WATER SPRAYER

Abstract

A water spray gun includes a body providing a flow path, a head configured to rotate relative to the body, and a chemical container coupled to body. The head includes a plurality of nozzles that may be rotated into and out of the flow path. At least one of the plurality of nozzles includes a group of small orifices. The chemical container is configured to provide chemicals to the flow path.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/411,139, filed Mar. 25, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to the field of garden hose spray systems. More specifically, the invention relates to a system including a pump and control mechanism for boosting the flow rate, pressure, momentum, and/or exit velocity of a water flow (or water stream) through the system.

Household garden hoses may be used for a wide variety of tasks around a home. However, at pressures supplied by household plumbing systems, the pressure of outgoing streams may be fairly low, for example approximately 0.4 megapascals (MPa), or approximately 60 pounds per square inch (psi). To compensate, household garden hoses may be fitted with a wide variety of fittings and/or nozzles to increase the water pressure in the system and provide a stream of water with an increased exit velocity. However to increase the outgoing velocity of the water stream, such nozzles may greatly reduce the outgoing flow rate, which is the product of average velocity and flow cross-section—for example from approximately 315 to 630 cubic centimeters per second (cm³/s), or approximately 5 to 10 gallons per minute (gpm), down to less than 190 cm³/s (3 gpm).

Devices other than garden hose boosting pumps, such as powered pressure washers for example, are known to be used to clean dirt, paint, or mold from pavement, brick face, cement, or other surfaces. To achieve such results, these devices may generally provide an energized water stream but with a greatly increased pressure (e.g., approximately 9.6 MPa (1400 psi)) and a greatly reduced flow rate (e.g., approximately 80 to 90 cm³/s (1.3-1.4 gpm)). Heavy duty pressure washers may provide streams with even higher pressures (e.g., 20 to 35 MPa (3000-5000 psi)) and possibly greater flow rates (e.g., approximately 225 cm³/s (3.5 gpm)). The high pressure streams of heavy duty pressure washers may facilitate more demanding tasks, such as resurfacing or cutting of materials, which may require extremely powerful flows.

SUMMARY

One embodiment of the invention relates to a garden hose spray system including a pump for boosting a water flow through the system, a garden hose connector coupled to the pump, and a controller. The controller is in communication with the pump, such that the controller engages the pump when the water flow exceeds a predetermined, non-zero threshold flow rate. The garden hose spray system further includes a variable outlet operable at a first flow setting for a flow rate greater than the threshold and a second flow setting for a non-zero flow rate less than the threshold.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a garden hose assist system including a water pump having a motor, an inlet, and an outlet. A garden hose connector is coupled to the pump. The hose assist system also has a flow sensor coupled to the pump, and the sensor has a status that is based upon measuring water flowing through the system relative to a non-zero, flow rate threshold. Also, the hose assist system includes a control circuit that engages the pump in response to the status of the flow sensor.

Still another embodiment relates to a booster system for use with a garden hose. The booster system includes a water pump having a motor. The pump is designed to produce a maximum water pressure of less than 1000 psi. A garden hose connector is coupled to the pump. The booster system also includes a switch for engaging and disengaging the pump. A hose storage structure for holding a garden hose close to the pump is also included in the system.

Yet another embodiment relates to a garden hose storage and booster system. The booster system includes a water pump and a garden hose connector coupled to the pump. A switch is included for engaging and disengaging the pump. A hose storage structure for holding a garden hose close to the pump is also included in the system. Additionally, a storage housing substantially encloses the pump and the hose storage structure.

Another embodiment relates to a garden hose booster control system. The system includes a water pump with a motor, a radio frequency receiver, and a switch for engaging and disengaging the motor. The system also includes a variable outlet having a first flow rate setting, a second flow rate setting, a radio frequency transmitter. The transmitter is designed to transmit a radio frequency signal to the receiver to indicate which setting the variable outlet is using. Additionally, the system includes a controller designed to adjust the switch based upon the signal.

Another embodiment relates to a water spray gun, which includes a body providing a flow path, a head configured to rotate relative to the body, and a chemical container coupled to body. The head includes a plurality of nozzles that may be rotated into and out of the flow path. At least one of the plurality of nozzles includes a group of small orifices. The chemical container is configured to provide chemicals to the flow path.

Another embodiment relates to a control system for a water pump assembly that uses water to communicate control signals to the pump. The control system includes a water pump having an inlet and an outlet, a spray gun configured to receive water from the outlet of the water pump via a hose connected to the outlet, and a sensor. The spray gun includes a body providing a flow path through the water spray gun and a head configured to rotate relative to the body. The head includes a plurality of nozzles that may be rotated into and out of the flow path of the spray gun, where the plurality of nozzles includes a larger opening and a smaller opening. The larger opening allows a greater flow rate through the spray gun than the smaller opening. The sensor is configured to provide a signal to control the water pump based upon a characteristic of the water flow that corresponds to whether the larger or smaller opening of the spray gun is being used.

Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable garden hose spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a garden hose spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2B is an end view of a spray head for the garden hose spray system of FIG. 2A according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2C is an end view of a spray head for the garden hose spray system of FIG. 2A according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram of a garden hose spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a garden hose spray system according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a control matrix for a spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a garden hose spray system according to yet another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a broom for a garden hose spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a bottom view of a broom head for the broom of FIG. 6A according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6C is a bottom view of a broom head for the broom of FIG. 6A according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6D is a bottom view of a broom head for the broom of FIG. 6A according to yet another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a scrubbing brush for a garden hose spray system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a bottom view of a scrubbing brush head for the brush of FIG. 7A according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a garden hose storage and booster system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a spray gun according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a left side view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is a right side view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the spray gun of FIG. 9.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the spray gun of FIG. 9 taken along line 16-16 as shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 17 is an expanded view of a portion of the spray gun show in FIG. 16 taken along line 17-17 as shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the head of the spray gun shown in FIG. 9 showing the interior of a first nozzle.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the head of the spray gun shown in FIG. 9 showing the interior of a second nozzle.

FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the head of the spray gun shown in FIG. 9 showing the interior of a third nozzle.

FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the head of the spray gun shown in FIG. 9 showing the interior of a fourth nozzle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Garden hoses and sprayers can be used for a broad range of applications, including for example cleaning cars, watering plants, washing home windows and siding, rinsing out a warehouse floor or garage, and the like. However, garden hoses alone may produce water streams that are too weak to wash off certain materials, such as tree sap or bird residue. As such, booster systems for garden hoses may be very useful. The added boost may produce water streams powerful enough to handle everyday household cleaning tasks that are outside of the capabilities of garden hoses alone.

Referring to FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment, the booster water spraying system is in the form of a portable wheeled-cart 110 that includes a pump 130 stored on or in the cart 110, a windable garden hose reel 176, a handle 178, a hose 116, and wheels 179. Other embodiments include a cart with a roll-bar frame to protect the pump 130 and other components from damage if the cart is overturned. When the hose 116 couples the pump to a water source, the pump 130 may energize the water flow. Other exemplary embodiments include hose storage structures other than the hose reel 176, such as hose racks that are not windable, but instead require a user to wrap the hose around a frame. Still other exemplary embodiments include a pump with a hose rack that may be mounted to the side of a house or building. Such embodiments may form booster water spraying system kits.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a garden hose spray system 210 embodiment that includes a pump 230 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The garden hose spray system 210 is configured to be coupled to an existing, conventional garden hose system including a hose 216 coupled to, for example, a typical garden hose fitting or coupling connector 214 (e.g. three-quarters inch female garden hose connector, hose bib, hose faucet, sillcock, threaded coupling, hose fitting, etc.). According to another exemplary embodiment, a similar garden hose sprayer system may be coupled to a water supply with a permanent plumbing (e.g., brass pipes, PVC pipes, and the like). According to a preferred embodiment, the pump 230 is a centrifugal pump driven by motor 232. The pump 230 includes a connector or connectors for attaching a garden hose, such as a three-quarters inch female and/or male fitting, snap-lock, and/or other connector. The water is drawn into the pump 230 by a rotating impeller through an input 234 opening, port, hole, and the like and expelled through an output 235. The output 235 is connected to a hose coupler 236, which allows for releasable attachment of a garden hose. The pump 230 is configured to energize (i.e., add kinetic or potential energy to, as opposed to electrify) the water flow, such as by converting the centrifugal force of the rotating impeller to an increased static pressure of the water flow and, in turn, increasing a related pressure and a flow velocity with which the water flow exits the garden hose spray system 210.

In some embodiments, the motor 232 is a alternating current electric motor, and the motor 232 is compatible with a standard household electrical system (e.g., 120-volt motor). An electrical plug and cord may couple the motor to a current source. In other embodiments the motor 232 is powered by a direct current electric motor and battery. In still other embodiments the motor 232 is a combustion engine.

Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to a booster for a garden hose as opposed to a “true” pressure washer. Conversely, it should be noted that some “pressure washers,” especially the heavy duty pressure washers, can damage objects that are hit directly by a correspondingly high-powered water stream or by an object propelled by the high-powered stream. However, some embodiments of this invention provide a mechanism for energizing a water stream from a household water system with an increased flow rate and/or pressure that is suitable to everyday-type cleaning applications. For example, in certain scenarios, such as for cleaning operations (e.g., removing stuck-on plant debris from a vehicle; dried-on bird waste from a window; or spider webs from an eve of a high roof line, out of reach of a garden hose having unboosted pressure and flow) a user may desire an increased flow rate and/or pressure beyond the capabilities of a garden hose and faucet without a booster pump, but not with the reduced flow rate and much higher pressures of “true” pressure washers. Thus, according to some exemplary embodiments, pumps associated with the presently claimed invention have a maximum pressure capacity (e.g., maximum settings) of less than approximately 7 MPa (1000 psi), preferably less than approximately 4 MPa (600 psi), and even more preferably less than approximately 1.5 MPa (200 psi). For example, in a preferred embodiment the maximum pressure capacity (e.g., maximum setting) is less than approximately 400 kilopascals (kPa) (60 psi); and in another preferred embodiment it is less than approximately 550 kPa (80 psi). Also, certain exemplary embodiment systems have a water flow rate capacity (e.g., maximum setting) of at least approximately 250 cm³/s (4 gpm), preferably at least approximately 325 cm³/s (5 gpm), and even more preferably at least approximately 350 cm³/s (5.5 gpm). For example, in a preferred embodiment the water flow rate capacity (e.g., maximum setting) is approximately 375 cm³/s (6 gpm). In some embodiments, activating the pump increases the water flow rate by a magnitude approximately greater than 1.25 but less than five, preferably by a magnitude approximately greater than 1.5 but less than three, such as approximately two.

