Spool assembly

Abstract

To provide a spool assembly for fly-fishing capable of changing an arbor diameter so as to wrap a coil to a reel suitably.SOLUTION: A spool assembly (100) comprises first and second flanges (102, 104) coupled to each other via first and second arbor members (106). The first arbor member is slidably connected to a first slot (222) of the first flange and is slidably connected to a second slot (262) of the second flange as well. An energization member (108) is connected to the first arbor member and the first arbor member is energized inward in a radial direction toward a longitudinal axis line of the spool assembly. The first arbor member translates in the first and second slots by rotation of the first flange to the second flange, thus a diameter of the arbor changes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to spool assemblies, particularly spool assemblies with adjustable arbor sizes.

Background Art

[0002] Filament products are taken out from a reel and it is preferable to store them in a state where they can be used later while protecting such products and maintaining the performance of this product. Filament products may include new filaments and / or filaments originally attached that are intended to remain wound around the reel for any length of time. Filament products are typically taken out by directly winding this product around a spool or other similar instrument to form a coil, or the filament may be wound into a coil without using a spool or other instrument. The coil is tied and then stored in a state where it can be used later.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Typically, fly fishing lines are stored in a loose coil state and packaged. In some cases, the fishing line is wound around a storage spool and the coil remains wound around the storage spool until later use. To reuse the fishing line, the filament is unwound from the coil or storage spool and rewound around a reel. When winding the coil around the reel, the coil may become loose and entangled and / or there may be slippage between the filament and the reel.

[0004] The above explanation of the technical background is intended solely to assist the reader. This explanation is not intended to limit the technically novel technologies described herein. Thus, the above explanation should not be considered to indicate that any particular element of a prior system is unsuitable for use in the novel technologies described herein, nor does it indicate that any element is essential for realizing the novel technologies described herein. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The above requirements are met to a considerable extent by the spool assembly disclosed herein. The spool assembly includes two flanges and a sliding member that constitutes the arbor of the spool. The spool assembly allows the user to create a coil of filament and to remove this coil from the spool for storage. In addition, the spool assembly may be used to apply tension to the inside of a coiled filament in a way that allows for dispensing in small increments without causing slippage or entanglement. The sliding member penetrates each flange by extending radially outward, and the filament cannot slip between the sliding member and the flange.

[0006] As will be further described herein, the first flange directs the sliding member and allows for its radial movement. The second flange adjusts the radial distance of the sliding member from the center of rotation by rotating the second flange relative to the first flange. The second flange may have a cam profile that matches each other, and such a second flange may be removable from the sliding member. The diameter of the arbor (composed of the sliding member) is adjusted by rotating the flanges relative to each other. The second flange is removable once the slider has reached its radially innermost position. The cam profile of the second flange may be provided with anti-slip features to create a clear retention point for the sliding member. A biasing force may be applied to the sliding member so that it defaults to a compressed position (radially innermost position) when the movement of the sliding member is minimal. The biasing force presses the sliding member against the cam profile and the retainer.

[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, a spool assembly for supporting a roll of an object is provided. The spool assembly includes a first flange, a second flange, a first arbor member, a second arbor member, and a biasing member. The first flange has at least one first slot, the at least one slot of the first flange extending at least partially radially. The radial direction extends outward from the longitudinal axis of the spool assembly. The second flange has at least one second slot, the at least one second slot extending at least partially transversely. The transverse direction is substantially perpendicular to the radial and longitudinal directions. The second flange is rotatably coupled to the first flange such that the first flange and the second flange rotate relative to each other about the longitudinal axis.

[0008] A first arbor member is slidably coupled in at least one first slot of a first flange and in at least one second slot of a second flange. The first arbor member is at least partially positioned between the first and second flanges. The second arbor member is positioned between the first and second flanges, and the radial distance between the first and second arbor members determines the arbor diameter. A biasing member is coupled to the first arbor member so that the first arbor member is biased radially inward toward its longitudinal axis. Rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange causes the first arbor member to translate within at least one first slot and at least one second slot, thereby changing the arbor diameter.

[0009] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling a spool assembly is provided. The spool assembly includes a first flange, a second flange, and a first arbor member. The first flange has a first at least one slot, the first at least one slot extending at least partially radially. The radial direction extends radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the spool assembly. The first arbor member is slidably coupled within the first at least one slot. The method includes the steps of inserting the first arbor member into the first at least one slot provided in the first flange, and coupling a biasing member to the first arbor member so that the first arbor member is biased radially inward toward the longitudinal axis. Rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange causes the first arbor member to translate within the first at least one slot, thereby changing the arbor diameter.

[0010] The Summary section of this invention is provided to introduce a set of technical ideas in a simplified form, which will be further described below in the Detailed Description section. The Summary section does not identify any important or essential features of the claimed invention, nor is it used to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, the claimed invention is not limited to features that resolve any or all of the defects noted in any part of this disclosure.

