air jet device

Abstract

A jetting device includes a housing comprising a printed circuit board and a drivetrain assembly coupled to the printed circuit board. The drivetrain assembly includes a motor and gears driven by the motor. A cam is coupled to the gears. The housing also includes a plunger configured to be contacted and driven by the cam. The jetting device further includes an aerosol can assembly configured to be releasably coupled to the housing, wherein movement of the plunger is configured to dispense material from the aerosol can assembly.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese national phase patent application No. 202080026728.5, entitled "Jet Device", filed on February 4, 2020. Technical Field

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 828,636, filed April 3, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This invention relates to jet devices, including jet devices for distributing pheromones in commercial agricultural environments. Background Technology

[0004] In commercial agricultural environments (e.g., orchards), aerosol spraying devices are commonly used to control pests. These devices are typically programmable to operate in a wide variety of modes (e.g., starting and ending operations at specific times of day) and include both a housing and a spraying mechanism located inside the housing to expel pheromones from the housing onto the plants in the orchard, thereby reducing pest populations. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, the jetting device includes a housing having a printed circuit board and a drivetrain assembly coupled to the printed circuit board. The drivetrain assembly includes a motor and gears driven by the motor. A cam is coupled to the gears. The housing also includes a plunger configured to be contacted and driven by the cam. The jetting device further includes an aerosol can assembly configured to be releasably coupled to the housing, wherein movement of the plunger is configured to dispense material from the aerosol can assembly.

[0006] According to another embodiment, the jetting device includes a housing having a sealed upper chamber. The housing includes a printed circuit board and a drivetrain assembly coupled to the printed circuit board. Both the printed circuit board and the drivetrain assembly are disposed within the sealed upper chamber. The drivetrain assembly includes a motor and gears driven by the motor. The housing also includes a plunger disposed within the sealed upper chamber and driven by the motor. The jetting device further includes an aerosol can assembly configured to be releasably coupled to the housing in a region outside the sealed upper chamber. Movement of the plunger is configured to dispense material from the aerosol can assembly.

[0007] According to another embodiment, the jetting device includes a housing having a printed circuit board and a drivetrain assembly coupled to the printed circuit board. The drivetrain assembly includes a motor and gears driven by the motor. The housing also includes a plunger driven by the motor. The jetting device further includes an aerosol can assembly. Movement of the plunger is configured to dispense material from the aerosol can assembly. The aerosol can assembly includes an aerosol can, an adapter coupled to the aerosol can, and a lock coupled to the adapter. The aerosol can assembly is configured to be releasably coupled to the housing by rotation of the adapter within the housing.

[0008] According to another embodiment, the jetting device includes a housing having an outer shell. The outer shell includes a keying region along the outer side of the outer shell. The jetting device also includes a suspension device configured to be coupled to the keying region, and the aerosol can assembly configured to be releasably coupled to the housing.

[0009] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a jet device according to one embodiment, showing the housing and aerosol can assembly.

[0011] Figure 2 It is an exploded perspective view of the casing, showing the front and rear covers, printed circuit boards, battery holders, and drivetrain components.

[0012] Figures 3A to 3F This is a perspective view of the casing, showing the steps of assembling the printed circuit board and battery holder into the front cover.

[0013] Figures 4A to 4I This is a perspective view of the drivetrain assembly, showing the steps involved in assembling the drivetrain assembly.

[0014] Figure 4J and Figure 4K These are perspective and cross-sectional views of the boot that connects to the drivetrain components.

[0015] Figures 5A to 5F This is a perspective view of the housing, showing the steps of assembling the drivetrain components into the front housing and fastening the front and rear housings together.

[0016] Figure 6 and Figure 7 These are perspective and cross-sectional views of the housing, showing how the housing includes sealed compartments for printed circuit boards, battery holders, and drivetrain components.

[0017] Figure 8It is a perspective view inside the housing, showing the cam and plunger of the drivetrain assembly, with the plunger in the first raised position.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a perspective view inside the casing, showing the plunger in the second lowered position.

[0019] Figure 10 This is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the aerosol can assembly, showing the top of the aerosol can, the adapter attached to the aerosol can, and the lock attached to the adapter.

