CN113286756A

CN113286756A - Hose box assembly

Info

Publication number: CN113286756A
Application number: CN201980088307.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 托比阿斯·马克; 马丁·劳赫; 托比阿斯·斯赫莱赫尔; 亚历山大·蒂勒松
Original assignee: Husth Warner Ltd
Current assignee: Husth Warner Ltd
Priority date: 2019-02-22
Filing date: 2019-12-09
Publication date: 2021-08-20
Anticipated expiration: 2039-12-09
Also published as: CN116692613A; EP3927640B1; TW202031583A; EP3927640A1; CA3125528A1; CN116692612A; CA3125528C; FI3927640T3; WO2020169232A1; CN116730123A; CN113286756B; PL3927640T3

Abstract

A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) includes a hose box (102) adapted to receive a hose reel. The hose box (102) includes a housing (104). The hose box (102) further includes a mounting interface (120), an inlet (122), and an outlet (124) disposed on the housing (104). The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) further includes a brace member (126, 302, 604). The bracket member (126, 302, 604) includes a receiving interface (306, 608). The receiving interface (306, 608) is adapted to be rotatably and removably engaged with respect to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102). The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) further comprises a retaining member (142, 201, 602). A retaining member (142, 201, 602) is provided in association with each of the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) and the receiving interface (306, 608) of the bracket member (126, 302, 604). The retaining member (142, 201, 602) is adapted to retain the mounting interface (120) on the bracket member (126, 302, 604).

Description

Hose box assembly

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to hose box assemblies, and more particularly to structural aspects of hose box assemblies.

Background

Hose reels are used to provide a flow of fluid, such as water, in spaces such as lawns, parks, and the like. The hose reel may have an extended length of hose that may be used to provide fluid flow to a remote location relative to a fluid source, such as a faucet. Typically, the hose reel is enclosed in a hose box so that it can be easily stored and carried as desired by the user.

Typically, a brace may be used in conjunction with the hose box to hold the hose box in a predetermined position. In some cases, the bracket may be fixedly attached to the ground or wall surface. Further, the hose box is movably mounted on the bracket. However, in many cases, the coupling between the bracket and the hose box may be complicated and difficult for the user to disassemble. As a result, the user may have to install multiple hose boxes and associated brackets at the desired locations, thereby increasing the system cost for the user.

Further, in many cases, such as when mounting the bracket to a wall surface, rotational movement of the hose box relative to the bracket may be limited. As such, the operational flexibility and usability of the hose box may be limited. Furthermore, in many cases, the coupling between the hose box and the bracket may be weak and inefficient. In this manner, the hose box can be easily separated from the bracket in the event of inadvertent movement and/or exertion.

U.S. patent 7,857,000 (hereinafter the' 000 reference) provides an example of a hose box. The' 000 reference discloses a garden hose assembly having an elongated pole with a longitudinal axis and having an internal opening extending through at least a portion of the elongated pole. An inlet coupling is provided on the elongate column for connection to a water hose. The housing is mounted to the top of the elongated pole and includes an open interior region. A rotational coupling is operatively connected to both the elongate pole and the housing, and connecting the housing to the top of the elongate pole allows the housing to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the elongate pole. The hose reel is rotatably mounted within the housing and is rotatable about an axis extending through the housing. Further, a water supply line is connected to the inlet coupling and extends upwardly through the interior opening in the elongated column. The water supply line includes a first portion that generally extends from the inlet coupling to the swivel coupling and a second portion that extends from the swivel coupling to the hose reel. The second portion of the water supply line is rotatable with the housing as the housing is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the elongate column.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved hose tank assembly for such applications.

