Mounting and retention of fluid lance components

Abstract

The spray gun is configured to discharge a spray fluid and compressed air that impacts the spray fluid to atomize the spray fluid. A trigger actuates one or more valves of the spray gun to cause the spray gun to spray. The trigger is mounted to the gun body of the spray gun through the trigger mount. The trigger is removable from the gun body, and the trigger includes one or more tool interfaces for connecting and / or disconnecting components of the spray gun.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 537,319, filed on September 8, 2023, and entitled “FLUID SPRAY GUN TRIGGER MOUNTING AND RETENTION,” and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 569,401, filed on March 25, 2024, and entitled “FLUID SPRAY GUN COMPONENT MOUNTING AND RETENTION,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Background Art

[0002] The present disclosure relates to spray systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to spray guns and components thereof for use in spray systems.

[0003] Spray guns can be used to spray fluids on surfaces. For example, spray guns can be used to spray fluids such as coatings, paints, finishes, and other coatings on furniture, cabinets, appliances, equipment, assembly parts, and the like.

[0004] Some spray guns utilize compressed gas (e.g., compressed air) to atomize the spray fluid into a desired spray pattern. Typically, the spray fluid is placed under pressure by a piston, diaphragm or other positive displacement pumps. The pump outputs the spray fluid under pressure to the spray gun, such as by directly connecting or by a flexible hose. Use the spray gun to distribute the spray fluid. The spray gun can be attached to an end of the hose opposite to the pump. In this way, the spray gun does not include a pump, but releases the spray fluid pumped to the spray gun by the hose. The spray gun atomizes the spray fluid under pressure into a spray pattern, which is applied to the surface.

[0005] Compressed gas is discharged to assist in atomization and, in some examples, to shape the fluid spray. The spray gun discharges compressed air through an air cap, and the compressed air atomizes the spray fluid and can shape the spray fluid into a desired pattern.

[0006] The valve controls the flow of spray fluid and compressed gas discharged from the spray gun. The valve can be actuated to an open state by a trigger. The trigger needs to be removed from the gun body in order to install and remove one or more valves, which can include manipulating multiple retainers. The one or more valves can be arranged in a valve cartridge mounted to the spray gun. During installation and removal, the valve cartridge needs to be tightened and loosened by a tool such as a wrench. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a spray gun comprises: a gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly being at least partially arranged in the bore, the first valve assembly comprising a first valve configured to control the discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger, the trigger being mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state and a disengaged state, and in the engaged state In the engaged state, the trigger is movable to open the first valve, in the disengaged state, the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly so that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount, the trigger mount being configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuatable between a retaining state and an installed state, in which the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and in which the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body. The trigger mount includes a mount body, the mount body being at least partially disposed within the body bore, the mount body protruding out of the body bore in a first direction along the axis to interface with a first arm of the trigger, and the mount body protruding out of the body bore in a second direction along the axis to interface with a second arm of the trigger. The mount body is configured to be displaced in the second direction along the mounting axis to place the trigger mount in the installed state.

[0008] According to additional or alternative aspects of the present disclosure, a spray gun comprises: a gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly being at least partially arranged within the bore, the first valve assembly comprising a first valve configured to control discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger, the trigger being mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state and a disengaged state, and in the engaged state The invention relates to a method of applying a spray gun to a spray gun body, wherein the trigger is configured to be movable to open the first valve in the engaged state, the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly in the disengaged state so that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuatable between a retaining state and an installed state, wherein the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and wherein the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body. The trigger mount includes a mount body at least partially disposed within the body bore and movable relative to the gun body, the mount body being configured to be displaced in a single direction along the mounting axis so as to disengage from a first trigger arm of the trigger and a second trigger arm of the trigger, and to actuate the trigger mount from the retaining state to the installed state.

[0009] According to another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a method of assembling a spray gun includes: displacing a mounting member body of a trigger mounting member in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun; advancing the trigger through the mounting member body so that a first pivot head of the mounting member body is aligned with a first mounting member opening through a first arm of the trigger, and a second pivot head of the mounting member body is aligned with a second mounting member opening through a second arm of the trigger; and displacing the mounting member body along the mounting axis in a second direction so that the first pivot head enters the first mounting member opening, and the second pivot head enters the second mounting member opening.

[0010] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a method of disassembling a spray gun includes: displacing a mounting body of a trigger mounting member in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun so that a first pivot head of the mounting body moves away from a first mounting opening through a first arm of the trigger of the spray gun, and a second pivot head of the mounting body moves away from a second mounting opening through a second arm of the trigger; and moving the trigger through the mounting body to remove the trigger from the gun body.

[0011] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a trigger for a spray gun comprises: a trigger pull portion; a first arm, the first arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a second arm, the second arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a first mounting opening, the first mounting opening being formed to pass through the first arm, the first mounting opening including a first trigger support surface, the first trigger support surface being configured to ride on a pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; a second mounting opening, the second mounting opening being formed to pass through the second arm, the second mounting opening including a second trigger support surface, the second trigger support surface being configured to ride on the pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; and a tool connection portion, the tool connection portion being configured to interface with a component of the spray gun to apply force to the component of the spray gun during one or both of installation and removal of the component.

[0012] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a method of servicing a spray gun includes disconnecting a trigger from a gun body of the spray gun; interfacing the trigger with a component of the spray gun; and applying a force to the component via the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun.

[0013] According to another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a valve cartridge for a spray gun includes: a valve cartridge body extending along an axis and defining a flow chamber inside the valve cartridge body; a nozzle formed at a first end of the valve cartridge body, the nozzle being configured to output a spraying fluid from the flow chamber in a first direction along the axis; at least one fluid port extending through the valve cartridge body between the outside of the valve cartridge body and the flow chamber formed inside the valve cartridge body; and a first trumpet portion groove formed in the valve cartridge body and a second trumpet portion groove formed in the valve cartridge body, the first trumpet portion groove and the second trumpet portion groove opening in the first direction along the axis.

[0014] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a method of servicing a spray gun includes disconnecting an air cap from a gun body of the spray gun; interfacing the air cap with a component of the spray gun; and applying a force to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a spray gun.

[0016] Figure 2A is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the spray valve in a closed state is shown taken along line 2-2 in FIG.

[0017] Figure 2B is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the spray valve in an open state is shown taken along line 2-2 in FIG.

[0018] Figure 3A is a partial isometric view from a first lateral side of the spray gun showing the trigger mounted to the gun body.

[0019] Figure 3B is a partial isometric view from a second lateral side of the spray gun showing the trigger mounted to the gun body.

[0020] Figure 3C is along Figure 3A Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG.

[0021] Figure 4A is a partial isometric view from a first lateral side of the spray gun showing the trigger detached from the gun body 334 .

[0022] Figure 4B is a partial isometric view from a second lateral side of the spray gun showing the trigger removed from the gun body.

[0023] Figure 4C is along Figure 4A Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG.

[0024] Figure 5A is the first isometric view of the trigger.

[0025] Figure 5B is a second isometric view of the trigger.

[0026] Figure 5C It is a side elevation view of the trigger.

[0027] Figure 6 is an enlarged isometric view of the mounting interface of the trigger on the spray gun.

[0028] Fig. 7Ais an isometric partially exploded view of the spray gun.

[0029] Figure 7B is an isometric partially exploded view of the spray gun.

[0030] Figure 8 is an isometric view of the trigger and spray control components.

[0031] Fig. 9 is an isometric view of a trigger.

[0032] Fig.10 is a partial elevation view showing the air cap and valve cartridge interface.

[0033] 11 is an isometric view of a valve cartridge for a spray gun. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure relates to fluid spraying. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a component assembly for a spray gun. The trigger is movable between an engaged state and a disengaged state of the trigger, in which the trigger is movable to open a first valve of the spray gun, in which the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly so that the first valve assembly can travel axially through the trigger along the spray axis. The trigger mount engages the trigger to support the trigger on a gun body. The trigger mount is actuable between a retaining state and an installed state, in which the trigger mount can retain the trigger on the gun body and is in an engaged state of the trigger, in which the trigger can be mounted to or removed from the gun body.

[0035] The spray gun according to the present disclosure is configured to discharge a spray of a spray fluid, such as liquid coatings, paints, varnishes, fine finishes, high gloss finishes, water-based coatings, solvent-based coatings, etc. The spray gun can be used to apply the coating to surfaces, furniture, cabinets, electrical appliances, equipment, assembly parts, etc. The spray gun also discharges compressed gas. The atomizing portion of the compressed gas is configured to atomize the spray fluid and complete the atomization of the fan-shaped tail, thereby preventing undesirable tails. The shaping portion of the compressed gas is configured to shape the spray pattern. The spray fluid is discharged through the nozzle, and the compressed gas is discharged through the air cap surrounding the nozzle. The atomized gas is discharged each time the spray gun is actuated to the spraying state, and the fan-shaped gas can be set by the user between no fan-shaped gas and maximum flow.

[0036] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a trigger mount includes a mount body that interfaces with a trigger to pivotally support the trigger on a gun body. The mount body can be actuated relative to the trigger to place the trigger mount in a retained state and a mounted state. The mount body can be actuated by a single input to remove the trigger from the gun body. The mount body can be actuated by a single input to attach the trigger to the gun body. The mount body can be switched in a single direction along an axis to connect the trigger to the gun body, and can be moved in an opposite direction to disconnect the trigger from the gun body.

[0037] The trigger may include one or more tool interfaces. The tool interface is configured to facilitate connection and disconnection of components of the spray gun. In some examples, the trigger includes a tool interface configured to engage with a portion of a valve barrel of the valve to facilitate twisting the valve barrel of the valve (e.g., tightening or loosening a threaded interface) during installation or removal. In some examples, the tool interface forms a pivot support of the trigger that supports the trigger on the trigger mount during the spraying operation.

[0038] When the components are arranged at a common axial position along the axis, the components may be considered to overlap radially. A radial line extending orthogonally from the axis will extend through each radially overlapping component. When those components are arranged at a common radial and circumferential position relative to the axis, the components may be considered to overlap axially. An axial line parallel to the axis will extend through the axially overlapping components. When those components are arranged at a common radial distance and axial position along the axis, the components may be considered to overlap circumferentially, so that a circle centered on the axis passes through each circumferentially overlapping component.

[0039] Figure 1 is an isometric view of spray gun 312 . Figure 2A is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 in FIG. 2 shows the spray valve 322 in a closed state. Figure 2B is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the spray valve 322 in the open state is taken along line 2-2 in FIG. Figures 1 to 2B The spray gun 312 is a manual spray gun configured to be held in the hand of a user and activated directly by the user to spray a spray fluid.

[0040] The spray gun 312 includes a gun body 334, an air cap assembly 326, a spray control assembly 338, a flow control assembly 476, a fan valve 478, a trigger 480, and a metering valve 482. The gun body 334 includes a body 350, a gun mount 352, and a handle 484. The air cap assembly 326 includes an air cap 392 and a cap retainer 394. The flow control assembly 476 includes a displacement limiter 336, a needle returner 346, a valve seal 486, and a valve spring 488. The displacement limiter 336 includes a limiter housing 356, a knob 358, a positioner 360, and a stopper 362. The needle returner 346 includes a returner block 347 and a returner spring 348. The spray control assembly 338 includes a spray valve 322, a nozzle 328, a valve cartridge body 364, a needle 366, a support 368, a needle seal 370, a valve cartridge seal 372, and a fluid port 374. The valve cartridge body 364 includes a housing 376 and a seal retainer 378. The housing 376 includes an inlet housing 376a and an outlet housing 376b. The needle 366 includes a needle tip 380, a needle body 382, ​​and a needle head 386.

[0041] The spray gun 312 sprays along a spray axis SA. The axis also represents an upstream side or upstream direction and a downstream side or downstream direction, wherein the spray fluid generally flows from the upstream direction toward the downstream direction. In the example shown, the downstream direction is the second axial direction AD2, and the upstream direction is the first axial direction AD1. In some examples, the spray gun 312 can discharge the spray fluid as a fan.

[0042] The spray gun 312 is constructed as a manual spray gun, which is held in the user's hand and actuated by the user between a spraying state and a non-spraying state. The user can hold the handle 484 to aim and manipulate the spray gun 312. The user can hold the spray gun 312 with a single hand of the user and actuate the spray gun 312 between a spraying state and a non-spraying state. The user can press the trigger 480 with the finger of the hand holding the handle 484 to actuate the spray gun 312 between a spraying state and a non-spraying state. The trigger 480 controls the actuation of the spray valve 322 and the air valve 490 to each corresponding open state.

[0043] The spray gun 312 is configured to receive a flow of a spraying fluid and compressed air, and to discharge an atomized spray of the spraying fluid for application to a target surface. The spray gun 312 is configured as a manual spray gun, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. The gun body 334 supports the other components of the spray gun 312.

[0044] The body 350 supports the other components of the spray gun 312. The body 350 includes a front block 494 and a rear block 496. The front block 494 at least partially defines a flow path for both the spray fluid and the compressed gas to flow through the spray gun 312. The rear block 496 at least partially defines a flow path for the compressed gas to flow through the spray gun 312. In the example shown, the rear block 496 does not define any channels for the spray fluid and is not exposed to the spray fluid. A trigger gap 498 is axially arranged between the front block 494 and the rear block 496. The trigger gap 498 opens toward the bottom side of the spray gun 312. The trigger gap 498 is closed by a portion of the body 350 that spans between the front block 494 and the rear block 496.

[0045] A handle 484 extends from the body 350. The handle 484 protrudes from the underside of the body 350. In the example shown, the handle 484 extends from a rear block 496 of the body 350. An air inlet passage 500 is formed within and through the handle 484. The air inlet passage 500 provides a flow path for compressed gas to enter the gun body 334 and flow to the air passage within the body 350.

[0046] The metering valve 482 is mounted to the gun body 334. The metering valve 482 is configured to be connected to an air hose (e.g., air hose 32 ( Figure 1 )), the air hose supplies compressed air to the spray gun 312. A metering valve 482 is mounted to the handle 484. The metering valve 482 is configured to control the flow of compressed air to the spray gun 312. The metering valve 482 is actuable between an open state, in which compressed air can flow into the spray gun 312, and a closed state, in which compressed air is blocked from flowing into the spray gun 312. The metering valve 482 is placed and maintained in a desired state. The metering valve 482 is not a check valve actuated between an open state and a closed state by the flow of compressed air.

[0047] The gun bore 406 extends completely axially through the gun body 334. The gun bore 406 opens at both the front end 335 of the spray gun 312 and the rear end 337 of the spray gun 312. The gun bore 406 extends along the spray axis SA. The gun bore 406 extends completely axially through the front block 494 so that the gun bore 406 opens at both axial sides of the front block 494. The portion of the gun bore 406 in the front block 494 opens at the front end 335 and leads to the trigger gap 498. The gun bore 406 extends completely axially through the rear block 496 so that the gun bore 406 opens at both axial sides of the rear block 496. The portion of the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496 opens at the rear end 337 and leads to the trigger gap 498.

[0048] A portion of the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496 is located directly downstream of the air inlet passage 500 and defines a portion of the compressed gas flow path through the gun body 334. The air valve 490 divides the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496 into an upstream passage that is fluidly connected to the air inlet passage 500 throughout operation and a downstream passage that is fluidly connected to the air inlet passage 500 when the air valve 490 is in an open state and that is fluidly disconnected from the air inlet passage 500 when the air valve 490 is in a closed state.

[0049] The common passage 502 extends from the portion of the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496 and forms part of the compressed air flow path through the spray gun 312. When the air valve 490 is in an open state, the common passage 502 receives compressed air from the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496. The common passage 502 routes the compressed air to an atomizing air passage 504 (whose inlet is shown) and a shaping air passage 506. The atomizing passage 504 extends to the aperture 420a to output the atomizing portion of the compressed air adjacent to the baffle 418a. The shaping air passage 506 extends to the aperture 420b to output the shaping portion of the compressed air adjacent to the baffle 418b.

[0050] The fan valve 478 is mounted to the gun body 334. The fan valve 478 can be actuated between an open state and a closed state, in which the shaped air channel 506 is open and fluidly connected to the common channel 502, so that the shaped portion of the compressed air can flow to the air cap 392, and in which the shaped air channel 506 is fluidly disconnected from the common channel 502, so that the shaped portion of the compressed air is blocked from flowing to the air cap 392. The fan valve 478 includes a fan valve shaft 508 having a shaft head, which can engage with a seat in the gun body 334 to place the fan valve 478 in the closed state. The fan valve shaft 508 can be accessed from the outside of the gun body 334 for manipulation by a user. In the example shown, the fan valve shaft 508 is mounted to the support housing 510 by a threaded interface, wherein the support housing 510 is mounted to the gun body 334. The fan valve shaft 508 rotates relative to the support housing 510 to displace the fan valve shaft 508 and place the fan valve 478 in an open state or a closed state. The atomizing air passage 504 is fluidly connected to the common passage 502 regardless of the state of the fan valve 478. In this way, the spray gun 312 is configured to exhaust atomizing air during any spraying operation, while the shaping air can be turned on or off depending on the state of the fan valve 478.