[0011] The following detailed description of the summary of the invention and the exemplary embodiments of this application will be best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For illustrative purposes, the drawings show exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, this application is not limited to the illustrated configuration and operation itself. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a top-down perspective view of a spool according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top-down perspective view of the first form of the spool shown, with the flange removed. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a top-down perspective view of the second form of the spool shown, with the flange removed. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a top-down perspective view of the second form of the spool shown, illustrating the state in which the biasing member is provided. [Figure 5] This is a top-down perspective view of another embodiment of a spool according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the spool shown in Figure 5, viewed from above the flange, relating to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the flange seen from below. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a plan view of the flange shown. [Figure 9] Figure 6 is a bottom view of the flange shown. [Figure 10] A perspective view from above another flange of the spool shown in FIG. 5 according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 11] A perspective view from below the flange shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 12] A plan view of the flange shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 13] A bottom view of the flange shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 14] A perspective view from above the arbor member of the spool shown in FIG. 5 according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 15] A first side view of the arbor member shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] A second side view of the arbor member shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 17] A third side view of the arbor member shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 18] A perspective view from above the handle according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 19] A first side view of the handle shown in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] A second side view of the handle shown in FIG. 18.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] Certain terms used in this specification are for convenience only and do not limit the present invention. The terms "axial direction", "radial direction", "circumferential direction", "outward", "inward", "upward", and "downward" refer to the directions in the referenced drawings. The term "substantially" and its derivatives used in this specification, as well as terms of similar meaning, when used to describe dimensions, shapes, orientations, distances, spatial relationships, or other parameters, include the described dimensions, shapes, orientations, distances, spatial relationships, or other parameters, and may further include ranges that are up to 10% greater and 10% less than the described parameters, such ranges including ±5%, ±3%, ±1% of the parameters. All ranges disclosed in this specification include the recited endpoints and are combinable separately and independently (e.g., the range "from 2 grams to 10 grams" includes the endpoints 2 grams and 10 grams, and all intermediate values). Terms include the above terms, their derivatives, and terms of similar meaning.

[0014] Figures 1 to 4 show a spool assembly 100 according to one aspect of the present invention. The spool assembly 100 includes a first flange 102, a second flange 104, an arbor member 106, and a biasing member 108. The arbor member 106 includes an arbor 110 of the spool assembly 100, and this arbor is configured to support a roll or coil of an object thereon. The first and second flanges 102, 104 of the spool assembly 100 are preferably made of a plastic material, and such plastic material is preferably at least semi-rigid so as to maintain its shape during the coiling of the roll of the object.

[0015] The first and second flanges 102 and 104 are configured to be rotatably coupled to each other by an arbor member 106, as will be further described below. By the mutual rotation of the first flange 102 and the second flange 104, the arbor member 106 can increase or decrease the diameter of the arbor 110. For example, the diameter of the arbor 110 can be increased by rotating the second flange 104 relative to the first flange 102 in a first rotational direction, and the diameter of the arbor 110 can be decreased by rotating the second flange 104 relative to the first flange in the opposite rotational direction. Decreasing the diameter of the arbor 110 (see, for example, Figure 2) can release the roll of an object held on the arbor 110. Increasing the diameter of the arbor 110 (see, for example, Figure 3) can apply tension to the roll of an object positioned on the arbor 110. The biasing member 108 is preferably configured to bias the arbor member 106 toward the rotation center of the spool assembly 100 (for example, toward the minimum diameter form). The biasing member 108 may include a single member coupled to each of the arbor members 106. In a modified example, the spool assembly 100 may include a number of biasing members 108, each coupled to the arbor member 106.

[0016] Figures 5 to 19 show a spool assembly 200 according to one aspect of the present invention. As can be understood, the spool assembly 100 can be moved, aligned, and configured in substantially the same manner as the spool assembly 200 described herein. As can be understood, the spool assembly 200 may include forms and / or components of the spool assembly 100, and vice versa. The spool assembly 200 includes a first flange 202, a second flange 204, an arbor member 206, and a biasing member (not shown). Each of the first flange 202, the second flange 204, the arbor member 206, and the biasing member may be individually formed components, which, when assembled together, constitute the spool assembly 200. The rotation of the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204 around the longitudinal axis L of the spool assembly 200 causes the arbor member 206 to move the spool assembly 200 as further described herein, thereby adjusting its arbor diameter. In one view, the longitudinal axis L passes through the radial center of the spool assembly 200.

[0017] Figures 6 to 9 show the first flange 202. The first flange 202 has a first inner surface 212, a first outer surface 214 on the opposite side, and a perimeter 216. The perimeter 216 is composed of the radially outermost portion extending around the first flange 202 between the first inner surface 212 and the first outer surface 214. The perimeter 216 is preferably composed of the radially outermost edge of the first inner surface 212 and / or the radially outermost edge of the second inner surface 212. In one view, the perimeter 216 extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis L. It is preferable to have a plurality of raised portions 218 spaced along the perimeter 216. The raised portions 218 can facilitate the rotation of the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204 by providing a grip for the user. The peripheral portion 216 may further have one or more notches 220 spaced apart from each other along the peripheral portion 216. The notches 220 may hold ties, wires, strings, or other coil-holding / binding components to facilitate the bundling of the roll of object after the coil of object has been unrolled from the reel and mounted on the spool assembly 200.

