Couplers for pressurized liquid handling system
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/US2026/023579
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-04-16
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-14
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-22
Smart Images
Figure US2026023579_22102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
533817.5COUPLERS FOR PRESSURIZED LIQUID HANDLING SYSTEMCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 63 / 789,756, filed April 16, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to couplers for agricultural use. More specifically, the disclosure relates to couplers used in pressurized liquid handling systems.BACKGROUND
[0003] Industrial sprayers for agricultural use (such as those manufactured by John Deere, CNH Industrial, etc.) are equipment used for applying liquid substances to plants and crops as needed for maintenance of crop health during the crop growth cycle. The sprayers utilize a variety of liquid handling piping solutions, such as metallic piping. There is a need to improve the couplings that are implemented in such sprayers to improve the functionality of the sprayers.SUMMARY
[0004] Couplers formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material for a pressurized liquid handling system are disclosed.
[0005] According to one example (“Example 1”), a coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system includes: a first coupling end; a second coupling end; and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end and the second coupling end. The body portion has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defines a channel extending through the body portion from the first coupling end to the second coupling end in which pressurized liquid is receivable. The first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material.
[0006] According to another example (“Example 2”) further to Example 1, the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion have a substantially uniform material throughout.533817.5
[0007] According to another example (“Example 3”) further to Example 1 or 2, the body portion and the channel defined therein are straight and noncorrugated.
[0008] According to another example (“Example 4”) further to any preceding Example, the polymeric material includes one or more of: polypropylene, nylon, polyolefin, or polyethylene.
[0009] According to another example (“Example 5”) further to any preceding Example, the first coupling end includes one of: an NPT-threaded coupling, a manifold flange coupling, a fork / pin connection coupling, a cam lever coupling, a bolted flange coupling, or a hose shank or hose barb coupling.
[0010] According to another example (“Example 6”) further to any preceding Example, the second coupling end includes one of: an NPT-threaded coupling, a manifold flange coupling, or a fork / pin connection coupling, a cam lever coupling, a bolted flange coupling, or a hose shank or hose barb coupling.
[0011] According to another example (“Example 7”) further to any preceding Example, the second coupling end has a different shape or configuration from the first coupling end.
[0012] According to another example (“Example 8”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion has a uniform external cross-sectional dimension from the first coupling end to the second coupling end.
[0013] According to another example (“Example 9”) further to any preceding Example, the channel has an internal cross-sectional dimension that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion from the first coupling end to the second coupling end.
[0014] According to another example (“Example 10”) further to Example 9, the channel has a first end portion near the first coupling end, a second end portion near the second coupling end, and an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion. The internal cross-sectional dimension is smaller at the intermediate portion than at the first end portion and the second end portion.
[0015] According to another example (“Example 11”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion has one or more through-holes extending through the body portion in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body portion.
[0016] According to another example (“Example 12”) further to Example 11, the one or more through-holes are couplable with one or more connection ports of one or more modular nozzle bodies such that the channel of the body portion is fluidly couplable with one or more channels of the nozzle bodies.533817.5
[0017] According to another example (“Example 13”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion has one or more tube or hose connectors extending outwardly from the body portion and are integral to the body portion, and the connectors are fluidly coupled with the channel.
[0018] According to another example (“Example 14”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion has one or more integrated nozzle connectors that are fluidly coupled with the channel.
[0019] According to another example (“Example 15”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion has one or more frame mounting portions extending outwardly from the body portion and are integral to the body portion. Each of the frame mounting portions is couplable with a body frame of the pressurized liquid handling system.
[0020] According to another example (“Example 16”) further to any preceding Example, the body portion is further coupled with a secondary body portion of a secondary coupler that is integrally formed with the coupler. The body portion and the secondary body portion are interconnectedly coupled via at least one bridge that extends between and is integrally formed with the couplerand the secondary coupler.
[0021] According to another example (“Example 17”) further to Example 16, the secondary body portion of the secondary coupler is aligned substantially parallel to the body portion of the coupler.
[0022] According to another example (“Example 18”) further to any one of Examples 1-12, the body portion has at least one extension protruding from an outer surface of the body portion and is integral to the body portion.
[0023] According to another example (“Example 19”) further to Example 18, the extension protrudes from the outer surface of the body portion at an offset distance from a center of the body portion.
[0024] According to another example (“Example 20”) further to Example 18, the at least one extension includes a first extension protruding from the outer surface of the body portion in a first direction and a second extension protruding from the outer surface of the body portion in a second direction different from the first direction.
[0025] According to another example (“Example 21”) further to Example 18, the extension protrudes radially from the outer surface of the body portion with respect to a center of the body portion.533817.5
[0026] According to another example (“Example 22”) further to any one of Examples 19-21, the at least one extension includes at least one hole extending through the at least one extension for coupling with one or more additional components disposed on a surface defined by the extension.
[0027] According to another example (“Example 23”) further to Example 22, the at least one hole is positioned parallel to the channel of the body portion.
[0028] According to another example (“Example 24”) further to Example 22, the extension includes a recessed portion accessible via the hole, and the recessed portion is receivable and couplable with a coupling component of an additional component.
[0029] According to another example (“Example 25”) further to Example 22, the hole defines a secondary channel extending through the extension and fluidly coupled with the channel extending through the body portion.
[0030] According to another example (“Example 26”) further to any one of Examples 19-21, the at least one extension includes a hook portion that protrudes from the outer surface of the body portion.
[0031] According to another example (“Example 27”) further to Example 11 , an insert is disposed in the channel. The insert includes one or more reduced-profile portions disposed proximal to the one or more through-holes, and one or more increased-profile portions to direct fluid flow within the channel toward the through-holes.
[0032] According to another example (“Example 28”) further to any one of Examples 1-26, an insert is disposed in the channel. The insert includes one or more reduced-profile portions and one or more increased-profile portions to reduce an effective internal volume of the channel.
[0033] According to another example (“Example 29”) further to Example 28, the increased-profile portions comprise one or more protrusions extending radially outwardly with respect to a longitudinal axis of the insert.
[0034] According to one example (“Example 30”), a multipiece coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system includes: a first coupler comprising a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end of the first coupler and the second coupling end of the first coupler; and a second coupler comprising a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end of the second coupler and the second533817.5coupling end of the second coupler. The body portion of the first coupler and the body portion of the second coupler each has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defines a channel extending therethrough in which pressurized liquid is receivable. The first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion of each of the first coupler and the second coupler are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material. The second coupling end of the first coupler is coupled with the first coupling end of the second coupler to maintain a continuous channel through the body portion of the first coupler and the body portion of the second coupler in which the pressurized liquid is receivable.
