Portable spray fan

Abstract

A portable spray fan includes a body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to each other so as to define a channel in a circumferential direction, the channel having respective open ends located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the upper portion including an arcuate inner reservoir therein, the lower portion including an arcuate outer reservoir therein, and the upper portion including an arcuate outer reservoir therein; the internal storage part is provided with an inlet and at least one outlet; the fan assembly is at least partially arranged in the channel; the sound disc is communicated with the at least one outlet and is positioned in front of the fan assembly; and a mounting arm connected to the body in a pivotable manner about an axis arranged perpendicularly with respect to the open end of the channel wherein the sound disc assembly is designed to selectively atomize and dispense water transferred from the internal storage in a continuous or intermittent manner from the sound disc assembly.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to portable fans, and in particular, the present invention relates to portable spray fans having an internal, integrated water reservoir. BACKGROUND

[0002] Spray fans are known in the art. Examples include hand-held electric fans that are also connected to a water reservoir, where the reservoir includes a hand pump, allowing water to be sprayed from the reservoir into the path of the wind created by the fan, to create a spray effect in the direction of the wind path of the pumped water.

[0003] Other known forms include industrial type fans, which are common at sporting events held in arid weather conditions. These industrial spray fans are typically large, and require a wired power source. In some configurations, these industrial spray fans are also arranged in a fixed position, or alternatively, the industrial spray fans are arranged on a large transport device, i.e. a stand with wheels, where the stand needs to be of sufficient size to accommodate the industrial spray fan, and support the correct upright position of the fan. The fluid reservoir is also large, or alternatively, the fluid reservoir can be directly connected to a constant water source.

[0004] Both of these known forms of spray fans are either too simple and require physical actuation, or are too complex, bulky, and require reliance on an external power source for continuous use.

[0005] Accordingly, there has long been a need for a portable electric spray fan that includes an on-board power source, such as a battery, an interchangeable portable mounting system, a convenient reservoir integrated into the spray fan, and not only adjustable wind force of the fan, but also adjustable spray rate, i.e. continuous, intermittent, no spray, as well as adjustable wind force, i.e. different speeds. SUMMARY

[0006] According to aspects herein, the present invention generally includes a portable spray fan including a body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to one another, defining a channel therebetween in a circumferential direction, the channel having respective open ends between the upper and lower portions, the upper portion including an arcuate-shaped internal reservoir therein, the internal reservoir having an inlet and at least one outlet; a fan assembly at least partially disposed within the channel; a sonic disk in communication with the at least one outlet and positioned forward of the fan assembly; and

[0007] A mounting arm connected to the body in a manner that enables pivotal movement about an axis arranged perpendicularly relative to the open end of the channel, wherein the sonic disc assembly is designed to selectively atomize and dispense water communicated from the internal reservoir from the sonic disc assembly in one or more of a continuous manner or an intermittent manner.

[0008] In some embodiments, the aforementioned portable misting fan further comprises a battery in communication with the fan assembly.

[0009] In other configurations, the aforementioned portable misting fan further comprises a mounting device removably connected to the distal end of the mounting arm, wherein the mounting device comprises one or more of a clamp movably connected, a magnet, a suction cup movably connected, or a cup holder mounting movably connected, the cup holder mounting being arranged to at least partially seat in a cup holder that can be removably connected to the mounting arm. In other words, the mounting device can comprise any combination, sub-combination, and / or partial combination of the aforementioned components and / or sub-components.

[0010] In preferred embodiments, the aforementioned portable misting fan further comprises a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet, the outlets being in communication with the sonic disc.

[0011] In some embodiments, the aforementioned portable misting fan further comprises a controller or microcontroller in communication with the fan assembly and the sonic disc assembly, the controller being adapted to switch power to the fan assembly and to switch to enable the sonic disc assembly.

[0012] In one possible arrangement, the present invention can comprise a portable misting fan having a body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to one another defining a channel circumferentially therebetween, the channel having respective open ends between the upper portion and the lower portion, the upper portion including an arcuate internal reservoir having an inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet, a perforated faceplate having dispensing apertures arranged therein, the faceplate being arranged to substantially cover and removably connected to one of the open ends, a perforated backplate having apertures therein, the backplate being arranged to substantially cover the other of the open ends opposite the perforated faceplate, a fan assembly at least partially arranged within the channel and connected to the perforated backplate within the apertures of the backplate, a sonic disc assembly in communication with the outlets and positioned forward of the fan assembly and proximate the perforated faceplate, and wherein the sonic disc assembly is adapted to selectively atomize and dispense water communicated from the internal reservoir through the dispensing apertures of the faceplate from the sonic disc assembly in one or more of a continuous manner or an intermittent manner.

