Pump Assembly

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/567,502, filed Mar. 20, 2024, and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/714,438, filed Oct. 31, 2024, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated by reference herein.

The present invention relates to pumps, and more particularly to cordless hand-held pumps for pumping water and other fluids.

Pump assemblies are often configured to pump a fluid from one location to another. Some pump assemblies include flexible portions or attachments to reach relatively tight spaces. Transfer stick pump assemblies in particular are shaped and sized to pump fluid from relatively tight spaces at a distance.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing having a first end, a second end, and an axis extending through the first and second ends, the housing accommodating fluid flow therethrough. The pump assembly further includes a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a motor configured to drive an output shaft, and a mixed-flow impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent to the inlet, the mixed-flow impeller having an inlet diameter and an outlet diameter that is greater than the inlet diameter, the mixed-flow impeller configured to output fluid at an acute angle relative to the axis. The pump assembly further includes a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing, the handle also including a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the motor and configured to receive a battery pack.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing having a first end, a second end, and an axis extending through the first and second ends, the housing accommodating fluid flow therethrough. The pump assembly further includes a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a brushless direct-current motor having a rotor and a stator, the brushless direct-current motor operable at a first non-zero speed and at a second non-zero speed that is different than the first non-zero speed and configured to drive an output shaft, and an impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent the inlet. The pump assembly further includes a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing, the handle also including a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the brushless direct-current motor and configured to receive a battery pack.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a pump assembly including a housing including a first housing portion defining a first end, a second housing portion defining a second end, and a connector disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion to selectively couple the first housing portion and the second housing portion together; a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a motor configured to drive an output shaft, and an impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent to the inlet; and a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing.

Other features and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising”, or “having”, and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted”, “connected”, “supported”, and “coupled”, and variations thereof, are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

illustrate a pump assembly. The illustrated pump assemblyis a stick pump assembly. The pump assemblymay also be referred to as a transfer pump assembly or a stick transfer pump assembly. The pump assemblyincludes an inletfor drawing in liquid, a first outletfor expelling liquid, and a second outletfor expelling liquid. In some embodiments, the pump assemblymay only include a single outlet or may include more than two outlets. The pump assemblyalso includes a first housing, a second housing, and an intermediate housingdisposed between the first housingand the second housing. Together, the first housing, the second housing, and the intermediate housingmay be referred to as a housing assembly. The first housingis coupled to a first endof the intermediate housing. The second housingis coupled to a second endof the intermediate housingopposite the first endThe intermediate housingextends continuously between the first housingand the second housing. The pump assemblydefines a longitudinal axisalong which the housing assembly extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing assembly is in fluid communication with the inletand the outlets,. Accordingly, during operation, liquid or other fluid may flow into the inlet, through the first housing, the intermediate housing, and the second housing, and out one or both of the outlets,.

As shown in, the inletis disposed in the first housing. With specific attention to, the first housinghouses a pumphaving a motorand an impeller. In the illustrated embodiment, the motoris a brushless direct-current motor (BLDC). In other embodiments, the motormay be a different type of a motor, such as a brushed motor and/or an alternating-current motor. The impellermay be a radial flow impeller, an axial flow impeller, a mixed-flow impeller, or another type of centrifugal impeller. The motorincludes a rotorand a statorand drives an output shaft. The output shaftis coupled to and drives the impeller. Rotation of the impellerdraws fluid into the inletand discharges fluid out the outlets,. In the illustrated embodiment, the impellerand the output shaftrotate about the longitudinal axisof the pump assembly. In other embodiments, the impellerand the output shaftmay be offset from and/or angled relative to the longitudinal axis. The pumpalso defines an inner housingand an outer housingsurrounding the inner housing. The inner housingincludes a motor housingwhich houses the motor. The inner housingalso includes a volute capconfigured to provide a flow path for fluid F to flow from the inletand around the impeller. A space or gap between the motor housingand the volute capdefines a flow chamberfor fluid to flow from the inletand past the impeller. Outside of the volute cap, the flow chamberalso extends between the inner housingand the outer housingfor the fluid to flow around the inner housingand toward to the outlets,via the intermediate housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the impellerand the volute capare made of steel (e.g., stainless steel), the motor housingis made of aluminum, and the outer housingis made of plastic. In other embodiments, the impeller, the volute cap, the motor housing, and/or the outer housingmay be made of other materials.