Disclosure of Invention

In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to solve or at least reduce the above discussed drawbacks. According to an embodiment of the present invention, this object is at least partially achieved by a hose box assembly. The hose box assembly includes a hose box. The hose box is adapted to receive a hose reel. The hose box includes a housing. The hose box includes a mounting interface disposed on the housing. The mounting interface extends away from the housing. The hose box further includes an inlet port disposed on the housing and spaced apart relative to the mounting interface. The hose box further includes an outlet disposed on the housing and spaced apart from each of the mounting interface and the inlet. The hose box assembly further includes a brace member. The bracket member includes a receiving interface. The receiving interface is adapted to be rotatably and removably engaged with respect to the mounting interface of the hose box. The hose box assembly further comprises a retaining member. A retaining member is provided in association with each of the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member. The retaining member is adapted to retain the mounting interface on the bracket member. In this manner, the hose box can be easily assembled and separated from the bracket member, which is fixed in an assembled state by the holding member. Thus providing improved usability. Further, in the case where a plurality of brace members can be provided in a space such as a lawn, for example, a single hose box can be mounted on any one of the plurality of brace members as required, which in turn provides improved flexibility, portability, and productivity.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the retaining member is adapted to rotatably and removably couple the mounting interface of the hose box with respect to the receiving interface of the bracket member. As such, the hose box assembly provides a full 360 degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member, which in turn provides improved rotational and operational flexibility. More specifically, the hose box can be rotated in any selected direction based on operational requirements without requiring frequent alignment and adjustment of the hose box relative to the bracket member.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the retaining member is unlockably coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box via an interlocking surface. Furthermore, the holding member is releasably coupled to the receiving interface of the bracket member via a threaded connection. As such, the interlocking surfaces and threaded connections facilitate coupling of the retaining member to each of the hose box and bracket member, respectively, with reduced complexity, reduced user effort, and reduced user skill, which in turn facilitates assembly. In other embodiments, the retaining member may be releasably coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box and/or the receiving interface of the bracket member via any other connection (such as a bayonet connection, interlocking tabs/surfaces, snap elements, etc.), in turn improving flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the holding member has a separate configuration. As such, the retaining member can be easily coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box with reduced complexity, reduced user effort and reduced user skill, which in turn makes assembly easy.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the inner surface of the retaining member has a substantially circular configuration. In this manner, the retaining member provides a full 360 degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member, which in turn provides improved rotational and operational flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the retaining member is unlockably coupled to each of the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member via interlocking surfaces. As such, the interlocking surfaces provide for easy coupling of the retaining member to each of the hose box and the bracket member with reduced complexity, reduced user effort, and reduced user skill, which in turn facilitates ease of assembly.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the retaining member has a substantially semi-circular configuration. As such, the retaining member may be easily coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member with reduced complexity, reduced user effort and reduced user skill, which in turn makes assembly easy. Furthermore, the retaining member provides a full 360 degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member, which in turn provides improved rotational and operational flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the holding member is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic and a metal. As such, a variety of material choices may be used to manufacture the retaining member, which in turn provides manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the mounting interface is provided on the bottom of the hose box. In this manner, static and dynamic forces of the hose box can be efficiently transferred to the bracket member via the mounting interface, which in turn provides product stability, durability and service life.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the mounting interface is axially aligned with respect to the center of gravity of the hose box. In this manner, the static force of the hose box can be efficiently transmitted to the bracket member via the mounting interface, which in turn provides product stability, durability, and service life.

According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member has a substantially circular configuration. In this manner, a full 360 degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member is achieved, which in turn provides improved rotational and operational flexibility. Further, the hose box may be rotated in any selected direction based on operational requirements without requiring frequent alignment and adjustment of the hose box relative to the bracket member.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the hose box has a substantially circular configuration. As such, the hose box may have a minimum footprint based on the size of the hose reel, which in turn provides for compact and efficient packaging.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the lever member is coupled to the bracket member. The lever member is adapted to removably mount the bracket member on the ground. In this way, the lever member can mount the hose box at any desired location on the ground via the bracket member, which in turn provides improved operational flexibility and usability.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the rod member is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic and a metal. As such, a variety of material choices may be used to manufacture the rod member, which in turn provides manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality. Further, the rod member is adapted to be coupled to any attachment, such as an anchor member, a seat member, and the like.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the anchor member is adapted to be removably coupled to the rod member. The anchor member is adapted to removably mount the rod member to the ground. In this manner, the anchor member can mount the hose box at any desired location on the ground via the bracket member and the rod member, which in turn provides improved operational flexibility and usability.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the anchor member is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic and a metal. As such, a variety of material choices may be used to manufacture the anchor member, which in turn provides manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the bracket member is removably mounted to the wall surface using at least one fastening element. In this way, the hose box can be mounted at any desired position on the wall surface via the bracket member, which in turn provides an efficient use of the available space and improved flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the bracket member has a substantially conical configuration. In this manner, the bracket member has a simple and efficient design, thereby providing reduced structural complexity and ease of manufacture. Furthermore, the tapered structure may efficiently transfer forces from the hose box to the anchor member through the bracket member and the rod member, thereby providing improved product stability, durability and service life.

