US3462082A - Fluid dispensing apparatus - Google Patents

Description

-M. c. EVERETT FLUID DISPENS ING APPARATUS Aug. 19 1969 Filed Jan 10, 1967 INVENTOR. MILTON c. EVERETT ATTORNEYS 2 0 w G w a VG m p F l -I fl Filed Jan. '10; 1967 g- 19, 1969 M. c. EVERETT 3,462,082 FLUID DISPENSING APPARATUS I 3 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIGS . INVENTOR. MILTON C. EVERETT J I v BY v IZFIG. fw y I ATTORN E YS Au 19,1969 M. c. EVERETT 3,462,082

FLUID DISPENSING APPARATUS Filed Jan. 10; 1967' 5 Sheets-Sheet s 252 98 /98 FIG 8 FIG. 7 1 I 246 iii 254 I 1 80 I 6'4 I I 9 138 25g r J I a. a 2% I46 22 7 256 I; "/1 my r INVENTOR. MILTON c. EVERETT ATTORNEYS United States Patent ice 3,462,082 FLUID DISPENSING APPARATUS Milton C. Everett, Nassau County, N.Y.,assiguor to Kastar, Inc., Bellport, N.Y., a corporation of New York Filed Jan. 10, 1967, Ser. No. 608,351 Int. Cl. Bb 9/04, 7/30; B67d 5/54 US. Cl. 239-332 40 Claims ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE The present invention relates to fluid dispensing apparatus and more particularly, to self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus adapted to dispense a liquid in an atomized spray from a container.

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide an inexpensive, compact, lightweight, versatile, and efficient spraying device which can be used around the home, or the like, for spraying paints, insecticides, wax coatings, water, disinfectants, weed killers, and other fluids, which is operated by a self-contained pump.

Another primary object of the present invention, in addition to the foregoing object, is to provide such a device which can be quickly disassembled to expose certain operating parts thereof, so that such parts can be easily and rapidly cleaned. V

A further primary object of the present invention, in addition to the foregoing objects, is to provide such a device, which can be quickly disassembled to expose certain operating parts thereof, so that such parts can be easily and rapidly cleaned. I

A further primary object of' the present invention, in addition to the foregoing objects, is to provide such a device having the pump so positioned and mounted as to be readily accessible, removable and replaceable.

It is still another primary object of the present invention, in addition to the foregoing objects, to provide a device of the character described having a modular pump assembly which may be readily and easily removed and replaced.

Yet another primary object of the present invention, in addition to each and every one of the foregoing objects, is to provide a device of the character described, having a nozzle which is readily adjustable during use, enabling all graduations of spray from a very fine mist to a formed solid stream to be produced readily and simply.

It is a further object of the present invention, in addition to each and every one of the foregoing objects, to provide a nozzle assembly for a device of the character described which may be simply and easily cleaned.

Another and yet still further primary object of the present invention, in addition to each and every one of the foregoing objects, is to provide novel means for varying the spraying rate of such a device.

The invention resides in the combination, construction, arrangement and disposition of the various component parts and elements incorporated in an improved fluidspraying apparatus constructed in accordance with the principles of this invention. The present invention will be better understood, and objects and important features 3,462,082 Patented Aug. 19, 1969 other than those specifically enumerated above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following details and description, which when taken in conjunction with the annexed drawing, describes, discloses, illustrates and shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention and what is presently considered and believed to be the best mode of practicing the principles thereof. Other embodiments or modifications may be suggested to those having the benefit of the teachings herein, and such other embodiments or modifications are intended to be reserved especially as they fall within the scope and spirit of the subjoined claims.

In the drawing:

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view, partially in section, illustrating a fluid spraying apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a partial top cross sectional plan view taken alongline 2-2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional plan view taken along line 33 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an elevational partial sectional view taken along line 44 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1 showing certain details of construction and certain details of the assembly thereof;

FIG. 6 is an isometric showing similar to FIG. 4 showing the manner in which the pump assembly may be removed;

FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric showing of the pump and nozzle assembly;

FIG. 8 is a partial cross sectional elevational view of the pump assembly in the assembled condition;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the foot of the pump assembly;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged front elevational showing of a diffuser constructed according to the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the diffuser taken along line 1212 of FIG. 11 assembled with the nozzle and cap;

FIG. 13 is a front elevational showing similar to FIG. 11 showing another diffuser constructed according to the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a reduced partial isometric exploded view showing the manner in which a strainer constructed according to the present invention may be utilized with the spray jar.

With reference to the drawing, and especially to FIG. 1, there is shown and illustrated novel fluid spraying apparatus constructed according to the present invention and generally designated by the reference character 20. The apparatus 20 comprises a container assembly 22 for containing therewithin a quantity of fluid 24, a pump assembly 26 for moving the fluid 24, outwardly of the container assembly 22 under pressure, a nozzle assembly 28 for diffusing and atomizing the fluid 24, a motor assembly 30 for actuating the pump assembly 26, electric circuit means 32 for energizing the pump assembly 30, and housing means 34 for retaining the various components of the apparatus 20 in operative association.