[0035] According to another example (“Example 31”) further to Example 30, the continuous channel has an internal cross-sectional dimension that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion from the first coupling end of the first coupler to the second coupling end of the second coupler.
[0036] According to another example (“Example 32”) further to Example 30 or 31 , the second coupling end of the first coupler defines a female coupling end, and the first coupling end of the second coupler defines a male coupling end receivable within the female coupling end.
[0037] According to another example (“Example 33”) further to Example 30 or 31 , the first coupling end of the second coupler defines a female coupling end, and the second coupling end of the first coupler defines a male coupling end receivable within the female coupling end.
[0038] According to another example (“Example 34”) further to Example 30 or 31, the multipiece coupler further includes one or more fasteners with which the second coupling end of the first coupler and the first coupling end of the second coupler are affixable.
[0039] According to one example (“Example 35”), a method of forming a coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system includes: providing a mold for injection molding, the mold comprising an opening for receiving a molten polymer and a cavity for shaping the molten polymer; injecting the molten polymer through the opening into the cavity of the mold; and forming the coupler by solidifying the molten polymer such that the coupler as formed comprises a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end and the second coupling end, such that the body portion has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defining a channel extending through the body from the first coupling end to the second coupling533817.5end in which pressurized liquid is receivable, and the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece.
[0040] The foregoing Examples are just that, and should not be read to limit or otherwise narrow the scope of any of the inventive concepts otherwise provided by the instant disclosure. While multiple examples are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative examples. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature rather than restrictive in nature.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0041] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 1A is an angled view of a coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0043] FIG. 1 B is a front view of the coupler in FIG. 1 A;
[0044] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional side view of the coupler in FIG. 1A;
[0045] FIG. 1 D is an external side view of the coupler in FIG. 1 A;
[0046] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a multipiece coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0047] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a multipiece coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0048] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional side view of a coupler with through-holes according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0049] FIG. 4B is an external top view of the coupler in FIG. 4A;
[0050] FIG. 5A is a side view of a coupler with multiple different extension portions according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0051] FIG. 5B is a side view of two couplers coupled together via integrated bridges according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0052] FIGs. 6A through 6E show a cross-sectional side view of a coupling end of a coupler according to different embodiments disclosed herein;533817.5
[0053] FIG. 6F shows a side view of a valve coupled with a coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0054] FIGs. 7 A through 7G show a cross-sectional front view of a coupler according to different embodiments disclosed herein;
[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a pressurized liquid handling system according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a pressurized liquid handling system according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0057] FIGs. 10A and 10B (prior art) illustrate examples of nozzle body assemblies as known in the art;
[0058] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a manufacturing process for the coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0059] FIG. 12A is an external side view of a multipiece coupler according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0060] FIG. 12B is an external side view of the multipiece coupler of FIG. 12A showing an insert disposed in the channel according to embodiments disclosed herein;
[0061] FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional side view of the multipiece coupler of FIG.12A showing the insert;
[0062] FIG. 13A is an external side view of an insert according to embodiments disclosed herein; and
[0063] FIG. 13B is an external front view of the insert of FIG. 13A.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONDefinitions and Terminology
[0064] This disclosure is not meant to be read in a restrictive manner. For example, the terminology used in the application should be read broadly in the context of the meaning those in the field would attribute such terminology.
[0065] With respect to terminology of inexactitude, the terms “about” and “approximately” may be used, interchangeably, to refer to a measurement that includes the stated measurement and that also includes any measurements that are reasonably close to the stated measurement. Measurements that are reasonably close to the stated measurement deviate from the stated measurement by a reasonably small amount as understood and readily ascertained by individuals having ordinary skill in the relevant arts. Such deviations may be attributable to measurement533817.5error, differences in measurement and / or manufacturing equipment calibration, human error in reading and / or setting measurements, minor adjustments made to optimize performance and / or structural parameters in view of differences in measurements associated with other components, particular implementation scenarios, imprecise adjustment and / or manipulation of objects by a person or machine, and / or the like, for example. In the event it is determined that individuals having ordinary skill in the relevant arts would not readily ascertain values for such reasonably small differences, the terms “about” and “approximately” can be understood to mean plus or minus 10% of the stated value.Description of Various Embodiments
[0066] Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various aspects of the present disclosure can be realized by any number of methods and apparatuses configured to perform the intended functions. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawing figures referred to herein are not necessarily drawn to scale, but may be exaggerated to illustrate various aspects of the present disclosure, and in that regard, the drawing figures should not be construed as limiting.
[0067] The coupler shown in FIGs. 1 A through 1 D is provided as an example of the various features of the coupler for pressurized liquid handling systems and, although the combination of those illustrated features is clearly within the scope of invention, that example and its illustration is not meant to suggest the inventive concepts provided herein are limited from fewer features, additional features, or alternative features to one or more of those features shown in subsequent figures. Hereinafter “coupling” may be referred to as an act of mechanically and / or fluidly coupling together two separate components so as to form a physically attached piece and / or a continuous fluid channel, as suitable. In some examples, the coupling may be facilitated directly such that there is no separate or intermediate component disposed between the two components that are coupled together.
[0068] Referring to FIGs. 1A and 1B, a coupler 100 for a pressurized liquid handling system (such as that as shown in FIG. 8) includes a first coupling end 102 and a second coupling end 104. A body portion 106 is disposed between the first coupling end 102 and the second coupling end 104. The body portion 106 has a longitudinal length (L) of at least 45 cm and defines a channel 108 extending through the body portion 106 from the first coupling end 102 to the second coupling end 104.533817.5Pressurized liquid (such as water, liquid fertilizer, liquid herbicide, and / or liquid pesticide) can be received within the channel 108. The liquid can be transported from one end of the channel to the other end via pressurization applied by the source of the liquid. The first coupling end 102, the second coupling end 104, and the body portion 106 are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material. In some examples, the longitudinal length L of the coupler 100 may be from 45 cm to 50 cm, from 50 cm to 55 cm, from 55 cm to 60 cm, from 60 cm to 65 cm, from 65 cm to 70 cm, from 70 cm to 75 cm, from 75 cm to 80 cm, from 80 cm to 85 cm, from 85 cm to 90 cm, from 90 cm to 95 cm, from 95 cm to 100 cm, from 100 cm to 105 cm, from 105 cm to 110 cm, from 110 cm to 115 cm, from 115 cm to 120 cm, from 120 cm to 125 cm, from 125 cm to 130 cm, or any other suitable value within the foregoing ranges or any other suitable range between any of the foregoing ranges.