[0020] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the top of the aerosol can, showing the coiled valve on the top of the aerosol can.

[0021] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the top of the aerosol can, showing the adapter connected to the coil valve.

[0022] Figures 15 to 17 It is a perspective view of the adapter and the lock, showing the lock being pressed and connected to the adapter.

[0023] Figure 18 and Figure 19 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the adapter and lock, showing the minimum locking position.

[0024] Figure 20 and Figure 21 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the adapter and lock, showing the maximum locking position.

[0025] Figure 22 and Figure 23 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the top of the aerosol can, showing the adapter and lock in the maximum locked position.

[0026] Figure 24 This is an exploded front view of the jet unit, showing the initial mounting position of the aerosol can assembly relative to the housing.

[0027] Figure 25 and Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view of the jetting device, showing the aerosol can assembly in the first mounting position within the housing.

[0028] Figure 27 and Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of the jetting device, showing the aerosol can assembly in a rotated second mounting position within the housing.

[0029] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of the rear cover, showing the locking tabs.

[0030] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the rear cover, showing the adapter connected to the locking tab.

[0031] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the rear cover, showing the adapter connected to the locking tab.

[0032] Figure 32 This is a rear view of the housing, showing the keying area located at the top of the housing.

[0033] Figure 33 This is a perspective view of the casing, showing the keying area.

[0034] Figure 34 It is a perspective view of the housing and the first suspension device connected to the keyway area.

[0035] Figure 35 and Figure 36 This is a perspective view of the housing and the second suspension device connected to the keyway area.

[0036] Figure 37 and Figure 38 This is a perspective view of the housing and the third suspension device connected to the keyway area.

[0037] Before explaining any embodiment of the invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of the invention is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the following drawings. The invention can be applied to other embodiments and practiced or performed in various ways. Similarly, it should be understood that the terms and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Figure 1 A jetting device 10 is shown. The jetting device 10 can be used, for example, to dispense pheromones in commercial agricultural environments (e.g., orchards). In other embodiments, the jetting device 10 can be used to dispense pheromones or other liquids or gases in a variety of other environments, including non-agricultural environments. Figure 1 As shown, the jet device 10 typically includes a housing 14 and an aerosol can assembly 18 releasably coupled to the housing 14.

[0039] refer to Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, housing 14 includes a front cover 22 and a rear cover 26 coupled to the front cover 22. The front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 together define the overall outer shell of housing 14 and may be made of, for example, plastic or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 are fastened together or otherwise joined using one or more fasteners 30. In other embodiments, the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 may be fastened together using ultrasonic welding or other fastener-free methods, or otherwise joined together. In the illustrated embodiment, the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 are typically two identical shells assembled together to enclose the interior of housing 14. However, other embodiments may include a different number and shape of front and / or rear covers than those shown. In some embodiments, the front cover 22 and / or the rear cover 26 may include ribs, flanges, or other structures that add structural integrity and rigidity to housing 14.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The housing 14 also includes a printed circuit board 34 disposed within the housing 14. The printed circuit board 34 may include, for example, sensors, microcontrollers, and / or other control devices for controlling the operation of the jet device 10. The housing 14 also includes a battery holder 38 for holding one or more batteries and a drivetrain assembly 42 for receiving commands from the printed circuit board 34 and causing the dispensing of information hormones from the aerosol can assembly 18. The printed circuit board 34, battery holder 38, and drivetrain assembly 42 are assembled together within the housing 14.

[0041] refer to Figures 3A to 3F The printed circuit board 34 and the battery holder 38 can be soldered or otherwise joined together. The combined printed circuit board 34 and battery holder 38 can be attached to the interior of the front cover 22. For example, fasteners 46 such as screws can be used to secure the printed circuit board 34 and battery holder 38 in place within the upper chamber 50, which is partially defined by the front cover 22. Additionally, one or more batteries 52 can be mounted within the battery holder 38.

