Fluid applicator

Abstract

A fluid applicator comprising: a head unit configured to apply a working fluid to a surface; a trigger unit that is couplable to the head unit and operable to actuate a flow of working fluid therefrom; and a cartridge unit that is engageable with the head unit, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid from a reservoir into the head unit.

Description

FLUID APPLICATORTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a fluid applicator, and more particularly, although not exclusively, to a fluid applicator having head, trigger and cartridge units.BACKGROUND

[0002] When applying fluid coatings such as paints, oils and stains to walls, floors and decks, an applicator is often utilized. Such applicators typically include a handle that allows a user to remain in a standing position during application of the fluid to a floor surface, or to more easily reach high wall and / or ceiling surfaces. The handles of such applicators add to the footprint of the applicator and make the handling and / or storage of the applicators (when not in use) cumbersome.

[0003] Existing fluid applicators typically provide a fluid from an on-board reservoir, relieving the user of the need to repetitively re-apply the fluid to the applicator. Often, however, it is necessary to refill the on-board reservoir, with filling of such reservoirs often resulting in fluid spills that require additional cleaning, and which may be detrimental to the adequate application of the fluid. Where the fluid being applied by the applicator is hazardous, it is imperative that such spill or leakage is avoided to ensure that the operator of the applicator does not come into contact with the fluid.

[0004] Generally speaking, existing fluid applicators require that the applicator be cleaned of residual fluid after use. Such cleaning is often inconvenient and time consuming. Depending on the nature of the fluid and / or applicator, it may be difficult to fully clean the applicator of residual fluid due to staining that occurs while a large volume of fluid sits in the reservoir. This staining can result in a requirement to replace the applicator entirely, at great cost, so to prevent the residually stained reservoir from affecting future applications of a different fluid. Such fluid applicators inherently require outdoor cleaning, which results in the harmful cleaning chemicals leeching into natural soils and habitats or gardens surrounding the surface.

[0005] A further struggle with existing fluid applicators is a propensity for the fluid to pool or otherwise concentrate when being applied to the surface, resulting in an uneven coating. While applicator pads, such as synthetic pads, provide limited means of distributing the fluid, their effectiveness is limited, particularly when used across fluids of differing viscosities.

[0006] The present invention was conceived with these shortcomings in mind, and aims to provide the public with an improved fluid applicator, or at least a useful alternative.SUMMARY

[0007] In a first aspect, the invention provides a fluid applicator, comprising: a head unit configured to apply a working fluid to a surface; a trigger unit that is couplable to the head unit and operable to actuate a flow of working fluid therefrom; and a cartridge unit that is engageable with the head unit, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid from a reservoir into the head unit.

[0008] In some embodiments, the head unit has an override mechanism that is separately operable to actuate a flow of the working fluid. The head unit may have a cavity for receiving the working fluid and a base that provides said fluid to the surface, the cavity being configured to distribute the working fluid across the base. The base may have a plurality of apertures for communicating working fluid from the cavity to the surface. The cavity may include a raised crown across which the working fluid is drawn to promote a substantially even distribution of working fluid from outlets of the base.

[0009] In some embodiments, the trigger unit comprises an actuator that is moveable between an operable position in which the flow of working fluid is actuated and a non-operable position, with the actuator being biased towards the non-operable position.

[0010] The cartridge unit may comprise a connector that is removably attachable to the fluid reservoir and / or the head unit, the connector having a passageway for working fluid and a valve that is operable to selectively open and close the passageway. The valve may be biased towards a closed position, and wherein engagement of the cartridge unit with the head unit moves the valve to an open position permitting fluid flow therethrough.

[0011] In some embodiments, the head unit may further include a replaceable applicator pad, the applicator pad being configured to contact the surface, applying the fluid thereto. The head unit may comprise a fluid pump configured to selectably draw working fluid from the reservoir into the head unit. Alternatively, the working fluid may be drawn, by gravity fed, from the reservoir to the head unit.

[0012] In some embodiments, the trigger unit further comprises a spacer that is couplable to the head unit and a distal end that is spaced therefrom. The actuator of the trigger unit may be disposed at the distal end of the spacer. The trigger unit may further include a linkage that extends between the actuator and the head unit, the linkage being housed within the spacer. The actuator may include a cam, with movement of the actuator to the operable position rotating the cam rotates to impart a corresponding linear drive onto the linkage, actuating the flow of fluid.