[0013] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present application will become apparent with reference to the following detailed description of the application and with reference to the accompanying drawings and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Various embodiments are disclosed by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, in which:

[0015] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B A perspective view of the present application is generally shown;

[0016] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B A perspective view of the present application is shown; FIG. 1A A perspective view of the present application is shown, with the front grille removed;

[0017] FIG. 3 An exploded view of the present application is shown; FIG. 1A

[0018] FIG. 4A A perspective view of the main body of the present application is shown; FIG. 1A

[0019] is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 4B-4B in FIG. 4B FIG. 4A

[0020] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the fan assembly of the present application; FIG. 1A

[0021] is a perspective view of the sound disc assembly of the present application; FIG. 6A FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6B-6B in

[0022] FIG. 6B FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6C-6C in

[0023] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6C-6C in FIG. 6A

[0024] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B An exploded view of the mounting assembly of the present application is shown; FIG. 1A

[0025] An embodiment of the cup holder mounting of the mounting assembly is shown; FIG. 7C

[0026] An exploded view of the mounting assembly of the present application is shown;​​​​​​FIG. 8 It is roughly along FIG. 1A The cross-sectional view taken from line 8-8 in the diagram; and,

[0027] FIG. 9 This is a high-level schematic diagram of a representative control panel and components. Detailed Implementation

[0028] First, it should be understood that the same reference numerals on different drawings represent structural elements that are the same or have similar functions. It should be understood that the claims are not limited to the disclosed aspects.

[0029] Furthermore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methods, materials, and modifications described, and therefore changes are naturally possible. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for describing specific aspects only and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that any suitable materials now known or developed hereafter can be used to form the invention described herein.

[0030] Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should be understood that any methods, apparatus, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the exemplary embodiments.

[0031] It should be noted that the terms “with,” “with,” “having,” “having,” “containing,” and / or “containing” should be interpreted as substantially synonymous with the terms “including” and / or “including.”

[0032] It should be understood that the term "approximately" is synonymous with terms such as "almost," "very close," "about," "around," "adjacent," "near," "basically," "in the vicinity of," and these terms are used interchangeably in the specification and claims. It should be understood that the term "proximately" is synonymous with terms such as "nearby," "close," "adjacent," "adjacent," "right next to," and these terms are used interchangeably in the specification and claims. The term "about" is intended to mean a value within ten percent of the specified value.

[0033] It should be understood that the use of "or" in the application, unless stated otherwise, means "and / or." For example, when used in the phrase "A or B" the phrase means one or the other of A or B or both A and B. In other words, the use of "or" in "A or B" does not mean an "exclusive or." For example, an "exclusive or" of A or B would require A to be only one of A or B, and not both A and B. Also, as used herein, "and / or" is intended to mean "one or the other or both" of the elements or conditions. For example, a device that includes a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted to include any one of the following structures: a device that includes the first element; a device that includes the second element; a device that includes the third element; a device that includes the first element and the second element; a device that includes the first element and the third element; a device that includes the first element, the second element, and the third element; or, a device that includes the second element and the third element.

[0034] Also, as used herein, the phrases "at least one of," and "one or more of" when used with respect to a system or element are intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device that includes at least one of a first element, a second element, and a third element is intended to be interpreted to include any one of the following structures: a device that includes the first element; a device that includes the second element; a device that includes the third element; a device that includes the first element and the second element; a device that includes the first element and the third element; a device that includes the first element, the second element, and the third element; or, a device that includes the second element and the third element. Similar interpretations are intended when the phrase "at least one of" is used herein. Also, as used herein, "and / or" is intended to mean "one or the other or both" of the elements or conditions. For example, a device that includes a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted to include any one of the following structures: a device that includes the first element; a device that includes the second element; a device that includes the third element; a device that includes the first element and the second element; a device that includes the first element and the third element; a device that includes the first element, the second element, and the third element; or, a device that includes the second element and the third element. Similar interpretations are intended when the phrase "at least one of" or "one of" is used herein.