[0018] The first inner surface 212 may include a substantially flat surface. For example, the first inner surface 212 located near the longitudinal axis L of the spool assembly 200 and the peripheral portion 216 of the first flange 202 may lie on the same plane. In a modified example, the first inner surface 212 may be curved. For example, the first inner surface 212 located near the longitudinal axis L may extend radially outward on the same plane to a flat peripheral portion 217. From the flat peripheral portion 217 which extends substantially circumferentially around the longitudinal axis L, the first inner surface 212 may be at least partially curved outward in the longitudinal direction (for example, it may be sloped). The outward curve may constitute the peripheral portion 219 of the first flange 202, which can facilitate the winding and unwinding of a roll of object onto the arbor member 216.

[0019] The first flange 202 is provided with at least one first slot 222. The first slot 222 extends at least partially in the radial direction R. The radial direction R extends outward from the longitudinal axis L of the spool assembly 200 and is substantially perpendicular to this longitudinal axis. The first slot 222 may include one slot, two slots, three slots, four slots, or five or more slots. In one view, if two or more slots 222 are provided in the first flange 202, each of the first slots 222 is positioned equidistant from each other in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis L. Additionally or alternatively, each first slot 222 may be positioned at substantially the same distance from each of the other first slots 222 radially outward from the longitudinal axis L. Additionally or alternatively, each of the first slots 222 may be configured substantially identically to each of the other first slots 222.

[0020] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the first slot 222 has a first edge 226 and a second edge 228. The first edge 226 and the second edge 228 meet at a first location 230 and a second location 232. The first edge 226 and the second edge 228 are spaced apart from each other between the first location 230 and the second location 232 so as to form a first opening 234 between them. The first opening 234 extends from the first end 236 of the first slot 222 to the second end 238 of the first slot 222. The second end 238 is spaced radially outward from the first end 236 in a radial direction R. In one view, it is preferable that the first slot 222 is substantially symmetrical when viewed radially R from the longitudinal axis L. From one perspective, the first slot 222 extends substantially linearly in the radial direction from the first end 236 to the second end 238.

[0021] The first end 236 of the first slot 222 defines a first width w1 extending from the first edge 226 to the second end 238. The second end 238 of the first slot 222 defines a second width w2 extending from the first edge 226 to the second edge 228. The second width w2 is wider than the first width w1. The second width w2 is dimensioned to facilitate the insertion of the arbor member 206 and its coupling to the first flange 202. For example, the arbor member 206 can be inserted into the first opening 238 at the second end 238 of the slot 222. As will be further described herein, the arbor member 206 can be translated within the first slot 222 between the first end 236 and the second end 238.

[0022] The first flange 202 further comprises a first receiving hole 240 and a second receiving hole 242. The first and second receiving holes 240, 242 extend through the first flange 202 from the first inner surface 212 to the first outer surface 214. The second receiving hole 242 is located radially outward from the longitudinal axis L. In one view, the first receiving hole 240 is located at the radial center of the first flange 202. The first receiving hole 240 is preferably extended around the longitudinal axis L. In one view, the first receiving hole 240 and the second receiving hole 242 are preferably sized and / or shaped substantially the same. The first and second receiving holes 240, 242 are configured to receive a handle 400, as will be further described below.

[0023] Figures 10 to 13 show the second flange 204. The second flange 204 has a second inner surface 252, a second outer surface 254 on the opposite side, and a perimeter 256. The perimeter 256 is preferably configured according to at least one of the embodiments described above with respect to the perimeter 216 of the first flange 202.

[0024] The second inner surface 252 may include a substantially flat surface. For example, the second inner surface 252 located near the longitudinal axis L of the spool assembly 200 and the peripheral portion 226 of the second flange 204 may lie on the same plane. In a modified example, the second inner surface 252 may be curved. For example, the second inner surface 252 located near the longitudinal axis L may extend radially outward on the same plane to a flat area 257 of the peripheral portion. From the flat area 257 of the peripheral portion which extends substantially circumferentially around the longitudinal axis L, the second inner surface 252 may be at least partially curved outward in the longitudinal direction (for example, it may be sloped). The outward curve may constitute the peripheral portion 259 of the second flange 204, which can facilitate the winding and unwinding of a roll of object onto the arbor member 216.

[0025] The second flange 204 is provided with at least one second slot 262. The second slot 262 extends at least partially in the transverse direction T. The transverse direction T is substantially perpendicular to the radial direction R and the longitudinal axis L of the spool assembly 200. The second slot 262 may include one slot, two slots, three slots, four slots, or five or more slots. In one view, if two or more second slots 262 are provided in the second flange 204, each slot 262 is arranged circumferentially at an equal distance from each other slot about the longitudinal axis L. Additionally or alternatively, each slot 262 may be spaced substantially the same distance radially outward from the longitudinal axis L as each of the other slots 262. Additionally or alternatively, each slot 262 may be configured substantially identically to each of the other slots 262. From one perspective, the number of first slots 222 in the first flange 202 is the same as the number of second slots 262 in the second flange 204. Each of the first and second slots 222, 262 aligns longitudinally during the rotation of the first and second flanges 222, 204 relative to each other.