With continued reference to, the illustrated impelleris a mixed-flow impeller. A mixed-flow impeller provides a larger clearance within the inletto allow for particulate D to pass through. Specifically, a mixed-flow impeller may be designed, for a given output pressure, to reduce the outer (or radial) diameter of the impeller by increasing the axial height of the impeller. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer diameter of the impelleris less than an outer diameter of the motor. By decreasing the outer diameter of the impeller, additional fluid and larger sizes of particulate are movable from the inletthrough the flow chamberand the rest of the pump assembly. For example, the pump assemblymay be able to transfer relatively dirty water having debris (e.g., small rocks, etc.) with outer dimensions up to 3 mm. It will be appreciated that compared to radial flow impellers, a mixed-flow impeller allows for similar pressure and flow characteristics but due to the reduced diameter allows for a greater clearance between the mixed-flow impeller and the volute cap. For example, using a mixed-flow impeller may allow for a clearance to the volute cap of approximately 6 millimeters (e.g., at least 5 millimeters or 5-8 millimeters).

Additionally, a mixed-flow impeller directs fluid flow both radially and axially towards the flow chamber, which may also reduce the damage resulting from debris D to the motor housingand volute capand increase the runtime of the pump. For example, in the illustrated first housing, axial flow impellers may output fluid along the axis of rotation (e.g., longitudinal axis) towards the motor housing, and radial flow impellers may output fluid perpendicular along the axis of rotation towards the volute cap. In contrast, a mixed-flow impeller may output fluid between 20 to 80 degrees from the axis of rotation, allowing fluid and debris to be directed towards the flow chamberwithout directly impacting the motor housingor the volute cap. Said another way, the mixed-flow impeller may output fluid at an acute or oblique angle relative to the axis. The output fluid angle of the mixed-flow impeller may also reduce the flow resistance at the inlet, thereby increasing the efficiency and runtime of the pump. A mixed-flow impeller also combines other advantages of radial and axial flow impellers, including combining the high flow rate of axial flow impellers with the head height (output pressure) and low-pressure fluctuation sensitivity of a radial flow impeller. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the pumpmay use a mixed-flow impeller to operate at a head height (i.e., a height that fluid is lifted from the inletto one of the outlets,) of at least 10 feet and a flowrate of at least 20 gallons per minute. In some embodiments, the pumpmay operate at a head height of at least 15 feet. In other embodiments, the pumpmay operate at a head height of 18 feet. In some embodiments, the pumpmay operate at a flowrate of 20-30 gallons per minute. In other embodiments, the pumpmay operate at a flowrate of 26-28 gallons per minute.

illustrate different mixed-flow impeller impellersA,B for use with the pump. That is, the impellermay be any one of the exemplary mixed-flow impeller impellersA,B or another impeller. Each impellerA,B includes an inlet sideA,B configured to receive fluid, an outlet sideA,B from which fluid is output, and a plurality of curved finsA,B. The inlet sideA,B and the outlet sideA,B of each impellerA,B respectively defines an inlet diameter ID and an outlet diameter OD of the impellerA,B. The distance between the inlet sideA,B and the outlet sideA,B of each impellerdefines an axial height H of the impellerA,B. As best exemplified in, the outlet diameter OD, the inlet diameter ID, and the axial height H of the impellerB forms a conical frustum (i.e., a cone with the top cut off) having a slope O that corresponds with the angle of the flow output by impellerB. It will be appreciated that the slope O may be adjusted to change output flow angle and corresponding flow characteristics such as pump head or flow rate. The plurality of curved finsA,B may similarly be adjusted. For example, the type of fin blade, the number of fins, the angle of each fin at the inlet and outlet, and/or the wrap angle of the fins may be adjusted based on the slope O and rotational velocity of the impeller(e.g., motor speed) to reach a desired pump head and/or efficiency.

illustrates the first mixed-flow impellerA. The illustrated mixed-flow impellerA includes five curved finsA. The mixed-flow impellerA has an outer diameter of approximately 35 millimeters (e.g., 33-37 millimeters), and a height of approximately 17 millimeters (e.g., 15-19 millimeters). The first mixed-flow impellerA may operate at a motor speed of approximately 12,000 rotations per minute (e.g., 11.000-13,000 RPM) to produce a head height of 17 feet and a flowrate of approximately 27 gallons per minute (e.g., 26-28 GPM). As previously discussed, the mixed-flow impellerA may also be able to pass debris.

The first housingalso includes a filter assembly. The filter assemblyis coupled to the first housingand at least partially surrounds the pump. The filter assemblyis configured to filter particulate (e.g., mud, dirt, and other debris) before fluid is drawn in towards the inletby the pump. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assemblyis coupled to the outer housing. In some embodiments, the filter assemblymay be coupled to the inner housinginstead of or in addition to being coupled to the outer housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assemblyis removably couplable to the first housingvia a threaded interface. In other embodiments, the first housingand the filter assemblymay be removably coupled together via different mechanisms, such as a latch, a quick-connect coupler, a bayonet-style coupling, thumb screws, magnets, screws, and the like. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housingis coupled to the intermediate housingvia a threaded interface. In other embodiments the first housingmay use a different coupling mechanism.

