TWI859193B - Hose box assembl - Google Patents

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) also includes a mounting interface (120), an inlet (122), and an outlet (124) disposed on the housing (104). The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) also includes a bracket member (126, 302, 604). The bracket member (126, 302, 604) includes a receiving interface (306, 608). The receiving interface (306, 608) is adapted to rotatably and removably engage with respect to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102). The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) further includes a retaining member (142, 201, 602). The retaining member (142, 201, 602) is 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) is adapted to retain the mounting interface (120) on the bracket member (126, 302, 604).

Description

Hose box assembly

The present invention relates to a hose box assembly, and more specifically to the structural aspects of the hose box assembly.

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

Typically, a bracket may be used in conjunction with a hose box to hold the hose box in a predetermined position. In some cases, the bracket may be fixedly attached to a ground or wall surface. Further, the hose box may be 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 desired locations, thereby increasing the user's system cost.

Furthermore, in many cases, such as when the bracket is mounted to a wall surface, the rotational movement of the hose box relative to the bracket may be limited. Thus, 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. Thus, the hose box may be easily separated from the bracket under unintentional movement and/or force.

U.S. Patent 7,857,000 (hereinafter referred to as the '000 reference) provides an example of a hose box. The '000 reference discloses a garden hose assembly having an elongated column having a longitudinal axis and having an internal opening extending through at least a portion of the elongated column. An inlet coupling is provided on the elongated column for connecting to a water hose. A housing is mounted to the top of the elongated column and includes an open interior area. A swivel coupling is operably connected to both the elongated column and the housing and connects the housing to the top of the elongated column so that the housing can be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the elongated column. The hose reel is rotatably mounted inside 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 upward through an internal opening in the elongated column. The water supply line includes a first portion extending generally from the inlet coupling to the swivel coupling and a second portion extending from the swivel coupling to the hose reel. When the housing rotates about the longitudinal axis of the elongated column, the second portion of the water supply line can rotate with the housing.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved hose box assembly for such applications.

In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to solve or at least reduce the shortcomings discussed above. 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 suitable for accommodating 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 also includes an inlet, which is disposed on the housing and is spaced relative to the mounting interface. The hose box further includes an outlet, which is disposed on the housing and is spaced relative to each of the mounting interface and the inlet. The hose box assembly also includes a bracket 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 includes a retaining member. The retaining member is provided in association with each of the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the support member. The retaining member is adapted to retain the mounting interface on the support member. In this way, the hose box can be easily assembled and separated from the support member, which is fixed in an assembled state by the retaining member. Improved usability is thus provided. In addition, in a case where multiple support 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 multiple support members as required, thereby providing improved flexibility, portability and productivity.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retaining member is adapted to rotatably and removably couple the mounting interface of the hose box relative to the receiving interface of the support member. As such, the hose box assembly provides a full 360-degree rotation of the hose box relative to the support member, thereby providing improved rotation 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 support member.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retaining member is unlockably coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box via interlocking surfaces. In addition, the retaining member is unlockably coupled to the receiving interface of the bracket member via a threaded connection. In this way, the interlocking surfaces and the threaded connection make it easy to couple the retaining member to each of the hose box and the bracket member, respectively, with reduced complexity, reduced user workload, and reduced user skills, thereby making assembly easy. In other embodiments, the retaining member can be unlockably 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 assemblies, etc.), thereby improving flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retaining member has a separate structure. In this way, the retaining member can be easily coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box with reduced complexity, reduced user workload, and reduced user skills, thereby making assembly easy.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the inner surface of the retaining member has a generally circular configuration. As such, the retaining member provides a full 360-degree rotation of the hose box relative to the support member, thereby providing improved rotational and operational flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the present 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 the interlocking surface. In this way, the interlocking surface allows the retaining member to be easily coupled to each of the hose box and the bracket member with reduced complexity, reduced user workload, and reduced user skills, thereby making assembly easy.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retaining member has a generally semicircular configuration. As such, the retaining member can be easily coupled to the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member with reduced complexity, reduced user workload, and reduced user skills, thereby facilitating assembly. In addition, the retaining member provides a full 360-degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member, thereby providing improved rotation and operational flexibility.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retaining member is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. In this way, a variety of material options can be used to manufacture the retaining member, thereby providing manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mounting interface is provided on the bottom of the hose box. In this way, the static force and dynamic force of the hose box can be effectively transmitted to the bracket component via the mounting interface, thereby providing product stability, durability and service life.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mounting interface is axially aligned with the center of gravity of the hose box. In this way, the static force of the hose box can be effectively transmitted to the bracket component through the mounting interface, thereby providing product stability, durability and service life.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, each of the mounting interface of the hose box and the receiving interface of the bracket member has a generally circular configuration. In this way, a full 360-degree rotation of the hose box relative to the bracket member is achieved, thereby providing improved rotation and operational flexibility. In addition, 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 present invention, the hose box has a generally circular configuration. In this way, the hose box can have a minimum footprint based on the size of the hose reel, thereby providing compact and efficient packaging.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a rod member is coupled to a bracket member. The rod member is adapted to removably mount the bracket member on the ground. In this way, the rod member can mount the hose box at any desired position on the ground via the bracket member, thereby providing improved operational flexibility and usability.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the rod member is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. In this way, a variety of material options can be used to manufacture the rod member, thereby providing manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality. In addition, the rod member is suitable for coupling to any attachment, such as an anchor member, a support member, etc.