[0042] refer to Figures 4A to 4IIn the illustrated embodiment, the drivetrain assembly 42 includes a drive plate 54 and a motor 58, which is coupled to the drive plate 54, for example, using fasteners 62 (e.g., screws). The motor 58 is coupled to a first side of the drive plate 54 and includes a driven motor shaft 66 that extends through an aperture 70 in the drive plate 54 to a second side of the drive plate 54. The drive plate 54 also includes support protrusions 74 on its second side, each receiving a gear 78 (e.g., a toothed gear). During assembly, the support protrusions 74 may be pins (e.g., with knurled ends) that are inserted into the drive plate 54 and held in place. In the illustrated embodiment, additional gears 78 are coupled to the driven motor shaft 66. Reference Figures 4A to 4E Motor 58 can be coupled to a first side of transmission plate 54, and gear 78 can be coupled to driven motor shaft 66 and bearing protrusion 74, such that rotation of driven motor shaft 66 causes each gear 78 to rotate (e.g., resulting in gear reduction). Other embodiments include various other numbers, sizes, and arrangements of gears, as well as gear types, different from those shown. Continue to refer to Figures 4A to 4E In the illustrated embodiment, cam 82 is coupled to one of the gears 78 and rotates therewith. In some embodiments, cam 82 and gear 78 are integrally formed as a single piece. Figure 4C As shown, cam 82 includes both a large cam portion 83 and a small cam portion 84. As further described herein, cam 82 is used to control and dispense information hormones from aerosol can assembly 18.

[0043] In some embodiments, during assembly, the drive plate 54 may be a free-floating plate that can move vertically up and down within the housing 14 (e.g., within a guide defined by the front cover 22 and / or the rear cover 26). The drive plate 54 can then be secured in place using thermal piles.

[0044] refer to Figures 4F to 4I The drivetrain assembly 42 also includes a switch 86 (e.g., an actuated switch). In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 86 is coupled to the drive plate 54 using at least one fastener 90, but in other embodiments, the switch 86 may also be coupled to the drive plate by methods other than using fasteners. As further described herein, a small cam portion 84 is positioned to contact and activate the switch 86 during use of the jet device 10.

[0045] Continue to refer to Figures 4F to 4I The transmission plate 54 also includes a frame member 94 extending from a second side of the transmission plate 54 (e.g., in a direction generally parallel to the support protrusion 74). In the illustrated embodiment, the frame member 94 is a solid circular frame member defining a central aperture 98. Figure 4H and Figure 4IAs shown, the drivetrain assembly 42 also includes a protective cover 102 (e.g., a disc-shaped or other shaped solid structure) and a pressing area 106 coupled to the protective cover 102. The protective cover 102 and the pressing area 106 are coupled to the frame member 94 (e.g., along the bottom of the frame member 94). The pressing area 106 may be made of, for example, plastic, or an elastic material or other materials, and as... Figure 4H The area shown can be exposed through the central aperture 98. In some embodiments, the pressing area 106 is integrally formed with the protective cover 102 as a single piece. In other embodiments, the pressing area 106 is a separate component attached to the protective cover 102.

[0046] Continue to refer to Figures 4F to 4I The drivetrain assembly 42 also includes a plunger 110 having a plunger arm 114 and a protrusion 118 extending from the plunger arm 114. In some embodiments, the plunger 110 is a plastic or metal element overmolded using an elastic material. (Reference) Figure 4H and Figure 4I In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the plunger arm 114 is coupled to one of the support protrusions 74 on the second side of the drive plate 54, such that the plunger arm 114 is rotatably coupled to the support protrusion 74 and can pivot generally along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation defined by the support protrusion 74. The pivoting rotation of the plunger arm 114 during downward movement causes the protrusion 118 to be pushed downward through the central orifice 98 and abut against the pressing region 106, while the pivoting rotation of the plunger arm 114 during upward movement causes the protrusion 118 to rise away from the central orifice 98 and spaced apart from the pressing region 106. As further described herein, the pivoting movement of the plunger 110 is controlled by a large cam portion 83 such that when the plunger 110 pivots downward, the protrusion 118 pushes against the pressing region 106 and also against the aerosol can assembly 18 (e.g., against the nozzle of the aerosol can assembly 18), thereby causing the jet device 10 to dispense the pheromone.

