PUMP ASSEMBLY

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/567,502, filed Mar. 20, 2024, and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/714,438, filed Oct. 31, 2024, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

The present invention relates to pumps, and more particularly to cordless hand-held pumps for pumping water and other fluids.

BACKGROUND

Pump assemblies are often configured to pump a fluid from one location to another. Some pump assemblies include flexible portions or attachments to reach relatively tight spaces. Transfer stick pump assemblies in particular are shaped and sized to pump fluid from relatively tight spaces at a distance.

SUMMARY

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing having a first end, a second end, and an axis extending through the first and second ends, the housing accommodating fluid flow therethrough. The pump assembly further includes a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a motor configured to drive an output shaft, and a mixed-flow impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent to the inlet, the mixed-flow impeller having an inlet diameter and an outlet diameter that is greater than the inlet diameter, the mixed-flow impeller configured to output fluid at an acute angle relative to the axis. The pump assembly further includes a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing, the handle also including a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the motor and configured to receive a battery pack.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing having a first end, a second end, and an axis extending through the first and second ends, the housing accommodating fluid flow therethrough. The pump assembly further includes a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a brushless direct-current motor having a rotor and a stator, the brushless direct-current motor operable at a first non-zero speed and at a second non-zero speed that is different than the first non-zero speed and configured to drive an output shaft, and an impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent the inlet. The pump assembly further includes a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing, the handle also including a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the brushless direct-current motor and configured to receive a battery pack.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing including a first housing portion defining a first end, a second housing portion defining a second end, and a connector disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion to selectively couple the first housing portion and the second housing portion together; a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a motor configured to drive an output shaft, and an impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent to the inlet; and a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing.

Other features and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a pump assembly according to one embodiment, the pump assembly including a first housing having a pump and an inlet, a second housing having a battery receptacle and an outlet, and an intermediate housing extending between the first and second housings.

FIG. 1B is another perspective view of the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of the first housing of the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary impellers housed within the first housing of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate removal of a filter assembly from the first housing of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged side view of the second housing of the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the second housing of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is another enlarged side view of the second housing of the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of another second housing for use with the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of a user interface of the second housing of FIG. 9A with portions removed.

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of the second housing of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the intermediate housing of the pump assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 11A is an enlarged perspective view of a connector of the intermediate housing of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the connector of the intermediate housing taken along section line 11B-11B of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is another cross-sectional view of the connector of the intermediate housing taken along section line 11C-11C of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another connector for use with the intermediate housing of FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a pump assembly according to another embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a system including a power head and a pump assembly according to another embodiment.

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 14.

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the power head of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a system including the power head of FIG. 14 and another pump assembly.

FIG. 17 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a system including the power head of FIG. 14 and another pump assembly.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a system including the power head of FIG. 14 and another pump assembly.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a pump assembly according to another embodiment.