According to an embodiment of the present 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 on the ground. In this way, the anchor member can mount the hose box at any desired position on the ground via the bracket member and the rod member, thereby providing improved operational flexibility and usability.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the anchor member is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. In this way, a variety of material options can be used to manufacture the anchor member, thereby providing manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

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

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the bracket member has a generally conical structure. As such, the bracket member has a simple and effective design, thereby providing reduced structural complexity and manufacturing convenience. In addition, the conical structure can effectively transfer force 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 present invention, each of the hose box and the bracket member is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. In this way, a variety of material selections can be used to manufacture each of the hose box and the bracket member, thereby providing manufacturing flexibility and improved product quality.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, hose boxes, bracket components, retaining components, rod components and/or anchor components are manufactured by three-dimensional printing. The use of three-dimensional printing (optionally, 3D printing) provides versatility in using different materials and short delivery time when manufacturing and designing hose boxes, bracket components, retaining components, rod components and/or anchor components.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a user of a hose box assembly is provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions so as to print a hose box, a bracket component, a retaining component, a rod component and/or an anchor component through a three-dimensional printer. In this way, various customization options can be provided for the hose box, the bracket component, the retaining component, the rod component and/or the anchor component.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a hose box, a bracket member, a retaining member, a rod member and/or an anchor member are presented in a digital format. In addition to other factors (such as safety, user convenience, etc.), the hose box, the bracket member, the retaining member, the rod member and/or the anchor member can be made available in a digital format based on compatibility with existing technologies.