[0047] refer to Figure 4J and Figure 4K In some embodiments, the protective shield 102 is partially or entirely made of a soft material (e.g., an elastic material), while the pressing area 106 (e.g., a small plate) is partially or entirely made of a harder material (e.g., polycarbonate). When the plunger 110 is pressed down, the plunger may contact the harder material of the pressing area 106 and push that material or layer of material downwards until the plunger contacts the aerosol can assembly 18, causing the jet device 10 to dispense the pheromone. In other embodiments, the protective shield 102 may be partially or entirely made of a hard material, and the pressing area 106 may be made of a softer material. (Continue referring to...) Figure 4JThe protective cover 102 may include a recessed area or channel 120 that is sized and shaped to allow the frame member 94 to be partially fitted within the protective cover 102 and / or to allow the frame member 94 to move slightly within the protective cover while still maintaining a sealed upper chamber, as described below.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 4H and 4I The drivetrain assembly 42 also includes a biasing element 122 (e.g., a torsion spring) that is simultaneously coupled to both the drive plate 54 and the plunger arm 114, causing the plunger arm 114 to be naturally biased in one direction (e.g., upward). In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element 122 extends around the same bearing protrusion 74 to which the plunger arm 114 is attached. Other embodiments include various other types of biasing elements 122 (e.g., torsion springs, compression springs, etc.) different from those shown, and different positions for the biasing element 122.

[0049] refer to Figures 5A to 5F Wire 126 can be coupled (e.g., soldered) to motor 58, printed circuit board 34, and battery holder 38 to provide power to motor 58. Additionally, wire 126 can be coupled to switch 86 and printed circuit board 34 to allow activation of switch 86 to be detected by printed circuit board 34. Drivetrain assembly 42 can be disposed within upper chamber 50 and near battery holder 38. Fastener 130 can be used to secure drivetrain assembly 42 in place. In other embodiments, drivetrain assembly 42 can be secured to front cover 22, for example, using thermal anchors or by a method different from using fasteners. Reference Figure 5E and Figure 5F The rear cover 26 can then be secured, for example, using fastener 30 (see...). Figure 2 ) or fastened to the front cover 22 by means other than using fasteners.

[0050] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 form a seam. A gasket 134 (e.g., an elastic seal) may be disposed at this seam to help seal the interior of the housing 14 against the external environment. Additionally and with reference to... Figure 7 In some embodiments, the upper chamber 50 is sealed apart from the rest of the housing 14 and is also sealed apart from the aerosol can assembly 18 when it is installed. For example, when the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 are fastened together, the internal wall 138 of the front cover 22 and the rear cover 26 (see, for example, see...) Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9These structures, along with the protective shield 102, the pressing area 106 within the housing 14, and / or the gasket 134, can seal the upper chamber 50, thereby inhibiting or preventing any residue from the aerosol can assembly 18 from leaking upward into the upper chamber 50.

[0051] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 And as described above, components within the upper chamber 50 are used to control the dispensing of pheromones from the aerosol can assembly 18. During operation, the jet device 10 can determine when it is time to dispense the pheromones. For example, the printed circuit board 34 can (e.g., wirelessly) receive a signal indicating when it is time to dispense, or the printed circuit board 34 may be programmed to dispense the pheromones at certain times of day or when certain environmental conditions are met (e.g., based on temperature, season, etc.). In some embodiments, such as based on ambient environmental conditions, the jet device 10 can be prevented from dispensing the pheromones. In some embodiments, and as... Figure 1 As shown, the housing 14 may include an on / off button or one or more other buttons 140 that can be manually pressed when needed to distribute information hormones or otherwise control the jet device 10.

[0052] During use, the printed circuit board 34 can send a signal to the motor 58, which in turn causes the driven motor shaft 66 to rotate. The rotation of the driven motor shaft 66 causes the gear 78 to rotate, which in turn causes the cam 82 to rotate. Figure 4C As shown and as described above, cam 82 includes a large cam portion 83 and a small cam portion 84. When gear 78 rotates, cam 82 (including the large cam portion 83 and the small cam portion 84) also rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, cam 82 rotates clockwise, but in other embodiments, cam 82 may be arranged to rotate counterclockwise.