[0013] In a second aspect, the invention provides a method of applying a working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator, the method comprising: engaging a cartridge unit with a head unit of the applicator, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid into a cavity of the head unit; and applying the working fluid to the surface by a base of the head unit, with the cavity being configured to distribute the working fluid substantially evenly thereacross.

[0014] The step of applying working fluid to the surface may comprise: spreading working fluid substantially evenly across the base by drawing the working fluid across a raised crown within the cavity.

[0015] In a third aspect, the invention provides a method of applying working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator, the method comprising: actuating a flow of working fluid into a cavity of a head unit with a trigger unit that is coupled to the head unit; applying the working fluid to the surface with a base of the head unit; and flushing remaining working fluid from the head unit by actuating an override mechanism of the head unit to permit the introduction of cleaning fluid into the cavity.

[0016] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a cartridge unit for providing working fluid into a head unit of a fluid applicator, the cartridge unit including a connector that is engageable with the head unit and attachable to a reservoir, the connector having a passageway for communicating fluid from the reservoir into the head and a valve the is operable to selectively open and close said passageway.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a fluid applicator in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the applicator comprising a head unit, a cartridge unit and a trigger unit;Figure 2 is an enlarged view of the encircled region A of Figure 1 , showing the head and cartridge units thereof;Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a base and cavity of the head unit of Figure 1;Figure 4 is an enlarged partial view of the trigger unit of Figure 1, showing an actuator thereof;Figure 5 is an enlarged partial view of an alternative trigger unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing an actuator thereof;Figure 6 is a perspective view of the cartridge unit of Figure 1 ;Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge unit of Figure 6, showing a valve assembly thereof;Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view through line B-B of Figure 7;Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the head unit of Figure 1 , showing internal fluid passages thereof;Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the trigger unit of Figure 1 , showing a spacer and linkage thereof;Figure 10 schematically illustrates a method of applying a working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; andFigure 11 schematically illustrates a further method of applying a working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Disclosed generally herein is a fluid applicator comprising: a head unit configured to apply a working fluid to a surface; a trigger unit that is couplable to the head unit and operable to actuate a flow of the working fluid therefrom; and a cartridge unit that is engageable with the head unit, with the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid into the head unit.

[0019] The fluid applicator is particularly suitable for applying a deck coating to a deck surface. The deck coating could be any one of a decking oil, stain or paint. It is understood, however, that the fluid applicator may have application in a wide variety of other fluid application activities. For example, the fluid applicator may be for used to apply coatings to a concrete floor surface, or a wooden indoor floor surface, rather than a deck. Further, the applicator may be used for the application of a paint or epoxy / resin covering.

[0020] Figure 1 illustrates a fluid applicator 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing the fluid applicator in an assembled or operable configuration. As shown, the fluid applicator comprises three working modules or units: a head unit 10; a trigger unit 12; and a cartridge unit 14. Each of the units 10, 12, 14 are attachable to one another. Whileshown and discussed herein as discrete units, it is understood that in other embodiments, one or more of units 10, 12, 14 may be integrated together.

[0021] Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the fluid applicator 1 of Figure 1. It can be seen that the cartridge unit 14 is engaged with an opening in the head unit 10, with a wing-shaped extension to an upper surface of the head unit 10 supporting the cartridge unit 14 in an inverted and upright position. The trigger unit 12 is couplable to the head unit 10, such that, when coupled thereto, the trigger unit 12 extends vertically from the head unit 10, being supported thereby.

[0022] An override mechanism 18 is fitted to the head unit 10. The override mechanism 18 is a mechanism for actuating flow of the working fluid from the head unit 10. The override mechanism 18 is separably operable to the trigger unit 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the override mechanism 18 takes the form a small projection from either side of the head unit 10. Specifically, as shown, the override mechanism 18 is shaped so to include short wings from either side. This shape is particularly helpful in providing grip of the override mechanism 18 when, for example, an operator’s hands are wet and / or slippery (such as when coated with the fluid for the applicator 1).

[0023] Turning now to Figure 3. The head unit 10 includes a cavity 20 which receives the working fluid for application to the surface, and a base 22 which extends therebelow / around. The cavity 20 is in fluid communication with the cartridge unit 14 such that fluid which leaves the reservoir of the cartridge unit 14 is received by the cavity 20. Once the cavity 20 receives the fluid, it is fed into the base 22. The role of the cavity 20 is to distribute the fluid it receives equally across the base 22.