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

100: Hose box assembly/assembly

102: Hose box

104: Shell

106: First half

108: The second half

110: Fasteners

112: Top

114: Bottom

116: Side

118: Side

120: Installation interface

122:Entrance

124:Export

126: (ground) support components

128: The first half

130: The second half

132: Fasteners

134: Rod components

136: Anchor components

138: Receiving part

140: Ground connection part

142: Retaining components

201: Retaining components

202: Part 1

204: Part 2

206: Channel section

208: Inner surface

210: Maintain threaded portion

212: External surface

300: Hose box assembly/assembly

302: (Wall) support component

304: Fasteners

306: Receiving interface

308: receiving thread part

402: Wall surface

502: Inner surface

504: External surface

506: flange part

508: Shoulder

600: Hose box assembly/assembly

602: Retaining member

604: (Wall) support component

606: Fasteners

608: Receiving interface

610: Base

612: Slot/groove

614: Receiving slot part

802: Retention slot part

804: Ribs

806: Inner surface

808: External surface

X-X’: axis

Y-Y’: axis

Z-Z’: axis

CG: Center of Gravity

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a hose box assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a retaining member of the hose box assembly of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of another hose box assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 shows a side view of the hose box assembly of FIG. 3 in an assembled position according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 5 shows a side view of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 in an assembled position according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows an exploded perspective view of another hose box assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 in an assembled position according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a retaining member of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 9 shows a side view of the hose box assembly of FIG. 6 in an assembled position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The present invention will be described more fully below with reference to the drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make the present invention thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the present 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 reference numerals represent like elements.

Certain terms are used herein for convenience only and should not be considered as limiting the present invention. For example, "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "lateral", "longitudinal", "transverse", "laterally", "upward", "downward", "forward", "backward", "sideways", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "upward", "inner", "outer", "inward", "outward", "top", "bottom", "higher", "above", "below", "central", "middle", "mid-level", "between", "end", "adjacent", "parallel", "inclined", "close", "near", "distal", "distant", "radial", "circumferential", etc., etc., only describe the configuration shown in the drawings. In fact, components can be positioned in any direction, and therefore, unless otherwise specified, the terms should be understood to cover 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 as "assembly 100" hereinafter. The assembly 100 may be suitable for providing a fluid flow, such as water, in a space around the assembly 100 (such as a garden, park, lawn, field, playground, etc.). The assembly 100 may be used for various activities, such as gardening, agriculture, irrigation, etc.

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 position of CG shown in the drawings is exemplary only and may vary. Hose box 102 is adapted to rotatably accommodate a hose (not shown). In the stowed position, the hose is adapted to be selectively wound within hose box 102. In the working position, the hose (not shown) is adapted to be selectively unwound from the hose reel to allow the hose to be withdrawn from hose box 102. In this way, the hose can be extended from hose box 102 to provide fluid flow.

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

The housing 104 includes a top 112, a bottom 114, and sides 116, 118. An axis XX' extends between the top 112 and the bottom 114. Each of the sides 116, 118 is disposed opposite to each other and between each of the top 112 and the bottom 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, elliptical, etc. The housing 104 is adapted to rotatably enclose a hose.

The hose box 102 includes a mounting interface 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting interface 120 is integral with the hose box 102. In other embodiments, the mounting interface 120 may 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'. Thus, the mounting interface 120 is axially aligned with respect to CG. The mounting interface 120 has a generally circular configuration.

The hose box 102 includes an inlet 122. The inlet 122 is disposed on the housing 104 and is spaced 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 one of the top 112, the bottom 114, or the side 118 of the housing 104 based on application requirements. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the inlet 122 is disposed substantially vertically relative to the axis X-X'. In other embodiments, the inlet 122 may be tilted relative to the axis X-X' based on application requirements. The inlet 122 is configured to communicate with the hose reel fluid. The inlet 122 is adapted to receive a fluid flow from an external fluid source (not shown).

The hose box 102 includes an outlet 124. The outlet 124 is disposed on the housing 104. More specifically, the outlet 124 is disposed to be spaced relative 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.

The hose box 102 may be manufactured using any material (e.g., polymers, metals, plastics, etc.). The hose box 102 may be manufactured using any process (e.g., casting, molding, forging, fabrication, etc.). In some embodiments, the hose box 102 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing (also known as additive manufacturing or 3D printing). In this case, the 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 designs or any modifications (if necessary) to be made with minimal effort. The hose box 102 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end-user preferences and other factors.

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

Assembly 100 includes a rod member 134. Rod member 134 has a generally elongated configuration. Rod member 134 is axially aligned relative to axis X-X'. In the illustrated embodiment, rod member 134 is integrally formed with ground support member 126. In other embodiments, rod member 134 may be coupled to ground support member 126 using any fastening method (e.g., bonding, bolting, interlocking surfaces, tabs, etc.). Rod member 134 is adapted to removably mount ground support member 126 on the ground (not shown). In some embodiments, rod member 134 may be coupled to a support member (not shown) to mount ground support member 126 and hose box 102 on the ground.

