Device for unwinding a reel

Abstract

The present application relates to a device for unwinding a reel (7) for winding and unwinding cables, irrigation hoses, ropes, etc., such as elongated and flexible elements, for storage, use and transport, and which essentially consists of a support base and at least one support means for the reel (7) and of an extensible means for coupling the two, consisting of a plurality of inner tubes (2) connected to a plurality of outer tubes (1) by means of at least one anchoring system (5) and at least one tilting and anchoring mechanism (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] As stated in the wording of this specification, the present invention relates to an apparatus for unwinding cable reels, irrigation hoses, ropes, etc., which are elongated flexible elements, and which are wound and unwound around the reel for storage, use, and transport. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of winding reels (often called extension reels when the element to be wound is a cable), there are different configurations of support structures for them.

[0003] The most widely used type of extension includes a support structure consisting of a single folded tube, which forms a support for the reel and a handle for transporting the reel. In this configuration, the reel is virtually flush with the support surface, which rests on the support surface, typically the floor.

[0004] For this reason, using this type of extension bar is uncomfortable and cumbersome for the user, who must wind and unwind the cable while crouching if the user cannot find the raised surface (on which the extension bar rests).

[0005] In construction sites, warehouses, workshops, or other types of facilities where extension cables are commonly used, there is usually no raised surface to support the reel. This forces operators to wind the cable in a bent position that is not conducive to their backs, which not only endangers the operator's health and safety but also makes it difficult to wind the cable manually, thus increasing operation time.

[0006] Technical experts are aware of the difficulties of winding and unwinding cables, as cables typically unwind much faster and often slip off the spool. To avoid this, the user must guide the cable by hand, which is even more difficult when the user is in a bent position.

[0007] In the existing technology, there are some solutions to this problem, which provide a certain height for the reel through different support structures, which brings advantages to the user in terms of safety, stability, balance and comfort.

[0008] US Patent 6908058 relates to a trolley for storing hose reels, the trolley including a remote reel handle mounted on top of a handle to allow the reel to rotate in an elevated position. As can be seen from the figures, the trolley or support structure provides a certain height for the remote crank for operating cable unwinding, allowing the user easy access to the trolley, while the reel remains at a lower height. The distance between the crank and the reel results in a complex structure and multiple additional components for its connection, which increases its cost, size, and makes storage and transportation difficult.

[0009] On the other hand, document US20060138270 discloses a portable cable station that includes a handle configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position. In its extended position, the system allows for convenient transport of the reel, while in its retracted position, the system reduces the space occupied by the support structure. However, it does not provide height for unwinding the reel, making cable unwinding uncomfortable for the user.

[0010] Finally, French patent FR2894236 relates to a system that allows the use and storage of garden hoses. It features a variable geometry that allows the system to be used in two positions at different heights, due to the movable section being pivotable relative to a ground support and locked with ratchet mechanisms (5a, 5b) and handwheels (6a, 6b), wherein the hose reel is in either an upper or lower position. In this configuration, although the reel is raised to a certain height, providing stability and comfort to the system, the tilting mechanism only allows for two positions of the reel, making this solution unsuitable for different users and different heights. Furthermore, as with previous cases, this structure includes multiple tubes, making it more expensive and requiring even more space if the reel is raised from the ground to a height of 80 or 90 cm, at which point cable handling is more comfortable for the operator.

[0011] Given the above, there is still room for improvement in the type of reel support structure that raises the reel to a specific height. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The unfolding device for a winding reel of the present invention solves the problems of the prior art because it provides an unfoldable support device that raises one reel of the reel to different adjustable heights to suit each user, all without compromising the size or complexity of the components or increasing their cost.

[0013] In addition, a device has been developed that not only increases the height of the reel, providing the necessary safety, stability, balance, and comfort, but is also retractable, thus reducing its size for easy storage and transport.

[0014] For this purpose, the unwinding device for a wound roll according to the present invention includes:

[0015] - Components that form the support base of the deployment device;

[0016] - Supporting components for the reel; and

[0017] - A extendable connecting device between a support device consisting of a support base and a support device of a reel.

[0018] It should be clear that in the text of this specification, the term "spool" refers to a curved (usually cylindrical) surface around which an elongated flexible element is wound and unwound, while the term "winding" refers to the act of winding or the elongated flexible element itself when in a winding configuration.

[0019] The extendable connecting device between the support base and the reel allows the reel to be raised to different heights in an adjustable manner in the extended or partially extended position, and the size of the unfolding device can be reduced in the retracted position. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To supplement the description and to aid in a better understanding of the features of the invention, a set of accompanying drawings are attached as part of the description, illustrating and non-limitingly depicting the following:

[0021] Figure 1 A first embodiment of an unfolding device for winding a spool is shown in a perspective view when the device is in its retracted position. The unfolding device includes a series of outer tubes and inner tubes.