[0026] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the second slot 262 has a first edge 266 and a second edge 268. The first edge 266 and the second edge 268 meet at a first location 270 and a second location 272. The first edge 266 and the second edge 268 are spaced apart from each other between the first location 270 and the second location 272, forming a second opening 274 between them. The second opening 274 extends from the first end 276 of the slot 262 to the second end 278 of the slot 262. The second end 278 is spaced radially outward from the first end 276 in a radial direction R. In one view, the slot 262 extends substantially in the shape of an arc from the first end 276 to the second end 278. From one perspective, slot 262 is parallel to the longitudinal axis L and extends substantially circumferentially around an axis offset from it.

[0027] The first end 276 of the second slot 262 defines a first width y1 extending from the first edge 266 to the second edge 268. The second end 278 of the second slot 262 defines a second width y2 extending from the first edge 266 to the second edge 268. The second width y2 is narrower than the first width y1. The first width y1 is dimensioned to facilitate the insertion of the arbor member 206 and its coupling to the first flange 202. For example, the arbor member 206 can be inserted into the second opening 274 at the second end 278 of the slot 262. As will be further described herein, the arbor member 206 can be translated within the slot 262 between the first end 276 and the second end 278.

[0028] The first flange 204 further comprises a third receiving hole 280. The third receiving hole 280 extends through the second flange 204 from the second inner surface 252 to the second outer surface 254. The third receiving hole 280 is located at the radial center of the second flange 204. The third receiving hole 280 preferably extends around the longitudinal axis L. In one view, the third receiving hole 280 preferably is dimensioned and / or shaped substantially the same as the first and second receiving holes 240, 242 of the first flange 202. The third receiving hole 280 is configured to receive a handle 400, as will be further described below. As can be understood, the second flange 204 preferably has two or more receiving holes.

[0029] The first edge 266 of the second slot 262 is positioned radially inward from the second edge 268 of the second slot 262 along the length of the second slot 262 from the first end 270 to the second end 272. The first edge 266 includes a plurality of stoppers 267 positioned between the second end 270 and the second end 272 of the second slot 262. Each of the plurality of stoppers 267 is configured to releasably prevent the arbor member 206 from sliding within the second opening 174, which will be described further. The plurality of stoppers 267 may, for example, have a series of peaks and valleys along the first edge 266. In another view, the stoppers 267 may be positioned at different locations on either the first flange 202 or the second flange 204. For example, the stopper 267 is preferably provided on the surface and / or edge of the joint between the first flange 202 and the second flange 204. The first axial alignment member 281 of the first flange 202 (see Figure 6) is preferably coupled to the corresponding second axial alignment member 282 of the second flange 204 (see Figure 11), which will be further described below. One or more corresponding stoppers 267 are preferably provided between the first axial alignment member 281 and the second axial alignment member 282, and the stoppers 267 are configured to releasely prevent relative rotation between the first flange 202 and the second flange 204.

[0030] The second flange 204 further comprises a second axial alignment member 282. The second axial alignment member 282 extends from the second inner surface 252 about the longitudinal axis L. The second axial alignment member 282 is preferably configured to align with and / or connect to the corresponding first axial alignment member 281 (see Figure 6). The alignment and / or connection between the first axial alignment member 281 and the second axial alignment member 282 facilitates the rotation of the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204 about the longitudinal axis. In one view, each of the first and second axial alignment members 281, 282 is formed on the respective first and second flanges 202, 204 to form two separate, single, and integrated flanges 202, 204. From an alternative or additional viewpoint, the first and second axial alignment members 281, 282 are better coupled to the respective first and second flanges 202, 204 to form two separate assembled flanges 202, 204. As understood, fewer or more members can be integrated into the spool assembly 200 to rotatably couple the first flange 202 to the second flange 204.

[0031] Figures 14 to 17 are different views of an arbor member 206 according to one aspect of the present invention. The arbor member 206 has a first end 302 and a second end 304 on the opposite side. The first end 302 has a first retaining element 306, and the second end 304 includes a second retaining element 316. As understood, the first retaining element 306 may constitute the first end 302 and / or the second retaining element 316 may constitute the second end 304.

[0032] The first retaining member 306 has an outer surface 308 with a pair of slots 310. The slots 310 of the first retaining element 306 have a first cross-sectional dimension C1 and a second cross-sectional dimension C2. The second cross-sectional dimension C2 is smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension C1. The location of the second cross-sectional dimension C2 is spaced apart from the location of the first cross-sectional dimension C1 when viewed in the direction toward the second end 304 of the arbor member 206. The first cross-sectional dimension C1 is larger than the first width w1 of the first end 236 of the first slot 222. The first cross-sectional dimension C1 is smaller than the second width w2 of the first flange 202 at the second end 238 of the first slot 222. The second cross-sectional dimension C2 of the first retaining member 306 is smaller than the first width w1 of the first end 236 of the first slot 222 of the first flange 202. The arbor member 206 is configured such that its first end 302 can be inserted longitudinally (e.g., in the insertion direction) into the second end 238 of the first slot 222 of the first flange 202. The slot 310 of the first retaining member 306 can be positioned within the first opening 234 of the first slot 222 of the first flange 202. When the slot 310 is positioned within the first opening 234, the arbor member 206 can be translated between the first end 230 and the second end 232 of the first slot 222. When the first retaining member 306 is positioned at the first end 230 of the first slot 220, the first retaining member 306 substantially prevents the arbor member 206 from moving longitudinally (e.g., in the retraction direction) away from the first flange 202. When the arbor member 206 is positioned at the second end 232 of the first slot 222, the arbor member 206 and the first flange 202 can move freely away from each other in the longitudinal direction (for example, in the recessed direction).