The rod member 134 may be manufactured using any material, such as polymers, metals, plastics, etc. The rod member 134 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, fabrication, etc. In some embodiments, the rod member 134 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, the user of the rod member 134 may be provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions to print the rod member 134 by a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modifications (if necessary) with minimal effort. The rod member 134 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end-user preference and 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, bolt connection, tabs, interlocking surfaces, etc. In other embodiments, the anchor member 136 may be formed integrally 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 structure. In other embodiments, the ground engaging portion 140 may include any other structure, such as a fork-like structure. 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 on the ground.

The anchor member 136 may be manufactured using any material, such as polymers, metals, plastics, etc. The anchor member 136 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, fabrication, etc. In some embodiments, the anchor member 136 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, the user of the anchor member 136 may be provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions to print the anchor member 136 by a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modifications, if necessary, to be made with minimal effort. The anchor member 136 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end-user preference and other factors.

The assembly 100 further includes a retaining member 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 142 is a two-piece element and is integral with respect to the ground support member 126. In other embodiments, the retaining member 142 can be a separate element with respect to the ground support member 126. The retaining member 142 is suitable for axial alignment with respect to the axis X-X'. Another embodiment of the retaining member 201 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Referring to Figure 2, a perspective view of the retaining member 201 is shown. The retaining member 201 has a generally circular configuration. In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the retaining member 201 has a separate configuration including a first portion 202 and a second portion 204. The first portion 202 has a configuration similar to that of the second portion 204. Each of the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 are coupled to each other to form a generally annular configuration. Each of the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 can be coupled to each other using any fastening method (e.g., tabs, interlocking surfaces, etc.). In another embodiment, the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 of the retaining member 201 can be integral with each other 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 an inner surface 208 of the retaining member 201. The retaining threaded portion 210 is adapted to be removably coupled to the ground support member 126.

Referring to Figures 3 and 4, an exploded view and an assembly view of another embodiment of the assembly 300 are shown, respectively. Referring to Figure 3, the assembly 300 includes a hose box 102, a mounting interface 120, and a retaining member 201, as described with reference to Figure 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 300 further includes a wall bracket member 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the wall bracket member 302 has a generally curved L-shaped structure defining an axis Y-Y'. In other embodiments, the wall bracket member 302 may have any other structure, such as a J-shaped structure, a T-shaped structure, etc. The wall bracket member 302 is suitable for being removably mounted to a wall surface 402 (as shown in Figure 4) so that the axis Y-Y' is generally parallel to the wall surface 402. The wall mount 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. When the hose box 102 is assembled 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. In this way, as shown in FIG. 4, the hose box 102 is rotatably and removably mounted on the wall bracket member 302. Therefore, the hose box 102 can be selectively mounted on either the ground support member 126 or the wall support member 302 so that the hose box 102 can be mounted on the ground or on the wall surface 402, respectively, based on application requirements.

Referring to FIG. 5 , a cross-sectional view of the mounting interface 120, the wall bracket member 302, and the retaining member 201 of FIG. 4 in an assembled position is shown. 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 an outer surface 504 of the receiving interface 306. The receiving interface 306 is disposed to be axially aligned relative to the axis X-X’ and is associated with the mounting interface 120. Therefore, the receiving interface 306 is adapted to be rotatably and removably coupled relative to the mounting interface 120 of the hose box 102.

In the assembled position, the retaining member 201 is arranged to be associated 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.

In addition, the retaining threaded portion 210 is threadedly coupled to the receiving threaded portion 308. Therefore, the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302 is removably coupled to the retaining member 201 through the threaded connection. In this way, the retaining member 201 is suitable for rotatably and removably coupling 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 arranged 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 understood that the threaded coupling of the retaining member 201 used in the depicted example is exemplary only. In any other embodiments, the receiving interface 306 of the wall bracket member 302 can be removably coupled to the retaining member 201 using any other fastening method (such as interlocking surfaces, tabs, snap assemblies, bayonet couplings, etc.).