While the pump 230 is a centrifugal-type pump, other embodiments utilize other styles of pumps, including reciprocating pumps and/or positive displacement pumps. For example, at least one embodiment includes a pump that uses a piston-style positive displacement pump. Centrifugal pumps may be preferred over piston-style pumps because no bypass may be needed with the former for a water flow to continue to flow when power is not provided to the pump. It should be noted that in some exemplary embodiments the pump is an electric pump having a ground fault protection, such as a circuit breaker, fuse, and the like. The ground fault protection may help to protect a user from accidental electric shock. Additionally, the ground fault protection may help to protect the pump system from short-circuiting, overloading, and the like, which may be damaging to the system.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, according to an exemplary embodiment, a switch 224 is part of a flow-sensitive switch assembly 260 (or “flow monitoring switch”) in a switch housing 220 and dually functions as a pump controller, wherein the flow monitoring switch 260 includes both a sensor portion 222 and a switch portion 224. The sensor 222 measures, detects, monitors, evaluates, and/or is affected by characteristics (e.g., flow rate) of the water flow through the garden hose spray system 210, and thus providing the sensor a status based upon the flow characteristics. For example, in the system 210, the sensor 222 is coupled to the pump 230 proximate to an inlet 234 to detect a flow rate of water into the pump 230. The flow monitoring switch 260 is configured to recognize a threshold flow rate such that the flow monitoring switch 260 is engaged (e.g., “on” or a closed switch) for water flowing above the threshold flow rate and disengaged (e.g., “off” or an open switch) for water flowing below the threshold flow rate. Flow monitoring switches may be less expensive than gauges for measuring water pressure or other flow characteristics, and therefore may be desirable to reduce the overall cost of a garden hose sprayer system.

While the sensor 222 is shown as part of a simple flow-sensitive mechanical switch 260 in FIG. 2A, according to other exemplary embodiments, other suitable gauges, sensors, meters, and the like may be provided to sense flow rates of the water flow through the garden hose spray system 210. For example, a variant exemplary sensor may include an induction magnetic switching device with a biased magnetic “torpedo” provided within the flow that is sensed by a magnetically-sensitive switch provided outside of the flow. Other embodiments include flow sensors such as Venturis, pitot static tubes, spinning pin-wheels, paddles with spring arms, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 2A, according to an exemplary embodiment, the garden hose sprayer system 210 includes an additional, manually-operated on/off switch 262 and housing. The manually-operated switch 262 may be provided in series with the flow-sensitive mechanical switch 260, wherein if the manually-operated switch 262 is in the off position, the pump 230 will not be activated, but if the manually-operated switch 262 is in the on position, then the pump 230 may be activated by the flow sensitive switch 260 or its analog. In a different embodiment, a manually-operated switch 262 is provided in parallel with the flow sensitive switch 260 or its analog, such that the manually-operated switch 262 can function as an override, activating or deactivating the pump 230 regardless the flow rate. In some embodiments, the housing further includes a capacitor, a motor control circuitry, a power switch, a circuit breaker, and other electronics. The plug may be a standard plug and may include a ground fault circuit interrupter.

Energized water flow exits from the pump 230 through the outlet 235. According to an exemplary embodiment, a flexible hose 217, such as a common garden hose, is coupled to the outlet 235 with the hose coupler or garden hose connector 236 (e.g., threaded fittings, quick connect, snap fittings, and the like). The flexible hose 217 may be made from a wide variety of commonly known materials such as vinyl, rubber, composite, and the like. For example, typical garden hose (or “hosepipe”) characteristics may vary depending design choice, such as hose dimensions, gauge, material, reinforcement, and the like. Some exemplary garden hoses are constructed of a synthetic rubber and/or soft plastic. These hoses are reinforced with internal or external fiber webbings, such as nylon or polyester tire-cords. Certain exemplary hoses are “reinforced vinyl” garden hoses. Due the variety of design choices and available materials, different commercial garden hoses have a broad range of “burst strengths” or “burst ratings,” the maximum allowable internal pressures that a hose can withstand before rupture. Some exemplary lower-quality hoses have a burst rating of about 1.4 MPa (200 psi). Other exemplary medium-quality hoses have burst ratings ranging from about 1.9 to 2.4 MPa (275 to 350 psi). Still other exemplary higher-quality garden hoses have burst ratings from about 2.4 to 3.4 MPa (350 to 500 psi) or higher, such as about 7 MPa (1000 psi). Therefore, booster water spraying systems, such as those described herein that may operate with typical garden hoses, may be better suited for such operation than “true” pressure washers due to characteristics of the garden hoses, such as their “burst ratings.”

A variable outlet 240 (e.g., sprayer, nozzle, spout, head, fountain, sprinkler, flow sink, and the like) may be provided on a remote end of the hose 217. The variable outlet 240 is coupled to the hose 217 with a commonly known fitting or coupling and is configured to allow a user to manage the water flow out of the garden hose sprayer system 210 (e.g., point and spray). According to some preferred exemplary embodiments, the variable outlet 240 may include multiple mechanisms for controlling water output, such as a rotatable head portion 242, which may include a plurality of patterned openings 246, 248 of different sizes and/or shapes; a flow restriction valve 250; and/or a flow control valve 252.

In some embodiments the flow-restriction valve 250 is manipulated by a trigger 254 located on the variable output 240. The flow-restriction valve 250, for example, may be configured to be opened when a user pulls the trigger 254, allowing water to be expelled from the variable output 240 through one of the openings 246, 248, and closed when a user releases the trigger 254. To this end, the flow-restriction valve 250 may be biased to the closed position with a spring, an elastic band, a counterweight, and/or other suitable biasing member.