[0033] From one perspective, the retaining member 306 and the first slot 222 of the first flange 202 are configured such that, when the retaining member 306 is positioned within the first slot 222, the arbor member 206 is substantially prevented from rotating relative to the first flange 202.

[0034] Referring to Figure 17, the second end 304 includes a second retaining element 316. The second retaining element 316 has an outer surface 318 with a pair of slots 320. The slots 320 of the second retaining element 316 have a third cross-sectional dimension C3 and a fourth cross-sectional dimension C4. The fourth cross-sectional dimension C4 is smaller than the third cross-sectional dimension C3. The location of the fourth cross-sectional dimension C4 is spaced apart from the location of the third cross-sectional dimension C3 when viewed in the direction toward the first end 302 of the arbor member 206. The third cross-sectional dimension C3 is smaller than the first width w1 of the second end 276 of the second slot 262 of the second flange 204. The fourth cross-sectional dimension C4 of the second retaining member 316 is smaller than the second width w2 of the second end 278 of the second slot 262 of the second flange 204. The arbor member 206 is configured such that its second end 304 can be inserted longitudinally (e.g., in the insertion direction) into the first end 276 of the second slot 262 of the second flange 204. The slot 320 of the second retaining member 316 can be positioned within the second opening 274 of the second slot 262 of the second flange 204. When the slot 320 is positioned within the second opening 278, the arbor member 206 can be translated between the first end 276 and the second end 278 of the second slot 262. When the second retaining member 316 is positioned at the first end 276 of the second slot 262, the arbor member 206 and the first flange 202 can move freely away from each other longitudinally (e.g., in the retraction direction). When the second retaining member 316 is positioned at the second end 278 of the second slot 262, the second retaining member 316 substantially prevents the arbor member 206 from moving away from the second flange 204 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the retraction direction).

[0035] Referring to Figure 15, the arbor member 206 preferably has a biasing member holding element 330. The biasing member holding element 330 is configured to receive the biasing member 108 with it resting on it. The biasing member 108 preferably is inserted into a holding channel 332 and positioned in a holding recess 334. Both the holding channel 332 and the holding recess 334 preferably are provided on the surface 336 of the arbor member 206. The holding recess 334 can removably hold the biasing member 108 therein.

[0036] To ensure understanding, the number of arbor members 206 included in the spool assembly 200 is preferably the same as the number of slots provided in the first and second flanges 202 and 204. For example, if the first flange 202 has two first slots 222 and the second flange 204 has two second slots 262, the spool assembly 200 may include two arbor members 206. One arbor member 206 is inserted into the first slot 222 provided in the first flange 202 and the corresponding second slot 262 provided in the second flange 204. The other arbor member 206 is inserted into the other first slot 222 in the first flange 202 and the other corresponding second slot 262 in the second flange 204. From one perspective, the spool assembly 200 includes a first flange 202 having four first slots 222 and a second flange 204 having four second slots 262. The spool assembly 200 preferably includes four arbor members 206 positioned within the slots of the first and second flanges 202, 204, as described above.

[0037] Referring to Figures 18 to 20, the handle 400 has an insertion end 402 and a gripping end 404. The insertion end 402 has a pair of legs 406 extending from the first end 405 to the second end 407 of the insertion end 402 in the direction toward the insertion end 402 from the gripping end 404. Each of the pair of legs 406 preferably has a handle retaining element 410. The handle retaining element 410 preferably includes, for example, a projection extending radially outward from the outer surface 412 of the leg 406. In one view, the handle retaining element 410 can provide a snap-fit ​​connection with the corresponding receiving holes 240, 242 and 280 of the first flange 202 and the second flange 204 when the handle 400 is inserted into the corresponding hole. Each of the pair of legs 406 can be radially flexed to facilitate insertion into the holes 240, 242 and 280 of the first flange 202 and the second flange 204, respectively. The handle retaining element 410 can be removably secured to the corresponding flanges 202 and 204 after insertion into the holes 240, 242 and 280. As understood, the handle 400 may have fewer or more legs 406. For example, the handle may include three, four, five, or more than five legs 406. In one view, the legs 406 are arranged circumferentially around the insertion end 402 at equidistant from each of the other legs 406.