[0035] Also, as used herein, "and / or" is intended to represent that there

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1A-2B , FIGS. 1A-2B A perspective view of a portable misting fan 10 (hereinafter "fan 10") of the present application is shown. Generally, the fan 10 can include a body 12 having a front end 14 and a rear end 16, and having an upper portion 20 and a lower portion 22 connected to one another, i.e., integral, that define a passageway 18 extending therethrough in a circumferential direction. The passageway 18 is bounded by two openings at the respective ends that receive perforated grates 28 and 30 therein. A first opening 24 of the passageway 18 is at the front end 14 and a second opening 26 of the passageway 18 is at the rear end 16. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B A first axis AX1 extends longitudinally through a general center of the passageway 18 and the two openings of the passageway 18.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B A fan assembly 34 is disposed within the passageway 18 and is preferably mounted to and extends from the grate 30. The fan assembly 34 includes a fan 36 having a plurality of fan blades. The sound disc assembly 32 is positioned in front of the fan 36 within the passageway 18, i.e., the sound disc assembly 32 is disposed proximate the first opening 24. Preferably, a center point of the fan 36 is disposed on the first axis AX1 and a center point of the sound disc assembly 32 is also disposed on the first axis AX1.

[0038] A mounting arm assembly 38 is pivotally and removably connected to the body 12 and is disposed to rotate about a second axis AX2. Preferably, the mounting arm 38 extends distally from the body 12 and includes a mounting device 40 removably connected to a distal end of the mounting arm 38.

[0039] Referring to the above-described figures and FIG. 3The channel 18 includes openings arranged in opposite directions: opening 24 and opening 26, wherein opening 24 is a front opening and opening 26 is a rear opening. An arcuate internal storage section 42 (discussed further below) is arranged within the upper portion 20 of the body 12, the internal storage section 42 having a proximal inlet 44 disposed generally within a spout 56 projecting from the top of the upper portion 20. The spout 56 may include a threaded portion 58, thereby allowing the cap 70 to be threadedly fastened to the spout 56, thereby sealing the internal storage section 42.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the mounting arm assembly 38 is located at mounting portions 52 and 54 (both at...). FIG. 4B (As shown in the diagram) It is removably and pivotally connected to the body 12, wherein the mounting portions extend from opposite sides from both the upper portion 20 and the lower portion 22. Preferably, each mounting portion has an aperture disposed therein, wherein the aperture is centered on the second axis AX2. In one possible arrangement, the mounting arm assembly 38 includes a base 158 having a first arm 154 and a second arm 156 extending from the base 158. The first arm 154 terminates at an end 150, and the second arm terminates at an end 152, wherein the ends 150 and 152 are arranged away from the base 158. The end 150 includes a mounting aperture 162, and the end 152 includes a mounting aperture 164. Mounting orifices 162 and 164 are arranged to align with mounting portions 52 and 54, wherein threaded connectors 166 and 168 engage mounting orifices 162 and 164 and the orifices of the mounting portions, thereby removably and pivotally securing the mounting arm assembly to the body 12. It should be noted that any acceptable connector type can be used to removably secure the mounting arm assembly 38 to the body 12, provided that the alternative connector type allows rotation of ends 150 and 152 about axis AX2. Connector 160 is secured to base 158 and extends in the opposite direction to arms 154 and 156. Connector 160 is arranged to removably engage the connector of mounting device 40, wherein mounting device 40 is shown having a magnet 172 attached to and extending from connector 170. Reference will be made below. FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B The installation device 40 will be discussed in more detail.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the perforated grille 28, i.e., the first panel, is arranged to be removably fastened within the opening 24 of the body 12, and the perforated grille 30 is arranged to be removably or fixedly (via fasteners) fastened within the opening 26 of the body 12. The perforated grille 30 typically accommodates a fan assembly 34, which includes a motor 48 and a fan 36. The following will be combined with… FIG. 5A and FIG. 5BThe perforated grille 30 and the fan assembly 34 will be discussed in more detail.