The variable output 240 may also include a chemical container 272 for storing and transferring chemicals into the water flow. For example, the container may hold a liquid plant fertilizer that is pulled into the water flow by a lower pressure Venturi within the flow path (much like fuel insertion in air passing through a carburetor of a combustion engine, or aeration systems in fish tanks) In other embodiments, mechanical energy is transferred from pulling the trigger 254, to squeeze chemicals from the container into the water flow.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the rotatable head portion 242 includes at least a larger opening 248 and a smaller opening 246 through which water may exit from the variable outlet 240. For example, the head portion 242 may be adjusted such that the water flow exits the variable outlet 240 through either the smaller opening 246 or the larger opening 248. The larger opening 248 allows a greater flow rate through the garden hose sprayer system 210 than the smaller opening 246. According to other exemplary embodiments, the water flow may exit through a variety of other openings of differently-shaped patterns having cross-sectional areas of greater or lesser discreet magnitudes relative to openings 246, 248.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-16, a sprayer, in the form of a spray gun 910, includes a body 912 providing a flow path 914 (FIG. 16) and a head 916 configured to rotate relative to the body 912 (see also rotation arrow shown in FIG. 2A). The body 912 includes a trigger 918 for releasing a valve 920 (FIG. 16) positioned along the flow path 914 to allow the spray gun 910 to spray water. According to an exemplary embodiment, a handle 922 of the body 912 is substantially aligned with a shaft 924 of the body 912 (e.g., within 30-degrees) such that the spray gun 910 provides almost a straight flow path from the inlet 926 to the outlet 928, which may reduce pressure losses relative to a spray gun having a handle orthogonal to the shaft.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 17-21, the head 916 of the spray gun 910 includes a plurality of nozzles 930, 932, 934, 936, 938 that may be rotated into and out of the flow path 914 of the spray gun 910. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of nozzles 930, 932, 934, 936, 938 includes a group (e.g., series, array, pattern) of small orifices 940 (FIG. 19), 942 (FIG. 18), 944 (FIG. 20), similar to the orifices shown with the rotatable head portion 242 in FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the orifices 940, 942, 944 of the groups are arranged in a symmetric pattern, as shown with nozzles 934, 936, 938), also similar to the orifices shown with the rotatable head portion 242 in FIG. 2B.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 18-20, the length, size, and shape of the orifices 940, 942, 944 may vary between different nozzles 934, 936, 938. In the nozzle 938 shown in FIG. 19, the orifices 940 are formed from longer tubes (e.g., greater than an eighth of an inch in length, about a quarter inch) that are generally parallel with one another. In FIG. 20, the orifices 944 of the nozzle 934 are formed from shorter passages (e.g., less than a quarter inch in length, less than an eighth of an inch) that are smaller in area than the orifices 942 of the nozzle 936 of FIG. 18 (e.g., half, less than half).

Furthermore, the orifices 940 of the nozzle 938 shown in FIG. 19 are generally rectangular (e.g., generally trapezoidal, where the bases of the trapezoid are arcuate), while the orifices 942, 944 of the nozzles 936, 934 shown in FIGS. 18 and 20 are circular in cross-section orthogonal to the flow path. The groups of small orifices are intended to condition water flowing along the flow path 914 by separating the flow into smaller parallel streams to reduce turbulence in the water (e.g., by removing eddies, aligning the flow direction).

In some embodiments, the plurality of nozzles 930, 932, 934, 936, 938 includes a larger opening 946 (FIG. 17) and a smaller opening 948 (FIG. 21), where the larger opening 946 allows a greater flow rate through the spray gun 910 than the smaller opening 948 at a given water pressure, similar to the openings 246 and 248 of the head portion 242 shown in FIG. 2B. The larger and smaller openings 946, 948 shown in FIG. 10 are each single openings (single holes) that are particularly sized to provide a difference in flow rate detectable by a flow rate sensor (e.g., switch assembly 260 as shown in FIG. 2A), which controls a booster pump as disclosed herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the group of small orifices 942 of FIG. 18 provide a greater flow rate than the group of small orifices 944 of FIG. 20 at a given water pressure. In some embodiments, the difference in flow rate between the two groups of small orifices 942, 944 is also sufficient to activate the flow-sensitive switch.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 16, the spray gun 910 further includes a chemical container 950 supported by the body 912. The chemical container 950 is configured for storing and providing chemicals to the flow path 914, similar to the chemical container 272 as shown in FIG. 2A. The chemical container 950 may screw into the body 912, latch onto the body 912, or otherwise fasten to the body 912. When the chemical container 950 runs low on chemicals, the chemical container 950 may be removed from the body 912, refilled, and reattached.

In some embodiments, the body 912 further includes a second trigger 952 (e.g., button, interface) to control communication of chemicals from the chemical container 950 to the flow path 914. The trigger 952 may be a manual pumping trigger, similar to the trigger 272 as shown in FIG. 2A. In other embodiments, the trigger 952 may activate a small pump 954 (FIG. 16) driven by a battery-powered DC motor 956 (FIG. 16), which draws chemicals through a chemical conduit 958 (FIG. 16). The chemical conduit 958 communicates the chemicals in parallel with the water flow path through the shaft 924 of the spray gun 910 to the head 916.