[0038] The spool assembly 200 may include two or more handles 400. For example, the first handle 400 may be coupled to the first receiving hole 240 of the first flange 202, and the second handle 400 may be coupled to the third receiving hole 280 of the second flange 204. The legs 406 of the handles 400 may be configured such that when the first and second handles 400 are positioned in the first and third receiving holes 240, 280, respectively, the legs 406 of one handle 400 intersect the legs 406 of the other handle 400 in the circumferential direction. For example, when the handles 400 are inserted into the corresponding first and third receiving holes 240, 280, the insertion ends 402 of each handle 400 intersect each other along their longitudinal axes. Each leg 406 of each handle 400 is positioned circumferentially between the corresponding legs 406 of the other handle 400. This handle configuration allows the handle 400 to be inserted into the first and second flanges 202 and 204 along the longitudinal axis L.

[0039] The first flange 202, the second flange 204, the arbor member 206, the biasing member 108, and the handle 400 are each preferably separate and independent components assembled together to form a spool assembly 200. The first arbor member 206 can be inserted into the first slot 222 of the first flange 202. The first arbor member 206 is preferably inserted into the first slot 222 through the second end 238 until the slot 310 of the first arbor member is positioned within the first opening 234 of the first slot 222. The first arbor member 206 can be slid along the first slot 222 to the first end 236. When the first arbor member 206 is positioned at the first end 236, the first retaining member 306 of the first arbor member 206 holds the first arbor member 206 in the first slot 222, thereby substantially preventing the relative movement between the first arbor member 206 and the first flange 202 in the longitudinal direction.

[0040] The second arbor member 206 can be inserted into another first slot 222 of the first flange 202. The second arbor member 206 is preferably inserted into the other first slot 222 through the second end 238 until the slot 310 of the second arbor member is positioned within the first opening 234 of the first slot 222. By sliding the second arbor member 206 along the first slot 222 to the first end 236, the second arbor member 206 can be held in the other first slot 222. This process is preferably repeated for each first slot 222 provided in the first flange 202.

[0041] After the arbor members 206 are positioned within the respective first slots 222 of the first flanges 202, the biasing members 108 are preferably coupled to each of the arbor members 206. For example, the biasing members 108 are preferably positioned within the respective retaining recesses 334 of the arbor members 206, which are inserted into the retaining channels 332 and coupled to the first flanges 202. The biasing members 108 bias each of the arbor members 206 toward the respective first ends 236 of the respective first slots 222.

[0042] After the biasing member 108 is coupled to each arbor member 206, the arbor members 206 are preferably inserted into the respective second slots 262 of the second flange 204. The arbor members 206 are preferably inserted into the corresponding second slots 262 through the first end 276 until the slot 320 of the second arbor member 206 is positioned within the corresponding second opening 274 of the second slot 262.

[0043] It is preferable to position the arbor member 206 within the respective first slots 222 of the first flange 202 and the respective second slots 262 of the second flange, and then rotate the first flange 202 around the longitudinal axis L relative to the second flange 204. For example, the center of rotation of the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204 is preferably located on the longitudinal axis L. When the arbor member 206 is positioned at the respective first ends 236,276 of the first and second slots 222,262, the arbor member 206 determines the minimum arbor diameter. As the first flange 202 rotates relative to the second flange 204, the arbor member translates (e.g., slides) toward the second ends 238,278 within the respective first and second slots 222,262. As the arbor member 206 is translated toward the second ends 238,278, the arbor diameter increases in size. The maximum width diameter can be achieved when the arbor member 206 reaches the respective second ends 238,278 of the slots 222,262. As can be understood, once the maximum arbor diameter is achieved, the arbor member 206 can be positioned not exactly at the respective second ends 238,278, but closer to the respective second ends 238,278 of the slots 222,262.

[0044] The stoppers 267 provided on the first edge 266 of the second slot 262 can removably hold the arbor member 206 in a position along each slot 262. For example, if the first flange 202 is rotated relative to the second flange 204 so that the arbor member 206 is positioned between the first end 276 and the second end 278 of the second slot 262, the arbor member 206 can contact at least one of the plurality of stoppers 267 and removably hold the arbor member 206 in the aforementioned position between the first end 276 and the second end 278. The force provided by the biasing member 108 can engage the arbor member 206 within the stoppers 267. To remove the arbor member 206 from each stopper 267, it is preferable to apply additional rotational force (e.g., by the user) to the first and second flanges 202, 204 to detach the arbor member 206 from the stoppers 267.

[0045] To disassemble the spool assembly 200, the first flange 202 is rotated relative to the second flange 204 until the arbor members 206 are positioned at the first ends 276 of each of the second flanges 204. Next, the second flanges 204 can be removed from the arbor members 206 by moving them longitudinally (for example, in the retraction direction). After removing the second flanges 204, it is preferable to slide each of the arbor members 206 within the second ends 238 of their respective first slots 222. Each arbor member 206 can be removed from the first flange 202 by moving it longitudinally (for example, in the retraction direction). The biasing members 108 can also be removed from each arbor member 206.