[0051] The gun mount 352 is disposed within the body 350. In the example shown, the gun mount 352 is disposed within the front block 494 of the body 350. The gun mount 352 may be press-fit, threaded, or otherwise secured within the body 350. The gun mount 352 at least partially defines a spray fluid flow path through the spray gun 312. Because the gun mount 352 is exposed to the spray fluid during operation, the gun mount 352 may be considered to form a wetted part of the spray gun 312.

[0052] The spray fluid connector 512 is mounted to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the spray fluid connector 512 is mounted to the main body 350. In the example shown, the spray fluid connector 512 is mounted to the front block 494 of the main body 350. The spray fluid connector 512 is configured to connect with a hose (e.g., a fluid hose) that supplies spray fluid under pressure to the spray gun 312. The spray fluid connector 512 can extend into the gun mount 352 and can interface with the gun mount 352. The spray fluid connector 512 does not extend to axially overlap with the spray control assembly 338. The spray fluid connector 512 does not axially overlap with the spray control assembly 338 along the spray axis SA, which allows the spray control assembly 338 to be moved into or out of the gun bore 406 during installation and removal without the user having to manipulate the spray fluid connector 512, as discussed in more detail below.

[0053] The air cap assembly 326 is disposed at a first axial end of the gun body 334. The air cap assembly 326 is mounted to the front block 494. The air cap 392 is configured to discharge both atomizing air and shaping air. A central orifice 408 is formed through the air cap 392. The central orifice 408 is disposed on the spray axis SA. The central orifice 408 is configured to discharge atomizing air from the air cap 392. A shaping orifice 410 is formed in a horn 446 of the air cap 392. The shaping orifice 410 is configured to discharge shaping air from the air cap 392.

[0054] The air cap 392 is mounted to the gun body 334 by a cap retainer 394. The cap retainer 394 extends over the air cap 392 and interfaces with the gun body 334 to secure the air cap 392 to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the cap retainer 394 is connected to the front block 494. The cap retainer 394 can be mounted to the gun body 334 by a quick connect interface, but it will be appreciated that other connection types are also possible, such as threaded connections. In the example shown, a portion of the cap retainer 394 is configured to move axially relative to the spray axis SA in order to lock and unlock the air cap 392 to the gun body 334.

[0055] The spray control assembly 338 is configured to control the discharge of the spray fluid from the spray gun 312. The spray control assembly 338 is mounted to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 is mounted within the front block 494 of the main body 350. In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 extends completely axially through the front block 494. In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 protrudes out of the front block 494 in both the first axial direction AD1 and the second axial direction AD2.

[0056] The spray control assembly 338 is at least partially disposed within the gun body 334. The spray control assembly 338 forms a fluid valve cartridge that is mountable to and removable from the gun body 334 as an integral assembly. The spray control assembly 338 is a single module that can be inserted into the gun bore 406 through the front end 335 and can be removed from the gun bore 406 through the front end 335 as a single module.

[0057] The valve cartridge body 364 supports other components of the spray control assembly 338. The valve cartridge body 364 is at least partially disposed within the gun body 334. The valve cartridge body 364 is fixed within the gun body 334 to fix the spray control assembly 338 relative to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the valve cartridge body 364 is mounted to the gun mount 352 at a position within the front block 494. The valve cartridge body 364 extends into the gun mount 352 to interface with the gun mount 352. In the example shown, the valve cartridge body 364 extends completely axially through the gun mount 352, so that the valve cartridge body 364 protrudes out of the gun mount 352 in both the first axial direction AD1 and the second axial direction AD2. In the example shown, the valve cartridge body 364 is connected to the gun mount 352 by a threaded interface.

[0058] The valve cartridge body 364 includes a housing 376 configured to interface with a portion of the gun body 334 to mount the spray control assembly 338 to the gun body 334, and the valve cartridge body 364 includes a seal retainer 378 mounted to the housing 376. The housing 376 and the seal retainer 378 form the exterior of the valve cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the nozzle 328 is formed by the housing 376. The nozzle 328 is formed at a first axial end of the housing 376, and the seal retainer 378 is mounted to a second axial end of the housing 376, which is opposite to the first axial end of the housing 376. The spray fluid is discharged through the spray orifice 329. The nozzle 328 extends to the spray orifice 329, through which the spray fluid is discharged. The spray orifice 329 is formed at the axial end of the spray control assembly 338 in the second axial direction AD2.

[0059] The cartridge mount 412 is formed on the exterior of the cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the cartridge mount 412 is formed on the housing 376. The cartridge mount 412 is configured to interface with a portion of the gun body 334 to secure the spray control assembly 338 to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the cartridge mount 412 is formed by threads on the exterior of the outlet housing 376a. The cartridge mount 412 is configured to engage with threads on the gun mount 352 to secure the spray control assembly 338 to the gun body 334.

[0060] The housing 376 at least partially defines a flow path for the spray fluid to flow to the nozzle 328 and a flow path for the compressed air to flow to the air cap 392. In the example shown, the housing 376 is formed by an inlet housing 376b and an outlet housing 376a mounted together. The inlet housing 376b is configured to receive the spray fluid into the spray control assembly 338. The outlet housing 376a is configured to discharge the spray fluid from the spray control assembly 338. The inlet housing 376b and the outlet housing 376a are connected together to form the housing 376. In the example shown, the inlet housing 376b and the outlet housing 376a are connected together by a threaded interface. In the example shown, the inlet housing 376b includes a male thread configured to engage with a female thread formed on the outlet housing 376a. A portion of the inlet housing 376b extends into the outlet housing 376a to form a threaded interface between the two.

[0061] The baffle 418a extends radially from the exterior of the valve cartridge body 364. The baffle 418a extends radially from the housing 376. In the example shown, the baffle 418a extends radially from the outlet housing 376a. In the example shown, the baffle 418a is formed as a flange extending radially outward from the valve cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the baffle 418a extends annularly around the valve cartridge body 364. The baffle 418a can be integrally formed with other portions of the valve cartridge body 364. In some examples, the baffle 418a can be integrally formed with other portions of the valve cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the baffle 418a is integral with the housing 376. In the example shown, the baffle 418a is integral with the outlet housing 376.

[0062] The baffle 418a is configured to distribute the first part of the compressed air annularly around the spray axis SA as the first part of the compressed air flows in the second axial direction AD2. In the example shown, the first part of the compressed air forms atomizing air. The inner air chamber 414 is configured to route the first part of the compressed air to the central orifice 408 of the air cap 392. The inner air chamber 414 is formed around the spray axis SA. The inner air chamber 414 is arranged around the outside of the valve barrel body 364. In the example shown, a portion of the inner air chamber 414 is radially enclosed by the valve barrel body 364, so that the radial outer side of the portion of the inner air chamber 414 is defined by the valve barrel body 364, and the radial inner side of the portion of the inner air chamber 414 is defined by the valve barrel body 364. The portion of the inner air chamber 414 radially enclosed by the valve barrel body 364 is the downstream portion of the inner air chamber 414. The inner air chamber 414 is axially arranged between the gun mount 352 and the central orifice 408. A downstream portion of the inner air chamber 414 is disposed axially between the air passage 422 and the central aperture 408 .

[0063] The atomized portion of the compressed air passes through the aperture 420a on one axial side of the baffle 418a into the inner air chamber 414. The atomized portion of the compressed air flows in a second axial direction AD2 over the baffle 418a, through the air passage 422 in the valve cartridge body 364, and downstream to the central orifice 408. The first portion of the compressed air exits the spray gun 312 through the central orifice 408 in the air cap 392. The first portion of the compressed air exits the spray gun 312 through an annular ring formed around the portion of the valve cartridge body 364 that defines the nozzle 328.

[0064] Baffle 418b extends radially from the outside of valve cartridge body 364. Baffle 418b extends radially from housing 376. In the example shown, baffle 418b extends radially from outlet housing 376b. In some examples, baffle 418b can be formed separately from housing 376 and mounted to the housing 376. In some examples, baffle 418b can be formed integrally with other parts of valve cartridge body 364. In some examples, baffle 418b can be formed integrally with other parts of valve cartridge body 364. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, baffle 418b can be formed separately from housing 376 and mounted in front block 494 so that spray control assembly 338 moves relative to baffle 418b during installation and removal. Baffle 418b can be installed in gun body 334 so that baffle 418b is not installed to gun body 334 or removed from gun body 334 together with spray control assembly 338.

[0065] The baffle 418b is configured to distribute the second part of the compressed air annularly around the spray axis SA as the second part of the compressed air flows in the second axial direction AD2. In the example shown, the second part of the compressed air forms the shaping air. The outer air chamber 416 is configured to route the second part of the compressed air to the shaping orifice 410. The outer air chamber 416 is formed around the spray axis SA. The outer air chamber 416 is arranged around the outside of the valve cylinder body 364. In the example shown, a portion of the outer air chamber 416 radially overlaps a portion of the inner air chamber 414. The outer air chamber 416 is arranged radially outward from the inner air chamber 414.

[0066] The shaped portion of compressed air passes through the aperture 420b on one axial side of the baffle 418b into the outer air chamber 416. The shaped portion of compressed air is distributed around the spray axis SA by the baffle 418b and flows in the second axial direction AD2 and downstream to the shaped orifice 410. The shaped portion of compressed air leaves the spray gun 312 through the shaped orifice 410 in the air cap 392.

[0067] The collar 424 is formed on the outlet housing 376b. The collar 424 extends radially outward relative to the rest of the outlet housing 376b. The collar 424 is axially disposed between the nozzle 328 and the baffle 418a. The collar 424 may extend completely annularly around the spray axis SA.

[0068] The air passage 422 extends through the collar 424. The air passage 422 is configured to route an atomizing portion of the compressed air from an upstream portion of the inner air chamber 414 to a downstream portion of the inner air chamber 414. In the example shown, a plurality of air passages 422 are formed through the collar 424. The array of air passages 422 may be arranged annularly around the spray axis SA.

[0069] The ring 426 protrudes in the second axial direction AD2 from the main body portion of the collar 424 forming the air passage 422. The ring 426 is radially arranged between the inner air chamber 414 and the outer air chamber 416. The ring 426 protrudes to engage with the axial inner side of the air cap 392, and seals with the air cap 392 to fluidically separate the inner air chamber 414 from the outer air chamber 416. In the example shown, the ring 426 defines portions of the inner air chamber 414 and the outer air chamber 416. The portion of the inner air chamber 414 radially enclosed by the valve cartridge body 364 is radially arranged between the ring 426 and the outlet housing 376a.

[0070] The cartridge seal 372 is disposed between the cartridge body 364 and the gun body 334. The cartridge seal 372 fluidly separates the wet portion from the dry portion within the gun body 334. In the example shown, the cartridge seal 372 is disposed on the exterior of the cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the cartridge seal 372 is disposed between and engages the cartridge body 364 and the gun mount 352. The cartridge seal 372 axially encloses a portion of the spray fluid flow path that is located outside the cartridge body 364 and inside the gun mount 352.

[0071] In the example shown, seal grooves 428 are formed on the valve cartridge body 364. The valve cartridge seal 372 is disposed in the seal grooves 428 such that the valve cartridge seal 372 is mounted on the valve cartridge body 364. A first seal groove 428 is disposed axially between the nozzle 328 and the fluid port 374. A second seal groove 428 is disposed axially between the fluid port 374 and the trigger gap 498.

[0072] The fluid passage 430 is axially disposed between the valve cartridge seals 372. The fluid passage 430 extends completely annularly around the valve cartridge body 364. The fluid passage 430 defines an annular flow path for the spray fluid to flow completely around the valve cartridge body 364 to enter the fluid port 374, into the flow chamber 432. The fluid passage 430 facilitates the spray fluid to enter the flow chamber 432 from locations circumferentially disposed around the valve cartridge body 364 and the spray axis SA. The flow path from the fluid passage 430 through the fluid port 374 and into the flow chamber 432 does not restrict the flow relative to the outflow stream through the nozzle 328, thereby facilitating efficient and effective output of the spray fluid for atomization during the spraying operation.

[0073] A fluid port 374 is formed through the valve cartridge body 364. The fluid port 374 forms a flow path for the spray fluid to enter the flow chamber 432 in the valve cartridge body 364. In the example shown, a plurality of fluid ports 374 are arranged around the valve cartridge body 364. Each fluid port 374 includes an outer opening located outside the valve cartridge body 364, which allows the spray fluid to enter the fluid port 374 from the fluid passage 430, and each fluid port 374 includes an inner opening that leads to the flow chamber 432 and allows the spray fluid to enter the flow chamber 432. The fluid port 374 is axially arranged between the valve cartridge seals 372. The fluid port 374 is spaced apart from the valve cartridge mount 412 in the first axial direction AD1. The fluid port 374 is arranged on the axial side opposite to the nozzle 328 of the mating interface between the valve cartridge body 364 and the gun body 334.

[0074] The seal retainer 378 is connected to the housing 376. In the example shown, the seal retainer 378 is mounted to the housing 376 by a threaded interface formed between the seal retainer 378 and the housing 376. The seal retainer 378 is disposed at an axial end of the housing 376 opposite the nozzle 328. The seal retainer 378 extends into the housing 376 to radially overlap the housing 376. The seal retainer 378 is configured to interface with the needle seal 370 to retain the needle seal 370 within the valve cartridge body 364.

[0075] The needle seal 370 is configured to interface with the outside of the needle 366. When the needle 366 moves axially relative to the needle seal 370 during operation, the needle seal 370 can be considered to form a dynamic seal. The needle seal 370 can be formed as a sealing assembly including a plurality of separate sealing components. The needle seal 370 is arranged inside the valve cartridge body 364. The flow chamber 432 of the spray control assembly 338 extends axially between the nozzle 328 and the needle seal 370. As the needle 366 moves between the open state and the closed state, the needle seal 370 forms a sliding seal with the outside of the needle 366. The needle seal 370 engages with the outside of the needle 366 to inhibit the spray fluid from leaking along the first axial direction AD1 and leaking out of the valve cartridge body 364.

[0076] The spray valve 322 is formed between a needle 366 and a seat 368. In the example shown, the seat 368 is formed by the valve cartridge body 364. When the spray valve 322 is in a closed state, the needle 366 is engaged with the seat 368, and when the spray valve 322 is in an open state, the needle 366 is disengaged from the seat 368. The needle 366 is configured as a movable component of the spray valve 322.

[0077] The needle 366 is at least partially disposed within the valve cartridge body 364. The needle 366 is configured to move along the spray axis SA to actuate the spray valve 322 between an open state and a closed state. The needle 366 can move along the spray axis SA and relative to the support 368 to place the spray valve 322 in an open state and a closed state.

[0078] The needle tip 380 is configured to engage with the support 368 to place the spray valve 322 in a closed state. The needle tip 380 is arranged at an axial end of the needle 366. The needle body 382 extends axially from the needle tip 380. In the example shown, the needle tip 380 is formed separately from the needle body 382 and is connected to the needle body 382, ​​such as being connected to the needle body 382 by a threaded interface. However, it is understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the needle tip 380 and the needle body 382 can be formed integrally.

[0079] The needle body 382 extends from the needle tip 380 in the first axial direction AD1. The needle body 382 extends from the flow chamber 432 to the outside of the valve cylinder body 364. The needle body 382 extends through the needle seal 370 and engages with the needle seal 370. The needle body 382 engages with the needle seal 370 to seal the axial end of the flow chamber 432.

[0080] The needle head 386 is disposed at the axial end of the needle body 382 opposite the needle tip 380. The needle head 386 has a larger diameter than the needle body 382. In the example shown, the needle 366 can be considered to have a needle neck having the same diameter as the needle body 382.

[0081] The coupler 492 is mounted on the needle body 382. The coupler 492 is disposed on the needle body 382 between the needle 386 and the valve cartridge body 364. The coupler 492 is disposed outside the valve cartridge body 364. The coupler 492 rides on the needle body 382 and is not fixed to the needle body 382 so that the coupler 492 can slide axially along the needle body 382 relative to the needle body 382. The size of the opening through the coupler 492 is set so that the needle 386 cannot travel through the coupler 492.

[0082] The coupler 492 is arranged on the side of the trigger 480 opposite to the valve cartridge body 364. The size of the coupler 492 is set so that when the trigger 480 is actuated to spray the spray gun 312, the trigger 480 cannot travel over the coupler 492. Instead, the trigger 480 interfaces with the coupler 492 so that the trigger 480 can displace the coupler 492 along the first axial direction AD1. The trigger 480 displaces the coupler 492 so that the coupler 492 engages with the needle 386 and then drives the needle 366 along the first axial direction AD1 to actuate the spray valve 322 to the open state. Although the spray control assembly 338 is described as including the coupler 492, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0083] The trigger 480 is mounted on the gun body 334 via a trigger mount 600. The trigger mount 600 can be actuated relative to the gun body 334 to connect the trigger 480 to the gun body 334 and disconnect the trigger 480 from the gun body 334. FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C The trigger mount 600 is discussed in more detail.