According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the hose box and the bracket member is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic and a metal. As such, each of the hose box and the bracket member can be manufactured using a variety of material choices, which in turn provides manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the hose box, the bracket member, the holding member, the rod member and/or the anchor member are manufactured by three-dimensional printing. The use of three-dimensional printing (optionally 3D printing) provides versatility in using different materials in manufacturing and designing hose boxes, stent members, retaining members, rod members and/or anchor members, as well as low delivery times.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a user of the hose box assembly is provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions for printing the hose box, the bracket member, the retaining member, the rod member and/or the anchor member by a three-dimensional printer. As such, various customization options may be provided for the hose box, the bracket member, the retaining member, the rod member, and/or the anchor member.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the hose box, the bracket member, the retaining member, the rod member and/or the anchor member are presented in a digital format. The hose box, the bracket member, the retaining member, the rod member and/or the anchor member may be made available in a digital format according to compatibility with the prior art, among other factors such as safety, user convenience, etc.

Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a hose tank assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a retaining member of the hose tank assembly of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of another hose tank assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the hose tank assembly of FIG. 3 in an assembled position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the hose box assembly of FIG. 4 in an assembled position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of another hose tank assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 in an assembled position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a retaining member of the hose tank assembly of FIG. 6 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 in an assembled position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the invention incorporating one or more aspects of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the present invention may be used in other embodiments, and even in other types of structures and/or methods. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements.

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. For example, "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "side," "longitudinal," "lateral," "laterally," "upward," "downward," "forward," "rearward," "sideward," "left," "right," "horizontal," "vertical," "upward," "inner," "outer," "inward," "outward," "top," "bottom," "higher," "above," "below," "central," "intermediate," "between," "terminal," "adjacent," "parallel," "oblique," "proximate," "near," "distal," "remote," "radial," "circumferential," and the like, merely describe the configuration shown in the figures. Indeed, the components may be positioned in any orientation and, accordingly, unless otherwise specified, the terms should be understood to encompass such variations.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a hose box assembly 100 is shown. The hose box assembly 100 will be interchangeably referred to hereinafter as "assembly 100". The assembly 100 may be adapted to provide a flow of fluid, such as water, in a space (such as a garden, park, lawn, field, playground, etc.) around the assembly 100. The assembly 100 may be used for various activities such as gardening, agriculture, irrigation, and the like.

The assembly 100 includes a hose box 102. Hose box 102 defines an axis X-X 'such that the Center of Gravity (CG) of hose box 102 is located on axis X-X'. It should be noted that the locations of the CGs shown in the drawings are merely exemplary and may vary. Hose box 102 is adapted to rotatably receive a hose (not shown). In the stowed position, the hose is adapted to be selectively wrapped within the hose box 102. In the operating position, a hose (not shown) is adapted to be selectively unwound from the hose reel to allow the hose to be withdrawn from the hose box 102. As such, a hose may extend from the hose box 102 to provide fluid flow.

Hose box 102 includes a housing 104. The housing 104 has a split configuration including a first half 106 and a second half 108. Each of the first half-portion 106 and the second half-portion 108 are removably coupled to each other using one or more fasteners 110, such as screws or bolts. In other embodiments, each of the first half-portion 106 and the second half-portion 108 may be coupled to each other using any other fastening method (such as tabs, interlocking surfaces, etc.). Further, in some embodiments, the housing 104 may include multiple portions based on application requirements.