[0046] During use of the spool assembly 200, the arbor member 206 is moved toward the second ends 238, 278 of the first and second slots 222, 262, respectively, to achieve an increased and / or maximum arbor diameter. It is preferable to insert the first handle 400 into the second receiving hole 242 of the first flange 202. It is preferable to insert the second handle 400 into the third receiving hole 280 of the second flange 204. Next, it is preferable for the user to rotate the spool assembly 200 around the longitudinal axis L by rotating the first handle 400 around the longitudinal axis L. By rotating the spool assembly 200, a roll of material (e.g., filament) can be wound onto the arbor member 206. After the roll of the object is wrapped around the arbor member 206, rotating the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204 allows the arbor member 206 to slide toward the respective first ends 236, 276, thereby reducing the arbor diameter. After reducing the arbor diameter, the second flange 204 can be removed from the arbor member 206, and the roll of the object can be removed from the spool assembly 200.

[0047] To unwind the roll of object onto the reel, it is preferable to position the roll of object around the arbor member 206, which is coupled to the first flange 202. It is preferable to couple the second flange 204 to the arbor member 206 as described above. By rotating the first flange 202 relative to the second flange 204, the arbor member 206 can be slid toward its respective second ends 238, 278, thereby increasing the arbor diameter. After increasing the arbor diameter, it is preferable to apply tension to the roll of object using the arbor member 206. It is preferable to position the first handle 400 within the first receiving hole 240 of the first flange, and the second handle 400 within the third receiving hole 280 of the second flange 204. By pulling the strand of object away from the spool assembly 200, the roll of object can be removed from the spool assembly 200, thereby causing the first and second flanges 202, 204 to rotate and unwind the object. The first and second flanges 202, 204 can rotate relative to the first and second handles 400, so that the user can grip the handles while the roll of object is being unwound.

[0048] Other components can be used to facilitate the process of winding and unwinding the object roll. For example, twist ties (sometimes called vinyl ties) can be incorporated to secure the object roll after winding, gripping components can be used to hold or grip the handle 400 during winding and unwinding, or other components can be used.

[0049] It will be understood that the above description provides embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods. However, it is assumed that other embodiments of the invention may differ in detail from the embodiments described above. For example, any embodiment disclosed herein may include features disclosed for any other embodiment disclosed herein. All references to the invention and its embodiments refer to the specific embodiment described at that time and do not imply any limitation on the scope of the invention more generally. Any distinctions or disparagements regarding certain features suggest a lack of preference for such features, but do not exclude such features from the scope of the invention unless otherwise indicated.

[0050] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, processes, machines, manufacturing methods, compositions of objects, means, methods, or steps that currently exist or will be developed in the future may be used in accordance with the present invention to perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0051] 100,200 Spool Assembly 102, 104, 202, 204 flange 106,206 Arbor components 108 Biasing member 216 Peripheral area 218 Ridge 222,262 slots 226,228,266,268 slot edge 234,274 openings 236, 238, 270, 272, 276, 278 Slot ends 240,242,280 holes 306,316,330 holding element 400 Handle

Claims

1. A spool assembly for supporting the roll of an object, the spool assembly comprising: a first flange having at least one first slot, at least one slot of the first flange extending at least partially in a radial direction, the radial direction extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the spool assembly; a second flange having at least one second slot, at least one slot of the second flange extending at least partially in a transverse direction, the transverse direction being substantially perpendicular to the radial direction and the longitudinal direction, the second flange being rotatably coupled to the first flange such that the first flange and the second flange rotate relative to each other about the longitudinal axis; a first arbor member slidably coupled within the at least one first slot of the first flange and slidably coupled within the at least one second slot of the second flange, the first arbor member being at least partially positioned between the first flange and the second flange; a second arbor member positioned between the first flange and the second flange, the spacing between the first arbor member and the second arbor member in the radial direction defining an arbor diameter; a biasing member coupled to the first arbor member, the first arbor member being biased radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis; a spool assembly in which rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange causes the first arbor member to translate within the at least one first slot and the at least one second slot, thereby changing the arbor diameter.

2. The at least one first slot has a first edge, the first edge being spaced from the second edge such that a first opening is formed between the first edge and the second edge, the first opening extending from a first end of the at least one first slot to a second end of the at least one first slot that is radially outwardly spaced from the first end of the at least one first slot, the width of the first opening at the second end being wider than the width of the first opening at the first end, and the first opening at the second end being located closer to a peripheral portion of the first flange than the first opening at the first end. The spool assembly according to claim 1.

3. The at least one first arbor member has a first retaining element, the first retaining element having a first cross-sectional dimension, the first cross-sectional dimension being larger than the width at the first opening at the first end and smaller than the width of the first opening at the second end, such that when the at least one first arbor is positioned within the at least one first slot at the first end, the first retaining element substantially prevents the at least one first arbor and the first flange from moving longitudinally away from each other, and when the at least one first arbor is positioned within the at least one first slot at the second end, the at least one first arbor and the first flange are able to freely move longitudinally away from each other. The spool assembly according to claim 2.

4. The at least one first slot extends substantially linearly in the radial direction from the first end to the second end. The spool assembly according to claim 2.