[0042] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B The diagram shows the body 12 in a separated perspective view and a cross-section of the body 12 taken approximately along line 4B-4B. As described above, mounting portions 52 and 54 extend from opposite sides of the body 12 and are generally arranged between the upper portion 22 and the lower portion 24 of the body 12, such that mounting openings arranged in the mounting portions are generally collinear and arranged along axis AX2. FIG. 4B As shown, the upper portion 22 includes an arc-shaped internal storage section 42 located within the upper portion 22. The storage section 42 communicates with an inlet 44, a first distal inlet 62, a second distal inlet 64, and outlets 46, 48, and 50. The distal inlet 62 is arranged near the lower portion 22 and formed between the ramp 66 and the bottom 60 of the storage section. The distal inlet 64 is arranged near the lower portion 22, opposite to the distal inlet 62, and formed between the ramp 68 and the bottom 60 of the storage section. The distal inlets 62 and 64 communicate with outlets 48 and 50. The arrangement of outlets 46, 48, and 50 at their distal ends relative to inlet 44 allows gravity to carry water disposed within the outlets to one or more outlets 46, 48, and 50, such that if the body 12 rotates about axis AX1 or AX2 (via the mounting arm assembly), water within the storage section 42 will flow through one or more outlets 46, 48, and 50. The arrangement of the distal inlets 62 and 64 (communicating with outlets 48 and 50) between the ramps 66 and 68 and the bottom 60 of the storage section ensures that water can still flow into outlets 48 and 50 by gravity when the water level in the storage section 42 is lower than that at outlet 46. Therefore, the curvature or arcuate configuration of the bottom 60 of the storage section and the ramps 66 and 68 approximately forms a pair of funnels for the water flowing through the distal inlets 62 and 64 into outlets 48 and 50.

[0043] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5BAn exploded perspective view of the fan assembly 34 and the perforated grille 30 is shown. In a preferred embodiment, the perforated grille (or back plate) 30 includes apertures 76 disposed therein. The apertures 76 are disposed to accept the motor assembly 78 of the fan assembly 34 therein, preferably via a plurality of apertures to allow the fan assembly 34 to be removed from the grille 30. In one possible embodiment, the motor assembly 78 includes a brushless DC motor disposed within at least a water resistant and / or waterproof housing / enclosure and having a drive shaft 82 extending from opposite ends of a cavity 80. The drive shaft 82 is disposed to accept the fan 36 thereon. The cavity 80 or component housing is disposed to accept a control board 82 therein, which can be secured in the cavity 80 via fasteners or the like. The control board 82 generally includes a plurality of inputs 84, such as an on / off fan power switch, and / or a continuous / intermittent / no misting switch, a battery 86, a battery connector 88, at least one printed circuit board (PCB) 92, which can be two PCBs, including a battery PCB and a motor control and sprayer control PCB, a battery charge indicator 90, and a power / misting setting indicator 94.

[0044] The battery 86 can be two 3.7v, 5000mah batteries in parallel, for a total capacity of about 10,000Mah, or can be an alternative battery configuration, so long as the selected battery is rechargeable and can effectively power the motor assembly 78 for an extended period of time in arid and / or humid environments. The battery 86 is in communication with the PCB 92 or multiple PCBs in alternative configurations, the battery connector 88, and the motor assembly 78. The battery connector 88 is a charger input and can be configured as a plurality of connectors, such as but not limited to USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Micro USB, or similar alternatives, such that the connector 88 can be used to connect the battery 86 to a power supply to charge the battery 86 and / or power the motor assembly 78 when the battery 86 has no charge.

[0045] The plurality of inputs 84 are in communication with the at least one PCB 92, such that the PCB 92 is in communication with the motor assembly 78 and the battery 86, while the plurality of inputs 84 control the motor assembly 78 and thus the speed of the fan 36. In a preferred embodiment, the PCB 92 is also in communication with the sound disc assembly 32 (see below FIGS. 6A-6C ) and controls the misting (spraying) of water from the sound disc assembly via the plurality of inputs 84 by selectively passing current to the sound disc assembly. In some embodiments, a buzzer or alarm can also be included on the PCB 92, which can be configured to emit a sound when the plurality of inputs 84 are actuated and / or when the connector 88 is in communication with a power supply.

[0046] Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the control board 82 will have a microcontroller capable of controlling: communication from the plurality of inputs 84 to the various components described above, the number of revolutions of the sound disc assembly in response to the communication received therefrom, switching the indicator light in response to the power on / off, the fan speed setting, the spray control setting of the sound disc assembly, controlling the buzzer, etc. Thus, any capable microcontroller now known or hereafter developed is intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims to provide the functionality of the present application.