[0084] The flow control assembly 476 is configured to control the flow of compressed air through the spray gun 312. The flow control assembly 476 includes a sealing component that is configured to move along the spray axis SA to actuate the air valve 490 between an open state, in which compressed air can flow through the air valve 490 and flow downstream to the air cap 392, and a closed state, in which the compressed air is blocked from flowing downstream to the air cap 392. In the example shown, the valve seal 486 forms a movable valve member of the air valve 490. In the example shown, the air valve 490 is formed between the flow control assembly 476 and the gun body 334. In the example shown, the air seat 514 to which the movable valve member of the air valve 490 engages is formed by the gun body 334. However, it will be appreciated that not all examples are so limited. For example, the flow control assembly 476 may include a housing that forms the air seat 514 of the air valve 490 , such that both the seat and the movable valve member defining the air valve 490 are formed as components of the flow control assembly 476 .

[0085] The flow control assembly 476 is also configured to manage the flow of the spray fluid through the spray gun 312, but the flow control assembly 476 is a dry component that does not contact the spray fluid. The flow control assembly 476 manages the flow of the spray fluid by limiting the displacement distance of the needle 366 in the first axial direction AD1. The flow control assembly 476 thus sets the distance that the needle 366 can be displaced from the support 368, thereby setting the opening size of the spray valve 322. The flow control assembly 476 also manages the flow of the spray fluid by actuating the spray valve 322 from an open state to a closed state.

[0086] The flow control assembly 476 is coaxially arranged with the spray control assembly 338. The flow control assembly 476 is elongated along the spray axis SA. The flow control assembly 476 is mounted to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the flow control assembly 476 is mounted within the rear block 496 of the gun body 334. In the example shown, the flow control assembly 476 is directly mounted to the rear block 496. In the example shown, the flow control assembly 476 is mounted to the gun body 334 via a threaded interface, but it will be appreciated that other connection types are also possible.

[0087] The flow control assembly 476 extends completely axially through the portion of the gun bore 406 formed in the rear block 496. The flow control assembly 476 is mounted to the rear block 496 so that the flow control assembly 476 protrudes out of the rear block 496 in the first axial direction AD1 and the second axial direction AD2. The flow control assembly 476 protrudes out of the rear end 337 of the spray gun 312. A portion of the flow control assembly 476 protrudes into a trigger gap 498 formed between the front block 494 and the rear block 496.

[0088] The flow control assembly 476 is configured to be mounted to the spray gun 312 as a single integral component. The flow control assembly 476 forms a flow valve cartridge that can be installed and removed as a single module. The single module can be installed through the rear end 337 and can be removed through the rear end 337. The flow control assembly 476 and the spray control assembly 338 are installed in opposite axial directions and removed in opposite axial directions. During installation, the spray control assembly 338 moves in the first axial direction AD1, and during removal, the flow control assembly 476 moves in the first axial direction AD1. During installation, the flow control assembly 476 moves in the second axial direction AD2, and during removal, the spray control assembly 338 moves in the second axial direction AD2. The spray control assembly 338 and the flow control assembly 476 move axially toward each other during installation and move axially away from each other during removal.

[0089] The displacement limiter 336 forms part of the flow control assembly 476. The displacement limiter 336 is mounted to the gun body 334. The displacement limiter 336 is mounted to the rear block 496 at a position within the rear block 496. The displacement limiter 336 is arranged at the axial end of the spray gun 312 opposite the nozzle 328. In the example shown, the displacement limiter 336 is mounted to the gun body 334 to secure the other components of the flow control assembly 476 to the gun body 334. The interface between the displacement limiter 336 and the gun body 334 secures the flow control assembly 476 along the spray axis SA. In the example shown, the interface between the displacement limiter 336 and the gun body 334 is the only mechanical connection that holds the flow control assembly 476 to the gun body 334.

[0090] The restrictor housing 356 is mounted to the gun body 334. In the example shown, the restrictor housing 356 is mounted to the rear block 496 of the gun body 334. The restrictor housing 356 is partially disposed within the gun body 334 and partially disposed outside the gun body 334. The restrictor bore 440 extends axially through the restrictor housing 356. The restrictor bore 440 is coaxially disposed on the spray axis SA. In the example shown, the restrictor bore 440 extends completely axially through the restrictor housing 356.

[0091] The locator 360 is at least partially disposed within the restrictor housing 356. The stopper 362 is mounted to the locator 360. In the example shown, the locator 360 includes an external thread that engages an internal thread formed on the stopper 362. The stopper 362 is at least partially disposed within the restrictor bore 440. The stopper 362 is keyed to the restrictor housing 356 so that the stopper 362 does not rotate on the spray axis SA. For example, at least a portion of the restrictor bore 440 may include a non-circular cross-section taken in a plane normal to the spray axis SA, and the outer surface of the stopper 362 may have the same cross-sectional shape as the surface of the restrictor bore 440. In some examples, the exterior of the stopper 362 may be faceted, and the restrictor bore 440 may be similarly faceted to cooperate with the stopper 362. The stopper 362 and the restrictor bore 440 may be hexagonally cut, among other options. The keyed interface prevents the stopper 362 from rotating on the spray axis SA due to rotation of the locator 360. Instead, due to the threaded interface between the locator 360 and the stopper 362, rotation of the locator 360 will cause the stopper 362 to be axially displaced along the spray axis SA.

[0092] The stopper 362 is configured to interface with the needle returner 346 to limit the displacement of the needle returner 346, and thereby limit the displacement of the needle 366 in the second axial direction AD2. The stopper 362 is configured to limit the maximum opening distance of the spray valve 322. The stopper 362 limits the maximum distance that the needle 366 can leave the support 368 and move relative to the support 368 to open the spray valve 322.

[0093] The knob 358 is mounted on the detent 360. The knob 358 is fixed to the detent 360 so that rotation of the knob 358 causes the detent 360 to rotate. The knob 358 is disposed on the exterior of the gun body 334. The knob 358 is disposed on the exterior of the limiter housing 356. The knob 358 is accessible to or accessible to a user so that the user can manipulate the knob 358 to rotate the detent 360 and displace the stopper 362 to adjust the maximum opening distance.

[0094] The needle returner 346 is disposed within the gun body 334. The needle returner 346 is at least partially disposed within the interior of the flow control assembly 476. In the example shown, the needle returner 346 is coaxially disposed with the displacement limiter 336. In the example shown, the needle returner 346 is at least partially disposed within the limiter bore 440. The returner block 347 extends axially into the limiter bore 440 of the limiter housing 356. The needle returner 346 is configured to interface with the needle 366 and the biasing needle 366 in the second axial direction AD2 and engage with the support 368.

[0095] The return block 347 is a portion of the needle return 346 that interfaces with the needle 366. The return block 347 is movable along the spray axis SA. The return block 347 is independent of the valve seal 486 and is not connected to the valve seal 486. The valve seal 486 and the return block 347 can move relative to each other along the spray axis SA.

[0096] The returner rod 400 of the returner block 347 extends in the second axial direction AD2 and is at least partially arranged in the needle bore 516 of the valve seal 486. The returner rod 400 is configured to abut and engage with the needle 366. In the example shown, the returner rod 400 engages with the needle 386. In the example shown, the returner rod 400 abuts the needle 386, but is not fixed to the needle 386. The returner rod 400 interfaces with the face of the needle 386 oriented in the first axial direction AD1.

[0097] The returner flange 402 extends radially outward from the exterior of the returner block 347. The returner flange 402 provides a bearing surface for the returner spring 348 to engage with. The returner body 404 forms a portion of the needle returner 346 that extends from the returner flange 402 in the first axial direction AD1. The returner body 404 is arranged within the returner spring 348 and can help align the returner spring 348 relative to the needle returner 346. The returner body 404 can be considered to form a spring guide that helps align the returner spring 348 on the spray axis SA.

[0098] The returner spring 348 is disposed within the gun body 334 and engages with the returner block 347. In the example shown, the returner spring 348 is disposed within the flow control assembly 476 so that the returner spring 348 is isolated from and not exposed to the compressed air flowing through the spray gun 312. In the example shown, the returner spring 348 is radially disposed within the valve seal 486 and extends into the restrictor bore 440. In the example shown, the returner spring 348 engages with the returner flange 402 of the returner block 347. The returner spring 348 also engages with the displacement limiter 336. In the example shown, the returner spring 348 bears on the stopper 362. The returner spring 348 is configured to bias the returner block 347 and thereby bias the needle 366 in the second axial direction AD2 due to the engagement of the returner rod 400 with the needle 386. The returner spring 348 is configured to bias the needle 366 into engagement with the seat 368 to place the spray valve 322 in a closed state.

[0099] The return spring 348 is arranged outside the flow path of the spraying fluid through the spray gun 312. The return spring 348 is a dry component that is not exposed to the spraying fluid during operation. The spray control assembly 338 does not include any spring in the flow chamber 432. In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 does not include any spring as a part of the spray control assembly 338. The spray control assembly 338 can be installed and removed as a single module that does not include any spring. The only spring that applies biasing force to the needle 366 is the return spring 348, which is not directly interfaced with the needle 366. On the contrary, the return spring 348 is indirectly connected to the needle 366 via the middle needle return 346. The return spring 348 applies biasing force to the needle return 346, and the needle return 346 applies biasing force to the needle 366. The needle 366 is a part of the first module that can be installed to the gun body 334, and the return spring 348 is a part of the second module that can be installed to the gun body 334.

[0100] The valve seal 486 is at least partially arranged in the gun body 334. The valve seal 486 is elongated along the spray axis SA. In the example shown, the valve seal 486 is hollow so that a passage extends completely axially through the valve seal 486. The passage leads to the interior of the valve seal 486 along a first axial direction AD1 and leads to the nozzle 328 along a second axial direction AD2. The valve seal 486 includes a seal body 518, a seal shoulder 520 and a valve shaft 522.

[0101] The valve shaft 522 is elongated along the spray axis SA. In the example shown, the valve shaft 522 is formed as a cylinder, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. In the example shown, the valve shaft 522 protrudes axially beyond the gun bore 406 and enters the trigger gap 498. The valve shaft 522 extends through the air seal 524a and engages with the air seal 524a. As the valve shaft 522 can slide axially relative to the air seal 524a, the valve shaft 522 forms a sliding seal with the air seal 524a. In the example shown, the air seal 524a is supported by the rear block 496. In the example shown, the air seal 524a is formed as a U-cup seal, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. The sealing interface between the air seal 524a and the valve shaft 522 prevents compressed air from leaking out of the rear block 496 along the second axial direction AD2.

[0102] The valve seal 486 holds the needle returner 346 inside the flow control assembly 476. The diameter of the needle bore 516 through the valve shaft 522 is smaller than the diameter of the returner flange 402 of the needle returner 346. The returner flange 402 will interface with the inner side of the seal shoulder 520 to prevent the needle returner 346 from further moving in the second axial direction AD2, thereby holding the returner block 347 inside the flow control assembly 476.

[0103] The needle 366 and the needle returner 346 interface at a location within the valve seal 486. Specifically, the needle 366 and the returner block 347 interface at a location within the valve shaft 522. The needle 366 and the returner block 347 interface within the needle bore 516. The valve shaft 522 can position the returner block 347 and the needle 366 on the spray axis SA to maintain concentricity between the returner block 347 and the needle 366. Maintaining axial alignment between the returner block 347 and the needle 366 reduces wear on the needle 366 by driving the needle 366 on the axis SA, thereby preventing wear on the needle 366 or the support 368 that may occur due to non-coaxial engagement between the needle 366 and the support 368.

[0104] The sealing shoulder 520 extends between and connects the valve shaft 522 and the sealing body 518. The sealing shoulder 520 extends radially outward between the valve shaft 522 and the sealing body 518. The diameter of the valve seal 486 expands along the sealing shoulder 520 between the valve shaft 522 and the sealing body 518. In the example shown, the sealing shoulder 520 is inclined between the valve shaft 522 and the sealing body 518 so that the sealing shoulder 520 extends axially and radially between the valve shaft 522 and the sealing body 518.

[0105] The seal body 518 extends from the seal shoulder 520 in the first axial direction AD1. The seal body 518 extends from the seal shoulder 520 and extends into the restrictor housing 356. In the example shown, the seal body 518 has a larger diameter than the valve shaft 522. In the example shown, the seal body 518 is cylindrical, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0106] The seal body 518 extends into the restrictor housing 356 and engages with the air seal 524b. The air seal 524b engages with the outer surface of the seal body 518. In the example shown, the air seal 524b is supported by the restrictor housing 356. The engagement of the air seal 524b with the seal body 518 and the restrictor housing 356 inhibits leakage of compressed air between them in the first axial direction AD1. The air seal 524b seals the interior of the flow control assembly 476 and prevents compressed air from flowing into the interior of the flow control assembly 476.

[0107] When the air valve 490 is in a closed state, the valve seal 486 engages with the air seat 514, and when the air valve 490 is in an open state, the valve seal 486 disengages from the air seat 514. In the example shown, a flow seal 526 supported by the valve seal 486 is configured to directly interface with the air seat 514 to place the air valve 490 in a closed state. In the example shown, the flow seal 526 is supported by the seal shoulder 520. In the example shown, the flow seal 526 is formed separately from the valve seal 486 and mounted on the valve seal 486. The flow seal 526 is configured to engage with the air seat 514 to place the air valve 490 in a closed state. When the air valve 490 is in an open state, the flow seal 526 is spaced apart from the air seat 514. Although the flow control assembly 476 is described as including the flow seal 526, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the valve seal 486 may be configured to interface directly with the air seat 514 to place the air valve 490 in a closed state.

[0108] The valve spring 488 interfaces with the valve seal 486 and biases the air valve 490 to a closed state. The valve spring 488 biases the valve seal 486 in the second axial direction AD2 and is biased to engage with the air seat 514. The valve spring 488 extends axially between the restrictor housing 356 and the valve seal 486. In the example shown, the seal body 518 of the valve seal 486 is radially arranged within the valve spring 488 and extends through the valve spring 488. The valve spring 488 is arranged outside the flow control assembly 476. The valve spring 488 is arranged so that the valve spring 488 is exposed to the air flow through the spray gun 312.

[0109] The valve spring 488 is configured to bias the air valve 490 to a closed state. The return spring 348 is configured to bias the spray valve 322 to a closed state. In the example shown, both the valve spring 488 and the return spring 348 are arranged in the rear block 496. Both the valve spring 488 and the return spring 348 are formed as dry parts that are not exposed to the spray fluid flowing through the spray gun 312. The valve spring 488 and the return spring 348 are coaxially arranged on the spray axis SA. The valve spring 488 and the return spring 348 radially overlap each other. The valve spring 488 is arranged radially outside the return spring 348.

[0110] During operation, compressed air is provided to the spray gun 312 through the air inlet passage 500, and the spray fluid is provided to the spray gun 312 through the spray fluid connector 512. The spray valve 322 and the air valve 490 are usually in their respective closed states. Compressed air flows through the air inlet passage 500 and enters the gun bore 406 in the rear block 496. An axial biasing force is applied to the valve seal 486 in the second axial direction AD2 by the valve spring 488, and the valve seal 486 is maintained in engagement with the air seat 514, so that the air valve 490 is in a closed state, thereby preventing compressed air from flowing through the air valve 490 in the second axial direction AD1. The spray fluid flows through the spray fluid connector 512 and enters the fluid passage 430. The spray fluid flows through the fluid port 374 and enters the flow chamber 432 inside the spray control assembly 338. The needle returner 346 is forced in the second axial direction AD2 by the returner spring 348, and the needle returner 346 is forced in the second axial direction AD2 to the needle 366 to bias the needle 366 into engagement with the seat 368, and the needle 366 is maintained in engagement with the seat 368. Therefore, the spray valve 322 is in a closed state, thereby preventing the spray fluid from flowing through the nozzle 328.

[0111] To spray, the user presses the trigger 480. The trigger 480 moves in the first axial direction AD1 and engages with the coupler 492. For example, the trigger can pivot around a pivot point passing through the gun body 334. The coupler 492 applies an axial driving force to the valve seal 486 at the valve shaft 522. The force of the valve spring 488 is overcome, and the valve seal 486 is displaced in the first axial direction AD1. The valve seal 486 is disengaged from the air seat 514, and the flow path between the valve seal 486 and the air seat 514 is opened. The valve spring 488 is compressed between the valve seal 486 and the restrictor housing 356. Therefore, the air valve 490 is in an open state.

[0112] With the air valve 490 in the open state, the compressed air flows through the air valve 490 and flows downstream to the common passage 502. The compressed air flows through the common passage 502 and flows to the atomizing passage 504 and the shaping air passage 506. The atomizing portion of the compressed air flows through the atomizing passage 504 and flows out through the central orifice 408 in the air cap 392. If the fan valve 478 is in the open state, the shaped portion of the compressed air flows through the shaping air passage 506. With the fan valve 478 in the open state, the shaped portion of the compressed air flows downstream through the shaping air passage 506 and exits the air cap 392 through the shaping orifice 410.