5. The at least one second slot has a first edge, the first edge being spaced from the second edge such that a second opening is formed between the first edge and the second edge, the second opening extending from a first end of the at least one second slot to a second end of the at least one second slot that is radially outwardly spaced from the first end of the at least one second slot, the width of the second opening at the second end being narrower than the width of the second opening at the first end. The spool assembly according to claim 1.

6. The at least one arbor member of the first has a second retaining element, the second retaining element has a second retaining diameter, the second retaining diameter is greater than the width at the second opening at the second end and less than the width of the second opening at the first end, such that when the at least one arbor of the first is positioned within the at least one slot of the second end, the first retaining element substantially prevents the at least one arbor of the first and the second flange from moving away from each other in the longitudinal direction, and when the at least one arbor of the first is positioned within the at least one slot of the first end, the at least one arbor of the first and the second flange are able to freely move away from each other in the longitudinal direction. The spool assembly according to claim 5.

7. The at least one slot of the second extends in an arc shape from the first end to the second end. The spool assembly according to claim 5.

8. The first edge of the at least one slot of the second is located radially inwardly spaced from the second edge from the first edge to the second edge along the length of the at least one slot of the second, and a plurality of detents are formed on the first edge. The spool assembly according to claim 5.

9. The at least one slot of the first extends through the first flange from a first inner flange surface to a first outer flange surface. The spool assembly according to claim 1.

10. The at least one slot of the first consists of a plurality of first slots, the at least one slot of the second consists of a plurality of second slots, the first arbor member is slidably coupled within one of the plurality of first slots of the first flange and slidably coupled within one of the plurality of second slots of the second flange, and the second arbor member is slidably coupled within one of the plurality of second slots of the first flange and slidably coupled within one of the plurality of second slots of the second flange. By rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange, the second arbor member translates within the second slot of the plurality of first slots and within the second slot of the plurality of second slots, whereby the arbor diameter changes, the spool assembly according to claim 1.

11. The biasing member is coupled to the second arbor member such that the second arbor member is biased radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis, the spool assembly according to claim 10.

12. The plurality of first slots consists of four slots, and the plurality of second slots consists of four slots, the spool assembly according to claim 10.

13. The first flange includes a first receiving hole, the second flange includes a second receiving hole, one of the first and second receiving holes extends around the center of rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange, and the other of the first and second receiving holes is positioned radially outwardly spaced from the center of rotation, the spool assembly includes a first handle insertable into the first receiving hole, and a second handle insertable into the second receiving hole, the spool assembly according to claim 1.

14. The first receiving hole is positioned radially outwardly spaced from the center of rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange, the second receiving hole extends around the center of rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange, the first flange further includes a third receiving hole, the third receiving hole extends around the center of rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange, and the first handle is further insertable into the third receiving hole, the spool assembly according to claim 13.

15. A method of assembling a spool assembly, the spool assembly including a first flange, a second flange, and a first arbor member, the first flange including at least one first slot, the at least one first slot extending at least partially radially, the radial direction extending radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the spool assembly, the first arbor member being slidably coupled within the at least one first slot, the method including Inserting the first arbor member into the at least one slot provided in the first flange; coupling a biasing member to the first arbor member to bias the first arbor member radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis; a method in which rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange causes the first arbor member to translate within the at least one slot, thereby changing the arbor diameter. **Claim 16** The method of claim 15, further comprising inserting the first arbor member into at least one second slot provided in the second flange, the at least one second slot extending at least partially in a transverse direction that is substantially perpendicular to the radial direction and the longitudinal axis. **Claim 17** The at least one first slot includes a plurality of first slots, the at least one second slot includes a plurality of second slots, the first arbor member is inserted into one of the plurality of first slots of the first flange and into one of the plurality of second slots of the second flange, and the method includes: inserting a second arbor member into one of the plurality of second slots of the first flange; further comprising inserting the second arbor member into a second slot of the plurality of second slots of the second flange; The method of claim 16, wherein rotation of the first flange relative to the second flange causes both the first arbor member and the second arbor member to translate within their respective slots. **Claim 18** The step of coupling the second flange to the first arbor member includes rotating the second flange from a first position to a second position relative to the first flange, wherein in the first position, the second flange is longitudinally free to move away from the first arbor member, and in the second position, the second flange is substantially prevented from moving longitudinally away from the first arbor member. The method of claim 15. **Claim 19** The first flange includes a first receiving hole, the second flange includes a second receiving hole, one of the first and second receiving holes extends around a rotation center of the first flange with respect to the second flange, the other of the first and second receiving holes is located at a radially outer distance from the rotation center, and the method comprises: inserting a first handle into the first receiving hole; The method according to claim 15, further comprising inserting a second handle into the second receiving hole. **Claim 20**: The first arbor member includes a first surface facing the rotation center of the first flange and a second surface facing the peripheral portion of the first flange, and the biasing member is coupled to the first arbor member at the first surface of the first arbor member. The spool assembly according to claim 1. **Claim 21**: The biasing member is coupled to the first arbor member at the surface of the first arbor member facing the rotation center of the first flange so that the first arbor member is biased radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis. The method according to claim 15.

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