As shown in, the pump assemblyincludes a retention feature to inhibit unintentional decoupling (e.g., unthreading) of the filter assemblyfrom the outer housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention feature includes a fastener. The fastenermay be, for example, a threaded pin or a threaded bolt. The fasteneris supported by a bosson the outer housing. An end of the fasteneris receivable in a slotor other suitable opening in the filter assembly. When the end of the fasteneris received in the slot(as shown in), the fastenerblocks the filter assemblyfrom being rotated relative to the outer housingand uncoupled. When the end of the fasteneris removed from the slot(as shown in), the fasteneris moved out of the way such that the filter assemblycan be rotated relative to the outer housingand uncoupled.

In some embodiments, the pumpmay also include additional components, such as a fan rotatable with the output shaft, and/or speed or position sensors (e.g., a Hall effect sensor). In some embodiments, the inner housingmay be at least partially composed of or include thermally conductive compounds or elements (e.g., a heat sink) to aide in heat transfer between the motorand the flow chamber. As a result, fluid flow caused by the pumpthrough the gap between the inner housingand the outer housingmay cool the inner housingand absorb heat generated by the motor. In some embodiments, the inner housingmay be sealed to prevent fluid pulled by the pumpto the flow chamberfrom contacting the motoror other electronics disposed within the inner housing. In such embodiments, other electrical components such as wires extending from the motormay be disposed in a scaling tubeto prevent fluid from contacting the wires or other electrical component.

As shown in, the second housingincludes a handle portion. The illustrated handle portionis coupled to the second endof the intermediate housingand includes the outlets,. In other embodiments, the outlets,may be located elsewhere on the second housingor on the pump assembly. The handle portionalso includes a gripping portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle portionand the gripping portionare made of plastic. The gripping portionis configured to be gripped by a user during operation or transport of the pump assembly. The illustrated gripping portionhas a reduced cross-sectional area relative to a remainder of the second housingin order to aid handling. The gripping portionis oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis. That is, the gripping portionhas a length that is parallel to the longitudinal axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping portionis generally circular and coaxial with the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the gripping portionmay also include additional texturing (e.g., ribs, knurling, etc.) or be coated in additional material (e.g., rubber) to inhibit a user from unintentionally losing a grip on the gripping portion.

With specific reference to, the handle portionalso includes a user interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface includes a speed control switchoperable to control the drive speed of the motor. The speed-control switchis covered by a gasketto inhibit liquid ingress. In other embodiments, the user interface may include alternative or additional features, such as a display, indicators, or other switches or actuators. The illustrated speed-control switchis a rocker switch actuatable by a user between two non-zero speed settings. Accordingly, the pump assembly, and more particularly the motor, is operable in two non-zero speed settings. For example, the pump assemblymay be operable between a full speed setting, an “off” setting, and an intermediate (e.g., half speed) setting. Said another way, the pump assemblymay be operable at a first non-zero speed and a second non-zero speed that is greater than the first non-zero speed. In other embodiments, the speed-control switchmay use other operable mechanisms (e.g., a dial, a button, a pressure sensor, an interactive screen, etc.) to include additional speed settings. For example, in an embodiment using a dial, a user may operate the pump assembleusing variable speed control with three or more non-zero speed settings based on the position of the dial. It will be appreciated that similar adjustments may also be made with other operable mechanisms, such as the speed-control switch, previously discussed. In such embodiments, the speed-control switchmay move between two or more positions to operate the motorat two or more non-zero speeds. In yet other embodiments, the speed-control switchmay be used to indicate an operation mode (e.g., power saving, full power, etc.) instead of a specific speed control setting. In some embodiments, the speed-control switchmay be located elsewhere on the second housingor the pump assembly.

As shown in, in other embodiments, the user interface may include an on/off power button or switch. The switchmay be a single speed switch that operates the pump assembly, and more particularly the motor, only at a single speed setting. Similar to the speed control switch, the on/off power switchis mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB)within the second housingand covered by a gasketB to inhibit liquid ingress.