[0113] The atomized portion of the compressed air flows through the atomizing passage 504 and flows to the portion of the gun bore 406 in the front block 494. The atomizing air enters the inner air chamber 414 through the aperture 420a. The atomizing air encounters the baffle 418a, which interrupts the flow and distributes the atomizing air flow around the spray axis SA. The atomizing air continues over the baffle 418a and flows through the air passage 422 in the second axial direction AD2. The atomizing air exits from the air passage 422 and flows through the downstream portion of the inner air chamber 414 to the central orifice 408. The atomizing air exits from the central orifice 408 as a ring around the nozzle 328.

[0114] The shaped portion of compressed air flows through the shaped air passage 506 and encounters the baffle 418b. The baffle 418b interrupts the flow of the shaped portion and distributes the shaped portion around the spray axis SA. The shaped air flows through the outer air chamber 416 and flows to the air cap 392. The shaped air exits from the shaped orifice 410 in the air cap 392.

[0115] The air valve 490 moves to the open state before the spray valve 322 moves to the open state. The flow control assembly 476 is configured such that the valve seal 486 is axially displaced before the needle 366 is engaged to be axially displaced. The air valve 490 moves to the open state before the spray valve 322 moves to the open state, so that the spray gun 312 discharges compressed air from the air cap 392 before discharging the spray fluid through the nozzle 328. The spray gun 312 discharges compressed air before discharging the spray fluid, ensuring that the atomizing air will impact the spray fluid and atomize the spray fluid, thereby preventing sputtering and splattering of the spray fluid that may otherwise occur.

[0116] In the example shown, the needle 386 is recessed within the valve shaft 522 in the first axial direction AD1 such that the coupler 492 contacts the valve seal 486 before encountering the needle 386. As such, the trigger encounters and displaces the valve seal 486 before encountering and displacing the needle 366. In examples where the spray gun 312 includes a valve lock, the valve lock is positioned such that the valve seal 486 is axially displaced before the needle detent encounters and engages the needle 386 to displace the needle 366, thereby ensuring that atomizing air is expelled before the spray fluid is expelled.

[0117] The trigger 480 continues to shift, and the coupler 492 (in some examples, a valve lock) encounters the needle 386 and applies an axial driving force to the needle 366 in the first axial direction AD1. The needle 366 encounters the return block 347 and applies an axial driving force to the return block 347. The force of the return spring 348 is overcome, and the needle 366 and the needle return 346 are shifted in the first axial direction AD1. The return spring 348 is compressed between the needle return 346 and the stopper 362. The needle 366 is disengaged from the support 368. Therefore, the spray valve 322 is placed in an open state.

[0118] In some examples, the valve seal 486 can help shift the spray valve 322 to an open state. The flow control assembly 476 can be configured so that the inner side of the seal shoulder 520 engages with the inclined surface of the returner flange 402 oriented along the second axial direction AD2. While the coupling 492 is engaged with the needle 386, the valve seal 486 can engage with the returner flange 402. Thus, the coupling 492 can apply a driving force to the needle 366 at the needle 386, and can apply a driving force to the needle returner 346 through the valve seal 486.

[0119] The displacement of the needle 366 in the first axial direction AD1 can be limited by the stopper 362. The stopper 362 can be arranged on the spray axis SA and positioned so that the return block 347 encounters the stopper 362 before the needle 366 moves the full possible displacement distance in the first axial direction AD1. The stopper 362 provides a hard stop that limits further axial displacement of the return block 347 and the needle 366. The trigger 480 is prevented from further displacement due to the return block 347 encountering the stopper 362.

[0120] With the spray valve 322 in an open state, the spray fluid flows through the gap between the needle tip 380 and the support 368. The spray fluid flows downstream through the nozzle 328 and is discharged from the spray gun 312. The atomizing air exiting through the central orifice 408 impinges on and atomizes the spray fluid exiting the nozzle 328. The shaping air encounters the atomized spray fluid and shapes the atomized spray fluid into a desired pattern.

[0121] To stop spraying, the user releases the trigger 480. The air valve 490 and the spray valve 322 are independent, so that the air valve 490 is actuated to the closed state independently of the spray valve 322 being actuated to the closed state. Similarly, the air valve 490 and the spray valve 322 are independently actuated to their respective open states.

[0122] The valve spring 488 applies a biasing force to the valve seal 486 in the second axial direction AD2 and displaces the valve seal 486 in the second axial direction AD2. The returner spring 348 applies a biasing force to the returner block 347 in the second axial direction AD2 and displaces the needle returner 346 in the second axial direction AD2. The needle returner 346 applies a biasing force to the needle 366 in the second axial direction AD2 and displaces the needle 366 until the needle 366 engages with the seat 368, so that the spray valve 322 is in a closed state.

[0123] As discussed above, the spray gun 312 is configured so that the air valve 490 opens before the spray valve 322 opens. The valve seal 486 is displaced a first distance along the spray axis SA in the first axial direction AD1 before the needle 366 begins to move in the first axial direction AD1. Both the valve seal 486 and the needle 366 move together a second axial distance along the spray axis SA. The total displacement of the needle 366 is the second axial distance, and the total displacement of the valve seal 486 is a third axial distance, which is the sum of the first axial distance and the second axial distance. The third axial distance is greater than the second axial distance.

[0124] 486 is a kind of spraying fluid of spraying control assembly 338, and spraying fluid is sprayed in the spraying control assembly 338.In the embodiment of the present invention, spraying control assembly 338 is used for spraying fluid ...

[0125] Spray gun 312 provides significant advantages. Spray control assembly 338 can be installed as a single integral component. Spray control assembly 338 can be installed and removed by front end 335 of spray gun 312. Users do not have to approach or access other components spaced apart from spray control assembly 338 in the first axial direction AD1 to achieve or disconnect the drive connection that actuates needle 366 during operation. Instead, users can simply and easily approach or access spray control assembly 338 at front end 335. When air cap 392 is disassembled and trigger 480 moves to not block the movement of coupler 492 in the second axial direction AD2, only valve cartridge housing 376 needs to be manipulated to install or remove spray control assembly 338. Because spray fluid connector 512 does not extend to interfere with the axial movement of spray control assembly 338, spray fluid connector 512 does not need to be manipulated for installation or removal of spray control assembly 338.

[0126] The spray control assembly 338 does not include any spring to bias the needle 366. The needle 366 is actuated to engage the support 368 to place the spray valve 322 in a closed state by a return spring 348, which is arranged in the rear block 496 and does not directly interface with the needle 366. No spring is arranged in the spray fluid flow path or exposed to the spray fluid. No spring is arranged in the front block 494 to actuate the needle 366. Isolating the spring from the wet portion of the spray gun 312 can prevent material from accumulating on any such spring, which can cause the spring to stick or otherwise cause required maintenance.

[0127] The flow control assembly 476 can be installed or removed from the spray gun 312 as a single integral component. The flow control assembly 476 is a single module that can be installed and removed through the rear end 337 of the spray gun 312. The flow control assembly 476 controls the flow of compressed air and affects the operation of the spray valve 322. The flow control assembly sets the distance that the needle 366 can be spaced apart from the support 368, thereby controlling the opening size of the spray valve 322 through the displacement limiter 336. The flow control assembly 476 can also actuate the spray valve 322 from an open state to a closed state. The air valve 490 and the spray valve 322 are independently actuated to a closed state by the components of the flow control assembly 476.

[0128] Figure 3A is a partial isometric view from a first lateral side of the spray gun 312 showing the trigger 480 mounted to the gun body 334 . Figure 3B is a partial isometric view from a second lateral side of the spray gun 312 showing the trigger 480 mounted to the gun body 334 . Figure 3C is along Figure 3A Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. Figure 4Ais a partial isometric view from a first lateral side of the spray gun 312 showing the trigger 480 detached from the gun body 334 . Figure 4B is a partial isometric view from a second lateral side of the spray gun 312 showing the trigger 480 detached from the gun body 334 . Figure 4C is along Figure 4B Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The trigger mount 600 is shown in a retained state in which the trigger 480 is retained on the gun body 334 and operably positioned relative to a valve component that can be actuated by the trigger 480 . FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The trigger mount 600 is shown in an installed state in which the trigger 480 can be installed or removed from the gun body 334. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The trigger 480 is further shown removed from the gun body 334. FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C .

[0129] The trigger 480 includes a pull portion 481; arms 483a, 483b and a receiving portion 485. The body bore 530 of the gun body 334 is shown. In the example shown, the body bore 530 includes bore portions 532a, 532b, 532c. The mounting opening 487a is formed in the arm 483a, the mounting opening 487b is formed in the arm 483b, and the mounting slot 489 is formed in the arm 483b. The trigger mount 600 includes a mount body 602 and a spring 640. The mount body 602 includes a shaft 606, a pivot head 608a and a pivot head 608b. The shaft 606 includes a handle 610. The pivot head 608a includes a bearing surface 612a and a tool interface 614a. The pivot head 608b includes a bearing surface 612b and a tool interface 614b. The pivot head 608b also includes a head bore 618.

[0130] The trigger 480 can be mounted to the gun body 334 and removed from the gun body 334. The trigger 480 is configured to move in the mounting direction TD1 during mounting and in the mounting direction TD2 during removal. The trigger 480 can be considered to slide relative to the gun body 334 during mounting and removal. The trigger 480 is configured to slide along the displacement axis DA during mounting and removal of the trigger 480 on the gun body 334.

[0131] The spray gun 312 is configured to receive a spray fluid flow and a compressed air flow, and discharge an atomized spray of the spray fluid to be applied on a target surface. The spray gun 312 is configured as a manual spray gun, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. The gun body 334 supports the other components of the spray gun 312. The user can press the trigger 480 with the fingers of the hand holding the handle 484 to actuate the spray gun 312 between the spray state and the non-spray state. The trigger 480 controls one or two spray valves 322 (controlling the discharge of the spray fluid) and the air valve 490 (controlling one or more compressed gas streams) to the actuation of the respective open states.

[0132] The trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334 via a trigger mount 600. The mount of the trigger 480 holds the trigger 480 on the gun body 334. In the example shown, the trigger mount 600 provides a pivot point about which the trigger 480 can be pivoted to actuate one or more valves to their respective open states. The trigger mount 600 can be viewed as forming a bearing pivot on which the trigger 480 is rotatably supported. In the example shown, the trigger 480 is configured to pivot about a pivot axis PA.

[0133] The pivot axis PA extends through the gun body 334. The body bore 530 extends along the pivot axis PA. In the example shown, the body bore 530 extends completely laterally through the gun body 334 along the pivot axis PA. In the example shown, the body bore 530 extends completely axially through the gun body 334 along the pivot axis PA. The body bore 530 opens through a lateral side 534a of the gun body 334 and a lateral side 534b of the gun body 334.

[0134] In the example shown, the body bore 530 is formed by a plurality of bores having different radial widths. Bore portion 532a extends from lateral side 534a into the gun body 334. Bore portion 532c extends from lateral side 534b into the gun body 334. Bore portion 532b extends between and connects bore portions 532a, 532c. In the example shown, bore portion 532a has a first radial width, bore portion 532b has a second radial width greater than the first radial width, and bore portion 532c has a third radial width greater than the second radial width. In some examples, one or more of bore portions 532a to 532c are formed as cylinders. In some examples, the body bore 530 may be formed by a stepped cylinder. In such an example, the bore portions 532a-532c may have different diameters, wherein the diameter of the bore portion 532c is greater than the diameter of the bore portion 532b, and the diameter of the bore portion 532b is greater than the diameter of the bore portion 532a.

[0135] The different radial widths of the bore portion 532 help to mount and retain the trigger mount 600 on the gun body 334. A shoulder 536a is formed between the bore portion 532a and the bore portion 532b. The shoulder 536a extends radially outward from the pivot axis PA and can be considered to form the base of the bore portion 532b. The shoulder 536b is formed between the bore portion 532b and the bore portion 532c. The shoulder 536b extends radially outward from the pivot axis PA and can be considered to form the base of the bore portion 532c. In the example shown, the bore portion 532a extends from the lateral side 534a to the shoulder 536a, the bore portion 532b extends from the shoulder 536a to the shoulder 536b, and the bore portion 532c extends from the shoulder 536b to the lateral side 534b.

[0136] The mount body 602 is configured to interface with the trigger 480 to connect the trigger 480 to the gun body 334 when the trigger mount 600 is in the retained state. The mount body 602 is at least partially disposed within the body bore 530. In the example shown, the mount body 602 extends completely axially through the body bore 530 when the trigger mount 600 is in the retained state. In some examples, the mount body 602 can extend the full length of the body bore 530 when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state. In the example shown, the mount body 602 protrudes out of the body bore 530 when the trigger mount 600 is in both the retained state and the installed state. The mount body 602 extends out of the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD2. The mount body 602 is movable relative to the gun body 334 to actuate the trigger mount 600 between the retained state and the installed state.

[0137] In the example shown, the mount body 602 is configured to move axially along the mounting axis MA to move between positions associated with the retaining state and the installed state. In the example shown, the mount body 602 is configured to move along the mounting axis MA in an axial direction MD2 to place the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, and is configured to move along the mounting axis MA in an axial direction MD1 to place the trigger in the retaining state. The axial directions MD1, MD2 may also be referred to as lateral directions. The mount body 602 moves in a single lateral direction relative to the gun body 334 to actuate the trigger mount 600 from the retaining state to the installed state. The mount body 602 moves in a single lateral direction relative to the gun body 334 to actuate the trigger mount 600 from the installed state to the retaining state.

[0138] In the example shown, the mount body 602 interfaces with the arm 483a and the arm 483b of the trigger 480 to mount the trigger 480 to the gun body 334. The pivot head 608a is arranged at a first axial end of the mount body 602. The pivot head 608a is configured to interface with the arm 483a. The pivot head 608a extends through the arm 483a into the mount opening 487a to interface with the trigger 480. In the example shown, with the trigger mount 600 in the retained state, the pivot head 608a extends completely axially through the mount opening 487a. With the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, the pivot head 608a is withdrawn from the mount opening 487a. In the example shown, with the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, all portions of the mount body 602 are withdrawn from the mount opening 487a. As such, with the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, the mount opening 487a is not occupied by the mount body 602. Withdrawing the mount body 602 from the mount opening 487a allows the trigger 480 to travel past the pivot head 608a and the mount body 602 during installation and removal of the trigger 480 from the gun body 334.

[0139] The pivot head 608a has a radial width greater than the radial width of the bore portion 532b. The shoulder 536b overlaps the pivot head 608a axially along the mounting axis MA. The shoulder 536b prevents the pivot head 608a from traveling along the axial direction MD2 and completely passing through the body bore 530. Such a configuration helps to keep the trigger mount 600 mounted to the gun body 334 in both cases where the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334 and the trigger 480 is removed from the gun body 334. The head face 616a of the pivot head 608a is oriented axially inward toward the gun body 334. The head face 616a is oriented along the axial direction MD2 and toward the pivot head 608b. The head face 616a overlaps the shoulder 536b axially along the mounting axis MA. The head face 616a is configured to interface with the shoulder 536b to limit the movement of the mounting body 602 through the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD2.

[0140] In the example shown, the pivot head 608a has a smaller radial width than the radial width of the bore portion 532c. The smaller radial width of the pivot head 608a relative to the bore portion 532c facilitates the pivot head 608a to enter the bore portion 532c during operation. In the example shown, the pivot head 608a is recessed in the bore portion 532c when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state. In the example shown, the bearing surface 612a is annularly surrounded by the material of the gun body 334 when the pivot head 608a is recessed in the bore portion 532c. In some examples, when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state, the pivot head 608a is completely recessed in the bore portion 532c, so that the pivot head 608a does not travel axially outward from the lateral side 534b along the axial direction MD1 when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state. It should be understood that in some examples, when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state, the pivot head 608a is not disposed within the gun body 334. For example, the bore portion 532c can be formed to only partially surround the pivot head 608a.

[0141] In the example shown, the pivot head 608a is integrally formed, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. In some examples, the pivot head 608a can be formed by multiple parts that function together. For example, the washer can support the mounting body 602 to prevent displacement out of the body bore 530 along the first direction MD1 (the washer forms the head surface 616a), and the nut can provide a bearing surface for the trigger (e.g., the bearing surface 612a).

[0142] The bearing surface 612a is formed on the exterior of the pivot head 608a. The bearing surface 612a is the surface that the arm 483a rides on when the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334, and acts as a trigger pivot to allow the spray gun 312 to spray. The bearing surface 612a can be formed as a cylindrical surface. When the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334, the bearing surface 612a is arranged in the mounting opening 487a. In the example shown, the mounting opening 487a is completely radially closed. In this way, the trigger 480 can be supported on the bearing surface 612a 360 degrees around the mounting axis MA. Such a configuration increases the operating life of the trigger 480 by completely distributing the load around the mounting axis MA and by reducing the wear of the material defining the mounting opening 487a. The bearing surface 612a is larger than at least a portion of the body bore 530 so that the bearing surface 612a cannot travel axially through the body bore 530.