The container assembly 22 comprises a container or jar 36 which may be of any conventional construction and design fabricated of any conventional material. The container or jar 36 is preferably fabricated of a material which will not be adversely affected by the fluids to be contained therewithin, and is further more preferably resistant to breakage. Accordingly the jar or container 36 may be fabricated of a plastic material, such as polyethylene or the like. The container or jar 36 thereby defines a substantially enclosed enclosure for the fluid material 24 and is provided with a wide mouth opening 38 enabling the pump assembly 26 to extend into the container or jar 36 to a location adjacent the bottom 39 thereof and into the fluid 24 contained thereby. The wide mouth opening 38 further enables the fluid 24 to be readily, easily, and quickly poured into the container or jar 36 and rapid, simple, and thorough cleaning thereof. The container or jar 36 is further preferably provided with annularly exteriorly extending screw threads 40 adjacent the mouth opening 38 thereof to enable simple secure attachment and association of the container or jar 36 with the housing assembly 34.

The housing assembly 34 comprises a main body portion 42, a front housing cover 44 and a container cap .6. The housing assembly 34, and particularly the main body portion 42, the front housing cover 44 and the jar cap 46 may be fabricated of any conventional materials and are preferably molded of a plastic material, such as polypropylene which is rigid, durable, shatterproof, nonconductive and light in weight. The main body housing 42 may be molded as two mating hollow half portions which may be secured together in operative association as by means of a plurality of screws 48. The jar cap 46 may be similarly structurally associated with the main body portion 42 as by means of a plurality of screws 50, or the like. The jar cap 46 is preferably provided with a downwardly facing counter bore 52 and with integral radially inwardly facing threads 54 extending along the peripheral portion thereof for engagement with the exterior threads 40 of the container or jar 36. The dimensions of the counter bore 52 and the interior threads 54 thereof, and of course the cooperating portions of the container or jar 36 are preferably chosen so as to enable conventional Mason glass jars, or the like to be utilized in place of the jar container 36. The counter bore 52 is further provided with a downwardly facing generally annular sealing lip or ridge 56 to further sealingly engage the jar or container 36 adjacent the open mouth 38 thereof to preclude paint or other fluid 24 from entering the mating threads 40 and 54. The jar cap 46 is provided with a generally vertically extending aperture 53 extending therethrough and communicating with the counter bore 52 radially inwardly of the sealing lip or ridge 56 to enable the pump assembly 26 to pass therethrough. The pump assembly 26, which will hereinafter he described in more detail, is constructed and arranged as to be readily, easily, and rapidly removable from the apparatus 20. The pump assembly 26 comprises an elongate body 60 preferably fabricated, as by molding or the like from a non-porous, easily cleanable and strong material, such as nylon, or the like and a nipple 62, likewise fabricated of a material such as nylon structurally associated with the pump body 60, as by an adhesive, or the like. The pump body 60 is provided with an enlarged positioning extension 64 having a generally circular portion 66 and a generally rectangular portion 68 extending therefrom. The housing assembly 34 is provided with a generally key shaped aperture 70 having a generally circular portion 72 and a generally rectangular portion 74, the aperture 70 and the extension 66 being configured for mutual engagement, with the aperture 70 being in general axial alignment with the aperture 58 of the jar cap 46. The aperture 58 of the jar cap 46 is somewhat smaller in diameter than the diameter of the circular portion 72 of the aperture 70 enabling the extension 64 of the pump body 60 to be upwardly retained by engagement with the jar cap 46 adjacent the aperture 58. The upper surface of the jar cap 46, adjacent the aperture 58 is provided with a generally circular groove 76 defining, together with the aperture 58, .a generally circular ridge 78 extending along the upper edge of the aperture 58 to sealingly engage the lower surface of the extension 64 of the pump body 60. The pump body 60 is further provided with a generally cylindrical extension 80 above and adjacent the key shaped extension 64, the

generally cylindrical extension having an upper surface 82 generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis thereof and generally parallel to the key shaped extension 64. The front housing cover 44, which comprises a bottom wall 84 is provided with a generally U-shaped slot 86 (see FIG. 5) having side edges 88. The bottom wall 84 of the front housing cap 44 is further provided with a pair of generally parallel lips 90 extending downwardly therefrom from locations adjacent the side walls 88 of the U-shaped slot 86 and adapted to engage the top surface 82 of the generally cylindrical extension 80 of the pump housing 60 to retain the T-shaped extension 64 thereof downwardly in engagement with the circular ridge 78 of the jar cap 54. Accordingly, the pump assembly 26 is securely removably retained in position by the engagement of the extensions 64 and 80 with the jar cap 46, the housing body 42 and the housing front cover 44.

The pump assembly 26 is further retained in position by means of a pair of oppositely extending lugs or ribs 92 extending generally outwardly of the upper portion of the elongate pump body 60 and integrally formed therein which engage with a pair of notches provided in a pair of inwardly extending ribs 96 of the housing body 42 (see FIG. 2). The ribs 96 thereby firmly engage the sides of the elongate pump body 60 to prevent sideways movement therebetween and the notches 94 cooperate with the lugs 92 to preclude inadvertent movement of the pump assembly 26 in the perpendicular direction. The nipple 62 of the pump assembly 26 is also provided with a generally circular extension 98 having a front face 100 thereof adapted to be positioned adjacent the front wall 102 of the housing front cover 44 to function as an opening shield. The front wall 102 of the front housing cover 44 is provided with an aperture 104 to enable the nipple 62 of the pump assembly 26 to extend outwardly therethrough.