[0024] The base 22 is configured to provide the fluid to the final surface to which it is being applied. The base 22 is preferably part of, but separable from, the head unit 10. The base 22 also comprises a plurality of apertures 26 that serve as outlets through which the working fluid received by the base 22 can be expelled from the base 22 to eventuate at the surface being applied the fluid. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the apertures 26 are substantially L- shaped or rectangular in shape, although any shape which can facilitate fluid passage is suitable. The apertures 26 are located at each corner of the base 22. Additional apertures 26 are also located at equidistant spaces from each of the corner apertures 26, around the edge of the base 22 but also through its centre. As shown in Figure 2, the base 22 is pivotably interfaced with the head unit 10. The pivoting interface allows the base 20 to adapt to altering surfaces during application of fluids, and retain substantially full / whole contact with the surface.

[0025] Looking again to Figure 3, a raised portion in the form of crown 28 can be seen provided within the cavity 20. The crown 28 provides a high point of the base 22. Working fluidfrom the cavity 20 first meets the base 22 at the crown 28, the crown 28 drawing, under gravity, the fluid and promoting its even distribution across the base 22 and its exit / outlet, in substantially equal volumes, through each of the apertures 26. As shown, the crown is made up of a plurality of ramped surfaces, each of the surfaces being ramped in the direction of the centre of the base 22. It is understood, however, that the crown 28 may be provided as a unitary crown, such as, for example, in a generally domed shape.

[0026] An underside of the base 22 includes attachments points for attaching an applicator pad 46 thereto. The applicator pad 46 is provided as the actual member of the applicator 1 that contacts the surface having fluid applied to it. As shown, the applicator pad 46 is one of a lamb's wool pad or synthetic cloth pad. Alternatively, the applicator pad 46 may be formed of other material, such as mesh or weaved material, or any other material provided that the material is permeable such that working fluid of the applicator 1 may transit therethrough and onto the surface. The applicator pad 46 is removable and replaceable after use of the applicator 1. It is also contemplated that the applicator pad 46 may be provided as a reusable applicator pad, such that the pad can be reused with or without removal from the applicator 1 .

[0027] Returning briefly to Figure 2. A retaining clip 24 is used to retain the cavity 20 and base 22 to the head unit 10. The retaining clip 24 is positioned along a single side of the head unit 10, so to be easily removable by one hand, allowing an operator of the fluid applicator 1 to easily disassemble the applicator 1 during cleaning or maintenance. It is understood, however, that other retention means are also contemplated, including those requiring two hand operation. When retained to the head unit 20, the cavity includes any and all of the free space created by the base 22 and the head unit 10.

[0028] Moving now to Figure 4, the trigger unit 12 provides the primary means for actuating a flow of working fluid from the fluid applicator 1. In particular, the trigger unit 12 comprises an actuator 30. The actuator is movable between both an operable position 30a and a non-operable position 30b. In the operable 30a position, the actuator actuates a flow of working fluid, and in the non-operable position 30b, it does not. The actuator 30 is biased to the non-operable position. The biasing may, for example, be provided by a spring. The actuator 30 is movable between positions 30a, 30b when an operator 1 of the applicator 1 applies pressure to the actuator 30, pressing it toward the operable position 30a. A handle 72 is provided proximate the actuator 30. The handle 72 can be used to leverage against when pressing the actuator 30. The handle 72 is preferably sized so to fit the hand of an operator of the applicator 1. The trigger unit 12 also includes a trigger unit recess 66. The recess 66 is provided in the trigger unit 12, and allows the applicator 1 to be hung therefrom during storage periods or in-between use.

[0029] In some embodiments, the trigger unit 12 further includes at least one actuator guard 32. An example of an actuator guard 32 is best seen in Figure 5, which shows an alternative trigger unit 12’ whereby the lever type actuator 30 shown in Figure 4 is replaced with a depressible button type actuator 30’. For the avoidance of doubt, it is understood that a similar guard may be used with the lever type actuator 30. Such guard or guards 32 are configured to prevent the actuator 30 from accidental movement into the operable position 30a, such as, for example, when dropped. The actuator guard 32 covers at least a substantial portion of the actuator 30, and may be attached to or extend parallel to the handle 72.