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising”, or “having”, and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted”, “connected”, “supported”, and “coupled”, and variations thereof, are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a pump assembly 10. The illustrated pump assembly 10 is a stick pump assembly. The pump assembly 10 may also be referred to as a transfer pump assembly or a stick transfer pump assembly. The pump assembly 10 includes an inlet 14 for drawing in liquid, a first outlet 18 for expelling liquid, and a second outlet 22 for expelling liquid. In some embodiments, the pump assembly 10 may only include a single outlet or may include more than two outlets. The pump assembly 10 also includes a first housing 26, a second housing 30, and an intermediate housing 34 disposed between the first housing 26 and the second housing 34. Together, the first housing 26, the second housing 30, and the intermediate housing 34 may be referred to as a housing assembly. The first housing 26 is coupled to a first end 34a of the intermediate housing 34. The second housing 30 is coupled to a second end 34b of the intermediate housing 34 opposite the first end 34a. The intermediate housing 34 extends continuously between the first housing 26 and the second housing 30. The pump assembly 10 defines a longitudinal axis 36 along which the housing assembly extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing assembly is in fluid communication with the inlet 14 and the outlets 18, 22. Accordingly, during operation, liquid or other fluid may flow into the inlet 14, through the first housing 26, the intermediate housing 34, and the second housing 30, and out one or both of the outlets 18, 22.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the inlet 14 is disposed in the first housing 26. With specific attention to FIG. 3, the first housing 26 houses a pump 38 having a motor 42 and an impeller 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 42 is a brushless direct-current motor (BLDC). In other embodiments, the motor 42 may be a different type of a motor, such as a brushed motor and/or an alternating-current motor. The impeller 46 may be a radial flow impeller, an axial flow impeller, a mixed-flow impeller, or another type of centrifugal impeller. The motor 42 includes a rotor 43 and a stator 44 and drives an output shaft 50. The output shaft 50 is coupled to and drives the impeller 46. Rotation of the impeller 46 draws fluid into the inlet 14 and discharges fluid out the outlets 18, 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the impeller 46 and the output shaft 50 rotate about the longitudinal axis 36 of the pump assembly 10. In other embodiments, the impeller 46 and the output shaft 50 may be offset from and/or angled relative to the longitudinal axis 36. The pump 38 also defines an inner housing 54 and an outer housing 58 surrounding the inner housing 54. The inner housing 54 includes a motor housing 55 which houses the motor 42. The inner housing 54 also includes a volute cap 56 configured to provide a flow path for fluid F to flow from the inlet 14 and around the impeller 46. A space or gap between the motor housing 55 and the volute cap 56 defines a flow chamber 62 for fluid to flow from the inlet 14 and past the impeller 46. Outside of the volute cap 56, the flow chamber 62 also extends between the inner housing 54 and the outer housing 58 for the fluid to flow around the inner housing 5 and toward to the outlets 18, 22 via the intermediate housing 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the impeller 46 and the volute cap 56 are made of steel (e.g., stainless steel), the motor housing 55 is made of aluminum, and the outer housing 58 is made of plastic. In other embodiments, the impeller 46, the volute cap, the motor housing 55, and/or the outer housing 58 may be made of other materials.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, the illustrated impeller 46 is a mixed-flow impeller. A mixed-flow impeller provides a larger clearance within the inlet 14 to allow for particulate D to pass through. Specifically, a mixed-flow impeller may be designed, for a given output pressure, to reduce the outer (or radial) diameter of the impeller by increasing the axial height of the impeller. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer diameter of the impeller 46 is less than an outer diameter of the motor 42. By decreasing the outer diameter of the impeller, additional fluid and larger sizes of particulate are movable from the inlet 14 through the flow chamber 62 and the rest of the pump assembly 10. For example, the pump assembly 10 may be able to transfer relatively dirty water having debris (e.g., small rocks, etc.) with outer dimensions up to 3 mm. It will be appreciated that compared to radial flow impellers, a mixed-flow impeller allows for similar pressure and flow characteristics but due to the reduced diameter allows for a greater clearance between the mixed-flow impeller and the volute cap. For example, using a mixed-flow impeller may allow for a clearance to the volute cap of approximately 6 millimeters (e.g., at least 5 millimeters or 5-8 millimeters).

Additionally, a mixed-flow impeller directs fluid flow both radially and axially towards the flow chamber 62, which may also reduce the damage resulting from debris D to the motor housing 55 and volute cap 56 and increase the runtime of the pump 38. For example, in the illustrated first housing 26, axial flow impellers may output fluid along the axis of rotation (e.g., longitudinal axis 36) towards the motor housing 55, and radial flow impellers may output fluid perpendicular along the axis of rotation towards the volute cap 56. In contrast, a mixed-flow impeller may output fluid between 20 to 80 degrees from the axis of rotation, allowing fluid and debris to be directed towards the flow chamber 62 without directly impacting the motor housing 55 or the volute cap 56. Said another way, the mixed-flow impeller may output fluid at an acute or oblique angle relative to the axis 36. The output fluid angle of the mixed-flow impeller may also reduce the flow resistance at the inlet 14, thereby increasing the efficiency and runtime of the pump 38. A mixed-flow impeller also combines other advantages of radial and axial flow impellers, including combining the high flow rate of axial flow impellers with the head height (output pressure) and low-pressure fluctuation sensitivity of a radial flow impeller. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the pump 38 may use a mixed-flow impeller to operate at a head height (i.e., a height that fluid is lifted from the inlet 14 to one of the outlets 18, 22) of at least 10 feet and a flowrate of at least 20 gallons per minute. In some embodiments, the pump 38 may operate at a head height of at least 15 feet. In other embodiments, the pump 38 may operate at a head height of 18 feet. In some embodiments, the pump 38 may operate at a flowrate of 20-30 gallons per minute. In other embodiments, the pump 38 may operate at a flowrate of 26-28 gallons per minute.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate different mixed-flow impeller impellers 46A, 46B for use with the pump 38. That is, the impeller 46 may be any one of the exemplary mixed-flow impeller impellers 46A, 46B or another impeller. Each impeller 46A, 46B includes an inlet side 47A, 47B configured to receive fluid, an outlet side 48A, 48B from which fluid is output, and a plurality of curved fins 49A, 49B. The inlet side 47A, 47B and the outlet side 48A, 48B of each impeller 46A, 46B respectively defines an inlet diameter ID and an outlet diameter OD of the impeller 46A, 46B. The distance between the inlet side 47A, 47B and the outlet side 48A, 48B of each impeller 46 defines an axial height H of the impeller 46A, 46B. As best exemplified in FIG. 4B, the outlet diameter OD, the inlet diameter ID, and the axial height H of the impeller 46B forms a conical frustum (i.e., a cone with the top cut off) having a slope O that corresponds with the angle of the flow output by impeller 46B. It will be appreciated that the slope O may be adjusted to change output flow angle and corresponding flow characteristics such as pump head or flow rate. The plurality of curved fins 49A, 49B may similarly be adjusted. For example, the type of fin blade, the number of fins, the angle of each fin at the inlet and outlet, and/or the wrap angle of the fins may be adjusted based on the slope O and rotational velocity of the impeller 46 (e.g., motor speed) to reach a desired pump head and/or efficiency.