[0047] FIGS. 6A-6C The sound disc assembly 32 is shown separate from the body, specifically in an isometric view and a pair of cross-sections taken along lines 6B-6B and 6C-6C, respectively. In one possible implementation, the sound disc assembly 32 includes a body 94, a cover 96, a grommet 98 having a sound disc 110 therein, an interior cavity 106 having a first inlet 100, a second inlet 102, and a third inlet 104 in communication with the interior cavity 106. The interior cavity 106 has an opening 108 sealed by the cover 96 and the grommet 98 positioned within the cover 96. Conduits 112, 122, and 132 are arranged to engage the inlets 100, 102, and 104, respectively. The conduit 112 includes ends 114 and 116 having connectors 118 and 120, respectively, wherein the connector 118 removably engages the inlet 100 via threads or other removable fastening means that maintain a water-tight connection. The conduit 122 includes ends 124 and 126 having connectors 128 and 130, respectively, wherein the connector 128 removably engages the inlet 102 via threads or other removable fastening means that maintain a water-tight connection. The conduit 132 includes ends 134 and 136 having connectors 138 and 140, respectively, wherein the connector 134 removably engages the inlet 104 via threads or other removable fastening means that maintain a water-tight connection. The connectors 120, 130, and 140 are arranged to engage the outlets of the body (see FIG. 4B The outlets 46, 48, and 50 of the upper portion 20 of the body 12, thereby fluidly connecting the reservoir 42 and the interior cavity 106, are arranged to allow water to flow from within the reservoir of the body into the interior cavity 106 of the sound disc assembly 32. Since the body 94 and the interior cavity 106 are generally arranged distal to the outlets of the body, i.e., have a lower bottom than the outlets, the force of gravity and the weight of the water will continue to feed water into the interior cavity 106 until the reservoir of the body is empty.

[0048] The sonic disc 110 can be a piezoelectric atomizer, the sonic disc 110 being arranged within the gasket 98 such that a surface of the sonic disc 110 faces outward from the opening 108, while a corresponding opposite surface faces the interior cavity 106. As noted above, the sonic disc 110 is in communication with the control board 82 (see FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B ) such that when the corresponding input is actuated on the control board 82, an electrical current is sent to the sonic disc 110, thereby activating the sonic disc 110. When the sonic disc 110 is activated, water within the interior cavity 106 that is in contact with the disc 110 is atomized, and the atomized water is then expelled through holes arranged within a generally central portion of the disc 110, the holes having a size such that water cannot pass through the disc 110 when the water is not atomized, i.e., when the disc 110 is not activated. In a non-limiting example, the disc 110 can be a piezoelectric atomizer, and can receive an electrical current of 113 kHz from the control board upon activation of the input, as noted above. In addition, the disc 110 can receive a pulsed or intermittent electrical current, thereby causing the water to be intermittently atomized, to maintain a water level within the reservoir of the body.

[0049] In some embodiments, the interior cavity 106 of the sonic disc assembly 32 can have a water sensor in communication with the control board, which will automatically stop sending electrical current to the disc 110 when water is no longer detected within the interior cavity 106.

[0050] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B An exploded view of the mounting device 40 is shown. Generally, the mounting device 40 includes connectors 160 and 170. The connector 160 is generally a base connector, the base connector being arranged to be fastened to a mounting arm assembly (see FIG. 1B 、 FIG. 2B and FIG. 3), and can include a mounting body 174, an extension 176, projections 178 and 180, and a mounting aperture 182. The extension 176 protrudes from the body 174, and has the projections 178 and 180 extending therefrom. The projections 178 and 180 are resiliently connected to the extension 176 such that if a force is applied to the respective outer surface of the protrusions in a direction radially inward toward the mounting aperture 182, the configuration biases the projections 178 and 180 to apply an opposing force in a radially outward direction, in other words, the projections 178 and 180 are biased to the illustrated configuration, and return to that position in the absence of the aforementioned force. The mounting aperture 182 can be used to accept a fastener therein, allowing the mounting body to be connected to a mounting arm assembly. The connector 170 is typically an accessory connector, for example, the connector 170 has magnets 172 attached thereto or has a clamping device attached thereto. The connector 170 can include a mounting body 184, which can be a ring-like protrusion, a hexagonal portion, or the like, forming a wall around a mounting aperture 190 to form a space 192 therein, projections apertures 186 and 188 disposed within the wall formed by the body 184, and magnets 172 — or alternative mounting devices such as clamping devices.

[0051] The connector 160 is arranged to be removably engaged within the connector 170. Specifically, when the projections 178 and 180 are pressed radially inward, the body 174 can be at least partially inserted into the space 192 of the mounting body 184, and when the mounting body 174 is at least partially within the space 192, the projections 178 and 180 will release in a radially outward direction and at least partially seat within the projections apertures 186 and 188, thereby connecting the connector 160 to the connector 170. Similarly, if the projections 178 and 180 are pressed radially inward while at least partially resting within the projections apertures 186 and 188, the body 174 can be removed from the space 192 of the mounting body 184. In other words, the aforementioned configuration of the mounting device is a quick release type connection.