[0030] Figure 6 depicts a cartridge unit 14. The cartridge unit 14 is removably engageable with the head unit 10. The cartridge unit 14 may include a reservoir 34 for holding the working fluid for the applicator 1. Alternatively, the reservoir 34 may be provided and / or purchased as a separate component from the cartridge unit 14, with the cartridge unit 14 being engageable thereto.

[0031] The removably engageable cartridge unit 14 provides the benefit of obviating the need to refill the fluid applicator 1 by pouring or decanting the working fluid from one container to another. Instead, the cartridge unit 14 is replaceable once the reservoir 34 is empty. In the embodiment shown, the reservoir 34 is provided in the form of a generally cylindrical bottle with a tapering neck, however, any shape suitable for fluid storage would be suitable for the reservoir 34.

[0032] A connector 36 is attached to the reservoir 34, and forms part of the cartridge unit 14. The connector 36 is configured to provide the passageway for the working fluid from the reservoir 34 into the head unit 10. The reservoir 34 may be provided without the connector 36 attached, instead having a simple cap or cover to prevent leaks. The connector 36 may, in turn, be fitted to the reservoir 34 in place of the cap prior to use of the fluid applicator 1. Similarly, at the completion of use, should contents remain in the reservoir 34, the connector 36 may be removed and the reservoir 34 again sealed by the cap. In this way, it is understood that the connector 36 may be retained for fitment to consecutive reservoirs 34 as they are emptied and subsequently replaced. As shown, the connector 36 attaches to the reservoir 34 using a screw thread, but may also be fit through other means, such as, for example, an interference fit.

[0033] Turning now to Figures 7 and 7A, a cross-section of the connector 36 is shown. A fluid passageway 38 is provided as a central channel or tube within the connector 36. A valve 40 is accommodated within the passageway 38. With reference to the embodiment shown, the valve 40 is provided in the form of a "duckbill" valve. In particular, the duckbill valve is provided with two slits 41 , the slits 41 being arranged in an 'X' or cross shape. It is understood, however, thatother slit arrangements are also contemplated, such as, for example, a single slit duckbill valve, or another duckbill valve provided that duckbill valve includes at least one slit which prevents incidental leakage through the valve. While installed or in place, the valve 40 prevents fluid passage through the passageway 38, even when the reservoir 34 is inverted or shaken. The valve 40 is biased toward a closed position, in which the slits 41 in the duckbill abut one another to prevent fluid passage as described. The valve 40 is operable to selectively open and close the passageway 38, thereby allowing or disallowing fluid to flow therethrough. In an open position, the slits 41 of the duckbill valve 40 become spaced from one another, providing a gap or space through which fluid can flow. In the embodiment shown, the valve 40 is in a closed position, thus preventing fluid passage. The valve 40 may be moved to the open position automatically, by way of a head unit projection 44 (as will be described later) when the cartridge unit 14 is engaged with the head unit 10, thus obviating the need to manually remove or otherwise move the valve 40 to the open position.

[0034] It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, the connector 36 may additionally include a plug 42, which can be fitted to the end of the connector 36 which is inserted / installed into the head unit 10 with / as part of the cartridge unit 14. The plug 42 may be a simple cap or blockage which is removable from the connector 36 prior to engagement between the head unit 10 and cartridge unit 14, and is configured to, when fitted, prevent incidental leakage of fluid from the cartridge unit 14 which occurs, for example, during storage.

[0035] The connector 36 also includes an air admittance valve 70. The air admittance valve 70 provides an inlet for air into the reservoir 34 to which the connector 36 is connected. When fluid passes its way out of the reservoir 34, the air admittance 70 allows atmospheric air to enter the reservoir 34, breaking the vacuum caused by the escaping fluid and retaining consistent fluid flow through the connector 36 (whilst the valve 40 is open). As shown, the air admittance valve 70 is also provided in the form of a "duckbill" type valve.