The housing 104 includes a top 112, a bottom 114, and

sides

116, 118. An axis X-X' extends between the top portion 112 and the bottom portion 114. Each of the

side portions

116, 118 are disposed opposite each other and between each of the top portion 112 and the bottom portion 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 104 has a generally hollow circular configuration. In other embodiments, the housing 104 may have any other configuration, such as rectangular, oval, and the like. The housing 104 is adapted to rotatably enclose a hose.

Hose box 102 includes a mounting interface 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting interface 120 is integral with respect to the hose box 102. In other embodiments, the mounting interface 120 can be a separate element coupled to the hose box 102. The mounting interface 120 is disposed on the housing 104. More specifically, the mounting interface 120 is disposed on the bottom 114 of the housing 104 and extends away from the housing 104. The mounting interface 120 is axially aligned with respect to the axis X-X'. As such, the mounting interface 120 is axially aligned with respect to the CG. The mounting interface 120 has a generally circular configuration.

Hose box 102 includes an inlet 122. An inlet 122 is disposed on the housing 104 and is spaced apart relative to the mounting interface 120. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the inlet 122 is disposed on the side 116. In some embodiments, the inlet 122 may be disposed on any of the top 112, bottom 114, or sides 118 of the housing 104 based on the application requirements. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the inlet 122 is disposed substantially perpendicularly with respect to the axis X-X'. In other embodiments, the inlet 122 may be inclined relative to the axis X-X' based on application requirements. Inlet 122 is disposed in fluid communication with the hose reel. The inlet 122 is adapted to receive a fluid flow from an external fluid source (not shown).

Hose box 102 includes an outlet 124. The outlet 124 is disposed on the housing 104. More specifically, the outlet 124 is disposed in spaced relation to each of the mounting interface 120 and the inlet 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 124 is disposed on the top 112 of the housing 104. In other embodiments, the outlet 124 may be disposed on any other portion of the housing 104, such as the bottom 114. The outlet 124 is adapted to allow the hose to selectively exit and enter the housing 104.

Any material (such as polymer, metal, plastic, etc.) can be used to make hose box 102. Any process, such as casting, molding, forging, manufacturing, etc., may be used to manufacture hose box 102. In some embodiments, the hose box 102 can be manufactured by three-dimensional printing (also referred to as additive manufacturing or 3D printing). In this case, a user of the hose box 102 may be provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions to print the hose box 102 via a three-dimensional printer (not shown). This may enable custom design or any modification (if needed) with minimal effort. Hose box 102 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end user preferences, among other factors.

In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 100 includes a ground support member 126. The ground support member 126 has a split configuration including a first half 128 and a second half 130. Each of the first half-part 128 and the second half-part 130 are removably coupled to each other using one or more fasteners 132, such as screws or bolts. In other embodiments, each of the first half-portion 128 and the second half-portion 130 can be coupled to each other using any other fastening method (such as tabs, interlocking surfaces, etc.). In some embodiments, the ground support member 126 may comprise multiple portions based on application requirements. In some embodiments, the ground support member 126 may have a single-piece construction. In the illustrated embodiment, the ground support member 126 has a generally conical configuration. In other embodiments, the ground support members 126 may have any other configuration, such as rectangular, trapezoidal, and the like.

The assembly 100 includes a rod member 134. The lever member 134 has a generally elongated configuration. The rod member 134 is axially aligned with respect to the axis X-X'. In the illustrated embodiment, the rod member 134 is integrally formed with the ground bracket member 126. In other embodiments, the rod member 134 may be coupled to the ground bracket member 126 using any fastening method (such as adhesive, bolting, interlocking surfaces, tabs, etc.). The lever member 134 is adapted to removably mount the floor bracket member 126 to the floor (not shown). In some embodiments, the rod member 134 may be coupled to a support member (not shown) in order to mount the ground bracket member 126 and hose box 102 on the ground.

Any material (such as polymer, metal, plastic, etc.) may be used to fabricate the rod member 134. The rod member 134 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, manufacturing, and the like. In some embodiments, the rod member 134 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, a user of the rod member 134 may be provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions to print the rod member 134 through the three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modification (if needed) with minimal effort. The pole members 134 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end user preferences, among other factors.