[0053] refer to Figure 9 The large cam portion 83 is configured to ultimately rotate about the plunger arm 114 and contact and push the plunger arm 114, thereby forcing the plunger arm 114 to rotate downwards. This rotational movement of the plunger arm 114 pushes the protrusion 118 downwards into the central orifice 98 and abuts against the pressing area 106. The aerosol can assembly 18 is positioned directly below the pressing area 106 such that when the pressing area 106 is pressed downwards, the pressing area 106 contacts the aerosol can assembly 18 (e.g., abuts against the nozzle of the aerosol can assembly 18), thereby causing the aerosol can assembly 18 to dispense the pheromone. As described above, the upper chamber 50 is sealed. Therefore, when dispensing (e.g., spraying) the pheromone, the upper chamber 50 remains isolated, and the upward movement of residue into the upper chamber 50 is inhibited or prevented.

[0054] Continue to refer to Figure 9 As cam 82 continues to rotate, the smaller cam portion 84 eventually contacts switch 86 (e.g., shortly after the larger cam portion 83 has pressed the plunger arm 114 down). When switch 86 is contacted, a signal is sent from switch 86 to printed circuit board 34. Printed circuit board 34 then causes motor 58 to stop for a predetermined period of time. For example, in some embodiments, motor 58 stops for 1.5 seconds. In other embodiments, motor 58 stops for 1 second, or 2 seconds, or between 1 and 2 seconds. Other embodiments include different values ​​and ranges. By stopping motor 58, gear 78 stops rotating and maintains downward pressure on plunger arm 114, causing pheromones to continue to be dispensed from aerosol can assembly 18 for a predetermined period of time. Once this predetermined period of time has elapsed, printed circuit board 34 restarts motor 58, and gear 78 begins to rotate again. The rotation of gear 78 causes cam 82 (including large cam portion 83 and small cam portion 84) to rotate, causing large cam portion 83 to disengage from contact with plunger arm 114 and small cam portion 84 to disengage from contact with switch 86. Once large cam portion 83 is no longer in contact with plunger arm 114, biasing element 122 causes plunger arm 114 to return to its original position. Figure 8 In some embodiments, switch 86 is not provided. Instead, cam 82 itself remains in contact with plunger arm 114 and is pressed down for a sufficient duration to release a sufficient amount of information hormone from aerosol can assembly 18 before cam 82 rotates out of contact with plunger arm 114. Additionally, while both large cam portion 83 and small cam portion 84 are disposed on a single cam 82, in other embodiments, large cam portion 83 and small cam portion 84 may be disposed on separate cams 82 (e.g., coupled to different gears 78 within housing 14).

[0055] In general, the use of the cam 82 described above can provide a consistent stroke for the plunger arm 114 (e.g., causing the protrusion 118 to move downwards the same distance with each stroke), and thereby provide consistent pheromone emission. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 58 does not need to reverse direction to stop pheromone emission. Instead, the motor 58 can continue to operate in one direction, causing the cam 82 to rotate continuously (e.g., clockwise) until further pheromone emission is required. Due to this directional movement, the lifespan of the motor 58 can be extended, and motor 58 stalling can be prevented or suppressed.

[0056] refer to Figure 1 and Figures 10 to 12 The aerosol can assembly 18 includes an aerosol can 142 containing the aforementioned informational hormone. For example... Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the aerosol can 142 includes a tip 146 having an edge 150 (e.g., a circumferential edge) defining an opening. A valve 154 is coupled to the edge 150 and extends through the opening. The valve 154 includes a central raised section 158 and a separate outer raised lip 162 that curls onto the edge 150. A nozzle 166 (which may include an actuator) extends through the valve 154 (e.g., centered through the central raised section 158). A portion of the nozzle 166 is released from the aerosol can 142 through the nozzle 166, for example by pressing down or otherwise moving it.