[0052] In some arrangements, the connector 170 can be fixedly fastened to a plurality of different mounting elements, either directly or in a moveable arrangement, for example, a ball and socket joint, pivotably, rotatably, or the like, for example, as FIG. 7CThe illustrated cup holder body 210, or suction cup or suction cup style attachment device. The cup holder body 210 is arranged to at least partially seat within a typical cup holder that can be found in a vehicle, such as a golf cart. The cup holder body 210 can include a weight and / or be weighted to prevent the body of the portable misting fan and the mounting arm assembly from toppling and / or removing the cup holder body 210 from the corresponding cup holder when the portable misting fan is attached to the corresponding cup holder body via the mounting arm assembly.

[0053] A representative suction cup mount is shown and described in U.S. Design Patent No. D688,726, issued August 27, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, which can receive the connector 170 thereon and have a movable arm or no movable arm.

[0054] Another representative suction cup mount is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 10,576,905, issued March 3, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, which can receive the connector 170 thereon and have a pivotable arm extending from the connector or no pivotable arm.

[0055] A possible representative clamp or resilient clamp mount that can receive the connector 170 is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 11,953,256, issued April 9, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0056] FIG. 8 A cross-sectional view of the portable misting fan 10 is shown, which view is generally along FIG. 1Aline 8-8 in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the panel or grate 28 is removably attached to the upper portion 20 and lower portion 22 of the body 12 and has a protrusion 194 extending therefrom proximate the storage portion 42 and has a protrusion 196 arranged opposite the protrusion 194 that extends in a direction toward the back panel or grate 30. The protrusion 194 is similar to a tab or thin body that is arranged to seat within a slot 198 of the upper portion 20 that is closed but extends into the storage portion bottom 60. The protrusion 196 can be configured as a leaf spring with a hooked end such that the protrusion 196 can move when pressure is applied on the terminal end of the protrusion 196. The protrusion 196 is arranged to at least partially seat within a release aperture 204 and abut a retaining tab 202 of the release button 200, thereby frictionally securing the protrusion 196 in the release aperture 204, i.e., frictionally securing the protrusion 196 to the lower portion 22 such that the hooked end of the protrusion 196 also contacts an inner edge of the release aperture 204— thereby preventing the protrusion 196 from being pulled out of the release aperture 204 in a direction toward the opening 24. The release button 200 is arranged to translate within the release aperture 204 when a force is applied on the release button. When a force is applied on the release button 200 in a direction toward the upper portion 20, the retaining tab 202 pushes the hooked end of the protrusion 196 in a direction toward the upper portion 20 and pushes the hooked end out of the release aperture 204, thereby allowing the grate 28 to be pulled out of the opening 24 and also allowing the protrusion 194 to be removed from the slot 198. This configuration allows the grate 28 to be quickly removed from the opening 24, thereby allowing access to components arranged within the channel 18, such as the compact disc assembly 32, the fan 36, the fan assembly 34, the motor assembly 78, etc.

[0057] In other configurations, the grate 28 can include a dispensing aperture 206 arranged generally centrally of the grate 28. One or more covers 96 or bodies 94 of the compact disc assembly 32 can at least partially seat within the dispensing aperture 206, thereby holding the disc 110 in a generally central position within the dispensing aperture 206 to allow the atomized water AW to be discharged from and through the dispensing aperture 206. When the fan assembly 34 is activated, the fan 36 creates an airflow in the airflow direction AFD that will disperse the atomized water AW from the disc 110— thereby creating a water mist effect.

[0058] In some embodiments, the cap 70 can include a retention clip 208 extending distally from the cap 70. The retention clip 208 can be configured with a plurality of arms that extend beyond the inner diameter of the proximal inlet 44 to prevent the cap 70 from being accidentally removed. The arms of the retention clip 208 can be semi-flexible such that when the cap 70 is forcibly pulled in a direction away from the proximal inlet 44, the arms will fold in a radially inward direction, thereby allowing the cap 70 to be removed.

[0059] The following description should be taken in connection with the above-described drawings and FIG. 9 considered. FIG. 9 is a high-level schematic diagram of representative control board and components of the portable misting fan 10, generally showing representative electrical communication, including electrical current (e.g., power) from the control board 82 between various components of the portable misting fan 10, such as the motor assembly 78, the sound disc assembly 32, the battery 86, the battery connector 88, the PCB 92, the indicator 90, etc. It should be understood, FIG. 9 is representative only, and those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various combinations, alternatives, etc. can be used to power and control the present invention, and therefore, FIG. 9 should not be considered limiting of the scope of the claims appended hereto.