According to an exemplary embodiment, an outlet 960 for the chemical conduit 958 is integrated into each nozzle 930, 932, 934, 936, 938 of the plurality on the head 916 of the spray gun 910. In some such embodiments, the outlet 960 of the chemical conduit is centered within the water flow path 914 of each nozzle 930, 932, 934, 936, 938 of the plurality of nozzles, such as within the center of single openings 946, 948 or in between the orifices 940, 942, 944. Centering the outlet 960 in the water flow path 914 allows the water flowing from the active nozzle to draw chemicals into the water, which may then be carried in the center of the outgoing stream.

As shown in FIG. 2C, according to still other exemplary embodiments, the head portion 242 may include a single, continuous opening with a varied cross-sectional width 249 instead of a plurality of discreet openings. By exposing different portions of the single opening 249 to the water flow, the water exit stream may pass through openings with different cross-sectional areas, affecting the flow rate in a manner similar to the different-sized discreet openings 246, 248 in FIG. 2B. In still other embodiments, the head portion 242 may include a screw-type constricting valve for varying the nozzle opening cross-sectional area.

According to still other exemplary embodiments, a user may adjust the flow rate of the variable output 240 with a flow control valve 252. Such a valve 252 may be provided internally in the variable output 240 and be any of a wide variety of different types of valves (e.g., a gate valve, poppet valve, plug valve, butterfly valve, globe valve, ball valve, etc.). Embodiments including a flow control valve 252 may gradually constrict or release water flow through the outlet 240, for example, by tightening or loosening the valve, such as by a knob and screw mechanism.

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, block diagrams of similar garden hose spray systems 310, 311 are shown according to exemplary embodiments. In FIG. 3A, the garden hose spray system 310 is configured to be coupled to a typical household or commercial property water supply/source 312 (e.g., hose bib, faucet, and the like). A pump 330 is provided to energize a water flow through the system 310, such as to increase water pressure, momentum, work, temperature, exit velocity, flow rate, and/or other characteristics of the water flow that are functions of energy. The pump 330 is powered by a power source 318, such as a AC current source, a DC current source, a gas-powered electric generator, a combustion engine, a solar panel array, a battery, and/or another power source.

The garden hose spray system 310 further includes a controller 320 in communication (e.g., fluidic, mechanical, wired, wireless, and/or other communication) with the pump 330, and the controller 320 operates a switch 324 provided between the power source 318 and the pump 330. Closing the switch 324 allows power to drive the pump 330 and opening the switch 324 prevents power from driving the pump 330.

In the FIG. 3A embodiment, the controller 320 is further coupled to a sensor 322. The sensor 322 detects, monitors, senses, and/or is affected by the flow rate of the water flow through the garden hose spray system 310. In some embodiments, the sensor 322 can distinguish between a no-flow condition and a positive flow condition. In another set of embodiments, the sensor 322 can distinguish between two or more different positive (non-zero) flow rates. The controller 320 uses readings from the sensor 322 to operate the switch 324 to activate the pump 330. Pump 330 activation as a function of a non-zero flow rate may be especially useful for situations where a lower pressure, lesser flow is desirable; along with a quick adjustment to a more powerful high flow, such as switching between gently watering flowers to removing dried-on mud from a deck floor.

The garden hose spray system 310 further includes a variable outlet 340 operable at a first flow setting and a second flow setting, such as a sprayer head, nozzle, spraying brush, and the like, with adjustable flow rate settings having a plurality of discreet “calibrated” outlet cross-sectional patterns, as shown in FIG. 3B for example. For example, the first flow setting may correspond with a non-zero flow rate less than a threshold flow rate and the second flow setting may correspond with a flow rate greater than the threshold. The sensor 322 can determine which setting is operating by reading a corresponding flow rate. In some embodiments, the controller 320 then directs, operates, manipulates, adjusts, and/or flips the switch 324 to activate the pump 330 when the water flow rate exceeds the predetermined, non-zero threshold flow rate. Exemplary threshold values range from approximately 60 to 300 cm³/s (1 to 5 gpm), preferably from approximately 125 to 250 cm³/s (2 to 4 gpm). Exemplary threshold values range even more preferably from approximately 150 to 225 cm³/s (2.5 to 3.5 gpm), such as 190 cm³/s (3 gpm). In still other embodiments, the threshold can be manually changed by adjusting the bias of a biasing member (e.g., spring position, flexible rod length, and the like) associated with the sensor 322 for example.

According to one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3A, the sensor 322 is provided between the water source 312 and the pump 330. However placement of the sensor 322 in the system 310 may vary with embodiments within the scope of the invention. In other exemplary embodiments, a sensor is provided after a pump outlet—either between the pump 330 and the variable outlet 340, or as part of the variable outlet 340. Additionally a valve 350 may be placed in series with the system 310, to prevent flow of water through the system when the valve 350 is closed, and to allow flow when the valve 350 is open. For example, the valve 350 may be coupled to a squeeze-operated handle or trigger, a rotatable flow-blocking gate, a constricting valve, and/or the like.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the garden hose spray system 311 also includes a pump 330 that may be activated by a controller 320 and switch 324 coupled to a power source 318, and the system 311 may be coupled to a water source 312. In the system 311, a variable outlet 340 is in a wireless communication (e.g., radio frequency or other electro-magnetic radiation, including a receiver and transmitter, as shown in FIG. 3B, which may be in signal communication between the controller and the variable outlet, the variable outlet and the pump, and between other parts) with the controller 320 such that selection of a variable outlet setting, and possibly other information such as valve release by a trigger on the variable outlet 340, is communicated to the controller 320. According to another exemplary embodiment, a flow rate sensor is provided proximate to the variable outlet 340. In still other embodiments, a wired communication cable connects the variable outlet 340 to the controller 320, for example, the wire is coupled to a hose connecting the variable outlet with the pump 330 and controller 320 (see also FIG. 5).