[0143] A tool interface 614a is formed on the pivot head 608a. The tool interface 614a is configured to receive torque from a tool to facilitate assembly of the mounting body 602. In the example shown, the tool interface 614a is arranged on the mounting axis MA and extends into the pivot head 608a along the mounting axis MA. For example, the tool interface 614a can be formed as one or more grooves, faceted bores, etc. In the example shown, the tool interface 614a is configured to receive a driver (e.g., a screw driver or screwdriver). However, it will be appreciated that not all examples are so limited. For example, among other options, the tool interface 614a can be formed as a faceted exterior surface.

[0144] The pivot head 608b is disposed at a second axial end of the mount body 602. The pivot head 608b is disposed at an end of the mount body 602 opposite the pivot head 608a. The pivot head 608b is configured to interface with the arm 483b. The pivot head 608b extends through the arm 483b into the mount opening 487b to interface with the trigger 480. In the illustrated example, with the trigger mount 600 in the retained state, the pivot head 608b extends completely axially through the mount opening 487b. With the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, the pivot head 608b is withdrawn from the mount opening 487b. When the pivot head 608b is withdrawn from the mount opening 487b, the mount body 602 advances through the mount opening 487b with the trigger mount 600 in the installed state. In the example shown, at least a portion of the mount opening 487b is occupied by the mount body 602 with the trigger mount 600 in the retained state and the installed state and the trigger 480 in the installed position associated with the engaged state of the trigger.

[0145] In the example shown, the pivot head 608b is integrally formed, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. In some examples, the pivot head 608b can be formed of multiple parts that function together. For example, the washer can support the mounting body 602 to prevent displacement out of the body bore 530 along the direction MD2 (the washer forms the head surface 616b), and the nut can provide a bearing surface for the trigger (e.g., bearing surface 612b).

[0146] Slot 489 is formed in trigger arm 483b. Slot 489 extends through trigger arm 483b and leads to mount opening 487b. Slot 489 opens radially outward of arm 483b relative to mounting axis MA and opens radially outward through mount opening 487b relative to mounting axis MA. Slot 489 defines a displacement axis DA along which trigger 480 moves between an engaged state of the trigger, in which trigger 480 is movable to open a first valve (e.g., spray valve 322 or air valve 490), and a disengaged state in which trigger 480 is spaced apart from a first valve assembly (e.g., assembly 338 or assembly 476) such that the first valve assembly travels axially past trigger 480 along spray axis SA. Slot 489 facilitates travel of mount body 602 out of mount opening 487b during removal of trigger 480. Mount body 602 passes through slot 489 out of mount opening 487b and does not overlap trigger 480. The slot 489 facilitates the movement of the mount body 602 into the mount opening 487b during installation of the trigger 480. The mount body 602 moves through the slot 489 to overlap the trigger 480 and into the mount opening 487b. During installation and removal, the mount body 602 moves within the slot 489 as the trigger 480 moves past the mount body 602. During installation and removal of the trigger 480, the mount body 602 can slide within the slot 489.

[0147] The width W1 of the slot 489 is less than the radial width (e.g., diameter relative to the mounting axis MA) of the pivot head 608b, thereby preventing the trigger 480 from moving relative to the pivot head 608b along the displacement axis DA when the pivot head 608b is disposed within the mount opening 487. In the example shown, the width W1 of the slot 489 is less than the diameter of the bearing surface 612b, which is a portion of the mount body 602 on which the arm 483b rides when the trigger mount 600 is in a retained state and retains the trigger 480 on the gun body 334. The radial width of the shaft 606 is less than the width W1 of the slot 489, so that the trigger 480 can move relative to the mount body 602 along the displacement axis DA when the shaft 606 travels within and through the slot 489. Withdrawing the pivot head 608b from the mount opening 487b (eg, by axial movement along the mounting axis MA) allows the trigger 480 to travel past the pivot head 608b (eg, by radial movement relative to the mounting axis MA) during installation and removal of the trigger 480 from the gun body 334 .

[0148] The radial width of the pivot head 608b is greater than the radial width of the bore portion 532a. In the example shown, the gun body 334 axially overlaps the pivot head 608b along the mounting axis MA. Such a configuration helps to keep the trigger mount 600 mounted to the gun body 334 when the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334 and the trigger 480 is removed from the gun body 334. The head face 616b of the pivot head 608b is oriented axially inward toward the gun body 334. The head face 616b is oriented along the axial direction MD1 and toward the pivot head 608a. The head face 616b axially overlaps the lateral side 534a along the mounting axis MA. The head face 616b is configured to interface with the gun body 334 to limit the movement of the mount body 602 through the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD1. The lateral side 534a prevents the pivot head 608b from traveling along the axial direction MD1 and completely passing through the body bore 530. In some examples, the radial width of a portion of the body bore 530 that extends from the lateral side 534b but does not fully extend to the bore portion 532b is greater than the radial width of the pivot head 608b. As such, in some examples, the pivot head 608b may be partially recessed within the gun body 334. Regardless of whether the pivot head 608b is completely outside the gun body 334 or partially recessed within the gun body 334, the size of the body bore 530 is set so that the pivot head 608b cannot fully travel through the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD1.

[0149] The bearing surface 612b is formed on the exterior of the pivot head 608b. The bearing surface 612b is the surface of the mounting body 602 on which the arm 483b rides when the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334, and as the trigger 480 pivots to cause the spray gun 312 to spray. The bearing surface 612b can be formed as a cylindrical surface. When the trigger 480 is mounted to the gun body 334, the bearing surface 612b is arranged in the mounting opening 487b. In the example shown, the mounting opening 487b is partially radially closed when the groove 489 extends into the mounting opening 487b. The trigger 480 can be supported on the bearing surface 612b less than 360 degrees around the mounting axis MA. The bearing surface 612b is larger than at least a portion of the body bore 530 so that the bearing surface 612b cannot axially travel through the body bore 530.

[0150] In the example shown, arm 483b includes slot 489, while arm 483a does not include a corresponding slot. Mount opening 487b does not extend completely around support surface 612b, while mount opening 487a is closed and extends completely around support surface 612a. The single slot configuration of trigger 480 allows for unidirectional displacement of mount body 602 to actuate trigger mount 600 between states, and allows for unidirectional displacement of trigger 480 during installation and removal. The closed mount opening 487a provides increased life for trigger 480 by distributing wear completely around mounting axis MA, while the partially closed mount opening 487b provides for compact construction and simple operation of spray gun 312 and trigger mount 600 through unidirectional actuation and installation.

[0151] The tool interface 614b is formed on the pivot head 608b. The tool interface 614b is configured to receive torque from a tool to facilitate assembly of the mounting body 602. In the example shown, the tool interface 614b is formed on the radially outer portion of the pivot head 608b. The tool interface 614b is axially arranged outside the bearing surface 612b relative to the gun body 334. The bearing surface 612b is axially arranged between the tool interface 614b and the gun body 334. In the example shown, the tool interface 614b is formed as a faceted surface. In the example shown, the tool interface 614a is configured to be received by a torque tool (e.g., a wrench, a socket, etc.). Although the tool interface 614b is shown as being formed outside the pivot head 608b, it is understood that the tool interface 614b can extend into the pivot head 608b to receive torque, similar to the tool interface 614a.

[0152] The pivot heads 608a and 608b are arranged on opposite sides of the gun body 334. The pivot heads 608a and 608b are arranged so that at least a portion of the gun body 334 is directly axially arranged between the pivot heads 608a and 608b. The trigger mount 600 is configured so that the mount body 602 remains mounted to the gun body 334 with the trigger 480 in the engaged state and the disengaged state of the trigger. The pivot head 608a is sized relative to the body bore 530 to prevent the mount body 602 from traveling out of the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD2. The pivot head 608b is sized relative to the body bore 530 to prevent the mount body 602 from traveling out of the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD1. The mount body 602 remains mounted to the gun body 334 while the trigger 480 is being installed or removed, simplifying operation of the spray gun 312 and making it easier for the user by eliminating loose parts.

[0153] The shaft 606 extends between and connects the pivot heads 608a and 608b. The shaft 606 is elongated along the mounting axis MA. Among other options, the shaft 606 can be cylindrical. In some examples, the outer surface of the shaft 606 is faceted or otherwise non-circular, and the shape of the body bore 530 (e.g., the bore portion 532a) is similar, so that the shaft 606 is keyed to the body bore 530. Keying the shaft 606 to the body bore 530 can prevent the mounting body 602 from rotating on the mounting axis MA, so that the trigger 480 can pivot about the mounting axis MA and move relative to the mounting body 602.

[0154] The shaft 606 extends between the axial inner sides of the pivot heads 608a, 608b. In the example shown, the shaft 606 is formed integrally with the pivot head 608a. In the example shown, the shaft 606 is formed separately from the pivot head 608b and is mounted to the pivot head 608b. In some examples, the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b can be removably mounted to each other, such as by the interface thread between the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b. The shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b can be removably mounted so that the connection between the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b can be disconnected by twisting the pivot head 608a and / or the pivot head 608b on the mounting axis MA. In the example shown, the shaft 606 includes a threaded handle 610, which extends into a threaded head bore 618 in the pivot head 608b to form a threaded interface between the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b. In some examples, the head bore 618 is completely axially opened through the pivot head 608b. In some examples, the head bore 618 only partially extends through the pivot head 608b, so that the head bore 618 does not open through the outer axial surface of the pivot head 608b, thereby providing a smooth outer surface that interfaces with the user. In some examples, the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b can be permanently connected, such as by press fit, adhesive, welding, etc. Although the shaft 606 is shown as being integral with the pivot head 608a in the example shown, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the shaft 606 can be integrally formed with the pivot head 608b and mounted to the pivot head 608a. In another example, the shaft 606 can be formed separately from the two pivot heads 608a, 608b, and can be assembled to the two pivot heads 608a, 608b. A shaft 606 extends between and connects the pivot heads 608a, 608b to facilitate one-way actuation between the retaining state and the mounting state.

[0155] In the example shown, the shaft 606 is formed as a rigid structure that connects the pivot head 608a and the pivot head 608b together to move simultaneously along the mounting axis MA. The shaft 606 rigidly connects the pivot head 608a and the pivot head 608b. The force applied to the pivot head 608a in the axial direction MD2 is transmitted to the pivot head 608b through the shaft 606 so that the pivot head 608b is displaced along the axial direction MD2 with the pivot head 608a. Similarly, the force applied to the pivot head 608a in the axial direction MD1 is transmitted to the pivot head 608b through the shaft 606 so that the pivot head 608a is displaced along the axial direction MD2 with the pivot head 608b. The force applied to the mounting body 602 in the opposite direction can be offset. For example, applying a first force to the pivot head 608b in the axial direction MD1 and a second force to the pivot head 608a in the axial direction MD2 may counteract those equal forces that cause the mount body 602 to remain stationary.

[0156] The shaft 606 extends within the body bore 530. With the trigger mount 600 in the retained state and the installed state, the shaft 606 is at least partially disposed within the body bore 530. With the trigger mount 600 in the installed state, a smaller portion of the length of the shaft 606 is disposed within the body bore 530 than when the trigger mount 600 is in the retained state. A larger portion of the length of the shaft 606 is disposed outside of the body bore 530 when the trigger mount 600 is in the installed state than when the trigger mount 600 is in the retained state.

[0157] The spring 640 is configured to bias the trigger mount 600 to a retained state. The spring 640 biases the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD1. In the example shown, the spring 640 interfaces with the mount body 602 to bias the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD1. The spring 640 interfaces with the pivot head 608a to bias the mount body 602. The spring 640 interfaces with the head face 616a oriented in the axial direction MD2. The spring 640 extends between the shoulder 536a and the pivot head 608a. The spring 640 is axially captured between the head face 616a and the shoulder 536a. The spring 640 is supported against the shoulder 536a to bias the mount body 602 relative to the gun body 334 in the axial direction MD1.

[0158] The spring 640 is disposed around a portion of the mount body 602. In the example shown, the spring 640 is disposed around the shaft 606. The shaft 606 extends through the spring 640 and axially beyond the spring 640. In the example shown, the radial width of the shaft 606 is less than the radial width of the spring 640. In the example shown, the diameter of the spring 640 is greater than the diameter of the shaft 606. The diameter of the spring 640 is less than the diameter of the bearing surface 612a. In the example shown, the spring 640 is formed as a coil spring, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0159] During operation, the trigger mount 600 is actuated to facilitate mounting and removing the trigger 480 from the spray gun 312. The trigger mount 600 supports the trigger 480 on the gun body 334 so that the trigger 480 can be pivoted about the mounting axis MA and one or more valves can be actuated open to allow the spray gun 312 to spray. The trigger mount 600 is capable of pivotally supporting the trigger 480. The trigger 480 is initially removed from the gun body 334 so that the trigger 480 is disconnected from the gun body 334 and is not supported by the gun body 334. The trigger 480 moves vertically upward from the bottom side of the gun body 334 so that the arms 483a, 483b are disposed on opposite lateral sides 534a, 534b of the gun body 334.

[0160] The trigger mounting member 600 is actuated to the mounted state. The mounting member body 602 is moved from the mounting member 602 in the axial direction MD2 to the mounting member 602 in the axial direction MD2. Figure 3C The position shown is shifted to Figure 4C The position shown. For example, an axial force in the axial direction MD2 can be applied to the pivot head 608a. This force is transmitted to the pivot head 608b through the shaft 606. The pivot head 608a, the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b are displaced in the axial direction MD2. The pivot head 608a is received in the bore portion 532c and is recessed in the body bore 530. The spring 640 is compressed between the pivot head 608a and the shoulder 536a. The pivot head 608b is spaced apart from the gun body 334 so that an axial gap is formed between the pivot head 608b and the gun body 334 along the mounting axis MA.

[0161] The mounting body 602 is moved from a position associated with the retention state ( Figure 3C ) to the location associated with the installation state ( Figure 4C ). The mounting member body 602 is laterally moved relative to the gun body 334 to a position associated with the installed state. The mounting member body 602 is moved along the axial direction MD2 to place the trigger mounting member 600 in the installed state.

[0162] With the trigger mount 600 in the mounted state, the mount body 602 is positioned to facilitate mounting or removing the trigger 480 on or from the gun body 334. The pivot head 608a is axially disposed between the lateral sides 534a, 534b. The pivot head 608a is axially disposed between the arm 483a and the arm 483b along the mounting axis MA. The pivot head 608b is axially spaced outward from the gun body 334. The pivot head 608b is arranged so that the arm 483b is axially disposed between the pivot head 608b and the gun body 334. The arm 483b is axially disposed between the pivot head 608b and the lateral side 534b of the gun body 334. The arm 483b is axially disposed between the pivot head 608b and the pivot head 608a. The arm 483b is disposed in the axial gap formed between the pivot head 608b and the lateral side 534b.

[0163] With the mount body 602 in a position associated with the installed state, the trigger 480 is able to travel past the mount body 602 to be installed on the gun body 334. The trigger 480 moves from a position associated with the disengaged state of the trigger 480, in which the trigger 480 is spaced apart from the first valve assembly (e.g., the control assembly 338, the control assembly 476) so that the first valve assembly can be axially traveled past the trigger 480 along the spray axis SA for installation and removal, to a position associated with the engaged state of the trigger 480, in which the trigger 480 can be moved to open the first valve of the first valve assembly.

[0164] During installation, the trigger 480 moves upward from the bottom side of the gun body 334 and enters the gap between the front block 494 and the rear block 496 along the spray axis SA. The trigger 480 moves upward so that the gun body 334 is received in the U-shaped clip (clevis) formed by the arms 483a, 483b. The trigger 480 moves upward so that the valve shaft of the valve of the spray gun 312 is arranged in the receiving portion 485 of the trigger 480. In the example shown, the receiving portion 485 is formed as a groove in the body of the trigger 480.

[0165] During installation of the trigger 480, the arm 483a is arranged on the first lateral side of the gun body 334. As the trigger 480 moves to the engaged state, the arm 483a is spaced apart in the axial direction MD1 relative to the mount body 602. During installation of the trigger 480, the arm 483a is spaced apart in the axial direction MD1 relative to the pivot head 608a and the pivot head 608b. In the example shown, the arm 483a travels across the mount body 602 so that the mount opening 487a is aligned with the pivot head 608a.

[0166] During installation of the trigger 480, the arm 483b is arranged on the second lateral side of the gun body 334. The arm 483b is axially arranged between different parts of the mount body 602. The arm 483b is axially arranged between the axial ends of the mount body 602. The arm 483b is spaced apart from the pivot head 608b in the axial direction MD1 and is spaced apart from the pivot head 608a in the axial direction MD2. During installation relative to the mounting axis MA, the arm 483b does not radially overlap with either pivot head 608b. The arm 483b travels past the pivot head 608b at an axial position between the pivot head 608b and the gun body 334. In the example shown, during at least a portion of the displacement of the trigger 480 from the disengaged state to the engaged state, a portion of the arm 483b axially overlaps with the pivot head 608b and the gun body 334 along the mounting axis MA.