With continued reference now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 of the drawing, the front housing cover 44 further comprises a top wall 106 and a pair of opposed side walls 108. The rear edge portions of the top wall 106, the bottom wall 84, and the side walls 108 are preferably formed to define a generally rectangular frame 110 having side portions 112 to provide strength and rigidity to the front housing cover 44. Each of the sides 112 of the frame 110 are provided with a plurality of generally inwardly extending lugs 114 to removably retain the front housing cover 44 in structural association with the main body housing 42.

The front portion of the main body housing 42 is cut away to form an opening 116 defined by a generally vertically extending wall portion 118 and a generally horizontally extending bottom wall portion 120 intersection at a generally right angular intersection 122. Since the main body housing 42 is hollow, the generally vertically extending wall portion 118 comprises a top edge portion 124 and a pair of generally parallel side edge portions 126 spaced from one another and extending between the top portion 124 and the angular intersection 122. The generally vertical wall portion 118 is provided with a generally U-shaped frame 128 extending longitudinally forwardly therefrom and comprising a generally horizontal top frame element 130 and a pair of generally vertical side frame elements 132 which are generally parallel and extend downwardly from the top frame element 130 to locations on the side walls 126 spaced from the angular intersections 122 to define a pair of grooves 134 between the side frame elements 132 and the generally horizontal wall portion 120. The frame 128 of the main body housing 42 and the frame 110 of the housing front cover 44 are adapted to be interengaged, as by the frame 110 of the front housing cover 44 extending outwardly of the frame 128 of the main body housing 44 with the bottom wall 84 of the front housing cover 44 being engaged within the grooves 134 between the side frame elements 132 and the bottom wall portion 120. Each of the side frame elements 132 are provided with a generally laterally outwardly extending lip or ridge 136 adapted to snap fit with the lips or projections 114 of the frame 110 to retain the front housing cover 44 engaged with the main body housing 42. Accordingly, the vertical wall portion 118 precludes movement of the front housing cover rearwardly of the main body housing 42, the lips 136 and 114 removably retain the front housing cover 44 against movement forwardly of the main body housing 42, and the upper frame element 130, the grooves 134 and the horizontal wall portion 122 cooperate with the frame 110 and bottom wall 84 of the front housing cover 44 to preclude vertical movement thereof retaining the front housing cover 44 in position to act against the pump assembly 26 by engagement with the extension 82 to thereby retain the pump assembly, 26 in operative position within the apparatus 20.

The nipple 62 of the pump assembly 26, generally forwardly of the flange 98 is provided with means, such as external screw threads 137 for removably retaining a nozzle cap 138, to be described more fully hereinafter. The motor assembly 30 comprises a magnet assembly 140 and an armature assembly 142, the armature assembly 142 comprising an actuating bar 144 for moving a piston rod 146 vertically of a pump body 60. The pump body 60 is provided with a slot 148 adjacent to the upper end thereof to enable the actuating finger or bar 144 of the armature assembly 142 to operatively engage the upper end portion of the pump piston rod 146.

The pump assembly 26 may, as hereinbefore pointed out, be readily simply removed from the apparatus without utilizing any tools. To remove the pump assembly 26, it is merely necessary to unscrew the nozzle cap 138 from the nipple 62 and snap the housing front cover 44 forwardly of the main body housing 42, disengaging the latching lips 114 from the lips 136. The front housing cover slides forward easily, the lips 114 and 136 being provided with sloped interengaging surfaces, or camming surfaces to enable easy disengagement therebetween. It will be recalled that all retention of the pump assembly 26 inwardly and downwardly is provided by the cooperation therewith of the front cover housing 44 and by means of the notches 94 in the ribs 96 of the main body housing 42. Accordingly, with the front housing cover 44 removed, the pump assembly may be grasped at the nipple 62 and pulled generally forwardly to disengage the ridges 92 from the notches 94 and then pulled generally upwardly and outwardly of the main body housing 42, rotating the pump assembly 26 slightly if necessary to effect such removal. This removal is clearly shown in FIG. 6 of the drawing. Reassembly of the pump assembly 26 may be as readily effected by a reversal of the above mentioned steps, that is, first inserting the pump assembly 26 generally inwardly and downwardly into the main body housing 42 and the aperture 58 of the jar cap 46 and then pushing the upper portion of the pump assembly 26 generally rearwardly to engage the ridges 92 with the notches 94. A generally U-shaped lift lever 150 is pivotally associated with the main body housing 42, as shown, so that reassembly of the pump assembly 26 the lift lever 150 may be rotated to lift the armature assembly 142 enabling the pump assembly 26, and especially the pump piston rod 146 to be engaged thereunder.

