Reel and reel housing
US7419038B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 21, 2005 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H2701/34
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A reel includes a reel drum enclosed within a housing comprising a first housing portion, a second housing portion, and a middle housing portion positioned therebetween. A spindle member has a first end connected to the first housing portion and a second end connected to the second housing portion. The spindle member extends through an opening in the drum so that the drum is rotatable about a spindle axis defined by the spindle member. The middle housing portion encircles the drum and has an aperture through which linear material can extend, the linear material of a type that may be spooled on the drum. The middle housing portion is rotatable about the spindle axis independently of the drum. In preferred embodiments, the reel is a cord reel and the linear material is electrical cord. In preferred embodiments, the middle housing portion is rotatable at least 360° about the spindle axis. In preferred embodiments, the drum is powered by an electric motor. In preferred embodiments, the housing is substantially spherical and the reel further comprises one or more support structures that include handles and are configured to prevent the housing from contacting a flat surface such as a fl…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.