[0167] The arm 483 is positioned so that the pivot head 608b is axially aligned with the mount opening 487b. In the example shown, the trigger 480 moves relative to the gun body 334 and / or the gun body 334 moves relative to the trigger 480 so that the shaft 606 travels through the slot 489 and enters the mount opening 487b. Relative movement occurs along the displacement axis DA aligned with the slot 489. The slot 489 can be considered to define the displacement axis DA. The shaft 606 that travels through the slot 489 and enters the mount opening 487b aligns the pivot head 608b with the mount opening 487b. During installation and removal of the trigger 480, the mount opening 487b moves radially relative to the mounting axis MA.

[0168] With the trigger 480 arranged in a position associated with the engaged state, the trigger mount 600 is actuated to the retaining state to connect the trigger 480 to the gun body 334. The trigger mount 600 connects the trigger 480 to the gun body 334 and retains the trigger 480 in the engaged state. The mount body 602 moves laterally relative to the gun body 334 and engages with the trigger 480. The mount body 602 mechanically supports the trigger 480 on the gun body 334. In the example shown, the mount body 602 is released and the spring 640 displaces the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD1. The spring 640 applies an axial drive force to the pivot head 608a, displacing the pivot head 608a and causing the pivot head 608 to pull the shaft 606 and the pivot head 608b in the axial direction MD1. The pivot head 608a moves in the axial direction MD1 and enters the mount opening 487a. The pivot head 608b moves in the axial direction MD1 and enters the mount opening 487b. The pivot heads 608a, 608b move in the same axial direction to enter the mount openings 487a, 487b, thereby connecting the trigger 480 to the gun body 334.

[0169] In the example shown, the pivot head 608b limits displacement in the axial direction MD1. The size of the pivot head 608b is set so that the pivot head 608b cannot travel through the body bore 530 in the axial direction MD1. In the example shown, the axial inner side (e.g., the head surface 616b) of the pivot head 608b engages with the gun body 334 to limit the displacement of the mounting body 602 in the axial direction MD1. Therefore, when the trigger mount 600 is in both the retention state and the installation state, the mounting body 602 is retained on the gun body 334. The size of the mounting body 602 is set so that when the trigger 480 is removed from the gun body 334, the spring 640 does not cause the mounting body 602 to be removed from the gun body 334.

[0170] The mounting member body 602 is displaced in the axial direction MD1 to a position associated with the holding state. In the example shown, the mounting member body 602 is dimensioned so that the bearing surface 612a is arranged directly in the mounting member opening 487a, wherein the mounting member body 602 is located at the displacement limit in the axial direction MD1. The mounting member body 602 is also dimensioned so that the bearing surface 612b is arranged directly in the mounting member opening 487b, wherein the mounting member body 602 is located at the displacement limit in the axial direction MD1. The bearing surfaces 612a, 612b support the trigger 480 rotatably on the mounting axis MA. The trigger 480 can pivot around the mounting axis MA, so that the mounting axis MA can also be regarded as forming a pivot axis.

[0171] The user can engage the pull portion 481 with the fingers of the hand holding the trigger 480 so that the spray gun 312 is sprayed. In the example shown, the trigger 480 can actuate both the spray valve 322 and the air valve 490 to their respective open states. The trigger 480 can be removed from the gun body 334 to facilitate maintenance, removal, repair, etc. of one or more spray valves. These valves can be formed as a part of one or more valve cartridge assemblies that can be mounted to the gun body 334. The trigger 480 is shifted from the engaged state of the trigger to the disengaged state to allow one or more valve cartridges to be installed or removed. In the example shown, when the trigger 480 is in the disengaged state, the trigger 480 is completely disassembled from the gun body 334. The trigger 480 is disconnected from the gun body 334 so that the trigger 480 is not supported by the gun body 334 when it is in the disengaged state.

[0172] The trigger 480 is removed by actuating the trigger mount 600 from the retaining state to the mounting state and then displacing the trigger 480 relative to the gun body 334 and / or displacing the gun body 334 relative to the trigger 480 so that the gun body 334 comes out of the U-clip of the trigger 480. In the example shown, the mount body 602 is displaced laterally so that the pivot head 608a is removed from the mount opening 487a and the pivot head 608b is removed from the mount opening 487b. A single axial input on the pivot head 608a can displace each of the pivot heads 608a, 608b and the shaft 606 along the mounting axis MA. Both the pivot heads 608a, 608b move in the axial direction MD2. The mount body 602 is removed from the mount opening 487a and extends through the mount opening 487b.

[0173] The trigger 480 moves downwardly away from the gun body 334 along the displacement axis DA. The gun body 334 moves from being directly between the arms 483a, 483b to not being directly disposed between the arms 483a, 483b. With the mount body 602 in a position associated with the installed state, the trigger 480 moves such that the arm 483a moves past the mount body 602 and the arm 483b moves away from the mount body 602. The shaft 606 moves within the slot 489 to remove the arm 483b. The arm 483b radially overlaps the mount body 602, and the slot 489 allows the arm 483b to radially travel past the mount body 602 relative to the mounting axis MA. The arm 483a is axially spaced outwardly from the mount body 602 and does not radially overlap the mount body 602 along the mounting axis MA during removal of the trigger 480.

[0174] The trigger 480 travels through the mount body 602 and is disconnected from the gun body 334. After the arm 483 travels through the mount body 602, the mount body 602 can return to a position associated with the hold state. The spring 640 drives the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD1 and drives it back to a position associated with the hold state. The trigger 480 is removed from the gun body 334, while the trigger mount 600 remains connected to and supported by the gun body 334. One or more valve cartridges can be removed for repair, reinstallation, replacement, etc. The same or a new trigger 480 can be installed to the gun body 334 through the trigger mount 600 to resume spraying.

[0175] The trigger mount 600 is arranged directly between at least one channel delivering compressed gas and the spray axis SA along which one or more valves are arranged for actuation by the trigger 480. In the example shown, the common channel 502 radially overlaps the trigger mount 600 relative to the spray axis SA, so that both shaping air and atomizing air flow radially outside the trigger mount 600 and at a position overlapping the trigger mount 600.

[0176] The trigger mount 600 is configured to provide a compact configuration for the gun body 334 and the trigger 480. In the example shown, the trigger 480 is completely removed from the gun body 334. Completely removing the trigger 480 from the gun body 334 eliminates the need to extend the channel to receive the mount body 602 when the trigger 480 slides but remains mounted to the gun body 334. It should be understood that in some examples, the trigger 480 can remain mounted to the gun body 334 while being in a disengaged state. For example, the trigger 480 can include a set of auxiliary openings similar to the mount openings 487a, 487b, which are spaced apart from the mount openings 487a, 487b along the axis DA. The mount body 602 can engage the auxiliary openings to maintain the trigger 480 mounted on the gun body 334, but in a position where the trigger 480 is spaced apart from the spray axis SA, thereby allowing the valve to be installed and removed from the gun body 334. The compact configuration of the trigger 480 reduces material and manufacturing costs and provides a simplified configuration. Furthermore, a single trigger 480 can be removed from one gun body 334 used for spraying with a first fluid type and used on a second gun body 334 used for spraying with a second fluid type. A worn trigger 480 can also be easily removed and replaced.

[0177] The mount body 602 moves laterally relative to the gun body 334 from a retained position associated with the retained state to an installed position associated with the installed state. The mount body 602 moves axially along the mounting axis MA. The mount body 602 moves in a single axial direction as a single unit, contributing to the compact construction of the gun body 334. The body bore 530 need not be sized to receive two pivot heads 608a, 608b; instead, the pivot head 608b is retained outside the gun body 334, while the pivot head 608a is recessed within the gun body 334. Such a construction contributes to a laterally compact gun body 334, thereby reducing material and manufacturing costs. The compact construction can reduce the weight of the gun body 334, thereby reducing user fatigue and providing a more efficient spraying operation.

[0178] The body bore 530 is arranged vertically directly between the air delivery channel and the spray axis SA. The pivot of the trigger 480 is arranged at a position within the area defined by the various flow channels. In the example shown, the pivot of the trigger 480 is arranged in the area defined by the flow channel delivering compressed gas (located vertically above, longitudinally forward and rearward (along the spray axis SA)) and defined by the spray axis SA. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Such an area can be best seen in . Placing the pivot in such an area contributes to the compact construction of the gun body 334, thereby reducing material and manufacturing costs. The compact construction can reduce the weight of the gun body 334, thereby reducing user fatigue and providing a more efficient spraying operation.

[0179] The mount body 602 and the trigger 480 are configured so that the trigger 480 moves in a single direction during installation and in a single direction during removal. The trigger 480 moves in a first direction along the displacement axis DA to be installed to the gun body 334, and moves in an opposite second direction along the axis DA to be removed from the gun body 334. The axial movement in a single direction provides a compact installation footprint in which the trigger 480 moves, for example, compared to multi-directional movement, such as the open hook moving up over the pivot and then moving up and down. This single direction movement also simplifies the installation and removal process for the user. The user is able to fully actuate the trigger mount 600 to the retention state with a single finger. The user can apply an axial force to the pivot head 608a to displace the mount body 602 with a single finger.

[0180] The trigger mount 600 receives a single actuation force to shift from the retained state to the mounted state. An axial force is applied to the pivot head 608a to displace the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD2. The single displacement disengages the mount body 602 from the arms 483a and 483b. Applying a single axial force to disconnect the trigger 480 from the trigger mount 600 further helps to form the gun body 334 and the mount body 602 in a compact configuration. The gun body 334 is wide enough in the transverse direction to support the mount body 602, but does not require the receipt of multiple claws in the event that the trigger 480 is disconnected. Such a configuration also provides for simpler installation and removal, thereby reducing complexity and downtime for the user.

[0181] The trigger mount 600 receives a single actuation force to shift from the mounted state to the retained state. An axial force is applied to the pivot head 608a to shift the mount body 602 in the axial direction MD1. The spring 640 biases the trigger mount 600 toward the retained state so that the trigger mount 600 is normally in the retained state. The trigger mount 600 is normally in the retained state, maintaining the trigger 480 on the gun body 334 without requiring additional input from the user, thereby preventing accidental disconnection of the trigger 480.

[0182] Figure 5A is a first isometric view of trigger 1480 . Figure 5B is a second isometric view of trigger 1480 . Figure 5C is a side elevation view of trigger 1480 . Figure 6 is an enlarged isometric view of the mounting interface of the trigger 1480 on the spray gun 312. FIG. 5A to FIG. 6 Flip-flop 1480 is substantially similar to flip-flop 480 (in FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C 1484). Components of trigger 1480 that are similar to components of trigger 480 are indicated with the same reference numerals except for the addition of "1000" (e.g., pull portion 1481 and pull portion 481). Trigger 1480 includes pull portion 1481, arms 1483a, 1483b, receiving portion 1485, mounting member openings 1487a, 1487b, and mounting slot 1489. Mounting member opening 1487a includes tool connection portion 1622 and trigger support surface 1624a. Mounting member opening 1487b includes trigger support surface 1624b.

[0183] The trigger 1480 is configured to be mounted to and removed from the gun body 334 in the same manner as the trigger 480 discussed in detail above. The trigger 1480 can be mounted to the gun body via a trigger mount 600. The trigger mount 600 holds the trigger 1480 on the gun body 334. In the example shown, the trigger mount 600 provides a pivot point about which the trigger 1480 can be pivoted to actuate one or more valves to their respective open states. The trigger mount 600 can be considered to form a bearing pivot on which the trigger 1480 can be rotatably supported. In the example shown, the trigger 1480 is configured to pivot about a pivot axis PA.

[0184] The pull portion 1481 includes a forward surface 1626 that is configured to be engaged by one or more fingers of a user during a spraying operation of the spray gun 312 to actuate the trigger 1480. Arms 1483a, 1483b extend from the pull portion 1481. With the trigger 1480 mounted to the spray gun 312, the arms 1483a, 1483b are configured to be arranged on opposite lateral sides of the gun body 334. In the example shown, the receiving portion 1485 is formed as a slot in the body of the trigger 1480. The receiving portion 1485 is configured to extend around the valve shaft of the valve of the spray gun 312 and can overlap axially with the coupler 492 so that the trigger 1480 can actuate the spray valve by defining a structure that engages the slot of the receiving portion 1485 of the coupler 492.

[0185] A mounting opening 1487b is formed through the arm 1483b. The trigger bearing surface 1624b defines the mounting opening 1487b. The trigger bearing surface 1624b is configured to engage with the pivot head 608b to ride on the pivot head 608b. In the example shown, the trigger bearing surface 1624b is formed as a partial ring. The mounting slot 1489 extends through the trigger arm 1483b and opens to allow the shaft 606 of the trigger mount 600 to enter and exit the mounting opening 1487b. The mounting openings 1487a, 1487b are coaxially arranged on the pivot axis PA, and the trigger 1480 is configured to pivot about the pivot axis PA when mounted to the spray gun 312 to control the spraying of the spray gun 312.

[0186] In the example shown, the trigger support surface 1624b is formed by a support 1628b. The support 1628b is formed separately from the trigger arm 1483b and is fixed to the trigger arm 1483b. For example, the trigger arm 1483b can be overmolded on the support 1628b. The support 1628b can be formed of a different material than the material forming the trigger arm 1483b. For example, the support 1628b can be formed of a metal such as steel, carbide, etc., while the trigger arm 1483b can be formed of a polymer.

[0187] A mounting opening 1487a is formed through the arm 1483a. The trigger bearing surface 1624a defines the mounting opening 1487a. The trigger bearing surface 1624a is configured to engage with the pivot head 608a to ride on the pivot head 608a. In the example shown, the trigger bearing surface 1624a is formed completely annularly around the mounting opening 1487a. In the example shown, the mounting opening 1487a is closed.

[0188] The tool connection portion 1622 is formed around the mounting opening 1487a. The tool connection portion 1622 is configured to interface with a surface of another component of the spray gun 312 so that the trigger 1480 can apply a force to the other component through the tool connection portion 1622. In the example shown, the tool connection portion 1622 is configured to apply a torque on the other component so that the trigger 1480 can drive a rotational displacement of the other component through the tool connection portion 1622. In the example shown, the tool connection portion 1622 is formed as a hexagonal surface extending around the mounting opening 1487a, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0189] In some examples, the trigger 1480 may include an additional or alternative tool interface. For example, the trigger 1480 may include one or more protrusions that are shaped to extend into other components or receive other components to apply a driving force to other components. In some examples, one or more protrusions may be shaped as hexagonal protrusions or chambers, stars, flats, cross heads, plum heads, or other shapes suitable for applying torque on other components. For example, one or more protrusions may be configured to interface with the tool interface 614a, 614b of the trigger mounting member 600. In some examples, such one or more protrusions may extend from the outer surface 1630 of one or two of the trigger arms 1483a, 1483b. In some examples, one or more protrusions may extend from the outer lateral side 1632 of the trigger arms 1483a, 1483b. In some examples, the tool interface may be formed as one or more protrusions configured as a pick-up portion, such as for applying a lever force to a component, or for cleaning the nozzle 328 or the orifice through the air cap 392.

[0190] In the example shown, the trigger support surface 1624a is formed by a support 1628a. The tool connection portion 1622 is also formed by a support 1628a. The support 1628a is formed separately from the trigger arm 1483a and is fixed to the trigger arm 1483a. For example, the trigger arm 1483a can be overmolded on the support 1628a. The support 1628b can be formed of a different material than the material forming the trigger arm 1483b. For example, the support 1628b can be formed of a metal such as steel, a carbide, etc., while the trigger arm 1483b can be formed of a polymer.

[0191] Both the tool connection portion 1622 and the trigger bearing surface 1624a are formed by the bearing 1628a. The tool connection portion 1622 is formed by a plurality of interface surfaces 1634 extending around the mounting opening 1487a to define the mounting opening 1487a. The interface surfaces 1634 define a circular bearing opening inscribed in the hexagonal tool opening, which is also defined by the interface surfaces 1634. The circular bearing opening is configured to receive the pivot head 608a so that the pivot head 608b rides on the portion of the interface surface 1634 defining the inscribed circular bearing opening. In the example shown, the trigger 1480 is configured so that a portion of each interface surface 1634 rides on the pivot head 608a. In the example shown, the trigger 1480 is configured so that less than the full circumferential length CL of each interface surface 1634 contacts and rides on the pivot head 608a. Up to the full length CL of each interface surface 1634 may contact a corresponding surface on the component that the tool connection 1622 contacts to apply torque to the other component.

