to said hose reel via a hose guide gear-train, whereby rotation of said hose reel causes reciprocating movement of a hose guide for uniformly and smoothly wrapping said hose about said reel.

16. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 15 wherein said hose guide gear-train includes at least one idler gear directly meshed with said reel gear and said input gear to provide direct gear powering therebetween, a lead screw gear secured to a double helix lead screw for rotation therewith, said lead screw gear rotatably mounted and directly meshed with said at least one idler gear, said double helix lead screw positioned between and rotatably supported by at least two of said side panels for rotation substantially parallel to and spaced apart from said first axis of rotation, a hose guide constructed and arranged to cooperate with said double helix lead screw, whereby said hose guide reciprocates back and forth across said lead screw in response to rotation of said input gear.

17. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 13 wherein said hose guide gear-train includes two idler gears, the first of said idler gears positioned in direct engagement with said input gear and the second of said idler gears at least one boss constructed and arranged to cooperate with at least one inwardly extending socket integrally formed into a lower portion of said left and said right panels for interlocking engagement therewith.

22. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 21 wherein each of said bosses includes at least one spring lock fastener integrally formed thereto, said at least one spring lock fastener is constructed and arranged to cooperate with at least one aperture integrally formed into said sockets;

wherein said at least one spring lock fastener engages at least one side wall of said aperture for interlocking engagement therewith.

23. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 21 wherein said bottom surface of said base panel includes at least four integrally formed bosses;

each of said bosses is constructed and arranged to cooperate with a foot for securement thereof without additional fasteners;

whereby said sink and hose reel enclosure system is supported upon said feet.

24. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said front panel is hingedly mounted for movement between an open position and a closed position, whereby access is provided to the interior of said sink and hose reel enclosure system.

25. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said sink includes at least one socket formed on the bottom thereof, said at least one socket constructed and arranged to cooperate with at least one boss extending outwardly from an upper portion of said enclosure for interlocking engagement therebetween.

26. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said sink includes a plurality of sockets formed on a bottom portion thereof;

said left and said right side panels including a socket integrally formed at the top portion of said first and said second edges; and

a plurality of double ended bosses constructed and arranged to cooperate with said plurality of sockets formed onto said sink and said side panels for interlocking engagement therebetween.

27. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 26 wherein each of said bosses includes at least one spring lock integrally formed thereto;

said at least one spring lock constructed and arranged to cooperate with at least one aperture integrally formed into said sockets;

whereby said at least one spring lock engages at least one side wall of said at least one aperture for interlocking engagement therebetween.

28. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said faucet is pivotable between an operative position and a stored position, whereby said faucet is positioned within the basin of said sink when in said stored position.

29. The sink and hose reel enclosure system of claim 1 wherein said sink basin includes a recessed perimeter, said recessed perimeter constructed and arranged to cooperate with a cover, whereby the upper surface of said cover and the upper surface of said sink are substantially flush with respect to each other, whereby said upper surfaces may be utilized for a table.