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , an exploded view and a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the assembly 600 are shown, respectively. As shown in FIG. 6 , the assembly 600 includes a hose box 102 and a mounting interface 120, as described with reference to FIGS. 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, etc. The wall bracket member 604 is adapted to be removably mounted to the wall surface 402 so that the axis Z-Z 'is generally parallel to the wall surface 402. The wall mount member 604 may be mounted to the wall surface 402 using one or more fasteners 606 (e.g., screws or bolts).

As shown in FIGS. 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 to be spaced apart and parallel to each other. The receiving interface 608 further includes a receiving slot portion 614. The receiving slot portion 614 is disposed adjacent to and associated with the base 610. The receiving slot portion 614 has a generally semicircular 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 roughly semicircular 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 semicircular configuration. In other embodiments, the outer surface 808 of the retaining member 602 may have any other configuration, such as a rectangle. The retaining member 602 includes a retaining groove portion 802. The retaining groove portion 802 is suitable for rotatably and removably accommodating the remainder of the mounting interface 120. In this way, the retaining groove portion 802 provides an interlocking surface to removably engage relative to the mounting interface 120. The retaining member 602 also includes a plurality of ribs 804. Each of the ribs 804 is arranged to be spaced apart and parallel to each other. Each of the ribs 804 is suitable for being removably accommodated in each of the grooves 612, respectively. As such, each of the ribs 804 and each of the grooves 612 provide interlocking surfaces to removably engage the retaining member 602 relative to the receiving interface 608.

6, 7, 8 and 9, during the 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 remaining portion of the mounting interface 120 is removably and rotatably received in the retaining slot portion 802 of the retaining member 602. In addition, each of the ribs 804 of the retaining member 602 is removably received in each of the narrow grooves 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.

The retaining member 142, 201, 602 may be manufactured using any material, such as polymers, metals, plastics, etc. The retaining member 142, 201, 602 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, fabrication, etc. In some embodiments, the retaining member 142, 201, 602 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, the user of the retaining member 142, 201, 602 may be provided with a data file having pre-stored instructions to print the retaining member 142, 201, 602 by a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom design or any modifications (if necessary) to be made with minimal effort. The retaining member 142, 201, 602 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end-user preference and other factors.

The ground support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 may be manufactured using any material, such as polymers, metals, plastics, etc. The ground support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 may be manufactured using any process, such as casting, molding, forging, fabrication, etc. In some embodiments, the ground support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 may be manufactured by three-dimensional printing. In this case, the user of the ground support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 may be provided with a data file with pre-stored instructions to print the ground support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 by a three-dimensional printer. This may enable custom designs or any modifications (if desired) to be made with minimal effort. The floor support member 126 and/or the wall support member 302, 604 may be conveniently presented in a digital format, taking into account the type of application or end-user preference and other factors.

In the drawings and description, preferred embodiments and examples of the present invention have been disclosed, and although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the present invention as set forth in the accompanying patent applications.

102: Hose box

120: Installation interface

600: Hose box assembly/assembly

602: Retaining member

604: (Wall) support component

606: Fasteners

608: Receiving interface

610: Base

612: Slot/groove

614: Receiving slot part

X-X’: axis

Z-Z’: axis

Claims (27)