[0192] The trigger 1480 provides significant advantages. The trigger 1480 can be mounted to the spray gun 312 to actuate one or more valves of the spray gun 312 to control the spraying of the spray gun 312. The trigger 1480 is configured to be installed and removed by moving relative to the gun body 334 to connect to and disconnect from the trigger mount 600. The trigger bearing surfaces 1624a, 1624b ride on the pivot heads 608a, 608b, respectively, so that the trigger 1480 can smoothly pivot on the mounting axis MA.

[0193] Typically, the trigger 1480 is removed from the spray gun 312 for one or more spray valves of the spray gun 312 for maintenance. When the trigger 1480 is removed, the tool connection portion 1622 can be used to manipulate the components of the spray gun 312. The tool connection portion 1622 can be used to tighten or loosen the threaded connection interface. Thus, the trigger 1480 can provide the spray gun 312 with a trigger for controlling the spraying and the installation and removal of the components. The user does not need to find and use a separate tool to tighten or loosen the threaded interface. Instead, the user can use the trigger 1480 that has been removed from the spray gun 312 and is ready to be used as a tool. Such a configuration saves time and cost, and provides a more efficient spraying operation.

[0194] Fig. 7A is an isometric partially exploded view of spray gun 312 . Figure 7B is an isometric partially exploded view of spray gun 312 . Figure 8 is an isometric view of the trigger 1480 and the spray control assembly 338. The spray control assembly 338 may also be referred to as a valve cartridge. FIG. 7A to FIG. 8 .

[0195] The valve cartridge body 364 includes a mounting head 1636. The mounting head 1636 is formed at the downstream end of the valve cartridge body 364. The mounting head 1636 is coaxially arranged with the nozzle 328. The mounting head 1636 includes a plurality of mounting surfaces 1638 arranged around the axis SA. The mounting head 1636 forms a tool interface for the spray control assembly 338. In the example shown, the mounting piece opening 1487a is configured to receive the mounting head 1636 so that the tool connection portion 1622 receives the mounting head 1636 and interfaces with the mounting head 1636. The trigger 1480 can be rotated on the axis SA to tighten or loosen the threaded interface that mounts the spray control assembly 338 to the gun body 334.

[0196] In the example shown, a keyed interface is formed between the valve cartridge body 364 and the trigger 1480. In the case where the tool connection portion 1622 radially overlaps the mounting head 1636, the keyed interface prevents the trigger 1480 from rotating relative to the valve cartridge body 364. It should be understood that although the keyed interface is formed by a portion of the valve cartridge body 364 extending into a portion of the trigger 1480, not all examples are so limited. For example, a portion of the trigger 1480 can extend into a portion of the valve cartridge body 364, such as by extending into an array of bores in the valve cartridge body 364. The keyed interface can be formed around the nozzle 328 and coaxially with the nozzle 328. It should be understood that although a keyed interface between the trigger 1480 and the spray control assembly 338 is shown, the trigger 1480 can be additionally or alternatively configured to engage with the flow control assembly 476 that controls the compressed air flow through the spray gun 312 to facilitate installation and removal of the flow control assembly 476 by interfacing with the trigger 1480.

[0197] Fig. 9 1 is an isometric view of trigger 1480'. Trigger 1480' is substantially similar to trigger 1480, except that trigger 1480' includes a protrusion 1640 that is configured to extend into an interface of a receiving portion of a component of the spray gun (e.g., a valve assembly) to apply a force to the component for installation or removal. In the example shown, protrusions 1640 are arranged in an array about axis PA.

[0198] Fig.10 is an elevation view showing the interface between the air cap 326 and the spray control assembly 338 . Fig.11A is an isometric view of the spray control assembly 338 . Fig. 11Bis an elevational end view of the spray control assembly 338. The air cap 326 is configured to engage the spray control assembly 338 at a keyed interface such that the air cap 326 can apply torque to the spray control assembly 338 during installation and / or removal of the spray control assembly 338.

[0199] The air cap 326 is configured to receive a flow of compressed gas (e.g., compressed air) and output these flows to shape and / or atomize the spray fluid output from the spray control assembly 338. The air cap 326 includes a flared portion 446 protruding from the body of the air cap 326. The flared portion 446 is configured to output a portion of the compressed gas. In the example shown, the flared portion 446 also forms an interface component of the air cap 326, which interfaces with the spray control assembly 338 to apply torque to the spray control assembly 338.

[0200] The spray control assembly 338 is configured to be installed to and / or removed from the gun body 334 of the spray gun 312 by a valve cartridge tool. In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 is configured so that the spray control assembly 338 can be removed by interfacing with a single tool of a plurality of different tools. For example, the ring 426 includes a ring flat 1650 that forms a faceted exterior of the valve cartridge body 364. The ring flat 1650 can be engaged by a tool (e.g., a wrench) so that the tool can apply torque on the spray control assembly 338 for installation or removal. The valve cartridge body 364 can additionally or alternatively include a mounting head 1636. The mounting head 1636 can be engaged by a tool configured to apply torque by engaging with a mounting surface 1638 that forms a faceted exterior of the mounting head 1636. For example, the mounting head 1636 can be engaged by the trigger 1480 so that the trigger 1480 forms a valve cartridge tool. In some examples, the mounting head 1636 can be engaged by a wrench to apply torque to the spray control assembly 338. The spray control assembly 338 can additionally or alternatively include a flare slot 1642. The flare slot 1642 forms a receiving portion on the spray control assembly 338 into which the flare 446 of the air cap 326 can extend, so that rotation of the air cap 326 applies torque to the spray control assembly 338. In this way, the air cap 326 can form a valve cartridge tool.

[0201] In the example shown, the spray control assembly 338 includes a trumpet groove 1642. The trumpet groove 1642 is configured to receive the trumpet 446 of the air cap 326. The trumpet groove 1642 is formed in the valve cartridge body 364. In the example shown, the trumpet groove 1642 is formed in the ring 426 of the valve cartridge body 364. The trumpet groove 1642 opens radially outward away from the spray axis SA. The trumpet groove 1642 is closed radially inward toward the spray axis SA. Each trumpet groove 1642 includes a base 1644 located radially inward of the trumpet groove 1642. The trumpet groove 1642 extends to the radial outside of the ring 426, but does not completely extend radially through the ring 426. In the example shown, the flared groove 1642 does not extend into the annular lip 1646 that interfaces with the air cap 326 to form a sealed interface between the air cap 326 and the spray control assembly 338 when the spray control assembly 338 and the air cap 326 are installed on the spray gun 312. The annular lip 1646 is an angled annular surface that mates with the air cap 326.

[0202] The trumpet groove 1642 includes a side wall 1648. The side wall 1648 is arranged at the circumferential side of the trumpet groove 1642. The side wall 1648 is configured to overlap the trumpet 446 of the air cap 326 circumferentially when the trumpet 446 is arranged in the trumpet groove 1642. The trumpet 446 can interface with the side wall 4648 to apply torque on the spray control assembly 338 for installation and removal. In some examples, as the side walls 1648 extend from the open axial end of the trumpet groove 1642 and along the upstream direction AD1, the side walls 1648 can converge toward each other. Such a configuration can facilitate the reception of the trumpet 446, and the trumpet 446 can include a trumpet side 1652, which converges toward each other as the trumpet 446 extends away from the body of the air cap 326.

[0203] The spray control assembly 338 includes a pair of opposing flared grooves 1642. The flared grooves 1642 are axially open in the downstream direction AD2. The flared grooves 1642 are axially open so that the flared portion 446 can enter the flared grooves 1642 by relative axial movement between the air cap 326 and the spray control assembly 338. The flared portion 446 can leave the flared grooves 1642 by relative axial movement in the opposite direction.

[0204] In some examples, the base 1644 of the flare groove 1642 can be inclined. The flare groove 1642 can be configured so that the depth of the flare groove 1642 decreases from the open axial end of the flare groove 1642 and as the flare groove 1642 extends axially into the valve cartridge body 364. The inclined base 1644 can facilitate receiving and interfacing with the inclined inner surface 1654 of the flare 446. The height H of the flare groove 1642 can decrease from the open end of the flare groove 1642 and toward the collar 424 in the upstream direction AD1, through which the flare 446 can enter and be removed from the flare groove 1642.

[0205] The user can quickly and efficiently install or remove the spray control assembly 338 with the air cap 326. Remove the air cap 326 to access the spray control assembly 338 for removal. In the case where the air cap 326 has been removed, the air cap 326 can be rotated and directly engaged with the spray control assembly 338. The flare 446 is inserted into the relative flare groove 1642. Then, the air cap 326 can be rotated to apply torque on the spray control assembly 338 to unscrew the spray control assembly 338 from the spray gun 312 and remove the spray control assembly 338 for repair or replacement. Before the air cap 326 is connected to the spray gun 312, the spray control assembly 338 is installed on the spray gun 312. The flare 446 can be inserted into the flare groove 1642, and the air cap 326 can be rotated to apply torque on the spray control assembly 338, and the spray control assembly 338 and the spray gun 312 are engaged in a threaded connection. Interfacing the air cap 326 with the spray control assembly 338 provides time and cost savings and eliminates the need for additional tools to install or remove the spray control assembly 338 .

[0206] Discussion of non-exclusive examples

[0207] The following is a non-exclusive description of possible examples according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0208] A spray gun comprises: a gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly being at least partially arranged in the bore, the first valve assembly comprising a first valve configured to control discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger, the trigger being mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state and a disengaged state, in the engaged state, The trigger is movable to open the first valve, in the disengaged state, the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly so that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount, the trigger mount being configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuable between a retaining state and an installed state, in which the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and in which the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body. The trigger mount includes a mount body, the mount body being at least partially disposed within the body bore, the mount body protruding out of the body bore in a first direction along the axis to interface with a first arm of the trigger, and the mount body protruding out of the body bore in a second direction along the axis to interface with a second arm of the trigger. The mount body is configured to be displaced in the second direction along the mounting axis to place the trigger mount in the installed state.

[0209] The spray gun of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0210] The mounting body includes: a shaft rod extending along the mounting axis; a first pivot head arranged at a first end of the shaft rod, the first pivot head being configured to interface with the first arm to mount the trigger to the gun body; a second pivot head arranged at a second end of the shaft rod, the second pivot head being configured to interface with the second arm to mount the trigger to the gun body; the first pivot head being radially larger than the shaft rod, and the second pivot head being radially larger than the shaft rod.

[0211] The second pivot head is at least partially arranged outside the gun body in both the retaining state and the mounting state of the trigger mount.

[0212] The first pivot head includes a first cylindrical bearing surface on which the first arm rides when the trigger is mounted to the trigger mount. The second pivot head includes a second cylindrical bearing surface on which the second arm rides when the trigger is mounted to the trigger mount.

[0213] The first cylindrical support surface is spaced apart from the first arm in the second direction along the mounting axis when the trigger mount is in the mounted state, and wherein, the second cylindrical support surface is spaced apart from the second arm in the second direction along the mounting axis when the trigger mount is in the mounted state.

[0214] At least one of the first pivot head and the second pivot head is formed separately from the shaft and mounted to the shaft.

[0215] The first pivot head is integrally formed with the shaft, and the second pivot head is separately formed from the shaft.

[0216] The shaft and the second pivot head are connected via a threaded interface.

[0217] The shaft and the second pivot head are press-fit together.

[0218] The first pivot head includes a first tool interface configured to receive a torque input from a first tool, the first tool interface being disposed axially outboard of the first cylindrical bearing surface.

[0219] The first tool interface is arranged on the mounting axis.

[0220] The second pivot head includes a second tool interface configured to receive a torque input from a second tool, the second tool interface being disposed axially outward of the second cylindrical bearing surface.

[0221] The second tool interface is formed as a faceted exterior of the second pivot head.

[0222] The first cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the first pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the second direction along the mounting axis.

[0223] The second cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the second pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the first direction along the mounting axis.

[0224] The second cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the second pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the first direction along the mounting axis.

[0225] A spring interfaces with the mount body and biases the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis and into the retained state.

[0226] The spring interfaces with the gun body and the first pivot head.

[0227] The body bore includes a first bore portion having a first radial width, the first bore portion extending in the gun body from a first lateral side of the gun body, and a second bore portion extending from the first bore portion and having a second radial width greater than the first radial width; wherein the mount body extends through the first bore portion and the second bore portion, and the spring is supported against a first shoulder formed between the first bore portion and the second bore portion.

[0228] The spring has a diameter greater than a diameter of the first bore portion.

[0229] The body bore also includes a third bore portion having a third radial width extending from a second lateral side of the gun body into the gun body, wherein the third radial width is greater than the second radial width.

[0230] The radial width of the first pivot head is greater than the second radial width and smaller than the third radial width.

[0231] A spring interfaces with the mount body and biases the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis and into the retained state.

[0232] An axial length of the mount body along the mounting axis is the same when the trigger mount is in the retained state and when the trigger mount is in the mounted state.

[0233] The trigger also includes: a pulling portion; a first arm, the first arm extending from the pulling portion; a second arm, the second arm extending from the pulling portion; a first mounting member opening, the first mounting member opening passing through the first arm, and when the trigger mounting member supports the trigger, the mounting member body is arranged in the first mounting member opening; and a second mounting member opening, the second mounting member opening passing through the second arm, and when the trigger mounting member supports the trigger, the mounting member body is arranged in the second mounting member opening.

[0234] With the trigger mount in the mounted state and the trigger in the spray position associated with the engaged state, the mount body is removed from the first mount opening, and with the trigger mount in the mounted state and the trigger in the spray position, the mount body extends through the second mount opening.

[0235] The trigger also includes a mounting slot extending through the second arm and opening into the second mount opening.

[0236] The mounting slot defines a displacement axis along which the trigger moves between the engaged state and the disengaged state.

[0237] The mounting member body slides within the mounting slot during installation and removal of the trigger.

[0238] The first mounting opening is completely radially closed.

[0239] The trigger moves vertically downward from the engaged state to the disengaged state.

[0240] The body bore opens on a first lateral side of the gun body and a second lateral side of the gun body.

[0241] A second valve assembly is at least partially disposed within the bore, the second valve assembly including a second valve configured to control a flow of compressed gas within the spray gun, wherein the trigger is configured to actuate the second valve from a closed state to an open state.

[0242] The first valve is spaced apart from the trigger in a first direction along the spraying axis, and the second valve is spaced apart from the trigger in a second direction along the spraying axis.

[0243] A spray gun comprises: a gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly being at least partially arranged in the bore, the first valve assembly comprising a first valve configured to control discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger, the trigger being mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state and a disengaged state, in the engaged state, The trigger is movable to open the first valve, in the disengaged state, the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly so that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuatable between a retaining state and an installed state, in which the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and in which the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body. The trigger mount includes a mount body at least partially disposed within the body bore and movable relative to the gun body, the mount body being configured to be displaced in a single direction along the mounting axis so as to disengage from a first trigger arm of the trigger and a second trigger arm of the trigger, and to actuate the trigger mount from the retaining state to the installed state.

[0244] A method of assembling a spray gun comprises: displacing a mounting member body of a trigger mounting member in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun; advancing the trigger through the mounting member body so that a first pivot head of the mounting member body is aligned with a first mounting member opening through a first arm of the trigger and a second pivot head of the mounting member body is aligned with a second mounting member opening through a second arm of the trigger; and displacing the mounting member body in a second direction along the mounting axis so that the first pivot head enters the first mounting member opening and the second pivot head enters the second mounting member opening.

[0245] The method of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0246] Displacing the mount body in the second direction along the mounting axis includes urging the mount body in the second direction with a spring disposed within the body bore.

[0247] Advancing the trigger through the mounting body also includes advancing the first arm past the first pivot head at a position axially spaced apart from the first pivot head and the gun body in the second direction, and advancing the second arm past the second pivot head at an axial position between the second pivot head and the gun body along the mounting axis.

[0248] Displacing the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis to withdraw the first pivot head from the first mount opening and the second pivot head from the second mount opening; and advancing the trigger through the mount body to remove the trigger from the gun body.

[0249] A method of disassembling a spray gun includes: displacing a mount body of a trigger mount in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun so that a first pivoting head of the mount body moves away from a first mount opening through a first arm of a trigger of the spray gun and a second pivoting head of the mount body moves away from a second mount opening through a second arm of the trigger; and advancing the trigger through the mount body to remove the trigger from the gun body.

[0250] A trigger for a spray gun comprises: a trigger pull portion; a first arm, the first arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a second arm, the second arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a first mounting opening, the first mounting opening being formed to pass through the first arm, the first mounting opening including a first trigger support surface, the first trigger support surface being configured to ride on a pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; a second mounting opening, the second mounting opening being formed to pass through the second arm, the second mounting opening including a second trigger support surface, the second trigger support surface being configured to ride on the pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; and a tool connection portion, the tool connection portion being configured to interface with a component of the spray gun to apply force to the component during one or both of installation and removal of the component of the spray gun.

[0251] The trigger of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0252] The tool connection portion at least partially defines the first mount opening.

[0253] The tool connection portion is at least partially formed by the first trigger support surface.

[0254] The first mount opening is at least partially defined by a plurality of interface surfaces extending around the first mount opening, and wherein the plurality of interface surfaces form both the first bearing surface and the tool connection.