[0069] The polymeric material may include, but is not limited to, any one or more of: nylon, polypropylene, polyolefin, and / or polyethylene, for example. The body portion 106 defines an internal cross-sectional dimension (D1 ), or diameter in the case of a circular cross-section, and an external cross-sectional dimension (D2), or diameter in the case of a circular cross-section, as shown in FIGs. 1B and 1C. The external cross-sectional dimension is the dimension measured from one location to an opposing location of an external surface 116 of the body portion 106, where the measurement is taken in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L — L of the body portion 106. The internal cross-sectional dimension is the dimension measured from one point on an internal surface 118 of the body portion 106 to an opposing point on the internal surface, where the internal surface defines the shape and configuration of the channel 108. In some examples, the cross-sectional dimension is defined as a maximum edge-to-edge distance of the external surface or the internal surface of the body portion as measured along the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the cross-sectional dimension may also be referred to as a diameter if the cross-sectional shape (that is, the shape of the object when cut and viewed along the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the object) is substantially circular.
[0070] In some examples, the first coupling end 102, the second coupling end 104, and the body portion 106 have a substantially uniform material throughout. In some examples, the uniformity may be a uniform distribution of the material throughout the coupler 100, or a uniform material composition throughout the coupler 100, such as having a uniform composition that defines a ratio of materials as combined to form533817.5the coupler 100. In some examples, the body portion 106 and the channel 108 are substantially continuous, smooth, and noncorrugated. In some examples, the body portion 106 and the channel 108 have a straight or noncurved configuration.
[0071] In some examples, such as shown in FIGs. 1C and 1D, the body portion 106 may have a uniform external cross-sectional dimension from the first coupling end 102 to the second coupling end 104. In some examples, the channel 108 may have an internal cross-sectional dimension that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion from the first coupling end 102 to the second coupling end 104. For example, the channel 108 may have a first end portion 110 near the first coupling end 102, a second end portion 112 near the second coupling end 104, and an intermediate portion 114 between the first end portion 110 and the second end portion 112. The internal cross-sectional dimension may be smaller at the intermediate portion 114 than at the first end portion 110 and the second end portion 112.
[0072] The difference in the internal cross-sectional dimension between these sections may be between 0% and 1 %, from 1 % to 2%, from 2% to 3%, from 3% to 4%, from 4% to 5%, or any other suitable value within the foregoing ranges or any other suitable range between any of the foregoing ranges. In some examples, as a result, the channel 108 may be narrower in the intermediate portion 114 due to such difference as compared to the first end portion 110, the second end portion 112, or both. In some examples, there may be more than one locations in the channel 108 along the longitudinal axis L — L that are narrower than the first end portion 110, the second end portion 112, or both, in which case the cross-sectional area of the channel 108 may increase and decrease along the longitudinal axis.
[0073] In some examples, the external cross-sectional dimension of the body portion 106 may vary by less than the variation in the internal cross-sectional dimension of the channel 108. For example, if the internal cross-sectional dimension varies by 4%, the external cross-sectional dimension may vary by less than 4%, such as from 0% to 3%, from 0% to 2%, or from 0% to 1 %. In such examples, a thickness (T) of a wall 120 (as measured between the internal surface 118 and the external surface 116 along the length of the channel 108) may vary along the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the thickness T may be defined in relation to the internal and external cross-sectional dimensions D1 and D2 measured at the same location along the longitudinal length of the body portion 106, e.g., T = (D2 - D1) / 2. If the channel 108 is narrower at the intermediate portion 114 and the external cross-sectional533817.5dimension of the body portion 106 at the intermediate portion 114 remains the same, the wall 120 may be thicker at the intermediate portion 114 than at the first end portion 110 and the second end portion 112.
[0074] FIGs. 2 and 3 illustrate a multipiece coupler 200 that is formed by coupling together a first coupler 100A and a second coupler 100B using the respective coupling ends. For example, the first coupler 100A has a first coupling end 102A, a second coupling end 104A, and a body portion 106A disposed between the first coupling end 102A and the second coupling end 104A. The second coupler 100B has a first coupling end 102B, a second coupling end 104B, and a body portion 106B disposed between the first coupling end 102B and the second coupling end 104B. The body portion 106A of the first coupler 100A and the body portion 106B of the second coupler 100B each has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defines a channel 108A or 108B, respectively, extending therethrough in which pressurized liquid is receivable. The first coupling end (102A or 102B), the second coupling end (104A or 104B), and the body portion (106A or 106B) of each of the first coupler 100A and the second coupler 100B are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material. The second coupling end 104A of the first coupler 100A is coupled with the first coupling end 102B of the second coupler 100B to maintain a continuous channel 202 through the body portion 106A of the first coupler 100A and the body portion 106B of the second coupler 100B in which the pressurized liquid is receivable. In some examples, the continuous channel 202 may have an internal cross-sectional dimension D1 that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion 106A or 106B from the first coupling end 102A of the first coupler 100A to the second coupling end 104B of the second coupler 100B.
[0075] In FIG. 2, the multipiece coupler 200 has the second coupling end 104A of the first coupler 100A defining a female coupling end, and the first coupling end 102B of the second coupler 100B defining a male coupling end receivable at least partially within the female coupling end to facilitate the coupling of the couplers 100A and 100B. However, it is to be understood that, alternatively, the first coupling end 102B of the second coupler 100B may define a female coupling end, and the second coupling end 104A of the first coupler 100A may define a male coupling end receivable at least partially within the female coupling end to facilitate the coupling of the couplers 100A and 100B. The second coupling end 104A or 104B may have a different shape or configuration from the first coupling end 102A or 102B, respectively. In some533817.5examples, the couplers 100A and 100B are similarly or identically formed such that they share the same configuration for the first coupling ends 102A and 102B as well as for the second coupling ends 104A and 104B. In some examples, the body portions 106A and 106B may differ in shape or length, such as having different curvatures, or one having a longer longitudinal length L than the other.