[0022] Figure 2 This shows the situation before the reel tilts, when it is in the partially retracted position. Figure 1 An unfolding device for winding a spool.

[0023] Figure 3 It shows when in the fully extended position Figure 1 An unfolding device for winding a spool.

[0024] Figure 4 It shows a suspension on a surface including a cantilever. Figure 1 An unfolding device for winding a spool.

[0025] Figures 5a and 5b show details of the anchoring system that engages the outer tube to the inner tube when axial movement of the inner tube within the outer tube is prevented and permitted, respectively.

[0026] Figure 6 Details of the tilting and anchoring mechanism are shown.

[0027] Figure 7 A second embodiment of a roll-up device including a retractable member is shown.

[0028] Figures 8a and 8b show a third and a fourth embodiment of an unfolding device for winding a spool, respectively. The unfolding device includes a single-handed accordion-style unfoldable structure and a double-handed accordion-style unfoldable structure.

[0029] Figure 9 A perspective view showing details of a possible embodiment of the invention, including a grip handle. Detailed Implementation

[0030] With the aid of the accompanying drawings mentioned above, a detailed explanation of examples of preferred embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention is given below.

[0031] In a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the extendable connecting device comprises at least one outer tube (1) and at least one inner tube (2) with a cross-section smaller than that of the outer tube (1), wherein the at least one inner tube (2) is configured to allow relative movement between the at least one outer tube (1) and the at least one inner tube (2).

[0032] More specifically, the inner tube (2) can move inside the outer tube (1) in the axial or longitudinal direction, that is, the inner tube (2) can be pushed into the outer tube (1) or pulled out from the outer tube (1).

[0033] In the following text, when the inner tube (2) is inserted into the outer tube (1), the inner tube (2) will be referred to as retraction, and when the inner tube (2) is withdrawn from the outer tube (1), the inner tube (2) will be referred to as extension.

[0034] When the deployment device is in its retracted position, the length of the inner tube (2) is fully inserted into the outer tube (1), thus making it invisible from the outside, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0035] In the extended position of the unfolding device, the inner tube 2 is at least partially located outside the outer tube 1, such that the length of the inner tube 2 outside the outer tube 1 is proportional to the height of the roll 7.

[0036] In this way, the height of the scroll (7) relative to the device positioning formed by the support base (13) of the unfolding device can be adjusted.

[0037] exist Figures 1 to 4 In the configuration shown, the connecting device includes a plurality of outer tubes (1), at least one of which has a curvature that allows the geometry of the device to be modified. The inner tube (2) is straight.

[0038] The final configuration of the unfolding device is achieved by inserting the first end of the first inner tube (2) into the end of the first outer tube (1) and inserting the second end of the first inner tube (2) into the end of the second outer tube (1).

[0039] Therefore, when the deploying device is in its retracted position, the outer tubes (1) are positioned close to each other, as in Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, when the deploying device is in its extended position, the two adjacent outer tubes (1) in the retracted position are now separated by the inner tube (2), as in Figure 3 As shown in the image.

[0040] The geometry of the outer tube (1) that makes up the deployment device must be such that when the component is in its extended position ( Figure 3 In this context, it provides the necessary stability to the component and also to the component when it is in its retracted position. Figure 1 It occupies as little space as possible in the middle.

[0041] The components constituting the support base of the unfolding device may be configured with an outer tube (1) comprising two curved sections or folded portions, such that the geometry of the support base presents two parallel and opposing sides (1a) joined together by a third side portion, as in Figure 2 More details can be found in the middle.

[0042] The outer tube (1) forming the support base of the deployment device can be further subdivided into several segments of the outer tube (1), which contain within them an extendable inner tube (2) that allows for an increase in its length, as in Figure 3 As shown in the image.

[0043] The outer tube (1) forming the support base of the unfolding device has a free end, and attached to its other end is a series of similarly folded outer tubes (1) that accommodate corresponding inner tubes (2), so that together they form an extendable connecting device between the support base (13) and the support device of the scroll (7).

[0044] The geometry of the outer tube (2) must provide the necessary rigidity for the deployment device so that the operation of the winding (8) (usually by means of a manual crank (9)) does not destabilize the system.

[0045] More specifically, it is desirable that the first outer tube (1d) of the support device adjacent to the spool (7) is inclined with a vertical component, thereby preventing the force transmitted by the user to the spool (7) during winding and unwinding of the winding (8) from generating a torque that would destabilize the unfolding device.