[0255] The first mount opening and the second mount opening are coaxially arranged on a pivot axis.

[0256] The first mounting member opening is non-circular.

[0257] The second mounting member opening is circular.

[0258] The tool connection is configured to twist the component.

[0259] The tool interface includes one or more protrusions extending from the first arm.

[0260] The one or more protrusions include a plurality of protrusions arranged around an axis.

[0261] A first support is connected to the first arm and defines the first mount opening, wherein the first support is formed of a first material and the first arm is formed of a second material different from the first material.

[0262] The first material is metal.

[0263] The second material is a polymer.

[0264] A second support is connected to the second arm and defines the second mount opening.

[0265] A mounting slot is formed through the second arm and opens to the second mount opening.

[0266] A method of servicing a spray gun includes disconnecting a trigger from a gun body of the spray gun; interfacing the trigger with a component of the spray gun; and applying a force to the component through the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun.

[0267] The method of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0268] Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes interfacing the trigger with a valve cartridge supported by a gun body of the spray gun.

[0269] Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes receiving a portion of the component within a tool connection portion of the trigger.

[0270] Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes receiving a portion of a tool connection portion of the trigger within the component.

[0271] Interfacing the trigger with the valve barrel supported by the gun body of the spray gun includes receiving a portion of the valve barrel within a first mounting opening through a first arm of the trigger, wherein the first mounting opening receives a pivot head such that the trigger rides astride the pivot head when the trigger is mounted to the gun body.

[0272] Applying a force to the component via the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes applying a torque to the component via the trigger.

[0273] Applying force to the component through the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes: driving the component to rotate through the trigger to loosen the threaded interface holding the component.

[0274] A valve cartridge for a spray gun comprises: a valve cartridge body extending along an axis and defining a flow chamber inside the valve cartridge body; a nozzle formed at a first end of the valve cartridge body, the nozzle being configured to output a spray fluid from the flow chamber in a first direction along the axis; at least one fluid port extending through the valve cartridge body between the outside of the valve cartridge body and the flow chamber formed inside the valve cartridge body; and a first horn portion groove formed in the valve cartridge body and a second horn portion groove formed in the valve cartridge body, the first horn portion groove and the second horn portion groove opening in the first direction along the axis.

[0275] The valve cartridge of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0276] The valve cylinder body includes an axially protruding ring, the first flare groove is formed on the ring, and the second flare groove is formed on the ring.

[0277] The first flared groove is open radially outward and closed radially inward.

[0278] The first flare slot does not extend completely radially through the ring.

[0279] The first flare groove and the second flare groove are arranged at 180 degrees around the axis.

[0280] A method of servicing a spray gun includes disconnecting an air cap from a gun body of the spray gun, interfacing the air cap with a component of the spray gun, and applying a force to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun.

[0281] The method of the previous paragraph may optionally additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0282] Interfacing the air cap with the component of the spray gun includes inserting a first flare of the air cap into a first flare slot of a valve barrel mounted to the spray gun and inserting a second flare of the air cap into a second flare slot of the valve barrel.

[0283] Applying a force to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes rotating the air cap on an axis to apply a torque to the valve cylinder and rotate the valve cylinder relative to the gun body.

[0284] Applying a force to the component via the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes rotating the air cap on an axis to apply a torque to the component.

[0285] Although the present invention has been described with reference to (one or more) exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for its elements without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from the essential scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment (s) disclosed, but that the present invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A spray gun, comprising: Gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly at least partially disposed within the bore, the first valve assembly including a first valve configured to control discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state in which the trigger is movable to open the first valve and a disengaged state in which the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly such that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuatable between a retaining state and a mounting state, in which the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and in which the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body, the trigger mount comprising: a mount body at least partially disposed within the body bore, the mount body projecting out of the body bore in a first direction along the axis to interface with the first arm of the trigger, the mount body projecting out of the body bore in a second direction along the axis to interface with the second arm of the trigger; The mount body is configured to be displaced in the second direction along the mounting axis to place the trigger mount in the mounted state.

2. The spray gun according to claim 1, wherein: The mounting body comprises: a shaft extending along the mounting axis; a first pivot head disposed at a first end of the shaft, the first pivot head configured to interface with the first arm to mount the trigger to the gun body; and a second pivot head disposed at a second end of the shaft, the second pivot head configured to interface with the second arm to mount the trigger to the gun body; The first pivot head is radially larger than the shaft, and the second pivot head is radially larger than the shaft.

3. The spray gun according to claim 2, wherein: The second pivot head is at least partially arranged outside the gun body in both the retaining state and the mounting state of the trigger mount.

4. The spray gun according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein: the first pivot head including a first cylindrical bearing surface upon which the first arm rides when the trigger is mounted to the trigger mount; and The second pivot head includes a second cylindrical bearing surface upon which the second arm rides when the trigger is mounted to the trigger mount.

5. The spray gun according to claim 4, wherein: The first cylindrical support surface is spaced apart from the first arm in the second direction along the mounting axis when the trigger mount is in the mounted state, and wherein, the second cylindrical support surface is spaced apart from the second arm in the second direction along the mounting axis when the trigger mount is in the mounted state.

6. The spray gun according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein At least one of the first pivot head and the second pivot head is formed separately from the shaft and mounted to the shaft.

7. The spray gun according to claim 6, wherein: The first pivot head is integrally formed with the shaft, and the second pivot head is separately formed from the shaft.

8. The spray gun according to claim 7, wherein: The shaft and the second pivot head are connected via a threaded interface.

9. The spray gun according to claim 7, wherein: The shaft and the second pivot head are press-fit together.

10. A spray gun according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein The first pivot head includes a first tool interface configured to receive a torque input from a first tool, the first tool interface being disposed axially outboard of the first cylindrical bearing surface.

11. The spray gun according to claim 10, wherein The first tool interface is arranged on the mounting axis.

12. A spray gun according to any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein The second pivot head includes a second tool interface configured to receive a torque input from a second tool, the second tool interface being disposed axially outward of the second cylindrical bearing surface.

13. The spray gun according to claim 12, wherein: The second tool interface is formed as a faceted exterior of the second pivot head.

14. A spray gun according to any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein The first cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the first pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the second direction along the mounting axis.

15. The spray gun of claim 14, wherein: The second cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the second pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the first direction along the mounting axis.

16. A spray gun according to any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein The second cylindrical bearing surface has a diameter greater than at least a portion of the mount bore such that the second pivot head cannot travel through the mount bore in the first direction along the mounting axis.

17. The spray gun according to any one of claims 2 to 16, further comprising: A spring interfaces with the mount body and biases the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis and into the retained state.

18. The spray gun of claim 17, wherein: The spring interfaces with the gun body and the first pivot head.

19. The spray gun according to any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein The body bore comprises: a first bore portion having a first radial width, the first bore portion extending in the gun body from a first lateral side of the gun body; and a second bore portion extending from the first bore portion and having a second radial width greater than the first radial width; wherein the mounting body extends through the first bore portion and the second bore portion, and the spring is supported against a first shoulder formed between the first bore portion and the second bore portion.

20. The spray gun of claim 19, wherein: The spring has a diameter greater than a diameter of the first bore portion.

21. The spray gun according to any one of claims 19 and 20, wherein The body bore also includes: A third bore portion having a third radial width extends from a second lateral side of the gun body into the gun body, wherein the third radial width is greater than the second radial width.

22. The spray gun of claim 21, wherein The radial width of the first pivot head is greater than the second radial width and smaller than the third radial width.

23. The spray gun of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising: A spring interfaces with the mount body and biases the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis and into the retained state.

24. A spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein An axial length of the mount body along the mounting axis is the same when the trigger mount is in the retained state and when the trigger mount is in the mounted state.

25. A spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein The trigger also includes: Pulling department; a first arm extending from the pulling portion; a second arm extending from the pulling portion; a first mount opening extending through the first arm, the mount body being disposed within the first mount opening with the trigger mount supporting the trigger; and A second mount opening extends through the second arm, and the mount body is disposed within the second mount opening when the trigger mount supports the trigger.

26. The spray gun of claim 25, wherein: With the trigger mount in the mounted state and the trigger in the spray position associated with the engaged state, the mount body is removed from the first mount opening, and with the trigger mount in the mounted state and the trigger in the spray position, the mount body extends through the second mount opening.

27. A spray gun according to any one of claims 25 and 26, wherein The trigger also includes: A mounting slot extends through the second arm and opens into the second mount opening.

28. The spray gun of claim 27, wherein: The mounting slot defines a displacement axis along which the trigger moves between the engaged state and the disengaged state.

29. The spray gun of claim 28, wherein The mounting member body slides within the mounting slot during installation and removal of the trigger.

30. A spray gun according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein The first mounting opening is completely radially closed.

31. A spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein The trigger moves vertically downward from the engaged state to the disengaged state.

32. A spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein The body bore opens on a first lateral side of the gun body and a second lateral side of the gun body.

33. The spray gun of any one of claims 1 to 32, further comprising: A second valve assembly is at least partially disposed within the bore, the second valve assembly including a second valve configured to control a flow of compressed gas within the spray gun, wherein the trigger is configured to actuate the second valve from a closed state to an open state.

34. The spray gun of claim 33, wherein: The first valve is spaced apart from the trigger in a first direction along the spraying axis, and the second valve is spaced apart from the trigger in a second direction along the spraying axis.

35. A spray gun comprising: Gun body; a gun bore extending within the gun body, the gun bore extending along a spraying axis; a body bore extending through the gun body and along a mounting axis; a first valve assembly at least partially disposed within the bore, the first valve assembly including a first valve configured to control discharge of a spray fluid from the spray gun; a trigger mountable to the gun body, the trigger being configured to actuate the first valve from a closed state to an open state, wherein the trigger is movable relative to the gun body between an engaged state in which the trigger is movable to open the first valve and a disengaged state in which the trigger is spaced apart from the first valve assembly such that the first valve assembly can travel axially past the trigger along the spray axis; and a trigger mount configured to mount the trigger to the gun body, the trigger mount being actuatable between a retaining state and a mounting state, in which the trigger mount connects the trigger to the gun body and retains the trigger in the engaged state, and in which the trigger is removable from the trigger mount and the gun body, the trigger mount comprising: and a mounting body at least partially disposed within the body bore and movable relative to the gun body, the mounting body being configured to be displaced in a single direction along the mounting axis so as to disengage from the first trigger arm of the trigger and the second trigger arm of the trigger and actuate the trigger mounting from the retained state to the installed state.

36. A method of assembling a spray gun, the method comprising: displacing a mount body of a trigger mount in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun; advancing the trigger through the mount body such that a first pivoting head of the mount body is aligned with a first mount opening through a first arm of the trigger and such that a second pivoting head of the mount body is aligned with a second mount opening through a second arm of the trigger; and Displacing the mount body in a second direction along the mounting axis causes the first pivot head to enter the first mount opening and causes the second pivot head to enter the second mount opening.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein: Displacing the mounting member body along the mounting axis in the second direction comprises: The mount body is urged in the second direction by a spring disposed within the body bore.

38. The method according to any one of claims 36 and 37, wherein: Advancing the trigger through the mount body further comprises: advancing the first arm past the first pivot head at a position axially spaced from the first pivot head and the gun body in the second direction; and The second arm is advanced past the second pivot head at an axial position along the mounting axis between the second pivot head and the gun body.

39. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 38, further comprising: displacing the mount body in the first direction along the mounting axis to withdraw the first pivot head from the first mount opening and the second pivot head from the second mount opening; as well as The trigger is advanced through the mount body to remove the trigger from the gun body.

40. A method of disassembling a spray gun, the method comprising: displacing a mount body of a trigger mount in a first direction along a mounting axis of a body bore formed in a gun body of the spray gun such that a first pivoting head of the mount body travels out of a first mount opening through a first arm of the trigger of the spray gun and such that a second pivoting head of the mount body travels out of a second mount opening through a second arm of the trigger; as well as The trigger is advanced through the mount body to remove the trigger from the gun body.

41. A trigger for a spray gun, the trigger comprising: a trigger pull portion; a first arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a second arm extending from the trigger pull portion; a first mount opening formed through the first arm, the first mount opening including a first trigger bearing surface configured to ride upon a pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; a second mount opening formed through the second arm, the second mount opening including a second trigger bearing surface configured to ride upon the pivot of the spray gun during actuation of the trigger; and A tool connection is configured to interface with a component of the spray gun to apply a force to the component during one or both of installation and removal of the component of the spray gun.

42. The trigger according to claim 41, wherein: The tool connection portion at least partially defines the first mount opening.

43. A trigger according to any one of claims 42 and 43, wherein: The tool connection portion is at least partially formed by the first trigger support surface.

44. A trigger according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein: The first mount opening is at least partially defined by a plurality of interface surfaces extending around the first mount opening, and wherein the plurality of interface surfaces form both the first bearing surface and the tool connection.

45. A trigger according to any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein: The first mount opening and the second mount opening are coaxially arranged on a pivot axis.

46. ​​A trigger according to any one of claims 41 to 45, wherein: The first mounting member opening is non-circular.

47. The trigger according to claim 46, wherein: The second mounting member opening is circular.

48. The trigger of any one of claims 41 to 47, wherein: The tool connection is configured to twist the component.

49. The trigger according to claim 41, wherein: The tool interface includes one or more protrusions extending from the first arm.

50. The trigger according to claim 49, wherein: The one or more protrusions include a plurality of protrusions arranged around an axis.

51. The trigger of any one of claims 41 to 50, further comprising: A first support is connected to the first arm and defines the first mount opening, wherein the first support is formed of a first material and the first arm is formed of a second material different from the first material.

52. The trigger according to claim 51, wherein: The first material is metal.

53. A trigger according to any one of claims 51 and 52, wherein: The second material is a polymer.

54. The trigger according to any one of claims 51 to 53, further comprising: A second support is connected to the second arm and defines the second mount opening.

55. A trigger according to any one of claims 41 to 54, wherein: A mounting slot is formed through the second arm and opens to the second mount opening.

56. A method for repairing a spray gun, the method comprising: Disconnecting the trigger from the gun body of the spray gun; interfacing the trigger with a component of the spray gun; as well as A force is applied to the component by the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein: Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes: The trigger interfaces with a valve cartridge supported by a gun body of the spray gun.

58. The method according to any one of claims 56 and 57, wherein: Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes: A portion of the component is received within a tool connection portion of the trigger.

59. The method according to any one of claims 56 and 57, wherein: Interfacing the trigger with the component of the spray gun includes: A portion of a tool connection portion of the trigger is received within the component.

60. The method of claim 57, wherein: Interfacing the trigger with the valve cartridge supported by the gun body of the spray gun includes: A portion of the valve barrel is received within a first mount opening through a first arm of the trigger, wherein the first mount opening receives a pivot head such that the trigger rides on the pivot head when the trigger is mounted to the gun body.

61. The method of any one of claims 56 to 60, wherein: Applying force to the component via the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun comprises: A torque is applied to the component via the trigger.

62. The method of any one of claims 56 to 60, wherein: Applying force to the component via the trigger to disconnect the component from the spray gun comprises: The component is driven to rotate by the trigger to release the threaded interface holding the component.

63. A valve cartridge for a spray gun, the valve cartridge comprising: a valve cartridge body extending along an axis and defining a flow chamber inside the valve cartridge body; a nozzle formed at a first end of the valve cartridge body, the nozzle being configured to output a spray fluid from the flow chamber in a first direction along the axis; at least one fluid port extending through the valve cartridge body between an exterior of the valve cartridge body and the flow chamber formed within the interior of the valve cartridge body; A first horn groove is formed in the valve cylinder body and a second horn groove is formed in the valve cylinder body, the first horn groove and the second horn groove being open in the first direction along the axis.

64. The valve cartridge of claim 63, wherein: The valve cylinder body includes an axially protruding ring, the first flare groove is formed on the ring, and the second flare groove is formed on the ring.

65. The valve cartridge of claim 64, wherein: The first flared groove is open radially outward and closed radially inward.

66. The valve cartridge of claim 64, wherein: The first flare slot does not extend completely radially through the ring.

67. The valve cartridge of claim 63, wherein: The first flare groove and the second flare groove are arranged at 180 degrees around the axis.

68. A method for repairing a spray gun, the method comprising: Disconnecting the air cap from the gun body of the spray gun; interfacing the air cap with components of the spray gun; as well as A force is applied to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein: Interfacing the air cap with the component of the spray gun includes: The first horn of the air cap is inserted into a first horn groove of a valve barrel mounted to the spray gun, and the second horn of the air cap is inserted into a second horn groove of the valve barrel.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein: Applying force to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes: The air cap is rotated on an axis to apply torque to the valve cylinder and rotate the valve cylinder relative to the gun body.

71. The method of claim 68, wherein: Applying force to the component through the air cap to disconnect the component from the spray gun includes: The air cap is rotated on an axis to apply torque to the component.

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