[0057] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 The aerosol can assembly 18 also includes an adapter 170. For example... Figure 10 As shown, adapter 170 includes a first end 174 and a opposite second end 176. The first end 174 includes a first set of protrusions (e.g., arms) 178 that generally form a V-shaped, U-shaped, or other shaped cavity or space therebetween. When adapter 170 is coupled to aerosol can 142, nozzle 166 extends within this cavity or space between the protrusions 178. In some embodiments, adapter 170 replaces the need for a cap for aerosol can 142. In the illustrated embodiment, each protrusion 178 includes a generally rounded surface 182 along a portion of the protrusion 178 and a generally flat, angled surface 186 along another portion of the protrusion 178. Other embodiments include different shapes and sizes for the protrusions 178 than those shown.

[0058] Continue to refer to Figure 10 The second end 176 includes a second set of protrusions (e.g., flexible arms) 190, which also generally form V-shaped, U-shaped, or other shaped cavities or spaces therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, each protrusion 190 includes a generally rounded surface 194 at its end.

[0059] refer to Figure 10 and Figures 13 to 16 The adapter 170 also includes a lower attachment region 198, which is generally disposed between the first set of protrusions 178 and the second set of protrusions 190, and extends below the first set of protrusions 178 and the second set of protrusions 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower attachment region 198 is generally a circumferential ring that defines a central opening 202. Figures 13 to 16 As shown, the lower attachment region 198 includes at least one lower radially protruding portion 206 (e.g., tab, rib, etc.).

[0060] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The adapter 170 can be initially connected to the valve 154 by pressing the lower attachment area 198 of the adapter 170 down onto the central raised section 158 until the protrusion or protrusions 206 substantially engage below the lip 162 of the valve 154 and the edge 150 of the aerosol can 142, or otherwise positioned near or below the lip 162 of the valve 154 and the edge 150 of the aerosol can 142.

[0061] refer to Figures 15 to 23 Once the adapter 170 is connected to the valve 154, the lock 210 can be used to secure the adapter 170 in place. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock 210 is a generally annular structure, sized and shaped to fit within a central opening 202 formed by the lower attachment region 198 of the adapter 170. Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, lock 210 includes a body 214 defining a central opening 218. The central opening 218 is sized and shaped to receive a central raised section 158 of valve 154. Body 214 includes a series of tapered ribs 222 circumferentially spaced around body 214. These ribs 222 taper axially such that the ribs 222 extend radially outward along the top region 226 of lock 210 than along the lower region 230 of lock 210.

[0062] refer to Figures 15 to 17 The lock 210 also includes an elongated protruding tab 234. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the tab 234 has a generally T-shaped structure at its distal end, the generally T-shaped structure including a first arm 238 and a second arm 246, the first arm 238 having a first engagement surface 242 and the second arm 246 having a second engagement surface 250. Other embodiments of the tab 234 include different shapes and sizes than those shown. Figure 17 As shown, adapter 170 includes a corresponding first engagement surface 254 and a corresponding second engagement surface 258 (e.g., each engagement surface is disposed on the lower attachment region 198). When lock 210 is pressed down and engaged with adapter 170, the first engagement surface 242 of tab 234 is located directly below the first engagement surface 254 of adapter 170, and the second engagement surface 250 of tab 234 is located directly below the second engagement surface 258 of adapter 170. This positioning of tab 234 and engagement surfaces 242, 250, 254, 258 can be achieved by pressing lock 210 directly down onto adapter 170 until tab 234 engages in place.

[0063] refer to Figures 18 to 23When lock 210 is pressed down onto adapter 170, rib 222 of lock 210 also engages and presses radially outward against the inner surface 262 of attachment region 198 (e.g., due to the tapered nature of rib 222), forcing protrusion 206 further radially outward, thereby locking adapter 170 in place. Figures 17 to 19 As shown, when the distal end of the tab 234 is engaged beneath the first and second engagement surfaces 254, 258 of the adapter 170, the lock 210 can be considered to be in its minimum locked position, wherein the rib 222 presses the protrusion 206 radially outward, and the tab 234 acts as a stop to inhibit or prevent the lock 210 from rising axially. (Reference) Figures 20 to 23 Lock 210 can be pressed down even further until it reaches the maximum locked position. Figures 20 to 23 In this maximum locked position, lock 210 extends fully or substantially fully through the central opening 202, wherein the central raised section 158 extends upward through the central opening 218 of lock 210. Additionally, in this maximum locked position, the protrusion 206 has been pressed radially outward as far as possible. The ability of lock 210 to move between the minimum and maximum locked positions allows lock 210 to be used, for example, in cans with varying coil sizes.