FIG. 4A illustrates the first mixed-flow impeller 46A. The illustrated mixed-flow impeller 46A includes five curved fins 49A. The mixed-flow impeller 46A has an outer diameter of approximately 35 millimeters (e.g., 33-37 millimeters), and a height of approximately 17 millimeters (e.g., 15-19 millimeters). The first mixed-flow impeller 46A may operate at a motor speed of approximately 12,000 rotations per minute (e.g., 11.000-13,000 RPM) to produce a head height of 17 feet and a flowrate of approximately 27 gallons per minute (e.g., 26-28 GPM). As previously discussed, the mixed-flow impeller 46A may also be able to pass debris.

The first housing 26 also includes a filter assembly 66. The filter assembly 66 is coupled to the first housing 26 and at least partially surrounds the pump 38. The filter assembly 66 is configured to filter particulate (e.g., mud, dirt, and other debris) before fluid is drawn in towards the inlet 14 by the pump 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assembly 66 is coupled to the outer housing 58. In some embodiments, the filter assembly 66 may be coupled to the inner housing 54 instead of or in addition to being coupled to the outer housing 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assembly 66 is removably couplable to the first housing 26 via a threaded interface. In other embodiments, the first housing 26 and the filter assembly 66 may be removably coupled together via different mechanisms, such as a latch, a quick-connect coupler, a bayonet-style coupling, thumb screws, magnets, screws, and the like. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 26 is coupled to the intermediate housing 34 via a threaded interface. In other embodiments the first housing 26 may use a different coupling mechanism.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the pump assembly 10 includes a retention feature to inhibit unintentional decoupling (e.g., unthreading) of the filter assembly 66 from the outer housing 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention feature includes a fastener 67. The fastener 67 may be, for example, a threaded pin or a threaded bolt. The fastener 67 is supported by a boss 68 on the outer housing 58. An end of the fastener 67 is receivable in a slot 69 or other suitable opening in the filter assembly 66. When the end of the fastener 67 is received in the slot 69 (as shown in FIG. 5B), the fastener 67 blocks the filter assembly 66 from being rotated relative to the outer housing 58 and uncoupled. When the end of the fastener 67 is removed from the slot 69 (as shown in FIG. 5C), the fastener 67 is moved out of the way such that the filter assembly 66 can be rotated relative to the outer housing 58 and uncoupled.

In some embodiments, the pump 38 may also include additional components, such as a fan rotatable with the output shaft 50, and/or speed or position sensors (e.g., a Hall effect sensor). In some embodiments, the inner housing 54 may be at least partially composed of or include thermally conductive compounds or elements (e.g., a heat sink) to aide in heat transfer between the motor 42 and the flow chamber 62. As a result, fluid flow caused by the pump 38 through the gap between the inner housing 54 and the outer housing 58 may cool the inner housing 54 and absorb heat generated by the motor 42. In some embodiments, the inner housing 54 may be sealed to prevent fluid pulled by the pump 38 to the flow chamber 62 from contacting the motor 42 or other electronics disposed within the inner housing 54. In such embodiments, other electrical components such as wires extending from the motor 42 may be disposed in a scaling tube 70 to prevent fluid from contacting the wires or other electrical component.

As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the second housing 30 includes a handle portion 74. The illustrated handle portion 74 is coupled to the second end 34b of the intermediate housing 34 and includes the outlets 18, 22. In other embodiments, the outlets 18, 22 may be located elsewhere on the second housing 30 or on the pump assembly 10. The handle portion 74 also includes a gripping portion 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle portion 74 and the gripping portion 78 are made of plastic. The gripping portion 78 is configured to be gripped by a user during operation or transport of the pump assembly 10. The illustrated gripping portion 78 has a reduced cross-sectional area relative to a remainder of the second housing 30 in order to aid handling. The gripping portion 78 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 36. That is, the gripping portion 78 has a length that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping portion 78 is generally circular and coaxial with the longitudinal axis 36. In some embodiments, the gripping portion 78 may also include additional texturing (e.g., ribs, knurling, etc.) or be coated in additional material (e.g., rubber) to inhibit a user from unintentionally losing a grip on the gripping portion 78.