[0036] Engagement of the cartridge unit 14 with the head unit 10 places the valve 40 in an open position, and thus permits fluid to flow from the reservoir 34 of the cartridge unit 14 and into the head unit 10. Best shown in Figure 8, the engagement of the cartridge unit 14 and the head unit 10 is provided by means of the head unit having a spike like projection 44 that extends from the cartridge engagement portion. When fitted together, the projection 44 is aligned with the passageway 38 in the connector 36, such that the projection 44 forcibly moves the valve 40 into the open position once engagement occurs. It is also contemplated that, in some embodiments, the projection 44 may assist in locating the cartridge unit 14 with respect to the head unit 10. As shown, the cartridge unit 14 is removably engageable with the head unit 10, however it is alsocontemplated, that in other embodiments, the cartridge unit may be fixedly engaged with the head unit 10 - for example the connector 36 may be fixed to the head unit 10.

[0037] Figure 8 also shows fluid passages within the head unit of the applicator 1. To selectively effect flow through the applicator 1 , the head unit includes a fluid pump 48. The fluid pump 48 is shown as a positive displacement piston / plunger pump, which allows a small working area and aligns to the positioning of the trigger unit. In the preferred embodiment, the fluid pump 48 is gravity fed fluid as described. However, it is understood that a variety of pumps may also be suitable for use with the applicator 1 , and may include pumps which are not gravity fed, such as those which instead produce a vacuum to force the fluid to flow into the inlet of the pump. Such other pumps could include screw-type pumps, reciprocating pumps or impeller pumps.

[0038] The fluid pump 48 has a fluid connection to the reservoir 34 at one end, and to the head unit 10 at another end. The fluid pump 48 contains a volume for holding fluid referred to herein as the pump body 68. The fluid pump 48 is configured to effect fluid flow in the applicator 1 when either of the trigger unit 12 or override mechanism 18 is operated. In the case of the preferred embodiment, upon operation, the fluid pump 48 acts to force the volume of fluid set inside the pump body 68 out toward the head unit 10 with movement of the plunger in the pump. When the trigger unit 12 or override mechanism 18 is released, the pump 48 is biased back to its original position, wherein the plunger, in moving back to this position, draws new fluid from the reservoir 34 into the pump body 68. This cycle repeats upon each operation of the fluid pump 48.

[0039] The volume of fluid held in the pump body 68 dictates the dosage of fluid provided to the surface by the applicator 1 upon each operation of the applicator's trigger unit 12 or override mechanism 18. The biasing of the pump 48 is provided by a pump spring 50. The pump spring 50 provides a resistance to operation of the pump 48, and is preferably set such that accidental operation is unlikely but such that operation by a human hand is not cumbersome. At the end to which the fluid pump 48 is fluidly connected to the reservoir 34, it is noted that a or each of the fluid pump 48 and reservoir 34 are positioned such that fluid held in the reservoir 34 is directed and flows to the fluid pump 48 connection by gravity, such that the fluid pump 48 can draw that fluid into the pump body when it is operated. When operated by the override mechanism 18, the plunger of the fluid pump 48 is directly moved.

[0040] Best shown in Figure 9, the trigger unit 12 includes a spacer 52. The spacer 52 provides a coupling between the rest of the trigger unit 12 and the head unit 10. The spacer 52 is preferably provided in the form of a unitary, hollow straight shaft, and is made from steel, such as steel tube or pipe. The spacer 52 need not, however, be made from steel, and may instead be made from other metals (such as aluminium), a polymer or a wood. For ergonomic reasons,the spacer 52 is preferably cylindrical. At a proximal end of the spacer 52, there is an attachment to the head unit 10. The spacer 52 (and trigger unit 12) is decouplable from the head unit 10. The attachment to the head unit 10 provides this decoupling, and is preferably in the form of a threaded connector 54. Either of the ends of the spacer 52 or the head unit 10 may house the male connector 54, however in the preferred embodiment the spacer 52 houses the male connector 54, the connector 54 being integrally formed at the relevant end. At an opposite end to the head unit 10, being the distal end of the spacer 52, the remainder of the trigger unit is affixed to the spacer 52. Again, this coupling is provided to allow detachment or decoupling. In a preferred embodiment, the spacer 52 couples the trigger unit 12 by inserting a portion of the end of the spacer 52 into a portion of the trigger unit 12, with an interference fit such that the coupling remains coupled during use of the applicator 1. In this manner, the actuator 30 of the trigger unit 12 is spaced significantly from the head unit 10.