The assembly 100 also includes an anchor member 136. The anchor member 136 has a generally elongated configuration. The anchor member 136 is adapted to be disposed in axial alignment relative to the axis X-X'. The anchor member 136 is adapted to be removably coupled to the rod member 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the anchor member 136 includes a receiving portion 138. The receiving portion 138 is adapted to removably receive the rod member 134. In other embodiments, the anchor member 136 may be coupled to the rod member 134 using any fastening method (such as threaded coupling, bolting, tabs, interlocking surfaces, etc.). In other embodiments, the anchor member 136 may be integrally formed with the rod member 134.

The anchor member 136 also includes a ground engaging portion 140. The ground engaging portion 140 is disposed adjacent to the receiving portion 138. In the illustrated embodiment, the ground engaging portion 140 has a screw-type configuration. In other embodiments, the ground engaging portion 140 may include any other configuration, such as a forked configuration. The ground engaging portion 140 is adapted to be inserted into the ground. Thus, the anchor member 136 is adapted to removably mount the rod member 134 to the ground.

Any material (such as polymer, metal, plastic, etc.) may be used to fabricate the anchor member 136. The anchor member 136 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, manufacturing, and the like. In some embodiments, the anchor member 136 may be fabricated by three-dimensional printing. In this case, a user of the anchor member 136 may be provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions to print the anchor member 136 through the three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modification (if needed) with minimal effort. The anchor members 136 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end user preferences, among other factors.

The assembly 100 further includes a retaining member 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 142 is a two-piece member and is integral with respect to the ground bracket member 126. In other embodiments, the retaining member 142 may be a separate element from the ground bracket member 126. The retaining member 142 is adapted to be axially aligned relative to the axis X-X'. Another embodiment of the holding member 201 will be explained in more detail with reference to fig. 2 and 3. Referring to fig. 2, a perspective view of the retaining member 201 is shown. The retaining member 201 has a generally circular configuration. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the retaining member 201 has a separate configuration including a first portion 202 and a second portion 204. The first portion 202 has a similar configuration to that of the second portion 204. Each of the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 are coupled to one another to form a generally annular configuration. Each of the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 may be coupled to each other using any fastening method, such as tabs, interlocking surfaces, and the like. In another embodiment, the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 of the retaining member 201 may be integral with respect to one another to form a single-piece retaining member.

The retaining member 201 includes a channel portion 206. The channel portion 206 is disposed on an inner surface 208 of the retaining member 201. The channel portion 206 is adapted to removably and rotatably receive the mounting interface 120. The retaining member 201 also includes a retaining threaded portion 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining threaded portion 210 is disposed on an outer surface 212 of the retaining member 201. In other embodiments, the retaining threaded portion 210 may be disposed on the inner surface 208 of the retaining member 201. The retaining threaded portion 210 is adapted to be removably coupled to the ground bracket member 126.

Referring to fig. 3 and 4, an exploded view and an assembled view, respectively, of another embodiment of an assembly 300 is shown. Referring to fig. 3, the assembly 300 includes the hose box 102, the mounting interface 120, and the retaining member 201, as described with reference to fig. 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 300 also includes a wall bracket member 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the wall bracket member 302 has a generally curved L-shaped configuration defining an axis Y-Y'. In other embodiments, the wall bracket member 302 may have any other configuration, such as a J-shaped configuration, a T-shaped configuration, and so forth. Wall bracket member 302 is adapted to be removably mounted to wall surface 402 (as shown in fig. 4) such that axis Y-Y' is substantially parallel to wall surface 402. The wall bracket member 302 may be mounted to the wall surface 402 using one or more fasteners 304, such as screws or bolts.

The wall bracket member 302 includes a receiving interface 306. The receiving interface 306 includes a receiving threaded portion 308. Upon assembly of the hose box 102 on the wall bracket member 302, the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102 is rotatably and removably received in the channel portion 206 of the retaining member 201. Further, the retaining threaded portion 210 of the retaining member 201 is removably coupled to the receiving threaded portion 308 of the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302. As such, as shown in fig. 4, the hose box 102 is rotatably and removably mounted on the wall bracket member 302. Thus, the hose box 102 can be selectively mounted on either the ground support member 126 or the wall support member 302 to mount the hose box 102 on the ground or wall surface 402, respectively, based on the application requirements.