With specific reference to FIG. 8, the handle portion 74 also includes a user interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface includes a speed control switch 82 operable to control the drive speed of the motor 42. The speed-control switch 82 is covered by a gasket 83 to inhibit liquid ingress. In other embodiments, the user interface may include alternative or additional features, such as a display, indicators, or other switches or actuators. The illustrated speed-control switch 82 is a rocker switch actuatable by a user between two non-zero speed settings. Accordingly, the pump assembly 10, and more particularly the motor 42, is operable in two non-zero speed settings. For example, the pump assembly 10 may be operable between a full speed setting, an “off” setting, and an intermediate (e.g., half speed) setting. Said another way, the pump assembly 10 may be operable at a first non-zero speed and a second non-zero speed that is greater than the first non-zero speed. In other embodiments, the speed-control switch 82 may use other operable mechanisms (e.g., a dial, a button, a pressure sensor, an interactive screen, etc.) to include additional speed settings. For example, in an embodiment using a dial, a user may operate the pump assemble 10 using variable speed control with three or more non-zero speed settings based on the position of the dial. It will be appreciated that similar adjustments may also be made with other operable mechanisms, such as the speed-control switch 82, previously discussed. In such embodiments, the speed-control switch 82 may move between two or more positions to operate the motor 42 at two or more non-zero speeds. In yet other embodiments, the speed-control switch 82 may be used to indicate an operation mode (e.g., power saving, full power, etc.) instead of a specific speed control setting. In some embodiments, the speed-control switch 82 may be located elsewhere on the second housing 30 or the pump assembly 10.

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, in other embodiments, the user interface may include an on/off power button or switch 84. The switch 84 may be a single speed switch that operates the pump assembly 10, and more particularly the motor 42, only at a single speed setting. Similar to the speed control switch 82, the on/off power switch 84 is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 85 within the second housing 30 and covered by a gasket 83B to inhibit liquid ingress.

Returning to FIGS. 6 and 7, the second housing 30 also includes a battery housing portion 86. The battery housing portion 86 defines a cavity 90 and a battery pack receptacle 94 configured to receive a battery pack (not shown). The battery housing portion 86 also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 98 and a plurality of wires extending between the battery pack receptacle 94, the PCB 98, and the scaling tube 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack receptacle 94 includes guide rails configured to allow a battery pack to be inserted in a direction parallel to or otherwise along the longitudinal axis 36. In other embodiments, the battery receptacle 94 may include other structures for receiving the battery pack. The battery pack is an interchangeable and rechargeable power tool battery pack. The battery pack may include one or more battery cells. For example, the battery pack may be an 18-volt battery pack and may include six (6) Lithium-ion battery cells. In other constructions, the battery pack may include fewer or more battery cells such that the battery pack is 12-volt battery pack, a 14.4-volt battery pack, a 40-volt battery pack, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the battery cells may have chemistries other than Lithium-ion such as, for example, Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal-Hydride, or the like. Upon receiving the battery pack into the battery pack receptacle 94, the battery pack powers the pump assembly 10. Specifically, the power from the battery pack is electrically communicated to a controller on the PCB 98. Power is then delivered from a motor driver disposed on the PCB 98, through wires disposed in the sealing tube 70, to the motor 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the power delivered to the motor 42 may be adjusted based on the position of the speed-control switch 82.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outlets 18, 22 are coupled to the second housing 30 adjacent the grip portion 78. More particularly, the grip portion 78 is located between the outlets 18, 22 and the battery housing portion 86. In some embodiments, the outlets 18, 22 may be integrally formed as a single piece with the second housing 30. During operation, fluid flows through the intermediate housing 34 from the inlet 14 towards the second housing 30, and is diverted to the outlets 18, 22 by an elbow 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the first outlet 18 and the second outlet 22 are disposed perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 36 of the pump assembly 10. In some embodiments, the outlets 18, 22 may be disposed at an obtuse or acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis 36. Accordingly, in those embodiments, the corresponding fluid pathway (e.g., elbow 102) may also be adjusted. Notably, as best shown in FIG. 1A, the first outlet 18 and the second outlet 22 are angled relative to one another. The outlets 18, 22 thereby generally form a V-shape. For example, the outlets 18, 22 may be angled between approximately 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to each other. In other embodiments, the first outlet 18 and the second outlet 22 may be parallel or otherwise offset. For example, the outlets 18, 22 may be offset or angled relative to each other in a vertical direction rather than a horizontal direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the elbow 102 is made of aluminum and the outlets 18, 22 are made of plastic. In other embodiments the elbow 102 and outlets 18, 22 may be the same material and integrally formed as a single piece.

The outlets 18, 22 may also be coupled to an accessory (e.g., a hose) that carries fluid away during from the pump operation. To aide in coupling and sealing the outlets 18, 22 with a corresponding accessory, the illustrated outlets 18, 22 each include a threaded outlet interface 106 configured to receive and couple to an accessory. In other embodiments, the second housing 30 may include other outlet interfaces 106 (e.g., watertight fittings, quick releases, etc.) to aid in coupling an accessory to the first outlet 18 or the second outlet 22. Specifically, the first outlet 18 may be attached to a first accessory to define a first output flow path, and the second outlet 22 may be attached to a second accessory to define a second output flow path. Additionally, the outlets 18, 22 may be covered (e.g., by a cap) during storage or when only a single outlet is necessary. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump assembly 10 includes one cap 108. The cap 108 is coupled to the first outlet 18 by a tether 109. In other embodiments, the cap 108 may be coupled to the second outlet 22, or the pump assembly 10 may include two caps 108 such that one cap 108 is coupled to each outlet 18, 22. The first outlet 18 and the second outlet 22 are in fluid communication with one another. Accordingly, covering or uncovering the first outlet 18 or the second outlet 22 may change the overall flow rate of the pump assembly 10 or the flow rate through a particular outlet 18, 22.