[0041] The trigger unit 12 further includes a linkage 56. The linkage 56 is shown to run through an internal aperture or bore of the spacer 52, but could also run abutting an outer surface of the spacer 52 without departure from the present invention. The linkage 56 is shown as a thin rod. The linkage 56 provides a physical connection between the actuator 30 and the head unit 10. Specifically, the linkage 56 is configured to operate the fluid pump 48 when the actuator 30 is operated by moving it to the operable position. The linkage 56 is independently biased to an end of the spacer 52. A linkage spring 64 may provide said biasing, and ensure the linkage 56 aligns with connection to the actuator 30 and head unit 10. The linkage spring 64 additionally ensures that the linkage 56 remains central to the aperture of the spacer 52, reducing vibration of the linkage 56, and noise caused thereby.

[0042] A cam 58 is included at a distal end of the actuator 30. As indicated by the arrows shown in the Figure, movement of the actuator 30 to the operable position rotated the cam 58 thus driving the linkage 56 in a downwards linear motion in the spacer 52. The linkage 56 can then operate the fluid pump 48 causing fluid to flow within the applicator 1 . The actuator 30 may be, in an alternate embodiment, electronically or hydraulically actuated rather than just physically actuated.

[0043] It is also contemplated that the spacer 52 may be provided in the form of an extendable and / or collapsible spacer. Such a collapsible spacer 52 may comprise at least 2 spacer sections 60, 62 (not shown). Providing the spacer 52 in multiple sections may allow the applicator 1 to be more easily stored and transported by allowing disassembly of the longest portion of the applicator 1 , the spacer 52. The first spacer section 60 may include the end for attachment to the head unit 10, whilst the second spacer section may include the end for attachment to the rest of the trigger unit 12. In spacers 52 with more than 2 sections, it isunderstood that these sections could be interfaced between the first and second sections. Preferably, each spacer section of a multiple section spacer 60, 62 is of approximately the same length. For example, the spacer sections 60, 62 may join together by connection of a threaded coupling provided at an intermediate end of each section 60, 62. Other methods of joining the spacer sections 60, 62 are also considered, such as, for example, a screw-up collar, a / multiple detents (including spring ball detents). Further, the spacers may be folding rather than fully separate and joinable. Such a connection could be achieved through a cam lock or standard hinge connection, for example. In a further alternative, the spacer sections may be telescopic.

[0044] A method 100 of applying a working fluid to a surface in accordance with an embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figure 10.

[0045] In general, the method 100 comprises: engaging a cartridge unit with a head unit of the applicator, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid into a cavity of the head unit; and applying the working fluid to the surface by a base of the head unit, with the cavity being configured to distribute the working fluid substantially evenly thereacross.

[0046] In an engaging step 110, the cartridge unit 14 is engaged to the head unit 10 at an opening thereof. In preferred embodiments, this step comprises a connector 36 being attached to a reservoir 34 to provide an assembled cartridge unit 14, the cartridge unit 14 is then coupled to the head unit 10 by attachment of the connector 36 at an opposing end to an end attached to the reservoir 34. Upon attachment of the connector 36, a head unit projection 44 in the head unit 10 operatively opens a biased closed valve 40 in the connector, allowing fluid from the reservoir 34 to flow therethrough and into the head unit 10 once an actuator 30 of the applicator 1 is operated.

[0047] In a following coupling step 120, a trigger unit 12 is coupled to the head unit 10. The trigger unit 12 provides a method of actuating fluid from the cartridge unit 14 into the head unit 10. To couple the trigger unit 12 to the head unit 10, a spacer 52, provided in two spacer sections thereof 60, 62 are first connected, providing coupling to the head unit 10 at an end of one spacer section 60, and an actuator at an end of the other spacer section 62. The actuator 30 is linked to head unit by a linkage 56 extending through the spacer sections 60, 62, which are cooperatively operated when the actuator 30 is moved to its operable position 30a.

[0048] The actuating step 130 provides the working fluid of the applicator 1 to a cavity 20 of the head unit 10 of the applicator 1. This step provides the actuator 30 being moved to the operable position 30a. When done, fluid is provided to the head unit 10. To allow for continuous flow, a duckbill valve 70 in the connector 36 periodically deforms whilst the actuator 30 isoperated, allowing a flow of air into the reservoir 34 to account for pressure changes as fluid exits the reservoir 34 through the valve 40.