Spray control is accomplished in the present novel spraying apparatus in two ways, spray pattern control is provided by the nozzle assembly 28 and spray volume control is provided by stroke adjusting means 152 operatively associated with the armature assembly 142. The armature assembly 142 comprises the actuating finger 144 which extends substantially longitudinally entirely thereof projecting generally forwardly therefrom for engagement with the pump piston rod 146. The armature assembly 142 further comprises a plurality of laminations of high magnetic permeability stacked generally laterally on both sides of the actuating finger 144. The armature laminations 154 may be secured together and with the actuating finger 144 in any conventional manner, as by means of a plurality of rivets 156. The armature assembly 142 is guided, as by means of ribs 158 provided generally interiorally of the main body housing 42 for substantially free vertical movement relative to the magnet assembly 140. The magnet assembly comprises a generally E-shaped core 160 of substantially conventional configuration fabricated of a plurality of laminations of a material having high magnetic permeability secured together as by means of rivets 162 in a conventional manner and a coil 164 wound around the core 160. The magnet assembly 140 may be retained within the housing 142 in any convenient manner, as by means of ribs 166 integrally formed interiorly of the main body housing 42. The magnet assembly 140 is adapted for connection with an alternating source of electric power, as by means of electric wires 168 and a trigger switch assembly 169. An armature rebound spring 170 is secured with the main body housing 42 as by means of ribs 172 so as to be cantilevered above the armature assembly 142, the free end portion of the armature rebound spring 170 being adapted to contact the armature assembly 142 at a location on the actuating finger 144 thereof generally above the pump assembly 26. A lever stop spring 174 having a substantially higher modulus of elasticity than the modulus of the armature rebound spring 170 is also cantilevered, as by means of the ridges 172 above the armature rebound spring 170. The position of the lever stop spring 174, relative to the magnet assembly 140 may be controlled by means of a stroke adjusting lever 176 including eccentric cam means 178 adapted to engage the lever stop spring 174 at the free end portion thereof. Accordingly, rotation of the stroke adjusting lever 176 will cause movement of the free end portion of the lever stop spring 174 relative to the magnet means 140 and thereby, adjustment of the stroke of the armature 140 and of the pump piston 146 may be readily effectuated.

The trigger switch assembly 169 may be of any desired construction and arrangement and it has been found preferable to utilize the nonconductive trigger switch actuator 180 pivotally mounted with the main body housing 42 at one end thereof, the other end of the switch actuator 180 being in engagement with a movable switch contact spring 182. The movable switch spring 182 is secured with an insulating plate 184 as by means of a rivet 186. A fixed switch contact 188 is also associated with the insulator strip 184, as by means of a rivet 190. The insulating plate 184 may be readily retained within the main body housing 42 by means of slotted ribs 192.

The nozzle assembly 28, as hereinbefore pointed out, comprises the nipple 62 and the nozzle cap 138 threadedly engaged with the nipple 62 as by means of the threads 137. The nozzle assembly 28 further comprises a diffuser 194 removably associated with the nipple 62 for cooperation with the nozzle cap 138 to provide adjustable atomization of fluid pumped thereto by means of the pump assembly 26.

As previously pointed out, the pump assembly 26 may be quickly and easily removed from the device 20 as a unit. With reference now to FIGS. 7 through 10 of the drawing, the pump assembly 26 is so constructed and arranged as to enable the easy disassembly thereof for cleaning and maintenance. The nipple 62 and the pump body 60, as hereinbefore pointed out are preferably fabricated of a material such as nylon and are permanently joined together as by an adhesive, or the like. The pump body 60 comprises a fluid conveying portion 196 and a fluid pumping portion 198 integrally formed in generally parallel relationship. The fluid conveying portion 196 is of generally cylindrical configuration and is provided with a generally circular bore 200 extending longitudinally therethrough. The bore 200 is closed at both ends as by means of plugs 202 permanently secured therewithin as by means of an adhesive, or the like. The pumping portion 198 comprises a lower cylindrical portion 204 provided with a generally cylindrical counterbore 206 extending generally upwardly therein to define a pumping chamber 208. The lower end portion of the bore 206 is provided with internal screw threads 210, or the like to removably receive a foot valve assembly 212 to enable the fluid 24 to be sprayed to enter the pumping chamber 208. A small diameter angularly disposed elongate outlet aperture or bore 214 extends between and provides fluid communication from the pumping chamber 208 to the conveying bore 200. The small diameter outlet bore 214 provides a constriction thereby precluding excessive backflow from the bore 200 into the chamber 208 to enable increased pumping pressure to be developed. The upper portion of the pumping chamber 208 is closed by an integrally formed crosshead 216 provided with a bore 218 having a diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the pump piston rod 146. An O-ring seal 220 is retained within the chamber 208 adjacent the crosshead 216 as by means of a washer 222 and a spring 224. The lower end of the spring 224 engages and is retained by the valve assembly 212. The valve assembly 212 comprises an exteriorally threaded generally cylindrical portion 226 adapted to engage the interior screw threads 210, a generally annular flange 228 adapted to sealingly engage the lower end of the cylindrical portion 204, and a wrench engaging portion 230. The wrench engaging portion 230 may, for example, be of generally hexagonal configuration to enable a conventional wrench, or similar tool to be utilized to remove and replace the foot valve assembly 212 to enable cleaning and mainte nance. The foot valve assembly 212 is further provided with a generally axially extending inlet bore 232 having a generally central constriction 234 to function as a seat for a check valve element, such as a ball element 236. A ball retainer such as a crossbar 238 is also provided. The foot valve assembly 212 is preferably permanently assembled and may be fabricated as by permanently molding the crossbar 238 into a nylon body, or the like.

