Lightweight, high flow hose assembly and method of manufacture

US9810357B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Teknor Apex Company · US

Inventors

• Gil Blanchette · East Greenwich, US
• Michael Melo · Central Falls, US
• Steve Correa · Brownsville, US
• Timothy L. Chapman · Stanton, US
• Marlon Van Beek · Simpsonville, US
• John W. Parker, Jr. · Memphis, US
• Paul C. Burke · Saint Johnsbury Center, US
• Ron Eilertson · Mansfield, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 4, 2015
• Grant date: Nov 7, 2017
• Expiry date: Jan 27, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16L11/12
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A hose assembly, preferably a garden hose assembly, including a fabric jacketed tube that is lightweight, durable and versatile. The tube is radially expandable when pressurized by a fluid, such as water, but does not increase in length. The two layer construction of the hose assembly allows for storage in relatively compact spaces, similar flow rates, approximately one-half the weight, and improved maneuverability when compared to conventional hose constructions. In one embodiment the jacket is formed around the tube in a continuous process that welds a fabric, preferably using hot air, into the jacket. The welded joint forms a region of jacket that is preferably about twice the thickness of the rest of the jacket. This thicker region results in a stiffer section of jacket that makes the hose more controllable and consistent in use.