[0046] During normal use of the unfolding device and the reel (7) assembly, it is also advisable for the user to keep the support base stationed, for example, by stepping on the support base (13) with one foot, while winding or unwinding the cable to prevent unwanted movement of the assembly.

[0047] On the other hand, the deployment device may include an anchoring system (5) as a connection system between the inner tube (2) and the outer tube (1), which allows the axial position of the inner tube (2) within the outer tube (1) to be adjusted.

[0048] In one of the multiple locations of the anchoring system (5), the anchoring system (5) prevents axial displacement of the inner tube (2) within the outer tube (1), while in another location, the anchoring system (5) allows such displacement.

[0049] In other words, the anchoring system (5) can fix the axial position of the inner tube (2) inside the outer tube (1).

[0050] In one possible embodiment, the anchoring system (5) includes the following elements according to Figures 5a and 5b:

[0051] - Strip (3), strip (3) is anchored to one end of outer tube (1), strip (3) includes a protrusion (3a) at its end;

[0052] - At least one extension tube locking recess (4a) in the inner tube (2) marks the end position of the extension tube in the extended position of the extension tube.

[0053] - At least one retractable tube locking recess (4b) in the inner tube (2) marks the end position of the retractable tube in the retracted position of the retractable tube.

[0054] The distance between the recesses (4a, 4b) is the maximum length of the inner tube (2) that can be safely and securely anchored to the outside of the outer tube (1).

[0055] If it is desired that the inner tube (2) has an adjustable extension (to achieve an adjustable height of the spool (7), then a plurality of extension tube locking recesses (4a) may be provided along the surface of the inner tube (2).

[0056] The operation of the anchoring system (5) is described below.

[0057] During the extension and retraction movement of the inner tube (2) inside the outer tube (1), the strip (3) protrudes freely and without tension from one end of the outer tube (2) (see Figure 5b). As the inner tube (2) moves forward or retracts, the strip (3) slides along the outer surface of the inner tube (2) without resistance.

[0058] When the inner tube (2) reaches its final extended position (in which further advance of the inner tube is blocked), the protrusion (3a) of the strip (3) is inserted into the locking recess (4a) of the extension tube, thereby anchoring it and preventing further advance of the inner tube (2). In this position, the strip (3) is taut.

[0059] When the inner tube (2) moves as indicated by the arrow in Figure 5a and reaches its final retracted position (in which the retraction of the inner tube is blocked), the protrusion (3a) of the strip (3) is inserted into the retracted tube locking recess (4b), thus anchoring it and preventing further retraction of the inner tube (2).

[0060] Finally, in order to release the strip (3) from the recess (4a, 4b) and restart the forward or backward movement of the inner tube (2), freely pull the protrusion (3a) of the strip (3) while slightly pushing the inner tube (2) into the outer tube (1) to release the tension of the strip (3).

[0061] However, the anchoring system (5) is not limited to the above-described anchoring system, but can be another system that achieves the desired effect of locking the extension or retraction of the inner tube (2) inside the outer tube (1) in an adjustable manner.

[0062] For example, the anchoring system (5) may include a plurality of retractable bosses arranged on the side surface of the inner tube (2), which can be inserted into a plurality of holes of the same shape formed in the outer tube (1) to anchor the component.

[0063] On the other hand, there is a second type of connector between the outer tube (1) and the inner tube (2), which consists of a tilting and anchoring mechanism (6). This mechanism not only allows the inner tube (2) to move forward or backward in the length direction inside the outer tube (1), but also allows the inner tube (2) to rotate about an axis defined by the length direction.

[0064] In other words, the tilting and anchoring mechanism (6) can fix the angular and axial positions of the inner tube (2) within the outer tube (1).

[0065] Rotation allows a set of tubes (1, 2) attached to one end of the rotating inner tube (2) to tilt relative to the outer tube (1) that houses the inner tube (2), thereby ultimately allowing the deployment device to be more compact and occupy less space in its retracted arrangement.

[0066] exist Figure 6 Possible embodiments of the tilting and anchoring mechanism 6 shown may include:

[0067] - A clamping screw (10) passes through the side surface of the outer tube (1) but not through the inner tube (2); and

[0068] - A convex clamp (9a) and a concave clamp (9b) are formed at the ends of two outer tubes (1), respectively, and an identical inner tube (2) extends inside the two outer tubes (1).

[0069] In its fastened position, the free end of the clamping screw (10) presses against the side surface of the inner tube (2), thus fixing the axial position of the inner tube (2) inside the outer tube (1) and preventing its longitudinal movement.