Accordingly, it may be readily seen that upon vertical reciprocation of the pump piston rod 146, the fluid 24 to be sprayed will be drawn in through the foot valve assembly 212 and pumped outwardly through the bore 214 into the bore 200 and "hence through the hollow nipple 62 to the nozzle assembly 28. The upper portion of the pumping portion 198 is preferably of generally rectangular configuration to provide and define a pump return spring retaining assembly 240. The pump spring retaining assembly or portion 240 is provided with a generally rectangular aperture 242 extending generally transversely therethrough. The generally rectangular aperture 242 adjacent to the upper end thereof is provided with a reduced portion 244 to engage and position a pump return spring retainer 246. A pump return spring 248 is removably positionable below the retainer 246. The retainer 246 is thereby slidably retained within the reduced portion 244 of the generally rectangular aperture 242 and the retainer 246 is provided with an aperture 250 generally centrally thereof through which the pump piston rod 146 is adapted to pass. The upper end portion of the pump piston rod 146 is provided with an enlarged head portion 252 adapted to engage the spring retainer 246 adjacent the aperture 250 thereof. Accordingly, it may be readily seen that the pump return spring 248 engages the lower surface of the retainer 246 to bias the retainer 246 upwardly and the upper surface of the retainer 246 engages the enlarged head portion 252 of the pump piston rod 146 to bias the pump piston rod 146 upwardly. Upward movement of the retainer 246 is limited by the extent of the reduced portion 244 of the generally rectangular aperture 242 but the piston rod 146 is free to be withdrawn upwardly therepast. The pumping portion 198 of the pump body 60, below the generally rectangular aperture 242, that is, generally within the enlarged portions 64 and 80 defines a bearing portion 254 for guiding and retaining the pump piston rod 146. The portion of the pumping portion 198 between the bearing portion 254 and the crosshead 216, that is, the portion 256 is generally open at one side thereof so that the portion 256 is of generally U-shaped configuration to enable the fluid 24 to lubricate the pump piston rod 146 at the crosshead 216 and at the slide bearing 254. Furthermore, the lower portion of the pump piston rod 146 preferably comprises a metal rod 258 which may be fabricated of aluminum or the like to further preclude seizing thereof.

The nipple 62 adjacent the forward end portion thereof, that is, adjacent the threaded portion 13 is provided with a generally circular groove 260 defining a generally circular flange 262 to enable the diffuser 194 to be snap fitted thereon. An O-ring 264 is adapted to be engaged with the circular groove 260 to provide a seal between the nipple 62 and the nozzle 138.

With reference now to FIGS. 11 and 12 a preferred form of the diffuser 194 for producing a generally circular spray pattern is shown. The diffuser 194 is preferably fabricated of nylon, or the like and is of generally cylindrical configuration, having a generally circular rear wall 266, a generally circular front wall 268 and a side wall 270. The rear wall 266 is provided with a counterbore 272. The counterbore 272 defines a snap type retention portion 274 adjacent the rear wall 266 and a chamber portion 276 generally forwardly of the retaining portion 274. The retaining portion 274 is of slightly larger diameter than the diameter of the chamber portion 276 and the side of the retaining portion 274 defines an inwardly extending generally annular lip 278 adjacent the rear wall 266 and a generally annular groove 280 adjacent the chamber portion 276. The retaining portion 274 is adapted to engage the nipple 62 by engagement of the ridge 278 with the groove 260 of the nipple 62 and engagement of the ridge 262 of the nipple 62 with the groove 280 of the diffuser 194. Since the diffuser 194 and the nipple 62 are preferably fabricated of nylon, or the like, the resiliency of the diffuser 194 and the nipple 62 enables the diffuser 194 to be snapped on or off of the nipple 62 for cleaning and maintenance. The nipple 62 is provided with a. generally axial bore 282 providing communication between the diffuser 194 and the bore 200 of the fluid conveying portion 196 of the pump body 60. The bore 282 is provided with an outwardly flared end portion 284 for providing a non-restricted fluid communication with the chamber 276 of the diffuser 194. The diffuser 194 is provided with a generally axial hub portion 286 of generally conical configuration adapted for alignment with the outwardly flared portion 284 of the bore 282 providing more uniform or less turbulent flow from the nipple. The forward wall 268 of the diffuser 194 is provided with a plurality of apertures 288 extending from the front wall 268 generally rearwardly into communication with the chamher 276. As shown in FIGURES 11 and 12, the diffuser 194 is preferably provided with three apertures 288 disposed in generally equiangular relationship and terminating adjacent the periphery of the circular chamber 27 6. The front wall 268 of the diffuser 194 is further provided with a generally axial inwardly extending counter bore 290 and with a plurality of generally radial grooves 292 extending between the counter bore 290 and the bores 288. While the grooves 292 are generally radial, they intersect the counter bores 290 generally tangentially so that the fluid 24 will be given an angular or swirling type motion as shown by the arrows in FIG. 11. For clarity, the nozzle cap 138 is not shown in FIG. 11. The nozzle cap 138 is provided with a generally axial bore 294 having an outwardly flared portion 296, the bore 294 being adapted for alignment with the counter bore 290 of the diffuser 194. An apertured jewel 298 which may be, for example fabricated of a synthetic sapphire is positioned within the bore 294 to complete the nozzle assembly 28.