A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) comprises: a hose box (102) having an axis (X-X') and adapted to accommodate a hose reel, the hose box (102) comprising: a housing (104); a mounting interface (120) disposed on a bottom (114) surface of the housing (104), the mounting interface (120) extending away from the housing (104); an inlet (122), the inlet (122) disposed on the housing (104) and spaced apart from the mounting interface (120); an outlet (124), the outlet (125) an outlet (124) disposed on the housing (104) and spaced relative to each of the mounting interface (120) and the inlet (122); a support member (126, 302, 604), the support member (126, 302, 604) including a receiving interface (306, 608), the receiving interface (306, 608) being 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), the retaining member (142, 201, 602) 01, 602) is arranged to be associated with the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) and each of the receiving interfaces (306, 608) of the support member (126, 302, 604), the retaining member (142, 201, 602) is suitable for retaining the mounting interface (120) on the support member (126, 302, 604), and is characterized in that the mounting interface (120) includes a flange portion (506), the flange portion (506) extends away from the axis (X-X'), and the The retaining member (142, 201, 602) includes a shoulder (508) extending toward the axis (X-X') so that the shoulder (508) is disposed above the flange portion (506) to retain the mounting interface (120) on the bracket member (126, 302, 604), wherein the center of gravity (CG) of the hose box (102) is located on the axis (X-X'), and wherein the receiving interface (306, 608) is disposed to be axially aligned relative to the axis (X-X'). The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1, wherein the retaining member (142, 201, 602) is rotatable relative to the receiving interface (306, 608) of the support member (126, 302, 604) and removably coupled to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102). A hose box assembly (100, 300) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining member (142, 201) can be unlockably coupled to the mounting interface (120) of the hose box (102) via an interlocking surface, and can be unlockably coupled to the receiving interface (306) of the bracket member (126, 302) via a threaded connection. A hose box assembly (100, 300) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining member (142, 201) has a separation structure. A hose box assembly (100, 300) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner surface (208) of the retaining member (142, 201) has a generally circular structure. A hose box assembly (600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining member (602) can be unlockably 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. The hose box assembly (600) as described in claim 6, wherein the retaining member (602) has a substantially semicircular structure. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining member (142, 201, 602) is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the mounting interface (120) is axially aligned with respect to the center of gravity (CG) of the hose box (102). A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, 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 structure. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the hose box (102) has a generally circular structure. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the hose box assembly (100) further comprises a rod member (134) coupled to the support member (126), and the rod member (134) is suitable for removably mounting the support member (126) on the ground. The hose box assembly (100) as described in claim 12, wherein the rod member (134) is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. The hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 12, wherein the hose box assembly (100) further includes an anchor member (136) adapted to be removably coupled to the rod member (134), and the anchor member (136) is adapted to removably mount the rod member (134) on the ground. The hose box assembly (100) as described in claim 14, wherein the anchor member (136) is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. A hose box assembly (300, 600) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the support member (302, 604) is removably mounted to the wall surface (402) using at least one fastener (304, 606). A hose box assembly (100) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the support member (126) has a generally conical structure. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the hose box (102) and the support member (126, 302, 604) is made of one or more materials selected from polymers, plastics and metals. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 14, wherein at least one of the hose box (102), the bracket component (126, 302, 604), the retaining component (142, 201, 602), the rod component (134) and the anchor component (136) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 14, wherein a data file is provided by a user of at least one of the hose box (102), the bracket component (126, 302, 604), and the retaining component (142, 201, 602), and the data file includes a pre-stored instruction so as to print at least one of the hose box (102), the bracket component (126, 302, 604), the retaining component (142, 201, 602), the rod component (134), and the anchor component (136) through a three-dimensional printer. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 14, wherein at least one of the hose box (102), the bracket 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 for three-dimensional printing. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the hose box (102) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing. A flexible tube box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 22, wherein a data file is provided by a user of the flexible tube box (102), and the data file includes a pre-stored instruction to print the flexible tube box (102) via a three-dimensional printer. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 22, wherein the hose box (102) is presented in a digital format for three-dimensional printing. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the support member (126, 302, 604) is manufactured by three-dimensional printing. A flexible tube box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 25, wherein a data file is provided by a user of the support component (126, 302, 604), and the data file includes a pre-stored instruction so as to print the support component (126, 302, 604) via a three-dimensional printer. A hose box assembly (100, 300, 600) as described in claim 25, wherein the support member (126, 302, 604) is presented in a digital format for three-dimensional printing.

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