[0076] In FIG. 3, the first coupling ends 102A and 102B as well as the second coupling ends 104A and 104B of the first coupler 100A and the second coupler 100B, respectively, are formed as flanges, such as manifold flange couplings, extending outwardly or radially away from the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the flanges may extend perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the flanges may extend at an angle from 5 degrees to 10 degrees, from 10 degrees to 15 degrees, from 15 degrees to 20 degrees, from 20 degrees to 25 degrees, from 25 degrees to 30 degrees, from 30 degrees to 35 degrees, from 35 degrees to 40 degrees, from 40 degrees to 45 degrees, from 45 degrees to 50 degrees, from 50 degrees to 55 degrees, from 55 degrees to 60 degrees, from 60 degrees to 65 degrees, from 65 degrees to 70 degrees, from 75 degrees to 80 degrees, from 80 degrees to 85 degrees, or any other suitable value within the foregoing ranges or any other suitable range between any of the foregoing ranges, with respect to the longitudinal axis. For example, a surface of the second coupling end 104A of the first coupler 100A may abut a surface of the first coupling end 102A of the second coupler 100B. One or more fasteners 300 may be used such that the second coupling end 104A of the first coupler 100A and the first coupling end 102B of the second coupler 100B are affixable. The fasteners 300 may include any one or more of: bolts (for a bolted flange coupling), nails, screws, clips, clamps, or adhesives, for example. As illustrated, two fasteners 300A and 300B affix together the flange couplings of the coupling ends 104A and 102B, but it is to be understood that any other suitable number of fasteners, such as 3, 4, 5, 6, etc., may be used as suitable.
[0077] FIGs. 4A and 4B show the coupler 100 in which one or more through-holes 400 (e.g., 400A, 400B, 400C, and 400D as shown, although any other suitable number of through-holes may be implemented) are formed in the body portion 106. The one or more through-holes 400 may be pre-formed at one or more certain locations along the length of the body portion 106 when the coupler 100 is made or manufactured. A through-hole is a hole or aperture that extends through at least one wall. In some examples, the through-hole 400 is formed through a single wall of the533817.5body portion 106. In some examples, the through-hole 400 is formed through both walls of the body portion 106, on opposite sides of the body portion 106, such as along a straight line extending through opposing walls 120 of the body portion 106. The size of the through-holes 400 may vary such that one of the through-holes may have a smaller or larger cross-sectional dimension (or diameter) than another through-hole. The shape of the through-holes 400 may vary such that, for example, one or more of the through-holes 400 may have any two or more of the following shapes: circle, oval, triangle, square, rectangle, or any other polygonal shape as suitable. When viewed from the side, as shown in FIG. 4B, the through-hole 400 defines a reduction in the external cross-sectional dimension D2 of the body portion 106. In some examples, the one or more through-holes 400 may extend through the body portion 106 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body portion 106.
[0078] FIG. 5A shows a plurality of components that may be formed on the coupler 100 to extend outwardly from the body portion 106 of the coupler 100 and are integral to the body portion 106 of the coupler 100. For example, a pipe mount foot portion 500 may be formed such that the foot portion 500 extends from an external surface of the body portion 106, and the foot portion 500 has one or more holes for the fasteners to attach or affix a pipe that is mounted on the body portion 106. In some examples, the foot portion 500 may be referred to as a frame mounting portion that allows the body portion 106 to be mounted on a frame of a pressurized liquid handling system such as an industrial sprayer.
[0079] In some examples, a tube or hose connector 502 may be formed such that the connector 502 allows a tube or hose to be fluidly coupled to the channel within the body portion 106. In some examples, an integrated nozzle connector 504 may be formed such that the connector 504 can be fluidly and mechanically coupled with an external nozzle such that the channel of the external nozzle may be fluidly coupled with the channel within the body portion 106, and the body of the external nozzle may be mechanically coupled with the body portion 106 so as to prevent the external nozzle from accidentally detaching from the body portion 106 of the coupler 100 during use.
[0080] In some examples, a threaded connector 506 may be formed such that an external thread that is formed on the connector 506 allows any suitable device or component to be mechanically coupled with the body 106. In some examples, there may be a side channel formed within the threaded connector 506 to fluidly couple the533817.5channel within the body portion 106 with a channel within the suitable component, such as a pipe or a tube.
[0081] FIG. 5B shows an example in which two couplers 100A and 100B are mechanically coupled together using one or more bridges 508. For example, a primary body portion 106A of a primary coupler 100A may be coupled with a secondary body portion 106B of a secondary coupler 100B that is integrally formed with the primary coupler 100A. The primary body portion 106A and the secondary body portion 106B may be interconnectedly coupled via at least one bridge 508 that extends between and is integrally formed with the couplers 100A and 100B. In some examples, the secondary body portion 106B of the secondary coupler 100B may be aligned substantially parallel to the primary body portion 106A of the primary coupler 100A. In some examples, the positioning of the couplers 100A and 100B relative to each other is maintained using the integrally formed bridges 508. Any suitable number of bridges may be formed between the couplers.
[0082] FIGs. 6A through 6E show various configurations of the coupling end 102 or 104 as implemented in a coupler 100. For example, FIG. 6A shows a threaded configuration in which a thread 600 is formed on an external surface of the coupling end to facilitate another coupler to be coupled with the thread 600 of the coupling end. In some examples, the thread 600 may form a portion of an NPT-threaded coupling as known in the art. FIG. 6B shows one or more O-ring grooves 602 formed in the external surface of the coupling end that extend along the external surface such that the grooves 602 may receive one or more O-rings, which may be used as a sealing device for preventing or minimizing fluid or air from escaping when the coupling end is coupled with another coupler. FIG. 6C shows a cam lever groove 604 formed in the external surface of the coupling that facilitates cam lever coupling with another coupler. FIG. 6D shows one or more barbs 606 formed on the external surface of the coupling that prevents or minimizes the risk of the coupler that is coupled with the coupling end from accidentally decoupling during use. In some examples, the barbs 606 may form a portion of a hose shank or hose barb coupling. FIG. 6E shows a flange clamp connector 608 formed in the external surface of the coupling end to facilitate another coupler to be coupled to the coupling end using a clamp (not shown), such as by clamping together the external surfaces of the couplers at the corresponding coupling ends. Additionally or alternatively, other types of coupling may533817.5be incorporated, including but not limited to a fork-pin connection coupling, as known in the art.
[0083] FIG. 6F shows an example of the coupler 100 with a valve 610 coupled with at least a portion of the coupler 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The valve 610 may be any suitable valve component that has the function of controlling the fluid flow within the coupler 100. For example, the coupler 100 has a body portion 106 that defines the channel 108 that extends through the inside of the body portion 106 in a longitudinal direction, or along a longitudinal axis of the body portion 106. The valve 610 may be a separate component that is disposed around the body portion 106 so as to be fluidly coupled with the channel 108, or the valve 610 may be integrally formed with the body portion 106 such that the valve 610 can be actuated to reduce the flow in the channel 108 or to increase the flow in the channel 108.
