Vertical Axis Hose Reel Rewinding Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional powered hose reels with horizontal axes face issues such as hose bunching due to uneven wrapping, increased user effort from gear reduction, and premature wear from exposed moving parts, especially when exposed to environmental elements.
Innovation Solution
A powered vertical axis hose reel system with a programmable controller that uses a DC motor and gear teeth to rewind hoses from the bottom to the top of a spool, reducing the need for complex clutch systems and minimizing wear, and incorporates a rotary union for fluid connection while protecting components from the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a horizontal axis spool is used, then the hose can be wound around the spool, but the hose tends to wrap around a single location causing it to bunch up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a horizontal axis spool to a vertical axis spool, changing the dimension of rotation. This vertical orientation allows the hose to be guided along the vertical axis rather than wrapping around a single horizontal location, preventing bunching and achieving more uniform hose distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the hose winding process into segments by using multiple guide positions along the vertical axis. The hose is guided to different vertical locations during the winding process, creating multiple wrap locations rather than a single concentration point, which prevents bunching.
2Extent of automation
If a gear reduction system is used, then the motor can control the reel, but the user experiences increased resistance when pulling out the hose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the clutch system entirely from the design. Instead of using a clutch to disengage the motor during hose extraction, the system relies on the vertical axis spool design and guide mechanism to enable smooth hose payout without mechanical disengagement, eliminating the source of increased resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than using a motor with gear reduction that creates high torque for winding and then disengaging for payout, the patent inverts the approach by using the vertical axis configuration where the hose weight and guide mechanism naturally facilitate smooth payout without requiring clutch disengagement or creating resistance during extraction.
3Productivity
If moving parts are exposed, then the reel can operate, but the components become damaged due to exposure to environmental elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cover assembly that encloses the spool and protects internal components from environmental exposure. This protective shell shields moving parts from sunlight, rain, and other elements that would cause wear and damage, while still allowing the reel to operate effectively.
4Ease of operation
If a clutch system is used to neutralize the motor, then the user can freely pull out the hose, but the cost of the reel substantially increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely removes the clutch system from the design. The vertical axis spool with its guide mechanism enables free hose payout without requiring any clutch or neutral mechanism, significantly reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining operational ease.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system efficiently winds and unwinds hoses with reduced user effort, minimizes hose bunching, and extends the lifespan of the reel by using a vertical axis design and protective features, enhancing performance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
uses a DC motor and gear teeth to rewind hoses
Implementation Method 2
uses a DC motor and gear teeth to rewind hoses
Implementation Method 3
programmable controller for implementing a rewind protocol configured to encourage the hose to fill from the bottom of the spool cup to the top
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the present invention, a system and method for a powered vertical axis hose reel is shown. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a powered hose reel is disclosed having a spool around which a hose may be coiled, in which the spool is on a vertical axis relative to the ground. In various embodiments, the powered hose reel includes a programmable controller for implementing a rewind protocol adapted to encourage the hose to fill from the bottom of the spool cup to the top.