[0060] Accordingly, the embodiments shown and described are exemplary only, and various alternatives, combinations, omissions, or modifications, as would be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be considered limited to the examples described or shown.

[0061] It is recognized that various aspects of the present invention, and features and functions of each, or alternatives thereof, can be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various alternatives, modifications, equivalents, combinations, and improvements to the particular embodiments described herein, or to the particular combinations of features thereof, are contemplated by the inventors to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents, combinations, and improvements.

[0062] Reference Numerals

[0063] 10 portable misting fan

[0064] 12 body

[0065] 14 front end portion

[0066] 16 rear end portion

[0067] 18 channel

[0068] 20 upper portion

[0069] 22 lower portion

[0070] 24 first opening

[0071] 26 Second opening

[0072] 28 First grille component

[0073] 30 Second grille component

[0074] 32 Soundboard Assembly

[0075] 34 Fan Assembly

[0076] 36 fans

[0077] 38 Mounting Arm Assembly

[0078] 40 Installation device

[0079] 42. Arc-shaped internal storage section

[0080] 44. Proximal entry point

[0081] 46 First Exit

[0082] 48 Second Exit

[0083] 50 Third Exit

[0084] 52 First Installation Part

[0085] 54 Second Installation Part

[0086] 56. Mouth

[0087] 58 Threaded section

[0088] 60 Bottom of storage section

[0089] 62 First Remote Entry Point

[0090] 64 Second remote entry

[0091] 66. First storage section wall ramp

[0092] 68. Second storage section wall ramp

[0093] 70 caps

[0094] 72 Inner end

[0095] 74 Outer end

[0096] 76 orifices

[0097] 78 Motor Assembly

[0098] 80 chambers

[0099] 82 Control Board

[0100] 84+ input sections

[0101] 86 battery

[0102] 88 battery connector

[0103] 90 plurality of indicators

[0104] 92 PCB

[0105] 94 body

[0106] 96 cover

[0107] 98 gasket

[0108] 100 first inlet

[0109] 102 second inlet

[0110] 104 third inlet

[0111] 106 internal cavity

[0112] 108 opening

[0113] 110 disc

[0114] 112 first conduit

[0115] 114 end

[0116] 116 end

[0117] 118 connector

[0118] 120 connector

[0119] 122 second conduit

[0120] 124 end

[0121] 126 end

[0122] 128 connector

[0123] 130 connector

[0124] 132 second conduit

[0125] 134 end

[0126] 136 end

[0127] 138 connector

[0128] 140 connector

[0129] 150 first end

[0130] 152 second end

[0131] 154 first arm

[0132] 156 second arm

[0133] 158 base

[0134] 160 connector

[0135] 162 mounting aperture

[0136] 164 mounting aperture

[0137] 166 first threaded connector

[0138] 168 second threaded connector

[0139] 170 connector

[0140] 172 magnet

[0141] 174 mounting body

[0142] 176 extension

[0143] 178 protrusion

[0144] 180 protrusion

[0145] 182 mounting aperture

[0146] 184 mounting body

[0147] 186 protrusion aperture

[0148] 188 protrusion aperture

[0149] 190 attachment aperture

[0150] 192 space

[0151] 194 tab

[0152] 196 tab

[0153] 198 slot

[0154] 200 release button

[0155] 202 retaining tab

[0156] 204 release aperture

[0157] 206 dispensing aperture

[0158] 208 retaining clip

[0159] 210 cup-shaped retainer body

[0160] AFD air flow direction

[0161] AW atomized water

[0162] AX1 first axis

[0163] AX2 second axis

Claims

1. A portable misting fan, the portable misting fan comprising: The body has an upper portion and a lower portion connected to each other to define a channel in a circumferential direction, the channel having a corresponding open end located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the upper portion including an arc-shaped internal storage section having an inlet and at least one outlet; A fan assembly, the fan assembly being arranged at least partially within the channel; A sound disk assembly, the sound disk assembly being in communication with the at least one outlet and positioned in front of the fan assembly; as well as, Mounting arm, which is pivotally connected to the body about an axis arranged perpendicularly to the opening end of the channel, wherein the sound disk assembly is adapted to selectively atomize and dispense water from the internal storage unit in one or more of a continuous or intermittent manner.