[0084] The valve 610 can be provided according to one of various different examples. In some examples, the valve 610 may be positioned at or near the midpoint of the coupler 100 between the coupling ends 102 and 104. In some examples, the valve 610 may be positioned near one of the coupling ends 102 and 104. In some examples, the valve 610 may be molded in the body portion 106 of the coupler 100. In some examples, the valve 610 may include the coupling end 102 or 104 (e.g., no portion of the coupler 100 extends beyond the end of the valve 610, and the valve defines one of the coupling ends). The body portion 106 on one side of the valve 610 may be for a different coupler 100 from the body portion 106 on the other side of the valve 610, which makes the valve 610 a coupling end 102 of a first coupler and / or a coupling end 104 of a separate, second coupler. In this regard, the valve 610 may connect the first and second couplers to form a fluid coupling therebetween. In some examples, this connection may be facilitated by having the valve 610 be the coupling end for the first coupler such that a separate coupling end of the second coupler may be coupled or attached to the valve 610, or vice versa.
[0085] As shown, the valve 610 can have an actuator 612 which can be controlled from outside the coupler 100. The actuator 612 is coupled to a seal member 614 disposed within the valve 610, which can act as a controllable seal to reduce the flow in the channel or to increase the flow in the channel based on the position of the actuator612. Examples of the actuator612 may include, but are not limited to, electric actuators that utilize electric motors to convert energy into motion for valve control, pneumatic actuators that utilize compressed air or gas to generate motion (e.g., piston533817.5or diaphragm) for valve control, hydraulic actuators that utilize pressurized fluids (e.g., oil) to create linear or rotary motion for valve control, manual or mechanical actuators that utilize manual or mechanical interaction (e.g., knobs, handwheels, or levers) for valve control, or a combination of these actuators.
[0086] Although FIG. 6F illustrates the channel 108 to extend substantially longitudinally through the valve 610, it is to be understood that this is to provide a simple representation of the valve 610 and does not limit the channel 108 from having other suitable configurations based on how the valve 610 is designed to control the fluid flow within the channel 108. For example, the seal member 614 of the valve 610 may implement a ball valve mechanism, a globe valve mechanism, a butterfly valve mechanism, a needle valve mechanism, a cock / plug valve mechanism, a poppet valve mechanism, a gate / sluice valve mechanism, or any other suitable type of fluid or liquid valve mechanism, and the channel 108 may be configured according to the type of valve mechanism that is implemented.
[0087] FIGs. 7A through 7G show various configurations of an extension 702 that may be integral to the body portion 106 of the coupling 100 and extending or protruding from an external surface 700 of the body portion 106. The extension 702 may be used for different purposes.
[0088] For example, FIG. 7A shows an extension 702 that extends from the body portion 106 such that the cross-sectional shape of the body portion 106 with the extension 702 may resemble the shape of “a” (lowercase “sigma” of the Greek alphabet). Specifically, the extension 702 may extend from a top of the body portion 106, or at an offset distance 706 from a center (C) of the body portion 106, where the center of the body portion 106 may define the longitudinal axis L — L of the body portion 106. The extension 702 may extend along a line B — B that is defined by an angle (D) with respect to a line A — A drawn from the center C to the location of the body portion 106 from which the extension 702 extends. Therefore, the offset distance 706 is defined by the distance between the center C and the line B — B. As such, if the offset distance 706 is the radius of the circle defining the body portion 106 and the angle D is perpendicular, the extension 702 would extend along the line B — B that is tangential to the body portion 106. In some examples, the extension 702 includes one or more holes 704 that allow one or more additional devices or components to be attached to the extension 702 using a fastener.533817.5
[0089] FIG. 7B shows an example in which includes two extensions 702A and 702B that form an extension surface 708. The first extension 702A protrudes from the external surface 700 of the body portion 106 in a first direction, and the second extension 702B protrudes from the external surface 700 of the body portion 106 in a second direction different from the first direction. The extension surface 708 is defined by the surfaces of the extensions 702A and 702B protruding in two different directions. In some examples, one or more additional devices or components may be disposed on to the extension surface 708 using a fastener, e.g. using the holes 704A and 704B located in the extensions.
[0090] FIG. 7C shows an example in which the extension 702 extends radially from the external surface 700 with respect to the center C of the body portion 106. That is, the extension 702 protrudes along the line B — B which passes through the center C of the body portion 106.
[0091] Furthermore, the hole 704 in the extension 702 may be positioned in different configurations as further explained herein. In FIG. 7D, the hole 704 is positioned parallel to the channel 108 of the body portion 106 such that the channel 108 and the hole 704 extend substantially in the same direction. In FIG. 7E, the hole 704 defines an entrance for a recessed portion 710 formed in the extension 702 that is accessible via the hole 704. The recessed portion 710 may receive and be coupled with a coupling component of an additional component. For example, the additional component may have a substantially spherical coupling component that can be received in the recessed portion 710 such that the spherical coupling component and the recessed portion 710 form a type of ball-and-socket joint that allows the additional component a degree of rotational freedom while being held in place using the recessed portion 710. In FIG. 7F, the hole 704 defines a secondary channel 712 extending through the extension 702 such that the secondary channel 712 is fluidly coupled with the channel 108 extending through the body portion 106.
[0092] In some examples, the extension 702 may have any other suitable shape or configuration, including but not limited to a hooked configuration as shown in FIG. 7G that includes a hook portion protruding from the external surface 700 of the body portion 106. The hook portion may be attached to an additional component without relying on a hole to mechanically affix or attach the additional component to the extension 702.533817.5
[0093] FIGs. 8 and 9 show a pressurized liquid handling system 800 such as an industrial sprayer that incorporates the coupler 100 as disclosed herein. The pressurized liquid handling system may be any suitable sprayer provided by manufacturers including but not limited to John Deere, CNH Industrial, etc., as known in the art. For example, one or more couplers 100 may be disposed on a body frame 802 of the system 800 such that the body frame 802 provides support for the couplers 100, and the couplers 100 may include one or more integrated nozzle connectors 504 and / or one or more integrated mounting portions 804 as shown. The integrated nozzle connectors 504 may be mechanically and fluidly coupled with one or more external nozzles that facilitate pressurized fluid transportation through the couplers 100. Each of the integrated mounting portions 804 extends outwardly from the body portion of the coupler 100 and are integral to the body portion, and each of the integrated mounting portions 804 may be coupled with the body frame 802 of the pressurized liquid handling system 800 to facilitate attachment of the couplers 100 to the suitable locations of the body frame 802 so as to prevent or reduce the risk of the couplers 100 accidentally detaching or decoupling from the body frame 802 during operation.