With continued reference to FIG. 7, each of the electrical components (e.g., the motor 42, the wires disposed in the sealing tube 70, the battery receptacle 94, the PCB 98, etc.) are sealed from a liquid ingress. Specifically, the pump assembly 10 includes a plurality of sealing members 110 (e.g., gaskets, grommets, etc.) configured to prevent liquid from contacting the electrical components and potentially damaging the pump assembly 10. In some embodiments, each electrical component may be isolated from one another. For example, the battery receptacle 94 may be separated from the PCB 98 by a plurality of sealing members 110 (e.g., gaskets) within different portions of the battery housing 86. The switch 82 and corresponding wires within the sealing tube 70 may also be separated from the PCB 98 by a plurality of sealing members 110. Additionally, the PCB 98 may be further isolated by a protective housing or shell. The sealing tube 70 may include sealing members 110a (e.g., grommets) between different portions of the housing assembly. Specifically, the sealing tube 70 may include a first scaling members 110a (FIG. 7) between the battery housing portion 86 and the handle portion 74 of the second housing 30 and a second sealing member 110a (FIG. 3) between the intermediate housing 34 and the first housing 26. In some embodiments, the pump assembly 10 may also include additional sealing members 110 configured to further isolate or reinforce other electrical configurations.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6-8, the second housing 30 additionally includes a cover or lid 114 coupled to the battery housing portion 86. The lid 114 is movable relative to the battery housing portion 86 between a first or open position and a second or closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 114 may pivot about a pin 116 between the open position and the closed position. In other embodiments, the lid 114 may move between the open position and the closed position in other manners (e.g., linearly slide, be completely removed, etc.). In the open position, the cavity 90 is configured to allow the insertion and removal of the battery pack from the battery receptacle 94. Accordingly, in the open position, the battery pack receptacle 94 is not sealed from the ambient environment. In the closed position, the battery housing 86 and the lid 114 may cooperate to surround the battery receptacle 94 and the inserted battery pack. Once in the closed position, the lid 114 is configured to form a seal with the battery housing 86 to prevent the ingress of fluid into the cavity 90. Specifically, the lid 114 includes a fastening assembly 118 configured to compress sealing members 110b disposed between the lid 114 and the battery housing 86 to form a seal and thereby prevent liquid ingress. The lid 114 may also include a vent 120 to allow the release of pressurized gas while the lid 114 is in the closed position.

The illustrated fastening assembly 118 includes a latch 122 movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the latch 122 compresses the sealing members 110b between the lid 114 and the battery housing 86 and inhibits the movement of the lid 114. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the latch 122 includes a latch arm 126 configured to be received within a hook 128 extending from the battery housing 86. Actuating the latch 122 into the locked position may pull the latch arm 126 into the hook 128, thereby pulling the lid 114 and battery housing 86 together and compressing the sealing members 110b. In the unlocked position, the lid 114 is released and movable from the closed position to the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 122 is actuatable between the locked position and the unlocked position by moving about a pivot. In other embodiments, the fastening assembly 118 may alternatively compress the sealing members 110 using a different fastening assembly (e.g., a slider mechanism, screws, magnets, etc.).

With reference to FIGS. 10-11C, the intermediate housing 34 is a generally hollow member extending between the first end 34a and the second end 34b. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate housing 34 is a cylindrical tube. In other embodiments, the intermediate housing 34 may have other configurations. The illustrated intermediate housing 34 includes a first tubular portion 130, a second tubular portion 134, and a connector 138. The first tubular portion 130 may also be referred to as a first housing portion, and the second tubular portion 134 may also be referred to as a second housing portion. The first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 may be made of aluminum, and the connector 138 may be made of plastic. The first tubular portion 130 includes the first end 34a of the intermediate housing 34 and is threadably coupled to the first housing 26 (e.g., the pump 38). The second tubular portion 134 includes the second end 34b of the intermediate housing 34 and is threadably coupled to the second housing 30 (e.g., the handle portion 74). The connector 138 is disposed between the first end 34a and the second end 34b of the intermediate housing 34 and is configured to couple the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 together. Specifically, the connector 138 is configured to permanently or removably couple the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 together such that the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 are in fluid communication with each other. The connector 138 may also disconnect the first tubular portion 130 from the second tubular portion 134. Specifically, the connector 138 may uncouple from the first tubular portion 130 and/or the second tubular portion 134. During such an arrangement, the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 will no longer be in fluid communication. Accordingly, the connector 138 may also disconnect the flow of fluid from the inlet 14 to the outlets 18, 22. Uncoupling the first tubular portion 130 from the second tubular portion 134 may help during, for example, transport and storage of the pump assembly 10 by making the pump assembly 10 more compact.

As shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, the illustrated connector 138 is a collar. The collar includes two collar sections 142, 146 coupled together by fasteners 150. The collar sections 142, 146, or halves, fit around ends of the tubular portions 130, 134 to align and secure the tubular portions 130, 134 together. The illustrated collars sections 142, 146 also include interlocks to help locate the collar on the tubular portions 130, 134. In the illustrated embodiment, each collar section 142, 146 includes a first internal rib 154 that is received in a first recess 158 on an outer surface of the first tubular portion 130 and a second internal rib 162 that is received in a second recess 166 on an outer surface of the second tubular portion 134. In other embodiments, the collar sections 142, 146 may define recesses that receive ribs formed on the tubular portions 130, 134. The fasteners 150 extend through the first collar section 142 and engage the second collar section 146 to secure the collar sections 142, 146 together. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 150 are threaded screws, and the collar includes four fasteners 150. In other embodiments, the fasteners 150 may be other types of fasteners, and/or the collar may include fewer or more fasteners 150.

As shown in FIG. 11B, the illustrated collar also includes a carrier 170 and two seals 174, 178. The carrier 170 is positioned between the two collar sections 142, 146 and between the two tubular portions 130, 134. The carrier 170 supports the two seals 174, 178 to inhibit fluid from leaking out of or into a junction between the tubular portions 130, 134. For example, the first seal 174 engages the outer surface of the first tubular portion 130, and the second seal 178 engages the outer surface of the second tubular portion 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the seals 174, 178 are elastomeric members, such as O-rings or X-rings. Retaining rings 182 engage the carrier 170 and the tubular portions 130, 134 to help locate the carrier 170 within the collar and on the tubular portions 130, 134. The illustrated retaining rings 182 sit within grooves formed on inner surfaces of the collar sections 142, 146 and engage ribs formed on the outer surfaces of the tubular portions 130, 134. The retaining rings 182 also abut the seals 174, 178.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative connector 186 between the first and second tubular portions 130, 134. The illustrated connector 186 is a sleeve including a first end threadably coupled to threads 190 on an end of the first tubular portion 130 and a second end threadably coupled to threads 194 on an end of the second tubular portion 134. Adhesive, tape, or other suitable sealing means may be positioned between the connector 186 and the threads 190, 194 to help secure the connector and to inhibit liquid ingress or egress from between the connector 186 and the tubular portions 130, 134.

In addition to coupling the fluid paths between the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 together, the connector 186 (or the connector 138 shown in FIGS. 11A-11C) may also couple the wiring between the battery receptacle 94 and the motor 42. Specifically, the connector 186 may include a wire fitting 198 configured to couple to the scaling tube 70. In some embodiments, the connector 186 may include two wire fittings to couple to each of the sealing tubes 70 for electrically coupling to the motor 42 and the battery receptacle 94 respectively. Accordingly, the connector 186 may removably couple the electrical connection between the battery receptacle 94 and the motor 42. In some embodiments, the sealing tube 70 may include a support rib to aide in aligning the sealing tube 70 with the wire fitting 198. In other embodiments, the connector 186 may only disconnect the fluid pathway between the first housing 26 and the second housing 30. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the connector 186 does not disconnect the electrical connection between the first housing 26 and the second housing 30. In yet other embodiments, the sealing tube 70 of the first housing 26 and the second housing 30 may include stiffer and/or more flexible portions to allow the folding of the pump assembly 10 without damaging the wirings or the sealing tube 70. In yet other embodiments, the wire fitting and connector 186 (or the connector 138) may include wiring outside the surface of the intermediate housing 34. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the connector 186 could disconnect the first tubular portion 130 and the second tubular portion 134 without electrically disconnecting the battery receptacle 94 and the motor 42.

During operation, a user inserts a battery pack into the battery receptacle 94. The user may then move the lid 114 to the closed position and actuate the latch 122 of the fastening assembly 118 to seal the battery from liquid ingress. To activate the motor 42, the user presses the switch 82. Upon activation, the motor 42 rotates the impeller 46. Rotation of the impeller 46 draws fluid from the inlet 14 through the filter assembly 66. The fluid then flows around the inner housing 54 (e.g., around the motor 42) and through the intermediate housing 34. From the intermediate housing 34, the fluid then flows into the second housing 30 and out of the pump assembly 10 through either or both the first outlet 18 and the second outlet 22.