The fluid 24 to be sprayed is therefor pumped to the chamber 276 by movement of the pump piston rod 146 and the fluid 24 is given a swirling movement by the grooves 292 and the counter bore 290 prior to the fluid 24 passing outwardly through the aperture 300 of the jewel 298. The fluid 24 will therefor exit through the aperture 300 in a -finely subdivided or atomized state and in a generally circular spray pattern. The spacing between the jewel 298 and the counter bore 290 will determine the angular dispersion of the spray through the aperture 300. Accordingly, this distance may be readily modified by means of screwing the nozzle cap 138 on or off, that is towards or away from the nipple 62 along the smooth threads 137.

Referring now to FIG. 13 of the drawing, another form of diffuser, indicated generally by the reference character 194' may be provided. The diffuser 194' is substantially similar to the diffuser 194 and accordingly, a detailed description thereof is not deemed necessary. Similar reference characters are utilized for the diffuser 194 as were used for the diffuser 194, with the exception that the reference charactersused for the diffuser 194 are primed. The diffuser 194 comprises two bores 288 and two grooves 292' extending therefrom to tangential communication with the axial counter bore 290. The diffuser 194 provides a similar swirl action to the fluid passing therethrough as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 13 but the resulting spray will be generally oval rather than being generally circular as the spray pattern resulting from the. diffuser 19.4.

Tofurther preclude clogging-or other malfunctioning of the device '20 it is preferable that the fluid 24 be stained prior to spraying thereof to remove any large particles therefrom. Accordingly, and with reference now to FIG. 14 of the drawing, a strainer 302 may be provided adapted to cooperate with the jar or container 36 to enable the fluid-.24. to be strained as it is added to the container or jar 36. The strainer 302 may be fabricated in any conventional manner and preferably is fabricated of a woven metal mesh. The strainer 302 comprises a bowled portion 304 adapted to be positionable within the generally open mouth 38 of the jar or container 36 and a generally annular flange 3% extending generally radially from the periphery'thereof to engage the rim of the container or jar 36.

It is believed readily obvious from the above, that the novel spray device 20- constructed in accordance with the present invention fulfills each and every one of the objects hereinbefore set forth. The apparatus 20, and especially the fluid conveying portion thereof are adapted for ready disassembly for cleaning and/or other maintenance. The pump assembly 26 provides maximum rigidity and a fixed alignment of the pump piston rod 146 and is fabricated of nylon, or the like so as to be highly resistant to solvents and easy to clean. The nipple 62, which is also preferably fabricated of nylon, or the like, is permanently joined to the pump body 60 and is likewise highly resistant to solvents and easy to clean. Likewise, the diffuser and nozzle assembly 28 may be readily disassembled and is tough and abrasion resistant, readily adjustable for the spray pattern and comprises a minimum of separate parts. The magnet frame 140 and the armature assembly 142 are preferably fabricated of high grade silicone type steel for maximum efficiency and the magnet coil 164 is wound on a nylon bobbin 308 to preclude mechanical damage to the windings. The leaf type spring rebound lever greatly reduces noise and vibration and also restores energy from the upstrokeof the armature to assist in downward movement of the armature assembly 142 in the next down cycleperiod. The leaf type stop spring limits the upward travel of thearmature assembly 142 and the adjustment lever 176 permits quick, easy and close adjustment of the stroke of the armature assembly 142 to enable quick, easy and close adjustment of the spray volume. The housing assembly 34 is, as hereinbefore pointed out, preferably fabricated of a tough, solvent resistant material such as polypropylene and the front housing cover 44 easily snaps on and off to permit easy removal of the pump assembly 26. The container or jar 36 is highly resistant to fluids and solvents used for spraying and due to the toughness thereof, the jar or container 36 effectively resists accidental breakage thereof. The pump assembly 26, and especially the pump piston rod 146 thereof is resistant to seizing and/ or excess wear because of the open design of the pump body 60 enabling the spraying fluid 24 to lubricate the pump piston rod 146 so that no additional lubricants are necessary which might result in contamination of the fluid being sprayed. The small diameter elongated hole or aperture 214 between the pumping chamber and the fluid conveying portion of the pump assembly 26 enables highly efiicient pumping at increased pump output pressure. Proper selection of the size of the outlet bore 214 is essential and critical to efficient operation of the pump assembly 26'. If the outlet bore 214 is too small, pumping volume will be reduced. On the other hand, if the outlet bore 214 is too large, sufiicient pressure will not be developed and the unit will not spray. Preferably, proper operation has been obtained with the cross-section area of the outlet bore 214 being approximately one-fourth the cross-section area of the inlet bore 232. The nozzle assembly 26 is quickly, easily and readily variable by partial unscrewing of the nozzle to provide a variable spray that can be used for many purposes and the adjustments such as for the spray pattern and volume may be performed while the device 20 is in operation.

It is to be understood that terminology such an upper, lower, forwardly and rearwardly, as used in the preceding description and in the subjoined claims, along with other similar directional terminology, is to be construed and interpreted in its normal and accepted sense. However, such terminology is not to be construed or interpreted in a limiting sense either in the preceding description or the subjoined claims, since the same is used merely to facilitate an understanding of, and to clearly set forth and particularly define the present invention.

While the invention has been shown, illustrated, described and disclosed in terms of an embodiment or modification which it has assumed in practice. The scope of the invention should not be deemed to be limited by the precise embodiment or modification herein shown, illustrated, described or disclosed.