Referring to fig. 5, a cross-sectional view of the mounting interface 120, wall bracket member 302, and retaining member 201 of fig. 4 is shown in an assembled position. The wall bracket member 302 includes a receiving interface 306. The receiving interface 306 has a generally circular configuration. The receiving interface 306 includes a receiving threaded portion 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving threaded portion 308 is disposed on an inner surface 502 of the receiving interface 306. In other embodiments, the receiving threaded portion 308 may be disposed on the outer surface 504 of the receiving interface 306. The receiving interface 306 is disposed in axial alignment relative to the axis X-X' and is associated with the mounting interface 120. Thus, the receiving interface 306 is adapted to rotatably and removably couple with respect to the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102.

In the assembled position, the retaining member 201 is disposed in association with each of the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102 and the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302. As such, the retaining member 201 is adapted to retain the mounting interface 120 on the wall bracket member 302. More specifically, the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102 is received in the channel portion 206 of the retaining member 201.

Further, the retaining threaded portion 210 is threadably coupled to the receiving threaded portion 308. Thus, the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302 is removably coupled to the retaining member 201 by a threaded connection. As such, the retaining member 201 is adapted to rotatably and removably couple the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102 relative to the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302. In addition, the mounting interface 120 also includes a flange portion 506. The flange portion 506 extends away from the axis X-X'. Further, the retaining member 201 includes a shoulder 508. The shoulder 508 extends toward the axis X-X' and is disposed in association with the flange portion 506. In the assembled position, the shoulder 508 is disposed above the flange portion 506 to retain the mounting interface 120 on the wall bracket member 302. It will be appreciated that the threaded coupling of the retaining member 302 used in the depicted example is merely exemplary. In any other embodiment, the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302 may be removably coupled to the retaining member 201 using any other fastening method (such as interlocking surfaces, tabs, snap elements, bayonet coupling, etc.).

Referring to fig. 6 and 7, an exploded view and a partial cross-sectional view, respectively, of another embodiment of an assembly 600 is shown. As shown in fig. 6, the assembly 600 includes the hose box 102 and the mounting interface 120, as described with reference to fig. 1, 2, and 3. The assembly 600 also includes a retaining member 602. The retaining member 602 will be described in more detail below with reference to fig. 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 600 further includes a wall bracket member 604. In the illustrated embodiment, the wall bracket member 604 has a generally curved L-shaped configuration defining an axis Z-Z'. In other embodiments, the wall bracket member 604 may have any other configuration, such as a J-shaped configuration, a T-shaped configuration, and so forth. Wall bracket member 604 is adapted to be removably mounted to wall surface 402 such that axis Z-Z' is substantially parallel to wall surface 402. The wall bracket member 604 may be mounted to the wall surface 402 using one or more fasteners 606, such as screws or bolts.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, the wall bracket member 604 includes a receiving interface 608. The receiving interface 608 has a generally circular configuration. The receiving interface 608 includes a base 610. The base 610 has a generally flat and circular configuration. The base 610 includes a plurality of slots 612. Each of the slots 612 is disposed spaced apart from and parallel to each other. Receive interface 608 also includes a receive slot portion 614. A receiving slot portion 614 is disposed adjacent to and associated with the base portion 610. The receiving slot portion 614 has a generally semi-circular configuration. The receiving slot portion 614 is adapted to rotatably and removably receive a portion of the mounting interface 120. As such, the receiving slot portion 614 provides an interlocking surface to removably engage with respect to the mounting interface 120.

Referring to fig. 8, a perspective view of the retaining member 602 is shown. The retaining member 602 has a generally semi-circular configuration. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the inner surface 806 and the outer surface 808 of the retaining member 602 has a semi-circular configuration. In other embodiments, the outer surface 808 of the retention member 602 may have any other configuration, such as rectangular. The retaining member 602 includes a retaining groove portion 802. The retaining slot portion 802 is adapted to rotatably and removably receive the remainder of the mounting interface 120. As such, the retaining slot portion 802 provides an interlocking surface to removably engage with respect to the mounting interface 120. The retaining member 602 also includes a plurality of ribs 804. Each of the ribs 804 is disposed spaced apart from and parallel to each other. Each of the ribs 804 is adapted to be removably received in a respective one of the slots 612. As such, each of the ribs 804 and each of the slots 612 provide interlocking surfaces to removably engage the retaining member 602 relative to the receiving interface 608.