[0064] refer to Figures 24 to 31 The aerosol can assembly 18 can be connected to the housing 14 via rotational movement of the aerosol can assembly 18 within the housing 14. For example, as Figure 24 As shown, housing 14 and / or adapter 170 may include one or more markings to indicate the initial insertion position of adapter 170 into housing 14. Other embodiments do not include such markings. Reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 The aerosol can assembly 18 can initially be linearly pressed upward into the housing 14. The housing 14 may include one or more internal baffles 266 or other structures that create keyways for insertion of the adapter 170. Therefore, in some embodiments, the adapter 170 can only be inserted into the housing 14 if it is initially in a predetermined rotational position relative to the housing 14. Continuing to refer to... Figure 25 and Figure 26 Once the adapter 170 is inside the housing 14, further insertion of the adapter 170 can be restricted by the aforementioned internal brackets 138, which define the upper chamber 50. Therefore, the adapter 170 is located within the lower chamber 270 (e.g., below the aforementioned upper chamber 50).

[0065] refer to Figure 27 and Figure 28The aerosol can assembly 18, including adapter 170, can then be rotated (e.g., 90 degrees or any other predetermined angle) within the lower chamber 270 to a locked position. Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, housing 14 may include a locking tab 274 positioned within lower chamber 270 (e.g., within rear cover 26). Reference Figure 30 and Figure 31 When the adapter 170 is rotated to the locked position, the generally rounded surface 194 of one of the protrusions 190 on the first end 174 of the adapter 170 slides upward and engages with the locking tab 274, thereby positioning the locking tab 274 between the two protrusions 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 190 is generally flexible, thereby facilitating flexure and movement. Figure 31 As shown, in the locked position, the adapter 170 is generally prevented from easily rotating again within the lower chamber 270. To rotate the adapter 170 and remove the aerosol can assembly 18 from the housing, the adapter 170 is rotated forcefully in the opposite direction to force the protrusion 190 back and over the locking tab 274. Although a single locking tab 274 on the housing 14 and two protrusions 190 on the adapter 170 are shown, various other snap-fit ​​engagements can also be used to releasably attach the adapter 170 (and the aerosol can assembly 18) to the housing 14 as a whole.

[0066] refer to Figures 32 to 38 In some embodiments, the jetting device 10 may include a keying area to connect one or more different suspension devices, thereby suspending the jetting device 10 (e.g., from a branch, pole, etc.) within an agricultural environment. For example, and referring to... Figure 32 and Figure 33 In the illustrated embodiment, the jet device 10 includes a keyed region 278 generally along the top of the housing 14. The keyed region 278 includes a rib 282 that defines an orifice 286. The rib 282 and the orifice 286 are positioned generally centrally along the top of the housing 14, but in other embodiments, the rib and the orifice may be located at other locations on the housing 14. Continuing to refer to... Figure 32 and Figure 33 The keyed area 278 also includes channels 290 disposed on opposite sides of the rib 282. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels 290 have a dovetail cross-sectional shape, but other embodiments include other shapes (e.g., generally circular, elliptical, etc.). Additionally, other embodiments may include a different number of orifices and / or channels than shown.

[0067] refer to Figure 34The jet device 10 may include a first suspension device 294, which includes a hook region 298 that passes through an opening 286. The first suspension device 294 may also include a second hook region 302 that hooks onto a branch, pole, or the like to suspend the jet device 10.

[0068] refer to Figure 35 and Figure 36 The jet device 10 may also include a second suspension device 306, which includes a channel engagement member 310 that slides into and is secured within one of the channels 290 of the keyed region 278. Figure 35 As shown, the channel engagement member 310 typically has a dovetail cross-sectional shape corresponding to the dovetail shape of the channel 290. Therefore, when the channel engagement member 310 has slid into the channel 290, the housing 14 is secured to and vertically supported by the second suspension device 306. In some embodiments, the second suspension device 306 further includes a region passing through the orifice 286 and / or a region engaging with the rib 282, thereby further securing the second suspension device 306 to the housing 14. Figure 35 and Figure 36 As shown, the second suspension device 306 also includes a larger hook area 314 that hooks onto a branch, pole, or other object to suspend the jet device 10.