FIG. 13 illustrates another pump assembly 200. The illustrated pump assembly 200 is similar to the pump assembly 10 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-11 for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 200 not specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assembly 200 includes an inlet 214 for drawing fluid into the pump assembly 200, a first outlet 218 for discharging fluid out of the pump assembly 200, and a second outlet 222 for discharging fluid out of the pump assembly 200. The pump assembly 200 further includes a first housing 226, a second housing 230, and an intermediate housing 234. The inlet 214 is disposed on the first housing 226, and the outlets 218, 222 are disposed on the second housing 230. Accordingly, during operation, fluid flows along a fluid path into the first housing 226 via the inlet 214, through the intermediate housing 234, into the second housing 230, and out the outlets 218, 222.

With continued reference to FIG. 13, the intermediate housing 234 includes a first tubular portion 238 and a second tubular portion 242. The first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242 are pivotably coupled together by a connector 246. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the connector 246 may disconnect the fluid path when the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242 are decoupled from one another. When uncoupled, the first tubular portion 238 may pivot or fold relative to the second tubular portion 242, decreasing an overall length of the pump assembly 200. The illustrated pump assembly 200 includes a catch 250 supported on the second tubular portion 238. The catch 250 is configured to engage the first tubular portion 238 when the first tubular portion 238 is folded to hold the first tubular portion 238 in a folded condition. Uncoupling the first tubular portion 130 from the second tubular portion 134 and folding the first tubular portion 130 may help during, for example, transport and storage of the pump assembly 10 by making the pump assembly 10 more compact.

The connector 246 also includes a latch 254 configured to fasten the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242 together when the tubular portions 238, 242 are aligned. In other embodiments, the connector 246 may include other suitable mechanisms to fasten the tubular portions 238, 242 together (e.g., magnets, fasteners, snaps, etc.). In some embodiments, the intermediate housing 234 may include additional sealing members (e.g., O-rings) at the interface of the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242. Accordingly, the sealing members may be compressed when the tubular portions 238, 242 are aligned to prevent leaking of liquid from the intermediate housing 234.

In other embodiments, the connector 246 may further include a flexible membrane configured to allow fluid to flow regardless of the relative position of the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242. For example, the connector 246 may include a flexible bellows that expands and bends as the first tubular portion 238 is folded relative to the second tubular portion 242. In such embodiments, fluid may flow along the fluid path of the pump assembly 200 regardless of the coupling or orientation of the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242.

In yet other embodiments, the connector 246 may include a detent mechanism to allow the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242 to be set at an angle. In embodiments where the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242 are movable relative to one another, the pump assembly 200 may be positionable at an angle or in areas previously unreachable without relative movement of the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242.

In some embodiments, wires may be disposed external to the intermediate housing 234 (e.g., along the flexible membrane or detent mechanism) to electrically connect the first tubular portion 238 and the second tubular portion 242. In other embodiments, the wires may be disposed within the intermediate housing 234 and may be supported by additional support structures (e.g., wire fittings, support ribs, etc.).

FIGS. 14-15B illustrate another pump assembly 300. The pump assembly 300 is part of a system including the pump assembly 300 and a power head 310. The illustrated pump assembly 300 is similar to the pump assembly 10 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-9 for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 300 not specifically included below.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15A, the illustrated pump assembly 300 includes an inlet 314 for drawing fluid into the pump assembly 300, and an outlet 318 for discharging fluid out of the pump assembly 300. The pump assembly 300 also includes a first housing 326, an intermediate housing 334, and a power head attachment 344. The inlet 314 is disposed on the first housing 326, and the outlet 318 is disposed in the intermediate housing 334 adjacent to the power head attachment 344. The first housing 326 includes an impeller 346 and a filter assembly 366 configured to draw fluid into the inlet 314. The intermediate housing 334 is disposed between the first housing 326 and the power head attachment 344. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate housing 334 is tubular in shape to allow fluid to flow from the inlet 314 to the outlet 318. The power head attachment 344 is configured to receive a rotational input (e.g., through the power head 310) to rotate a drive shaft 336a that extends through the intermediate housing 334 and rotates the impeller 346. The drive shaft 336a is surrounded by an internal tube 370 to help protect the drive shaft 336a from fluid flowing through the intermediate housing 334. Accordingly, during operation, power is provided to the drive shaft 336a, which rotates the impeller 346. The impeller 346 pulls fluid along a fluid path into the first housing 326 via the inlet 314, through the intermediate housing 334, and out the outlet 318. In some embodiments, the intermediate housing 334 may further include a first tubular portion and a second tubular portion that may be removably couplable to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15B, the power head 310 includes a battery housing portion 312, a handle portion 316, and a tool interface 320. The battery housing portion 312 of the power head includes a battery receptacle 394 configured to receive and couple to a battery pack (not shown). The battery housing portion 312 also supports a motor 342 configured to rotate a drive shaft 336b. The drive shaft 336b extends from the motor 342, through the handle portion 316, and into the tool interface 320. The drive shaft 336b of the power head 310 is configured to engage and drive the drive shaft 336a (FIG. 15A) of the pump assembly 300. The handle portion 316 includes a tubular extension 324 configured to surround the drive shaft 336b. Additionally, the handle portion 316 includes a trigger 382 configured to control the power delivered from the battery pack to the motor 342.