FIG. 4 presents a matrix 480 that summarizes a control logic for operation of the embodiment system 310. On one side 482 of the matrix 480 is a valve 350 condition: an opened or closed valve condition. On another side 484 of the matrix 480 is a positive flow rate condition: a higher flow condition above a threshold 486, and a lower flow condition below the threshold 486. For example, instead of a distinction between a zero-flow condition versus a positive-flow-rate condition being a factor for controlling pump 330 activation, the pump 330 is activated by the controller 320 capable of distinguishing between at least two positive flow rates of water through the garden hose spray system. According to the control matrix 480 embodiment, the pump 330 is only activated when both the valve 350 is open and the higher flow rate setting is used. Activating the pump 330 only at times when additional boosting with a high flow-rate is desired, reduces the amount of time the pump 330 is active, which may further reduce power consumption, noise, wear on moving parts, and the like associated with the operation of the pump 330. For example, a controller with logic designed to implement the rules of the control matrix 480 may be more efficient in terms conservation of energy, as well as conservation of user control effort and time, than controllers that automatically turn on a pump when a positive flow rate is sensed regardless of rate, because a garden hose user may not need (or want) a boosted flow for many applications or sub-applications (such as watering the flowers).

A logic module, algorithm, and/or scheme configured to apply the logic presented in the matrix 480 may be implemented in several steps. In some embodiments, a sensor may produce a reading, and the reading may be relayed to a control circuitry, as discussed below in regard to FIG. 5. The sensor reading may be converted to a relevant parameters, for example by amplifying the reading, filtering noise from the reading, and digitizing the reading. The reading may then be compared to a designated threshold, such as threshold 486 and/or other thresholds, or a threshold computed in a processor based in part upon the reading. The comparison may occur in a processor under instructions of the logic module, which may be stored in a memory of a computer for example. If the sensor reading corresponds to a parameter exceeding the threshold parameter, then the processor may output a command that may be relayed to a pump or to a switch governing power to the pump. The command may direct the pump to activate and/or to operate at a particular speed, capacity, level and the like. In other embodiments, the command may activate a delay timer set to a predetermined period. Following the period, another command may be relayed to the pump and/or to the switch. If the sensor reading corresponds to a parameter not exceeding the threshold, then the processor may output a different command. For example, the different command may deactivate the pump, or change the pump speed, capacity, level and the like. In still other embodiments, a logic module may incorporate steps that open and close a valve on a variable outlet, or adjust a spray opening cross-sectional area on the variable outlet.

In some embodiments, with the motor 232 as a combustion engine, a logic module (or algorithm) may include a controller interaction with components for controlling the combustion engine. For example, if a flow sensitive switch senses a positive flow, and relays the flow information to the controller, the controller may then activate a solenoid that engages a clutch (e.g., centrifugal clutch) coupled to a crankshaft of the engine (e.g., acting as a mechanical switch). The crankshaft may then power the pump. However, if the flow sensitive switch senses no flow, or a positive flow rate less than a threshold flow rate, then the controller may activate a solenoid to disengage the clutch, idle the engine, and decouple the crankshaft from the pump. In some exemplary embodiments with combustion engines, variant logic algorithms may have the controller idle the engine when the flow is below the threshold, turn off the engine, or idle the engine for a set time period of sensed flow rate below the theshold before turning off the engine.

Other embodiments, such as those similar to system 311 of FIG. 3B, operate without a flow control valve. For example, water continuously flows through the system 311, either with the pump 330 on or off when the water source is actively supplying a water flow to the system. As such, a control matrix for the system 311 would not distinguish between conditions of the valve 482, and instead the controller 320 would simply activate the pump 330 upon sensing a water flow rate 484 greater than the non-zero threshold 486.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary booster water spraying system 510 as a block diagram. Similar the systems 310, 311 of FIG. 3, the system 510 of FIG. 5 includes a pump 530 and a variable outlet 540, and the system 510 is attachable to a water source 512 and a power source 518. The system 510 also has a controller 520 or control circuit, which may include a computer, microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit, an analog computer, a digital computer, a supercomputer, a computer network, a laptop or desktop computer, a calculator, a hybrid, and the like.

Further referring to FIG. 5, the controller 520 has a control circuit 523 electrically coupled to a switch 524 and a sensor 522. In some embodiments, the sensor 522 measures a water flow state in or related to the system 510, such as flow rate, pressure, velocity, momentum, temperature, and other state characteristics. In other embodiments, the sensor 522 measures parameters that may be related to the water flow state, such as strain or stress in a hose wall, time, vibration amplitude or other parameters. In some embodiments, the switch 524 is an electrical switch able to allow or deny electrical power to the pump. In other embodiments, the switch 524 is a mechanical switch able to allow or deny power to the pump 530, such as a clutch-type switch, a hydraulic or pneumatic bypass-type switch, and the like. The switch 524 may be opened, closed, governed, controlled, actuated, adjusted, manipulated, and the like by the controller 520 and/or a user, such as by communicating a command to an electric switch driver, an electric actuator, a mechanical actuator, a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, by hand, and the like.