[0094] FIGs. 10A and 10B show examples of some of the nozzle bodies or nozzle body assemblies, as known in the art, that may be implemented with the couplers as disclosed herein. It is to be understood that any other suitable nozzle bodies, as known in the art may, be implemented with the coupler.
[0095] For example, FIG. 10A shows a nozzle body 1000 such as one or more Combo-Rate ® modular stackable nozzle bodies manufactured by Wilger Industries Ltd. (Saskatchewan, Canada). The nozzle body 1000 has a connector 1002 to a coupler hole, such as one of the one or more through-holes 400 formed on a coupler 100. The connector 1002 may define a connection port that can be inserted into the through-hole or otherwise fluidly coupled with the through-hole such that the channel within the nozzle body 1000 may be fluidly coupled with the channel 108 extending through the body portion 106 of the coupler 100, for example. The nozzle body 1000 may also include a clamp portion 1004 that provides a means for the nozzle body 1000 to be mechanically coupled to the coupler 100 in addition to the aforementioned fluid coupling. In some examples, the nozzle body 1000 may be formed using a plurality of separate nozzle bodies that are stacked or connected together, as shown, or the nozzle body 1000 may be a single component.533817.5
[0096] FIG. 10B shows another example of the nozzle body 1000 such as an ARAG ® hinged clamp-type nozzle holder manufactured by Nordson Corporation (Westlake, Ohio, U.S.A.). The nozzle body 1000 includes two connectors: a first connector 1002A that may be fluidly coupled with a through-hole 400 on one location of the wall of the coupler 100, and a second connector 1002B that may be fluidly coupled with another through-hole 400 on another location on the wall of the coupler 100. The second connector 1002B may be formed in the top portion of the clamp portion 1004 such that, when the clamp portion 1004 is disposed around the body portion 106 of the coupler 100, the channels formed within the two connectors 1002A and 1002B are fluidly coupled with the channel 108 within the body portion 106 of the coupler 100.
[0097] Methods or processes of manufacturing the coupler are explained with reference to FIG. 11. A method 1100 for manufacturing the coupler may include a step 1102 of providing a mold for injection molding. The mold includes at least one opening for receiving a molten polymer and at least one cavity for shaping the molten polymer. The cavity is shaped according to the desired configuration of the coupler that is to be manufactured. In step 1104, the molten polymer is injected through the opening into the cavity of the mold, until a sufficient amount of the molten polymer is disposed within the cavity. In step 1106, the coupler is formed by solidifying the molten polymer within the cavity of the mold. Accordingly, the coupler as formed includes a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end and the second coupling end. The body portion has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defines a channel extending through the body from the first coupling end to the second coupling end in which pressurized liquid is receivable, and the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece, e.g. a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material.
[0098] In some examples, the mold provided in step 1102 may define one or more extensions which may protrude from an external surface of the coupler in the final product. In some examples, the mold may define one or more through-holes in the wall of the coupler in the final product. In some examples, the mold may include multiple separate pieces, such as an outer piece to define the external surface and external configuration of the coupler and one or more inner pieces to define the internal surface and channel configuration of the coupler, such that as the molten polymer533817.5solidifies, the inner pieces define the channel configuration and can be removed after the polymer solidifies.
[0099] A coupler where the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material has a lower manufacturing cost as compared to other forms of coupler, such as extruded pipings or metallic pipings. Such coupler also facilitates faster component installation when integrated mounting portions are also provided on the surface of the coupler such that pipes, hoses, electrical wires, nozzles, electronic devices, and any other suitable components may be affixed or attached to the coupler with minimal effort. Having the integrated portions being pre-formed on the coupler reduces the time required for installation, repairs, and replacement. Furthermore, the design of a single integral piece used in forming the coupler includes fewer leak points as compared to a coupler that is formed using multiple separate pieces that are attached together, e.g., via sealants, adhesives and / or fasteners, because any point of mechanical attachment between multiple pieces may result in fluid leaks after an extended period of usage under pressurized environments. In addition, using a rigid coupler that is pre-formed in a predetermined configuration, where the coupler maintains its configuration and a controlled ground clearance height when implemented in an industrial sprayer, may reduce the risk of crop damage as compared to other examples such as “accordion” drain pipes, because such drain pipes may bend or hang downwardly from the frame of the industrial sprayer, causing the drain pipes to interact with the crop that is being sprayed as the industrial sprayer moves across a field or a farmland, resulting in crop damage.
[0100] FIGs. 12A through 12C illustrate an example of a coupler 100 having an insert 1200 that is inserted therein (removably or permanently), according to embodiments disclosed herein. The couplers 100A and 100B are shown as being coupled to each other using suitable means (see, for example, FIGs. 2 and 3), with a curved end coupler 1210 attached to the end of the coupler 100B to facilitate liquid transfer, such as providing liquid into the channel 108 of the couplers. The coupler 100B may be removed from the coupler 100A, and the insert 1200 may be inserted into the channel 108 of the coupler 100A, for example via sliding the insert, using the open end of the coupler 100A as an access point. The couplers define one or more through-holes 400 from which the liquid may pass through to be sprayed or dispersed into the surrounding environment as part of the liquid handling.533817.5
[0101] The insert 1200 is a longitudinal member with a sufficiently rigid structure to be retained within the channel 108 for fluid control or customization. In some examples, the insert 1200 may be formed using a polymeric material (e.g., plastic) or a metallic material, or other suitable material, and the insert 1200 may be formed using a molding process. The purpose of the insert 1200 is to reduce the effective internal volume of the channel 108 in a predetermined way such that the coupler 100 as provided may function similarly to a coupler with a smaller internal channel. For example, the coupler 100 may be provided with the channel 108 having a predetermined internal volume, but if a smaller internal volume is preferred, instead of replacing the entire coupler 100, the insert 1200 may be inserted into the channel 108 instead, thereby causing the inner volume to be reduced. The resulting inner volume may be defined as the difference between the original inner volume and the total volume occupied by the insert 1200.