[0070] Similarly, by fitting the concave clamp (9b) into the convex clamp (9a), the angular position of the outer tube (1) relative to the other outer tube (1) is fixed, thereby preventing its rotation.

[0071] On the other hand, when the clamping screw (10) is loosened, the inner tube (2) is released and moves freely in the longitudinal direction.

[0072] Similarly, when the concave clamp (9b) separates from the convex clamp (9a), both the inner tube (2) and the outer tube (1) rotate freely relative to the other outer tube (1).

[0073] In another preferred embodiment, the tilting and anchoring mechanism (6) may include a pin instead of a clamping screw (10) that passes through the two side surfaces of the outer tube (1) and the inner tube (2) in the diametrical direction.

[0074] The third type of joint between the outer tube (1) and the inner tube (2) is an end-welded joint.

[0075] exist Figure 3 In the preferred embodiment shown, the deployment device includes a single joint based on the tilting and anchoring mechanism 6, while the remaining joints are made by means of an anchoring system (5a, 5b) or by means of welded joints, the anchoring system (5a, 5b) not allowing relative rotation between the tubes. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration.

[0076] The following will explain the sequence of steps to move the deploying device from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0077] Figure 3 In the deployment device, which is in its fully extended position, the reel (7) reaches a higher height. From this configuration, the first anchoring system (5b) is released, causing the first inner tube (2b) to be inserted into the first outer tube (1d), i.e., the deployment device retracts, and the reel (7) decreases in height relative to the support base (13).

[0078] Then, the second anchoring system (5a) is released, allowing the second inner tube (2a) to be inserted into the second outer tube (1b). The inner tube (2) forming the support base also retracts.

[0079] At this time, the configuration of the deployment device can be... Figure 2 As can be seen, the scroll (7) still has some height.

[0080] To achieve a more compact final configuration, such as in Figure 1 As shown, the tilting and anchoring mechanism (6) is released and the second outer tube (1c) rotates relative to the third outer tube (1b). In this way, the reel (7) tilts relative to the second outer tube (1c) until the reel (7) occupies a position that is not raised relative to the support base of the unfolding device, as shown in Figure 1 As shown in the image.

[0081] The sequence of steps for moving the deploying device from the retracted position to the extended position will be the reverse of the sequence described above.

[0082] Since the different outer tubes (1) and inner tubes (2) constituting the deployment device are independent and separable from each other, the following set of tubes can be separated from the rest of the deployment device, for example: the first outer tube (1d), the first inner tube (2b), the second outer tube (1c), and the third inner tube (2c) attached to the spool (7).

[0083] This provides a support structure for the reel (7), which can be accessed via, as shown in... Figure 4 The third inner tube (2c) shown is suspended on a surface including a hanging part (such as a window frame or scaffolding).

[0084] This feature is very useful for operators working on different types of surfaces because they don't have to untangle as many cables, but the extension rod itself can be brought close to any hard-to-reach raised operating surface.

[0085] In view of the above, the device described herein has low manufacturing cost because it is assembled in a simple manner and uses a small number of parts.

[0086] Furthermore, the inner tube (2) and the outer tube (1) can be disassembled, which even allows for the separate storage of different components and their assembly.

[0087] In a second preferred embodiment of the invention, as in Figure 7 As shown, the extendable connecting device is composed of a retractable component (12).

[0088] The telescopic component (12) may include multiple tubes with variable cross sections mounted in an axially sliding manner within each other, such that the inner tube can be pulled out or pushed into the outer tube in a controlled manner.

[0089] The retractable component (12) includes a locking device that allows the inner tube to be anchored at different heights within the outer tube as the inner tube extends out of the outer tube.

[0090] This allows the telescopic component (12) to extend and retract in an adjustable manner and with different anchoring positions, which raises the reel (7) to different heights.

[0091] The unfolding device further includes a support base (13) on which the user can step to ensure the stability of the component when the extendable member (12) is extended.

[0092] On the other hand, the support device for the reel (7) may include a support element (16) which is attached to an inner tube defining the upper end of a retractable member (12).

[0093] In addition, the unfolding device includes a folding tube, wherein one side of the folding tube is arranged parallel to the support base (13), and the side acts as a handle (14) to pull the telescopic member (12) to extend.

[0094] In a third preferred embodiment of the invention, the extendable connecting device is composed of an accordion-like deployable structure (15).

[0095] In Figure 8a, the deployable structure 15 includes a single accordion, while in Figure 8b, the deployable structure 15 includes a double accordion.

[0096] In both cases, the unfolding device includes a support base (13) on which the user can step when the unfoldable structure (15) is extended to ensure the stability of the component. One end of the unfoldable structure (15) forms a connector to the support base (13), and the other end of the structure forms a support for the reel (7).