The control circuit 523 of FIG. 5 further includes a processor 525, a logic module 527, a memory 529, and a user interface 571. Additional interfaces 573, 575 may allow for data transmission and other communication between the controller 520 and the sensor 522, the pump 530, the variable outlet 540, and/or other items. The interfaces 571, 573, 575 may be coupled via data transmission or communication media, such as fiber optic or coaxial cable, wiring, radio or infrared signal transmitters and receivers, hydraulic or pneumatic channels, mechanical linkages, and the like. The logic module 527 of the controller 520 may receive inputs from the sensor 522, the pump 530, the variable outlet 540, and/or other items such as a digital clock, a band-pass filter for removing electronic noise, and the like. For example, one input could be a measured flow rate and another input could be a measured time, such as for a series of logical steps that include a time delay step, prior to a pump response step that is in reaction to a sensed change in flow rate step. Additional inputs may be delivered to the controller 520 via the user interface 571, which is shown in FIG. 5 as a turnable knob or dial to adjust the flow rate threshold, for example. Other user interfaces include keyboards, touch-sensitive screens, buttons, toggles, and the like.

In some embodiments, the logic module 527 is configured to implement one or more steps based upon the matrix shown in FIG. 4. In other embodiments, the logic module 527 includes response time delay steps, threshold adjustment steps in response to variable output settings selection steps, and other steps. Inputs and logic may be evaluated, analyzed, manipulated, calculated, and the like by the processor 525. The processor 525 and/or one or more components coupled to processor 525 may be configured to provide a controller output signal or command to other components in the system 510, such as the pump 530, the variable outlet 540, switches 524, 551, the sensor 522, and/or other circuit elements. As such, the output signal or command (e.g., a magnitude, a frequency, and the like) may be based upon calculations performed in the processor 525.

The processor 525 can be or include one or more processing components or processors. The processor 525 can be a general purpose processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, and/or any other collection of circuitry components configured to conduct the calculations or to facilitate the activities described herein. The processor 525 can be configured to execute computer code, script code, object code, and/or other executable instructions stored in memory 529, other memory, or in the processor 525. In some embodiments, the memory 529 may store coded instructions, such as the logic module 527, in various states, such as volatile, non-volatile, RAM, ROM, solid states, and the like. In certain embodiments, the logic module 527 may be stored in a separate memory, such as a memory of one or more remote computers coupled to the system 510 via an external computer network, local area network, and/or the internet.

Also referring to FIG. 5, the variable outlet 540 includes a valve 550 and a hydraulic switch 551, wherein the hydraulic switch 551 has two positive flow settings: a higher-flow setting 548 and a lower-flow setting 546. The variable outlet 540 may be powered hydraulically from the water flow, from the power source 518, from batteries, and/or from another source. As mentioned, the variable outlet 540 may be in communication with the controller 520 through an interface 575. Like the switch 524, the hydraulic switch 551 may be adjusted by the controller 520 and/or a user via a switch driver or an actuator.

FIGS. 6-7 show embodiments of sprayer systems 610, 710 that are similar to systems 210, 310, 311, and 510. Systems 610 and 710 operate with a broom variable outlet 640 and a brush variable outlet 740 in place of the sprayer variable outlet 240 having a multi-patterned nozzle (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2B & 2C). Some features compatible with the embodiment systems 610, 710 such as pumps, faucets, flow monitoring switches, and the like are not shown in FIGS. 6-7, because they are similar to those corresponding features presented in the prior figures and described herein.

Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D the system 610 includes a broom variable outlet 640 that further includes a biased release trigger 654 coupled to a flow restriction valve 650, a brush head 642, and a flow control valve 652. A way to increase or decrease water flow through the system 610 is to adjust the flow control valve 652, which is shown as a constriction valve coupled to a rotatable knob. FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 6D show exemplary embodiments of the brush head 642 wherein both embodiments include hydraulically driven brush head parts. In other embodiments brush heads may be driven by motors. The first brush head 642 of FIG. 6B includes parallel scrubbers that move back and forth relative to each other. The brush head 649 of FIG. 6C includes two circular scrubbers, one circumscribed by the other, where either one of the circular scrubbers rotates and the other remains fixed, or both rotate at different rates and/or in opposite directions. FIG. 6D shows a brush with two concentric-circular brush heads 649, both like the brush of FIG. 6C, where the heads 649 of FIG. 6D are mechanically coupled to rotate in opposite directions. Additionally, the broom variable outlet system 610 further includes a chemical storage container 670 (e.g., liquid soap container) for chemical injection into the water flow, and a twisting telescoping-pole height-adjustment control joint 681, such that the length of the broom (e.g., distance between trigger 654 and brush head 642) can be increased or decreased, and locked into a specific length.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the system 710 includes a brush variable outlet 740 that further includes a biased release trigger 754 coupled to a flow restriction valve 750, a brush head 742, and a flow control valve 752. Like the valve 652 for the broom variable outlet 640, one way to increase or decrease water flow through the system 710 is to adjust the flow control valve 752, which is shown as a constriction valve coupled to a pressable and lockable button. FIG. 7B shows an exemplary embodiment of the brush head 749 including hydraulically driven brush head parts, where a circular inner brush rotates relative to an outer brush. Additionally, the brush variable outlet system 710 includes a chemical storage container 772, for holding a chemical such as liquid soap, solvent, detergent, wax, and the like. Chemicals stored within the container 772 may then be added to the water flow through the outlet port 774 on the bottom of the brush, as shown in FIG. 7B. In other embodiments, the chemicals may be added to the water flow at other points in the system 710, such as before the pump, after the pump, and within the variable output 740.