[0102] As shown, the insert 1200 includes various portions having different profiles along a longitudinal axis L — L, although designs with a single, continuous profile (e.g., the same as that of the increased-profile portion 1204) may be implemented. For example, as shown, the insert 1200 may include one or more reduced-profile portions 1202 and one or more increased-profile portions 1204. The reduced-profile portions 1202 have smaller cross-sectional areas than the increased-profile portions 1204. The increased-profile portions 1204 are designed to help prevent the reduced-profile portions 1202 from resting against the inner wall of the coupler 100. In some examples, the increased-profile portions 1204 may be formed to fit relatively snugly within the channel 108 so as to limit movement of the insert 1200 in certain directions, such as in the longitudinal direction or in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L — L. In some examples, the insert 1200 may be designed to limit rotational movement of the insert 1200 within the channel 108.
[0103] In some examples, the increased-profile portions 1204 may have one or more tabs or protrusions 1206 (e.g., two, three, four, or more) extending radially outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis of the insert 1200. Each of the tabs or protrusions 1206, also described as fluting, may be offset equidistant from adjacent ones of the tabs of protrusions 1206. For example, as shown, each of the tabs or protrusions 1206 may be clocked or angularly offset about the circumference of the increased profile portion(s) 1204 by about 90 degrees. The tabs or protrusions 1206 may define any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as circular, rectangular,533817.5polygonal, ora combination thereof. The tabs or protrusions 1206 may be symmetrical (e.g., rotational or reflectional symmetry) or asymmetrical. The portions 1202 and 1204 may be disposed in an alternating matter, with a reduced-profile portion 1202 following an increased-profile portion 1204 and vice versa, for example. The reduced-profile portion 1202 may define a length L1 along the longitudinal axis L — L, and the increased-profile portion 1204 may define a length L2 along the longitudinal axis L — L. In some examples, L1 may be longer than L2 (reducing the total volume of the insert 1200), or L2 may be longer than L1 (increasing the total volume of the insert 1200).
[0104] In some examples, the increased-profile portions 1204 may have different lengths. For example, the increased-profile portions 1204 located at or near the end of the insert 1200 (as shown in FIG. 12B, for example) may have a shorter length as compared to other increased-profile portions 1204 along the longitudinal length of the insert 1200, in order to facilitate easier maneuver or control of the insert 1200 during installation, since it may be more difficult to position the insert 1200 within the channel 108 during the initial step of the installation. In some examples, the reduced-profile portions 1202 may be located proximal to one or more through-holes 400 in order to direct fluid flow within the channel 108 toward the through-hole(s) 400 without the fluid flow being interfered by the tabs or protrusions 1206 of the increased-profile portions 1204. As such, the tabs or protrusions 1206 may be disposed at the locations that do not interfere with the liquid handling process, such as near the nozzle body or the nozzle itself.
[0105] FIGs. 13A and 13B illustrate an example of the insert 1200 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The insert 1200 may have a plurality of reduced-profile portions 1202 and a plurality of increased-profile portions 1204 that define different types of tabs or protrusions 1302 and 1304 extending outwardly from a longitudinal component 1300, such as a rod member. For example, in the reduced-profile portions 1202, shorter tabs or protrusions 1302 may extend outwardly by a shorter length (LA) from a surface of the longitudinal component 1300, and in the increased-profile portions 1204, longer tabs or protrusions 1302 may extend outwardly by a longer length (LB) than the shorter tabs or protrusions 1302 from the surface of the longitudinal component 1300. The difference in value between LA and LB may be 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 200%, 300% or any value or range of values between the foregoing examples. As such, in the example as shown, the insert 1200 may have533817.5a cross-sectional shape that resembles a plus sign (+) along the entirety of the longitudinal length of the insert 1200, but the “legs” of the plus sign would have different lengths depending upon whether the cross-section is taken at the reduced-profile portion 1202 or at the increased-profile portion 1204.
[0106] In some examples, the maximal cross-sectional dimension (D3) of the insert 1200 is less than the internal cross-sectional dimension D1 of the coupler 100. In some examples, the dimension D3 may be 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 90%, 85%, or any other suitable value therebetween with respect to the dimension D1 so as be able to fit the insert 1200 within the channel 108 but still able to have the insert 1200 be retrieved or removed from the channel 108 if necessary.
[0107] In some examples, the dimensions D3 may be at least 100% of the dimension D1 so as to be inserted into the channel 108 such that the tabs or protrusions 1206 are in contact with the inner wall of the coupler 100. The insert 1200 may be made of a deformable material (e.g., plastic) such that some deformation of the tabs or protrusions 1206 may be facilitated in order to fit the insert 1200 in the channel 108, where the insert 1200 would be permanently affixed within the coupler 100 via frictional force.
[0108] The insert 1200 beneficially provides options for the user to customize the coupler 100 to reduce the internal volume of the channel 108, which is similar to replacing the coupler with a smaller coupler but without requiring a new coupler to be manufactured. Therefore, a larger coupler can be customized to function as a smaller coupler without the increased cost of materials or delay caused by designing or manufacturing a new component to replace the original coupler. Also, based on the material being used for the insert (e.g., lightweight plastic polymer), the total weight of the resulting coupler (e.g., weight of the original coupler with the lightweight insert) may be less than the weight of the new coupler (e.g. , weight of the new coupler that is made entirely of metal).
[0109] Furthermore, the tabs or protrusions 1206 formed on the surface of the insert 1200 may facilitate directing fluid within the coupler 100 such as during the cleaning process to remove any waste fluid that remains within the coupler 100. In some examples, the insert 1200 may control the flow rate, such as by lowering the flow rate of the fluid, allowing better control of the fluid flow. In some examples, the insert 1200 may control the fluid pressure within the coupler 100 such as by disrupting the flow of fluid to cause a pressure drop. In some examples, the insert 1200 may533817.5also facilitate mixing of the fluid within the coupler 100, such as by designing the tabs or protrusions 1206 to extend in a certain direction with respect to the longitudinal axis L — L to cause rotational flow of fluid within the coupler 100.
[0110] Numerous characteristics and advantages have been set forth in the preceding description, including various alternatives together with details of the structure and function of the devices and / or methods. Moreover, the scope of the various concepts addressed in this disclosure has been described both generically and with regard to specific examples. The disclosure is intended as illustrative only and as such is not intended to be exhaustive. It will be evident to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made, especially in matters of structure, materials, elements, components, shape, size, and arrangement of parts including combinations within the principles of the disclosure, to the full extent indicated by the broad, general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed. To the extent that these various modifications do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims, they are intended to be encompassed therein.