2. The portable spray fan of claim 1, further comprising a battery in communication with the fan assembly.

3. The portable spray fan of claim 1, further comprising a mounting device removably connected to the distal end of the mounting arm.

4. The portable misting fan according to claim 3, wherein, The mounting device includes one or more of the following: a clamping member that is movably connected, a suction cup that is movably connected, a magnet, or a cup-shaped retainer mounting member that is movably connected.

5. The portable spray fan according to claim 1, wherein the portable spray fan further comprises a first outlet, a second outlet and a third outlet, the outlets being in communication with the sound disk assembly.

6. The portable spray fan of claim 1, further comprising at least one perforated grille removably attached to one or more of the opening ends of the channel.

7. The portable spray fan of claim 1, further comprising a controller in communication with the fan assembly and the sound disk assembly, the controller being adapted to switch power to the fan assembly and to switch to enable the sound disk assembly.

8. The portable spray fan of claim 7, further comprising a perforated grille attached to an open end of the channel disposed at a distal end relative to the sound disk assembly, the perforated grille arranging the fan assembly and the controller within the perforated grille.

9. The portable spray fan of claim 8, further comprising a battery in communication with the controller, the fan assembly and the sound disk assembly.

10. A portable misting fan, the portable misting fan comprising: A body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to each other to define a channel circumferentially, the channel having corresponding open ends located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the upper portion including an arc-shaped internal storage portion having: Entrance; First exit; Second exit; as well as Third exit; A perforated panel having a dispensing opening disposed therein, the panel being arranged to substantially cover one of the opening ends and being removably connected to the one opening end; A perforated back plate having openings, the back plate being arranged to substantially cover one of the opening ends; A fan assembly, the fan assembly being at least partially disposed within the channel and connected to the perforated back plate within the opening of the back plate; A sound plate assembly, which is in communication with the outlet and is positioned in front of the fan assembly and close to the perforated panel at the front; as well as, The sound disk assembly is adapted to selectively atomize and dispense water from the internal storage section through the dispensing orifice of the panel in one or more of a continuous or intermittent manner.

11. The portable spray fan of claim 10, further comprising a mounting arm connected to the body in a manner pivotable about an axis arranged perpendicularly to the opening end of the channel.

12. The portable spray fan of claim 10, further comprising a battery in communication with the fan assembly.

13. The portable spray fan of claim 10, further comprising a mounting device removably connected to the distal end of the mounting arm.

14. The portable misting fan according to claim 13, wherein, The mounting device includes one or more of the following: a clamping member that is movably connected, a suction cup that is movably connected, a magnet, and a cup-shaped retainer mounting member that is movably connected.

15. The portable misting fan of claim 1, further comprising a controller in communication with the fan assembly and the sound disk assembly, the controller being adapted to switch power to one or more of the fan assembly or the sound disk assembly.

16. A portable misting fan, the portable misting fan comprising: A body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to each other to define a channel circumferentially, the channel having corresponding open ends located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the upper portion including an arc-shaped internal storage portion having: Entrance; First exit; Second exit; as well as Third exit; A perforated panel having a dispensing opening disposed therein, the panel being arranged to substantially cover one of the opening ends and being removably connected to the one opening end; A perforated back plate having openings, the back plate being arranged to substantially cover one of the opening ends; A fan assembly, the fan assembly being at least partially disposed within the channel and connected to the perforated back plate within the opening of the back plate; A sound plate assembly, which is in communication with the outlet and is positioned in front of the fan assembly and close to the perforated panel at the front; as well as, A mounting arm is connected to the body in a manner that allows it to pivot about an axis arranged perpendicularly to the opening end of the channel. The sound disk assembly is adapted to selectively atomize and dispense water from the internal storage section through the dispensing orifice of the panel in one or more of a continuous or intermittent manner.

17. The portable misting fan of claim 16, further comprising a battery in communication with one or more of the fan assembly or the sound disk assembly.

18. The portable misting fan of claim 16, further comprising a controller in communication with the fan assembly and the sound disk assembly, the controller being adapted to switch power to one or more of the fan assembly or the sound disk assembly.

19. The portable spray fan of claim 16, further comprising a mounting device removably connected to the distal end of the mounting arm.

20. The portable spray fan according to claim 19, wherein, The mounting device includes one or more of the following: a clamping member that is movably connected, a suction cup that is movably connected, a magnet, or a cup-shaped retainer mounting member that is movably connected.

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