What is claimed is:

1. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure comprising, in turn, a unitary positive displacement fluid pump for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure; actuating means for operating said fluid pump and comprising, in turn, an electromagnet having a coil and a plurality of high permeability laminations and an armature movably positioned adjacent said electromagnet having a plurality of high permeability laminations; housing structure comprising, in turn, means adapted to position said fluid handling structure relative to said actuating means and to substantially enclose said actuating means even during such exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure; means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housingstructure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance; and a manually operated lift lever pivotally associated with said housing structure adjacent said armature to enable said armature to be manually moved to a position enabling replacement of said fluid handling structure.

2. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure comprising, in turn, a unitary positive displacement fluid pump for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure; actuating means for operating said rfluid pump and comprising, in turn, an electromagnet having a coil and a plurality of high permeability laminations and an armature movably positioned adjacent said electromagnet having a plurality of high permeability laminations; housing structure comprising, in turn, means adapted to position said fluid handling structure relative to said actuating means and to sub stantially enclose said actuating means even during such exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure; means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance and stroke adjusting cam means for restraining movement of said armature relative to said electromagnet.

3. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure comprising, in turn, a unitary positive displacement fluid pump for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure; actuating means for operating said fluid pump and comprising, in turn, an electromagnet having a coil and a plurality of high permeability laminations and an armature movably positioned adjacent said electromagnet having a plurality of high permeability laminations; housing structure comprising, in turn, means adapted to position said fluid handling structure relative to said actuating means and to substantially enclose said actuating means even during such exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure; means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance; an energy storing means for receiving energy from said armature during movement thereof away from said pump and adding energy to said armature during movement thereof towards said pump.

4. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure comprising, in turn, a unitary positive displacement fluid pump for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure; actuating means for operating said fluid pump and comprising, in turn, an electromagnet having a coil and a plurality of high permeability laminations and an armature movably positioned adjacent said electromagnet having a plurality of high permeability laminations; housing structure comprising, in turn, means adapted to position said fluid handling structure relative to said actuating means and to substantially enclose said actuating means even during such exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure; means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance; an armature rebound spring structurally associated with said housing structure adjacent said armature; and adjustable stop means structurally associated with said housing structure adjacent said armature rebound spring to limit movement of said armature enabling the fluid volume output of said apparatus to be varied.

5. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said armature rebound spring comprises a leaf type rebound spring cantilevered from said housing structure; and said adjustable stop means comprises: a leaf type stop spring cantilevered from said housing in juxtaposition relative to said rebound spring and adjustable cam means pivotally supported adjacent the free end of said stop spring.

6. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 5 wherein said cam means comprises an eccentrically mounted cam and a lever structurally associated with said cam extending outwardly of said housing structure.

7. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure, housing structure, and means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fluid handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance wherein said housing structure comprises a main body portion and a removable cover portion, said portions each comprising interengaging flanges constructed and arranged to resiliently, removably retain such cover portion and said main body portion in secure mutual structural association.

8. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 7 wherein said fluid handling apparatus comprises a unitary positive displacement fluid pump for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure and wherein said mounting means comprises means enabling said pump to be removed generally upwardly and outwardly of said housing structure.

9. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 7 wherein said main body portion is adapted to define a handle and said cover portion is adapted to substantially close the front of said main body portion opposite said handle and to substantially enclose at least a portion of said fluid handling structure.

10. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 9 wherein said fluid handling structure and said main body portion are provided with interengaging generally laterally extending ribs adapted to resiliently removably retain said fluid handling structure and said main body portion against generally longitudinal relative movement.

11. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 10 wherein said ribs comprise a generally U-shaped rib extendnig generally horizontally within said main body portion having a base adapted to engage a rear wall of said fluid handling structure and a pair of generally parallel legs extending generally forwardly of said base to engage the side walls of said fluid handling structure, said legs being provided with grooves adjacent said base and said side walls being provided with outwardly extending flanges adjacent said rear wall adapted to extend into said grooves to engage said legs.

12. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in ciaim 9 wherein said main body portion is provided with a generally vertically extending key-shaped aperture, said fluid handling structure comprising an enlarged portion adapted to be engaged within said key-shaped aperture to aid in positioning said fluid handling structure relative to said main body portion.

13. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 12 wherein said main body portion further comprises means adjacent said key-shaped aperture for precluding move ment of said enlarged portion axially of said aperture in a downward direction.

14. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 12 wherein said cover portion is provided with a lower wall adapted to engage the upper surface of said enlarged portion to preclude movement of said enlarged portion axially of said aperture in an upward direction.

15. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 14 wherein said main body portion comprises a generally U-shaped frame extending generally forwardly therefrom having a generally horizontally extending top wall and a pair of generally vertically extending side walls, said side walls being adapted to engage said cover portion to preclude movement of said cover portion laterally of said main body portion.

16. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 15 wherein said side Walls define grooves adapted to engage said lower wall to preclude movement of said cover portion vertically of said main body portion.

17. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure, housing structure, and means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement of said fliud handling structure without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance, wherein said fluid handling structure comprises a unitary assembly having fluid pump and conduit portions for conveying a fluid to a nozzle under pressure, wherein said unitary assembly comprises an elongate body provided with a generally cylindrical pumping chamber extending generally longitudinally inwardly from one end portion thereof and a piston adapted for reciprocation relative to said pumping chamber and removable therefrom toward the other end portion without the use of tools and wherein said body is fabricated of material having the characteristics of nylon.

18. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined -in claim 17 wherein said piston comprises one end portion of a pump piston rod extending substantially entirely longitudinally of said body, said body being constructed and arranged to define a pumping chamber end wall having an aperture therein for enabling said piston rod to be reciprocated relative to said chamber.

19. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 18 wherein said pump piston rod is fabricated of a material having the characteristics of nylon.

20. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 19 wherein said piston is fabricated of a material having the characteristics of aluminum.

21. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 18 wherein said body is further constructed and arranged to define a portion generally intermediate the longitudinal extent thereof having an aperture therein for guiding and supporting said piston rod.

22. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 21 wherein said body is further constructed and arranged to define an open sided channel extending between said chamber end wall and said last mentioned portion to enable fluid to cool and lubricate said piston rod.

23. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 21 wherein said body is provided with an aperture extending generally transversely thereof adjacent the other end thereof, said piston rod comprising an enlarged head portion structurally associated with the other end thereof, said fluid handling assembly further comprising an ape-rtured retainer adapted to be engaged with the end portion of said transverse aperture spaced from said intermediate body portion and a spring adapted to be engaged between said retainer and said intermediate body portion enabling said spring to bias said piston rod outwardly of said chamber and further enabling said piston rod, said retainer and said spring to be readily assembled and disassembled relative to said body without the use of tools.

24. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 17 further comprising a unitary fluid inlet and check valve assembly removably structurally associated with said body at said one end.

25. Fluid dispensing apparatsu as defined in claim 24 wherein said valve comprises an externally threaded member adapted to engage said body interiorly of said chamber, said unitary assembly further comprising annular seal means adapted to engage said chamber end wall and said piston rod and a spring adapted to be engaged by said threaded member to retain said annular seal engaged with said end wall.

26. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 24 wherein said member is fabricated of a material such as nylon.

27. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 17 wherein said conduit portion extends substantially completely longitudinally of said body and is separated therefrom by a wall portion provided with passage means therethrough for connecting said chamber with said conduit portion adjacent one end thereof.

28. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 27 wherein said passage means enables restricted fluid flow from said chamber to said bore precluding excessive back flow of fluid from said bore to said chamber, further enabling efficient pumping of fluid into said bore.

29. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 28 wherein said passage means is of small cross-section and oblique to the longitudinal axis of said body.

30. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 27 wherein said body further comprises an elongate nipple extending generally transversely outwardly adjacent an end thereof, said nipple being provided with a passage extending longitudinally therethrough and one end of said nipple passage being in fluid communication with said bore.

31. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 30 wherein said nipple is fabricated of a material such as nylon.

32. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 30 further comprising a nozzle assembly removably structurally associated with said nipple and adapted for quick and easy removal, disassembly, reassembly and replacement for cleaning, and the like, without tools.

33. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 32 :wherein said nozzle assembly comprises a diffuser carried by said nipple and a nozzle cap carried by said nipple and adjustably positioned relative to said diffuser, enabling --simple adjustment of the resultant spray pattern. 3 34. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 33 wherein said diffuser is provided with a counter-bore for receiving therewithin the end portion of said nipple, said nipple comprising a generally radially outwardly extending annular flange, and said diffuser comprising an annular flange extending generally radially inwardly of said counter-bore, enabling said annular flanges to interengage to removably secure said diffuser with said nipple.

3S. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in 33 wherein said dilfuser comprises a body provided with a generally central counter-bore and a plurality of generally parallel apertures equally radially and angularly positioned relative to said counter bore, and a plurality of grooves extending between said apertures and said counterbore, said grooves being positioned generally tangentially of said counter-bore whereby fluid passing through said apertures -will exit said counter bore with a swirling motion.

36. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 33 wherein said diffuser is fabricated of a material such as nylon.

37. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 33 wherein said nozzle cap is fabricated of a material such as nylon.

38. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 37 wherein said nozzle cap comprises a jewel such as a synthetic sapphire provided with a central aperture.

39. Self-contained fluid dispensing apparatus comprising, in combination, fluid handling structure, housing structure fabricated of a material having the characteristics of polypropylene and comprising, in turn, means for removably structurally securing a container having a widemouthed opening and fabricated of a material such as polyethylene thereto, and means for mounting said fluid handling structure with said housing structure to enable easy exposure, removal and replacement without the use of tools for cleaning and maintenance.

40. Fluid dispensing apparatus as defined in claim 39 further comprising a strainer having a concave portion adapted to be inserted into said wide mouth opening and an annular rim extending generally radially outwardly of said concave portion adapted to engage said container. adjacent said wide mouth opening, said strainer being fab- 4 ricated of a mesh material such as a metal mesh.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,881,963 10/1932 Perrin 222-333 2,410,692 11/ 1946 Strobell 239--332 2,647,796 8/1953 Ziherl 239-587 2,648,017 8/ 1953 Ziherl 239-332 X 2,858,965 11/1958 Berman 222333 1,919,027 7/ 1933 Klotzman. EVERETT W. KIRBY, Primary Examiner US. Cl. X.R.

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