The power head 310 is configured to removably couple to a plurality of tool attachments (e.g., a pump assembly, a rotating saw blade, a vacuum, etc.). For example, the power head 310 may be part of the QUIK-LOK attachment system sold by Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the tool interface 320 is configured to transfer the rotational output of the motor 342 of the power head to rotate the drive shaft 336a of the pump assembly 330. During operation, the tool attachment (e.g., pump assembly 300) is attached to the tool interface 320 and driven by the motor 342 through the drive shaft 336a. In some embodiments, the power head 310 may additionally include a gear assembly to either increase the speed or the torque output by the motor 342 into the coupled tool attachment.

FIGS. 16-18 illustrate other embodiments of pump assemblies attachable to a power head (e.g., the power head 310 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15B). More specifically, FIG. 16 illustrates a pump assembly 400 having a tube 404 extending from a first housing 408. The illustrated pump assembly 400 is similar to the pump assembly 300 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 300 shown in FIGS. 14-15B for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 400 not specifically included below. In the illustrated embodiment, an inlet 414 is disposed in the first housing 408 and an outlet 418 is disposed at an end of the tube 404. The tube 404 may be a flexible tube or a rigid tube. A catch 422 is configured to couple the tube 404 to the pump assembly 400. Alternatively, the catch 422 may be configured to couple the tube 404 to the power head 310 (depending on the length of the tube 404).

FIG. 17 illustrates a pump assembly 500 that includes a plurality of extension tubes 504. The illustrated pump assemblies 500 is similar to the pump assembly 300 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 300 shown in FIGS. 13-14B for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 500 not specifically included below. The pump assembly 500 also includes an output shaft portion 508 configured to transfer the rotational output of the power head 310 to a first housing 510 and an output tube portion 512 configured to allow fluid to flow from an outlet 518 of the first housing 510. In the illustrated embodiment, both the output shaft portion 508 and the output tube portion 512 include a plurality of extension tubes 504. The extension tubes 504 are configured to allow the length adjustment of the output shaft portion 508 and/or the output tube portion 512. Accordingly, each extension tube 504 is configured to be removably coupled to another extension tube 504. In some embodiments, extension tubes 504 may include additional accessories such as an elbow tubing.

FIG. 18 illustrates another pump assembly 600. The illustrated pump assembly 600 is similar to the pump assembly 300 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 300 shown in FIGS. 14-15B for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 600 not specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assembly 600 includes a first housing 610 and an intermediate housing 612. During operation, the pump assembly 600 draws fluid into the first housing 610 through an inlet 614 and expels fluid into a flexible tubing 616 adjacent an outlet 618 disposed in the first housing 610. The pump assembly 600 also includes an elbow joint 622, or other suitable joint, such that the housing 610 may be rotated relative to the attached power head 310. In some embodiments, the flexible tubing 616 and outlet 618 may be disposed in the intermediate housing 612 instead of or addition to the first housing 610.

FIG. 19 illustrates yet another pump assembly 800. The illustrated pump assembly 800 is similar to the pump assembly 10 described above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-11 for description of features and elements of the pump assembly 800 not specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assembly 800 includes a housing 804 having an inlet 814 for drawing fluid into the pump assembly 800 and an outlet 818 for discharging fluid out of the pump assembly 800. A pump including a motor and an impeller is located within the housing 804. The outlet 818 includes a coupler, such as a threaded fitting, for connecting the pump assembly 800 to an accessory 822, such as a hose.

The pump assembly 800 also includes a handle 826. The illustrated handle 826 is an elongated pole. The handle 826 is coupled the housing 804 such that the pump located in the housing 804 can be positioned in deep or remote areas. In some embodiments, the handle 826 may be removably coupled to the housing 804. In other embodiments, the handle 826 may be permanently fixed to the housing 804. In some embodiments, the handle 826 may be extendable. For example, the handle 826 may include two or more telescoping tubes. Alternatively, the handle 826 may include multiple sections that are removably couplable to one another to extend, reduce, or adjust a length and/or shape of the handle 826.

The illustrated pump assembly 800 also includes a power supply 830. The power supply 830 is a separate unit that can be located remotely from the housing 804. For example, the power supply 830 may receive a rechargeable battery pack 834 and be coupled to the first housing 804 by an electrical cord 838. In other embodiments, the housing 804 may include a battery receptacle configured to receive a battery pack. The power supply 830 may include a user interface for controlling operation of the pump assembly 800. Alternatively, the user interface may be located on the handle 826, on the housing 804, or on a separate remote control.

In operation, the power supply 830 is connected to the housing 804. The handle 826 is also coupled to the housing 804 (if needed), and the housing 804 is positioned in a desired location. A user then operates the user interface to turn on and control operation of the pump assembly 800. When the pump is operating, fluid flows into the first housing 804 via the inlet 81 and out the outlet 818 through attached accessory 822 (e.g., a hose).

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects as described.

Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.