[0049] Working fluid is then spread across a base 22 of the head unit 10 in a spreading step 140. Fluid is first provided by a cavity 20 in the head unit 10 to the base 22, the cavity 20 being configured to distribute the working fluid across the base 22. The cavity 20 provides a substantially even distribution of the fluid to the base 22, ensuring that each area of the base 22 receives approximately equal amounts of fluid. Apertures 26 located in the base 22 allow the fluid to fall through the base 22 to an applicator pad 46 where they are received. As fluid flows onto the base 22, the raised central portion or crown 28 of the base 22 serves to spread the fluid to each of the apertures 26 and down to the applicator pad 46.

[0050] The final applying step 150 provides that the working fluid can then be applied to the surface by moving the applicator 1 across the areas of the surface to be coated, and re-actuating the trigger unit 12 as required to provide more fluid to the applicator pad 46 as described. In use, the applicator 1 provides a consistent and easy to actuate flow of fluid to the surface. By depressing the actuator 30, a user can fill the applicator pad 46 with the working fluid, before pushing the spacer 52 to run the applicator pad 46 over the surface to be coated with the fluid.

[0051] The method 100 can be repeated numerous times by the operator so to coat the entirety of the surface. Using the applicator 1 , a surface can be applied with a working fluid in a similar motion to that of mopping or sweeping a floor. The cavity 20 provides a consistent application of fluid to the surface, one which is not provided by conventional fluid applicators. This serves to allow better looking and performing fluid application results, and ensures areas of the surface do not become soaked with fluid or are left bare or dry after application. This advantage is particularly important in the application of coating fluids to decks, such as oils or paints, where uniform coverage is essential to ensure the deck is properly and evenly protected from wear (such as by traffic of the deck, and by the elements) by coating of the fluid.

[0052] A further method 200 of applying working fluid to a surface in accordance with another embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figure 11.

[0053] In general, the method 200 comprises: actuating a flow of working fluid into a cavity of a head unit with a trigger unit that is coupled to the head unit; applying the working fluid to the surface with a base of the head unit; and flushing remaining working fluid from the head unit by actuating an override mechanism of the head unit to permit the introduction of cleaning fluid into the cavity.

[0054] In an actuating step 210, the working fluid of the applicator 1 is provided to a cavity 20 of the head unit 10 of the applicator 1 by actuation of the trigger unit 12. An applying step 220 provides that the working fluid can then be applied to the surface by moving the applicator 1 across the areas of the surface to be coated, and re-actuating the trigger unit as required. It is understood that steps 210 and 220 may comprise any of steps 130, 140 and 150 previously described herein.

[0055] Upon completion of the actuating and applying steps 210, 220, a flushing step 230 follows. The flushing step 230 removes remaining working fluid from the applicator 1 through actuation of an override mechanism 18. The override mechanism 18 is separately operable from the trigger unit 12. In preferred embodiments, the flushing step 230 is completed with the trigger unit 12 decoupled from the head unit 12 such that the reduced size of the applicator 1 allows it to be positioned above or inside a sink or washtub, the remaining working fluid then being provided directly into the sink or washtub for disposal. Removal of the trigger unit 12 further provides that cleaning fluid can be provided directly to the applicator 1 from a bottle or tap without the risk of spills onto the surface.

[0056] In the above method 200, the flushing step 230 also includes a cleaning fluid substep 232. This sub-step includes filling the reservoir 34 with a cleaning fluid at the conclusion of flushing the remaining working fluid from the cavity 20, base 22 and applicator pad 46. Additionally to step 230, the method 200 can be repeated through steps 210, 220 and 230 using only the cleaning fluid ("step 232"). Accordingly, it is understood that step 232 provides additional flushing of the applicator 1 through use of the cleaning fluid, ensuring that no working fluid remains therein.

[0057] Reference to a cleaning fluid refers to any fluid capable of cleaning the remnants of the working fluid from the applicator 1 . Such a cleaning fluid may be water, or a combination of water and any of soap, alcohol, detergent or another cleaning chemical. Alternatively, the cleaning fluid may be fresh working fluid, used to flush out the old / original remaining working fluid from the applicator 1.

[0058] During or upon completion of the flushing step 230, a retaining clip 24 which holds the base 22 and cavity 20 to the head unit 10 can be removed. Removal of the retaining clip 24 provides further access to the internal features of the head unit 10 for additional cleaning. Similarly, detachment of the applicator pad 46 provides for separate cleaning thereof, or replacement, during step 230.