[0069] refer to Figure 37 and Figure 38 The jet device 10 may also include a third suspension device 318, which includes a channel engagement member 322 that slides into and is secured within one of the channels 290 of the keyed area 278. Figure 37 As shown, the channel engagement member 322 has a dovetail cross-sectional shape, which corresponds to the dovetail shape of the channel 290. Therefore, similar to the channel engagement member 310 described above, when the channel engagement member 322 has slid into the channel 290, the housing 14 is secured to and vertically supported by the third suspension device 318. In some embodiments, the third suspension device 318 further includes a region passing through the orifice 286 and / or a region engaging with the rib 282, thereby further securing the third suspension device 318 to the housing 14. Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, the third suspension device 318 also includes a ring region 326 that engages or otherwise joins to the periphery of the rod 330.

[0070] While specific first suspension devices 294, second suspension devices 306, and third suspension devices 318 (each with a different shape) have been shown, the jet device 10 may include a variety of different suspension devices, all of which may be coupled to the same keying area 278 on the housing 14. Different suspension devices may have different shapes and features than those shown. In yet another embodiment, the housing 14 may include more than one keying area 278. For example, the housing 14 may include a first keying area 278 along the top of the housing 14 and a second keying area 278 along the side of the housing 14. Different suspension devices may be coupled to different keying areas. In some embodiments, one or more keying areas 278 may be used to receive and support devices other than suspension devices.

[0071] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, various variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention described.

Claims

1. A jetting device, comprising: A housing having a sealed upper chamber, wherein the housing includes a printed circuit board and a drive system assembly coupled to the printed circuit board, and the printed circuit board and the drive system assembly are each disposed within the sealed upper chamber, the drive system assembly including a motor and a gear driven by the motor, the housing also including a plunger disposed within the sealed upper chamber and driven by the motor; and An aerosol can assembly configured to be releasably coupled to the housing in a region outside the sealed upper cavity within the housing, wherein movement of the plunger is configured to dispense material from the aerosol can assembly. The transmission system assembly includes a transmission plate having a frame member defining a central opening. A gear is coupled to the transmission plate. A protective cover is coupled to the frame member, and a pressing area is coupled to the protective cover, the pressing area being exposed through the central opening. The plunger has a plunger arm and a protrusion extending from the plunger arm, and the plunger is designed to rotate such that the protrusion of the plunger is pushed downward through the central orifice to contact and press against the top of the pressing area, so that the pressing area moves downward and contacts the aerosol can assembly, thereby dispensing material from the aerosol can assembly, wherein the pressing area is configured to remain between the plunger and the aerosol can assembly during material dispensing.

2. The jet device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes a front cover and a rear cover, the rear cover being connected to the front cover, wherein the front cover and the rear cover define a joint.

3. The jetting device according to claim 2 further includes a gasket disposed at the joint.

4. The jet device according to claim 3, wherein, The front and rear covers include internal wall frames that overlap each other when the front and rear covers are joined together.

5. The jet device according to claim 4, wherein, The gasket, the internal wall frame, the protective cover, and the pressing area form the sealed upper chamber.

6. The jetting device according to claim 1, further comprising a switch disposed within the sealed upper chamber, wherein, The transmission assembly includes a cam driven by the gear, wherein the cam includes a portion configured to contact the switch.

7. The jetting device according to claim 1, wherein, The aerosol can assembly includes an aerosol can, an adapter connected to the aerosol can, and a lock connected to the adapter, wherein the aerosol can assembly is configured to be releasably connected to the housing by rotation of the adapter within the housing.

8. The jet device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes an outer shell, wherein the outer shell includes a keyed area along the exterior of the outer shell, and wherein the jet device further includes a suspension device configured to be coupled to the keyed area.

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