Referring to FIG. 8, according to an exemplary embodiment, the booster water spraying system is in the form of storage system 810 that includes a pump 830 and a motor 832, both stored on or in a housing 876, a windable hose reel 816, a crank handle 878, and a hose with a spray gun 840. In some embodiments the motor 832 is a combustion engine; and in other embodiments, the motor is an electric motor. In certain embodiments, the system 810 includes a controller for controlling the pump, as disclosed above in regard to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3-5. Some embodiments include a pivotable cover that opens and locks closed (e.g., with a latch), and storage compartments for storing hose components (e.g., a sprinkler, additional sprayers, etc.). The housing 876 may include drawers, hooks, clips, and other structure for storing a variable outlet. The housing may be designed to be placed in a yard, remain stationary, and endure the elements. According to some exemplary embodiments, the weight of the pump 830 and motor 832, arranged proximate to the support base of the system 810, function to hold the storage system 810 in place and help to prevent tipping of the system 810 in high winds, for example.

Still referring to FIG. 8, the handle 878 can be used to crank the reel 816, to wrap the hose. Other embodiments do not include a handle 878, and instead use a powered motor to rewind the reel 816. The reel 816 may be in a location proximate to the pump 830, such that a user may be able to reach to the reel 816 to grasp a garden hose on the reel 816 while handling the pump 830. In some embodiments, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring or reel motor, is coupled the hose reel 816. After use the hose is retracted (i.e., wound back onto the reel) as the biasing member winds the reel. In some embodiments, the torsion spring may also be coupled to a releaseable ratchet member, such that the hose will only rewind when a user releases the ratchet, in a manner similar to a typical self-retracting tape measure. Other exemplary embodiments include hose storage structures, such as the hose reel 816, hose racks and frames that are not rotatable like the reel 816. Still other embodiments include hose storage structures in the form of a storage compartment, such as drawers and cabinets, where a user simply places the hose (e.g., in a coiled stack) in the compartment.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “proximate,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. These terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.

The term “exemplary” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments.

The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like as used herein mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the accompanying drawings. The orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

The construction and arrangement of the garden hose spray system as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water spray gun, comprising:

a body providing a flow path;

a head configured to rotate relative to the body and comprising a plurality of nozzles that may be rotated into and out of the flow path, wherein at least one of the plurality of nozzles comprises a group of small orifices; and

a chemical container coupled to body and configured to provide chemicals to the flow path.

2. The water spray gun of claim 1, wherein the group of small orifices is configured to condition water flowing along the flow path by separating the flow into smaller parallel streams to reduce turbulence in the water.

3. The water spray gun of claim 1, wherein the plurality of nozzles comprises a larger opening and a smaller opening, wherein the larger opening allows a greater flow rate through the spray gun than the smaller opening.

4. The water spray gun of claim 3, wherein the larger and smaller openings are each single openings.

5. The water spray gun of claim 4, wherein the orifices of the group of small orifices are arranged in a symmetric pattern.

6. The water spray gun of claim 4, wherein the plurality of nozzles further comprises a second group of small orifices.

7. The water spray gun of claim 6, wherein the group of small orifices provides a greater flow rate than the second group of small orifices at a given water pressure.

8. The water spray gun of claim 1, further comprising a trigger configured to control the communication of chemicals from the chemical container to the flow path.

9. The water spray gun of claim 8, further comprising a chemical conduit having an outlet integrated with each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles.

10. The water spray gun of claim 9, wherein the outlet of the chemical conduit is centered within the flow path of each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles.

11. A control system for a water pump assembly that uses water to communicate control signals to the pump, comprising:

a water pump having an inlet and an outlet;

a spray gun configured to receive water from the outlet of the water pump via a hose connected to the outlet, the spray gun comprising: a body providing a flow path through the water spray gun; and a head configured to rotate relative to the body and comprising a plurality of nozzles that may be rotated into and out of the flow path of the spray gun, wherein the plurality of nozzles comprises a larger opening and a smaller opening, wherein the larger opening allows a greater flow rate through the spray gun than the smaller opening; and

a sensor configured to provide a signal to control the water pump based upon a characteristic of the water flow that corresponds to whether the larger or smaller opening of the spray gun is being used.

12. The control system of claim 11, wherein at least one of the plurality of nozzles comprises a group of small orifices.

13. The control system of claim 12, wherein the group of small orifices is configured to condition water flowing along the flow path by separating the flow into smaller parallel streams to reduce turbulence in the water.

14. The control system of claim 11, wherein the larger and smaller openings are each single openings.

15. The control system of claim 11, further comprising a chemical conduit having an outlet integrated with each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles.

16. The control system of claim 11, wherein both the inlet and the outlet of the water pump have garden hose connectors, and wherein the spray gun is configured to be fastened to a garden hose.

17. The control system of claim 16, wherein the sensor is integrated with the water pump and the setting of the spray gun is communicated through the garden hose to the sensor.

18. The control system of claim 17, wherein the sensor is a flow rate sensor.

19. The control system of claim 18, wherein the sensor provides a signal to engage the water pump when the larger opening is being used.

20. The control system of claim 19, wherein the sensor provides a signal to disengage the water pump when the smaller opening is being used.