[0111] The invention of this application has been described above both generically and with regard to specific embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the embodiments cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
533817.5CLAIMS1. A coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system, the coupler comprising: a first coupling end;a second coupling end; anda body portion disposed between the first coupling end and the second coupling end, the body portion having a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defining a channel extending through the body portion from the first coupling end to the second coupling end in which pressurized liquid is receivable, wherein the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material.
2. The coupler of claim 1 , wherein the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion have a substantially uniform material throughout.
3. The coupler of claim 1 or 2, wherein the body portion and the channel defined therein are straight and noncorrugated.
4. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the polymeric material includes one or more of: polypropylene, nylon, polyolefin, or polyethylene.
5. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the first coupling end includes one of: an NPT-threaded coupling, a manifold flange coupling, afork / pin connection coupling, a cam lever coupling, a bolted flange coupling, or a hose shank or hose barb coupling.
6. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the second coupling end includes one of: an NPT-threaded coupling, a manifold flange coupling, or a fork / pin connection coupling, a cam lever coupling, a bolted flange coupling, or a hose shank or hose barb coupling.
7. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the second coupling end has a different shape or configuration from the first coupling end.533817.
58. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion has a uniform external cross-sectional dimension from the first coupling end to the second coupling end.
9. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the channel has an internal cross-sectional dimension that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion from the first coupling end to the second coupling end.
10. The coupler of claim 9, wherein the channel has a first end portion near the first coupling end, a second end portion near the second coupling end, and an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the internal cross-sectional dimension is smaller at the intermediate portion than at the first end portion and the second end portion.
11. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion has one or more through-holes extending through the body portion in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body portion.
12. The coupler of claim 11 , wherein the one or more through-holes are couplable with one or more connection ports of one or more modular nozzle bodies such that the channel of the body portion is fluidly couplable with one or more channels of the nozzle bodies.
13. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion has one or more tube or hose connectors extending outwardly from the body portion and are integral to the body portion, and the connectors are fluidly coupled with the channel.
14. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion has one or more integrated nozzle connectors that are fluidly coupled with the channel.
15. The coupler of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion has one or more frame mounting portions extending outwardly from the body portion and are integral to the body portion, each of the frame mounting portions being couplable with a body frame of the pressurized liquid handling system.533817.
516. The coupler of any preceding claim, the body portion further coupled with a secondary body portion of a secondary coupler that is integrally formed with the coupler, the body portion and the secondary body portion being interconnectedly coupled via at least one bridge that extends between and is integrally formed with the coupler and the secondary coupler.
17. The coupler of claim 16, wherein the secondary body portion of the secondary coupler is aligned substantially parallel to the body portion of the coupler.
18. The coupler of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the body portion has at least one extension protruding from an outer surface of the body portion and is integral to the body portion.
19. The coupler of claim 18, wherein the extension protrudes from the outer surface of the body portion at an offset distance from a center of the body portion.
20. The coupler of claim 18, wherein the at least one extension includes a first extension protruding from the outer surface of the body portion in a first direction and a second extension protruding from the outer surface of the body portion in a second direction different from the first direction.
21. The coupler of claim 18, wherein the extension protrudes radially from the outer surface of the body portion with respect to a center of the body portion.
22. The coupler of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the at least one extension includes at least one hole extending through the at least one extension for coupling with one or more additional components disposed on a surface defined by the extension.
23. The coupler of claim 22, wherein the at least one hole is positioned parallel to the channel of the body portion.533817.
524. The coupler of claim 22, wherein the extension includes a recessed portion accessible via the hole, and the recessed portion is receivable and couplable with a coupling component of an additional component.
25. The coupler of claim 22, wherein the hole defines a secondary channel extending through the extension and fluidly coupled with the channel extending through the body portion.
26. The coupler of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the at least one extension includes a hook portion that protrudes from the outer surface of the body portion.
27. The coupler of claim 11 , further comprising an insert disposed in the channel, the insert comprising one or more reduced-profile portions disposed proximal to the one or more through-holes, and one or more increased-profile portions to direct fluid flow within the channel toward the through-holes.
28. The coupler of any one of claims 1-26, further comprising an insert disposed in the channel, the insert comprising one or more reduced-profile portions and one or more increased-profile portions to reduce an effective internal volume of the channel.
29. The coupler of claim 28, wherein the increased-profile portions comprise one or more protrusions extending radially outwardly with respect to a longitudinal axis of the insert.
30. A multipiece coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system, the multipiece coupler comprising:a first coupler comprising a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end of the first coupler and the second coupling end of the first coupler; anda second coupler comprising a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end of the second coupler and the second coupling end of the second coupler,wherein:533817.5the body portion of the first coupler and the body portion of the second coupler each has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defines a channel extending therethrough in which pressurized liquid is receivable,the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion of each of the first coupler and the second coupler are formed as a single integral piece of a rigid and injection-molded polymeric material, andthe second coupling end of the first coupler is coupled with the first coupling end of the second coupler to maintain a continuous channel through the body portion of the first coupler and the body portion of the second coupler in which the pressurized liquid is receivable.
31. The multipiece coupler of claim 30, wherein the continuous channel has an internal cross-sectional dimension that varies by no more than 5% along the body portion from the first coupling end of the first coupler to the second coupling end of the second coupler.
32. The multipiece coupler of claim 30 or 31 , wherein the second coupling end of the first coupler defines a female coupling end, and the first coupling end of the second coupler defines a male coupling end receivable within the female coupling end.
33. The multipiece coupler of claim 30 or 31 , wherein the first coupling end of the second coupler defines a female coupling end, and the second coupling end of the first coupler defines a male coupling end receivable within the female coupling end.
34. The multipiece coupler of claim 30 or 31 , further comprising one or more fasteners with which the second coupling end of the first coupler and the first coupling end of the second coupler are affixable.
35. A method of forming a coupler for a pressurized liquid handling system, the method comprising:providing a mold for injection molding, the mold comprising an opening for receiving a molten polymer and a cavity for shaping the molten polymer;533817.5injecting the molten polymer through the opening into the cavity of the mold; andforming the coupler by solidifying the molten polymer such that the coupler as formed comprises a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a body portion disposed between the first coupling end and the second coupling end, the body portion has a longitudinal length of at least 45 cm and defining a channel extending through the body from the first coupling end to the second coupling end in which pressurized liquid is receivable, and the first coupling end, the second coupling end, and the body portion are formed as a single integral piece.