[0097] In the case of a simple accordion, it is desirable that the lengths of the initial extension (15a) and the final extension (15b) of the accordion are substantially equal to half the length of the intermediate extension (15c), so that when the unfoldable structure (15) is fully unfolded, the spool (7) is substantially centered with the support base (13).

[0098] For any of the three preferred embodiments proposed, the following additional elements, not shown in the figures, are envisioned that will provide advantages in the use of the deployment device.

[0099] First, consider using a rolling device in the support base (13), which facilitates the transport of the unfolding device of the present invention, especially in unfolding or extending positions where manipulation is more strenuous. In this way, the reel (7) is brought closer to the user, thereby avoiding the need to unwind a longer length of cable.

[0100] On the other hand, one possible embodiment of the invention is one in which the support base (13) includes two telescopic sections that improve the stability of the assembly by covering a larger support surface. This would be particularly useful in cases where the winding (8) has a large weight due to its length or the materials used in its manufacture. Therefore, this would be of greater interest in cases such as those described above and shown in Figures 8a and 8b, because the greater the height, the greater the compromise to the stability of the assembly.

[0101] Another possible embodiment of the invention is one in which the device incorporates a grip handle (17), for example, as in... Figure 9 As shown in the details, the grip handle (17) can be slidably attached to either of the outer tubes (1), although in the example shown in the figure, the grip handle (17) is attached to the second outer tube (1c).

[0102] As in Figure 9 As can be seen, the grip handle (17) also includes a cable guide mechanism (18), which, according to the example shown, is composed of bearings made of plastic materials such as nylon or the like, which helps the cable to extend easily without twisting.

[0103] The possibility of rotating the spool (7) is also considered, which causes the flexible and slender element to be wound or unwound by means of a manual crank, for example, manually or by means of a motor, for example automatically.

[0104] In this final implementation, the motor can also be controlled by a remote control, which can also drive the rotation of the rolling transport device to obtain the fully automatic unfolding device and the scroll (7) assembly, thereby providing a more comfortable experience for the user.

[0105] Finally, consider a guiding system for slender flexible elements. This is a system that guides the flexible elements during the winding process so that the flexible elements are evenly distributed on the entire surface of the roll (7) and do not pile up on one side or the other side of the roll.

[0106] For example, the guiding system can consist of a worm screw through which a slender, flexible element carrying the medium moves axially and moves forward or backward in its movement as the spool (7) rotates in either direction, while the worm remains stationary.

[0107] In view of this description and the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be combined in various ways within the scope of the invention. The invention has been described according to some preferred embodiments, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be introduced into such preferred embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An unfolding device for winding a spool (7), the unfolding device comprising at least: - Support base (13); - The support device for the reel (7); - A extendable connecting device, the extendable connecting device being located between the support base (13) of the unfolding device and the support device of the reel (7), the extendable connecting device comprising at least one inner tube (2) capable of axial displacement within at least one outer tube (1); and - Anchoring system (5), which can fix the inner tube (2) in the axial position within the outer tube (1); The device is characterized in that the anchoring system (5) includes a strip (3) which can be inserted into at least one extension tube locking recess (4a) and at least one retraction tube locking recess (4b) formed in the inner tube (2).

2. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extendable connecting device includes at least one inner tube (2) having rotational freedom inside at least one outer tube (1).

3. The unfolding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The unfolding device includes a tilting and anchoring mechanism (6), which can fix the inner tube (2) inside the outer tube (1) at both the angular and axial positions.

4. The unfolding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tilting and anchoring mechanism (6) includes a clamping screw (10) and a convex clamp (9a) and a concave clamp (9b) formed in the two outer tubes (1).

5. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer tube (1) has at least one bend.

6. The unfolding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extendable connecting device consists of a plurality of inner tubes (2) and at least one tilting and anchoring mechanism (6), wherein the plurality of inner tubes (2) are connected to the plurality of outer tubes (1) by means of at least one anchoring system (5).

7. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extendable connecting device includes a telescopic component (12).

8. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extendable connecting device includes an deployable structure (15).

9. The unfolding device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The deployable structure (15) includes an accordion-style structure.

10. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unfolding device includes a guiding system for the elongated and flexible elements for winding around the spool (7).

11. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unfolding device includes a rolling device for transporting the unfolding device.

12. The unfolding device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The rolling device is remotely controlled.

13. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support base (13) includes two telescopic sections.

14. The unfolding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The deployment device includes a grip handle (17) which is slidably attached to one of the outer tubes (1).

15. The unfolding device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The grip handle (17) includes a cable guide mechanism (18).

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