[0059] Summarily, it is to be understood that the applicator as described herein provides several advantages and inventive refinements when compared to existing applicators. Theoverride mechanism of the applicator serves to provide a means by which the applicator can provide working or cleaning fluid to the head unit and from the head unit without the requirement for operation of a spaced trigger unit. Further, the inclusion of the trigger unit being one which is couplable (and decouplable) aids in reducing the size of the applicator for both storage and cleaning purposes. The inclusion of a cavity and base, and their configuration, provides the applicator with the ability to distribute working or cleaning fluid across the base evenly, and promotes better application of fluid by the applicator. The connector disclosed prevents advantages relating to the provision of fluids to the applicator, and reduces the likelihood of dangerous spills through its included valves. The applicator described herein represents a substantial and important progression over existing fluid applicators.

[0060] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0061] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word ‘comprise’, and variations such as ‘comprises’ and ‘comprising’, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.LEGEND

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A fluid applicator, comprising: a head unit configured to apply a working fluid to a surface; a trigger unit that is couplable to the head unit and operable to actuate a flow of working fluid therefrom; and a cartridge unit that is engageable with the head unit, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid from a reservoir into the head unit.

2. The applicator according to claim 1 , the head unit having an override mechanism that is separately operable to actuate a flow of the working fluid.

3. The applicator according to claim 1 or 2, the head unit having a cavity for receiving the working fluid and a base that provides said fluid to the surface, the cavity being configured to distribute the working fluid across the base.

4. The applicator according to claim 3, the base having a plurality of apertures for communicating working fluid from the cavity to the surface.

5. The applicator according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the cavity includes a raised crown across which the working fluid is drawn to promote a substantially even distribution of working fluid from outlets of the base.

6. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trigger unit comprises an actuator that is moveable between an operable position in which the flow of working fluid is actuated and a non-operable position, with the actuator being biased towards the non-operable position.

7. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge unit comprises a connector that is removably attachable to the fluid reservoir and / or the head unit, the connector having a passageway for working fluid and a valve that is operable to selectively open and close the passageway.

8. The applicator according to claim 7, wherein the valve is biased towards a closed position, and wherein engagement of the cartridge unit with the head unit moves the valve to an open position permitting fluid flow therethrough.

9. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the head unit further including a replaceable applicator pad, the applicator pad being configured to contact the surface, applying the fluid thereto.

10. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the head unit comprising a fluid pump configured to selectably draw working fluid from the reservoir into the head unit.

11. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein working fluid is drawn, by gravity, from the reservoir to the head unit.

12. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trigger unit further comprises a spacer having a proximal end that is couplable to the head unit and a distal end that is spaced therefrom.

13. The applicator according to claim 12, wherein the actuator of the trigger unit is disposed at the distal end of the spacer.

14. The applicator according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the trigger unit further includes a linkage that extends between the actuator and the head unit, the linkage being housed within the spacer.

15. The applicator according to claim 14, wherein the actuator includes a cam, with movement of the actuator to the operable position rotating the cam to impart a corresponding linear drive onto the linkage, actuating the flow of fluid.

16. The applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, when used to apply a deck coating to a deck surface.

17. A method of applying a working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator, the method comprising: engaging a cartridge unit with a head unit of the applicator, the cartridge unit providing a passage for communicating working fluid into a cavity of the head unit; and applying the working fluid to the surface by a base of the head unit, with the cavity being configured to distribute the working fluid substantially evenly thereacross.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of applying working fluid to the surface comprises:spreading working fluid substantially evenly across the base by drawing the working fluid across a raised crown within the cavity.

19. A method of applying working fluid to a surface with a fluid applicator, the method comprising: actuating a flow of working fluid into a cavity of a head unit with a trigger unit that is coupled to the head unit; applying the working fluid to the surface with a base of the head unit; and flushing remaining working fluid from the head unit by actuating an override mechanism of the head unit to permit the introduction of cleaning fluid into the cavity.

20. A cartridge unit for providing working fluid into a head unit of a fluid applicator, the cartridge unit including a connector that is engageable with the head unit and attachable to a reservoir, the connector having a passageway for communicating fluid from the reservoir into the head and a valve the is operable to selectively open and close said passageway.

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