With combined reference to fig. 6, 7,8, and 9, during assembly of the hose box 102 on the wall bracket member 604, the mounting interface 120 is mounted on the receiving interface 608 of the wall bracket member 604. More specifically, a portion of the mounting interface 120 is removably and rotatably received in the receiving slot portion 614 of the receiving interface 608. Further, the retaining member 602 is aligned with respect to each of the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102 and the receiving interface 608 of the wall bracket member 604. More specifically, the remainder of the mounting interface 120 is removably and rotatably received in the retaining slot portion 802 of the retaining member 602. Further, each of the ribs 804 of the retaining member 602 is removably received in each of the slots 612 of the receiving interface 608, respectively. Thus, as shown in fig. 9, the hose box 102 is removably and rotatably mounted on the wall bracket member 604 using the mounting interface 120, the receiving interface 608, and the retaining member 602.

Any material (such as polymer, metal, plastic, etc.) may be used to fabricate the retaining

member

142, 201, 602. The retaining

member

142, 201, 602 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, manufacturing, and the like. In some embodiments, the retaining

member

142, 201, 602 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, the user of the holding

member

142, 201, 602 may be provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions to print the holding

member

142, 201, 602 by a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modification (if needed) with minimal effort. The retaining

members

142, 201, 602 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end user preferences, among other factors.

Any material (such as polymer, metal, plastic, etc.) may be used to make the floor bracket member 126 and/or the

wall bracket members

302, 604. The ground support member 126 and/or the

wall support members

302, 604 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, manufacturing, and the like. In some embodiments, the floor support member 126 and/or the

wall support members

302, 604 may be fabricated by three-dimensional printing. In this case, a user of the floor support member 126 and/or the

wall support members

302, 604 may be provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions to print the floor support member 126 and/or the

wall support members

302, 604 via a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modification (if needed) with minimal effort. The floor support members 126 and/or

wall support members

302, 604 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end user preferences, among other factors.

In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed preferred embodiments and examples of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims.

Element list

100: hose box assembly/assembly

102: hose box

104: shell body

106: first half part

108: the second half part

110: fastening piece

112: top part

114: bottom part

116: side part

118: side part

120: mounting interface

122: inlet port

124: an outlet

126: ground support component

128: first half part

130: the second half part

132: fastening piece

134: rod member

136: anchor component

138: receiving part

140: ground engaging portion

142: holding member

201: holding member

202: the first part

204: the second part

206: channel section

208: inner surface

210: retaining threaded portion

212: outer surface

300: hose box assembly/assembly

302: wall bracket member

304: fastening piece

306: receiving interface

308: receiving threaded portion

402: wall surface

502: inner surface

504: outer surface

506: flange part

508: shoulder part

600: hose box assembly/assembly

602: holding member

604: wall bracket member

606: fastening piece

608: receiving interface

610: base part

612: narrow slot

614: receiving slot portion

802: retaining groove portion

804: ribs

806: inner surface

808: outer surface

X-X': axial line

Y-Y': axial line

Z-Z': axial line

CG: center of gravity

Claims

1. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) comprising:

a hose box (102) adapted to receive a hose reel, the hose box (102) comprising:

a housing (104);

a mounting interface (120) disposed on the housing (104), the mounting interface (120) extending away from the housing (104);

an inlet (122) disposed on the housing (104); and

an outlet (124) disposed on the housing (104) and spaced apart relative to each of the mounting interface (120) and the inlet (122),

it is characterized in that：

The inlet (122) is disposed in spaced relation to the mounting interface (120);

the hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) further comprises:

a bracket member (126, 302, 604) including a receiving interface (306, 608), the receiving interface (306, 608) adapted to be rotatably and removably engaged relative to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102); and

a retaining member (142, 201, 602) disposed in association with each of the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) and the receiving interface (306, 608) of the bracket member (126, 302, 604), the retaining member (142, 201, 602) adapted to retain the mounting interface (120) on the bracket member (126, 302, 604).

2. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claim 1, wherein the retaining member (142, 201, 602) is rotatably and removably coupled with respect to the receiving interface (306, 608) of the bracket member (126, 302, 604) with the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102).

3. The hose box assembly (100, 300) of claims 1 to 2, wherein the retaining member (142, 201):

is releasably coupled to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) via an interlocking surface, and

is releasably coupled to the receiving interface (306) of the bracket member (126, 302) via a threaded connection.

4. The hose tank assembly (100, 300) of claims 1 to 3, wherein said retaining member (142, 201) has a split configuration.

5. The hose tank assembly (100, 300) of claims 1 to 4, wherein the inner surface (208) of the retaining member (142, 201) has a substantially circular configuration.

6. The hose box assembly (600) of claims 1-2, wherein the retaining member (602) is releasably coupled to each of the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) and the receiving interface (608) of the bracket member (604) via interlocking surfaces.

7. The hose tank assembly (600) of claim 6, wherein said retaining member (602) has a generally semi-circular configuration.

8. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 7, wherein the retaining member (142, 201, 602) is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic, and a metal.

9. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 8, wherein the mounting interface (120) is disposed on a bottom (114) of the hose box (102).

10. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 9, wherein the mounting interface (120) is axially aligned with respect to a Center of Gravity (CG) of the hose box (102).

11. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) and the receiving interface (306, 608) of the bracket member (126, 302, 604) has a generally circular configuration.

12. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 11, wherein the hose box (102) has a generally circular configuration.

13. The hose box assembly (100) of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a rod member (134) coupled to the brace member (126), the rod member (134) adapted to removably mount the brace member (126) to a ground surface.

14. The hose box assembly (100) of claim 13, wherein said rod member (134) is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic, and a metal.

15. The hose box assembly (100) of claim 13 or 14, further comprising an anchor member (136) adapted to be removably coupled to the rod member (134), the anchor member (136) adapted to removably mount the rod member (134) on the ground.

16. The hose box assembly (100) of claim 15, wherein said anchor member (136) is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic, and a metal.

17. The hose tank assembly (300, 600) of claims 1 to 12, wherein the bracket member (302, 604) is removably mounted to the wall surface (402) using at least one fastener (304, 606).

18. The hose box assembly (100) of claims 1 to 17, wherein the brace member (126) has a generally tapered configuration.

19. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 18, wherein each of the hose box (102) and the brace member (126, 302, 604) is made of a material selected from one or more of a polymer, a plastic, and a metal.

20. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 19, wherein at least one of the hose box (102), the bracket member (126, 302, 604), the retaining member (142, 201, 602), the stem member (134), and the anchor member (136) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing.

21. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 20, wherein a user of the hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) is provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions for printing at least one of the hose box (102), the brace member (126, 302, 604), the retaining member (142, 201, 602), the rod member (134), and the anchor member (136) by a three-dimensional printer.

22. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) of claims 1 to 21, wherein at least one of the hose box (102), the brace member (126, 302, 604), the retaining member (142, 201, 602), the rod member (134), and the anchor member (136) is presented in a digital format.

23. A hose box (102) for use with a hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) according to claims 1 to 22.

24. The hose box (102) according to claim 23, wherein the hose box (102) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing.

25. The hose tank (102) according to claims 23 to 24, wherein a user of the hose tank (102) is provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions for printing the hose tank (102) by a three-dimensional printer.

26. The hose box (102) according to claims 23 to 25, wherein the hose box (102) is presented in a digital format.

27. A brace member (126, 302, 604) for use with a hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) according to claims 1 to 26.

28. The hose tank (604) of claim 27, wherein the brace member (126, 302, 604) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing.

29. A bracket member (126, 302, 604) according to claim 27 to 28, wherein a user of the bracket member (126, 302, 604) is provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions for printing the bracket member (126, 302, 604) by a three-dimensional printer.

30. The bracket member (126, 302, 604) according to claim 27 to 29, wherein the bracket member (126, 302, 604) is presented in a digital format.