Returning to, the second housingalso includes a battery housing portion. The battery housing portiondefines a cavityand a battery pack receptacleconfigured to receive a battery pack (not shown). The battery housing portionalso includes a printed circuit board (PCB)and a plurality of wires extending between the battery pack receptacle, the PCB, and the scaling tube. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack receptacleincludes guide rails configured to allow a battery pack to be inserted in a direction parallel to or otherwise along the longitudinal axis. In other embodiments, the battery receptaclemay include other structures for receiving the battery pack. The battery pack is an interchangeable and rechargeable power tool battery pack. The battery pack may include one or more battery cells. For example, the battery pack may be an 18-volt battery pack and may include six (6) Lithium-ion battery cells. In other constructions, the battery pack may include fewer or more battery cells such that the battery pack is 12-volt battery pack, a 14.4-volt battery pack, a 40-volt battery pack, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the battery cells may have chemistries other than Lithium-ion such as, for example, Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal-Hydride, or the like. Upon receiving the battery pack into the battery pack receptacle, the battery pack powers the pump assembly. Specifically, the power from the battery pack is electrically communicated to a controller on the PCB. Power is then delivered from a motor driver disposed on the PCB, through wires disposed in the sealing tube, to the motor. In the illustrated embodiment, the power delivered to the motormay be adjusted based on the position of the speed-control switch.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outlets,are coupled to the second housingadjacent the grip portion. More particularly, the grip portionis located between the outlets,and the battery housing portion. In some embodiments, the outlets,may be integrally formed as a single piece with the second housing. During operation, fluid flows through the intermediate housingfrom the inlettowards the second housing, and is diverted to the outlets,by an elbow. In the illustrated embodiment, the first outletand the second outletare disposed perpendicularly to the longitudinal axisof the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the outlets,may be disposed at an obtuse or acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis. Accordingly, in those embodiments, the corresponding fluid pathway (e.g., elbow) may also be adjusted. Notably, as best shown in, the first outletand the second outletare angled relative to one another. The outlets,thereby generally form a V-shape. For example, the outlets,may be angled between approximately 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to each other. In other embodiments, the first outletand the second outletmay be parallel or otherwise offset. For example, the outlets,may be offset or angled relative to each other in a vertical direction rather than a horizontal direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the elbowis made of aluminum and the outlets,are made of plastic. In other embodiments the elbowand outlets,may be the same material and integrally formed as a single piece.

The outlets,may also be coupled to an accessory (e.g., a hose) that carries fluid away during from the pump operation. To aide in coupling and sealing the outlets,with a corresponding accessory, the illustrated outlets,each include a threaded outlet interfaceconfigured to receive and couple to an accessory. In other embodiments, the second housingmay include other outlet interfaces(e.g., watertight fittings, quick releases, etc.) to aid in coupling an accessory to the first outletor the second outlet. Specifically, the first outletmay be attached to a first accessory to define a first output flow path, and the second outletmay be attached to a second accessory to define a second output flow path. Additionally, the outlets,may be covered (e.g., by a cap) during storage or when only a single outlet is necessary. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump assemblyincludes one cap. The capis coupled to the first outletby a tether. In other embodiments, the capmay be coupled to the second outlet, or the pump assemblymay include two capssuch that one capis coupled to each outlet,. The first outletand the second outletare in fluid communication with one another. Accordingly, covering or uncovering the first outletor the second outletmay change the overall flow rate of the pump assemblyor the flow rate through a particular outlet,.

With continued reference to, each of the electrical components (e.g., the motor, the wires disposed in the sealing tube, the battery receptacle, the PCB, etc.) are sealed from a liquid ingress. Specifically, the pump assemblyincludes a plurality of sealing members(e.g., gaskets, grommets, etc.) configured to prevent liquid from contacting the electrical components and potentially damaging the pump assembly. In some embodiments, each electrical component may be isolated from one another. For example, the battery receptaclemay be separated from the PCBby a plurality of sealing members(e.g., gaskets) within different portions of the battery housing. The switchand corresponding wires within the sealing tubemay also be separated from the PCBby a plurality of sealing members. Additionally, the PCBmay be further isolated by a protective housing or shell. The sealing tubemay include sealing members(e.g., grommets) between different portions of the housing assembly. Specifically, the sealing tubemay include a first scaling members() between the battery housing portionand the handle portionof the second housingand a second sealing member() between the intermediate housingand the first housing. In some embodiments, the pump assemblymay also include additional sealing membersconfigured to further isolate or reinforce other electrical configurations.

With continued reference to, the second housingadditionally includes a cover or lidcoupled to the battery housing portion. The lidis movable relative to the battery housing portionbetween a first or open position and a second or closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the lidmay pivot about a pinbetween the open position and the closed position. In other embodiments, the lidmay move between the open position and the closed position in other manners (e.g., linearly slide, be completely removed, etc.). In the open position, the cavityis configured to allow the insertion and removal of the battery pack from the battery receptacle. Accordingly, in the open position, the battery pack receptacleis not sealed from the ambient environment. In the closed position, the battery housingand the lidmay cooperate to surround the battery receptacleand the inserted battery pack. Once in the closed position, the lidis configured to form a seal with the battery housingto prevent the ingress of fluid into the cavity. Specifically, the lidincludes a fastening assemblyconfigured to compress sealing membersdisposed between the lidand the battery housingto form a seal and thereby prevent liquid ingress. The lidmay also include a ventto allow the release of pressurized gas while the lidis in the closed position.

The illustrated fastening assemblyincludes a latchmovable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the latchcompresses the sealing membersbetween the lidand the battery housingand inhibits the movement of the lid. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the latchincludes a latch armconfigured to be received within a hookextending from the battery housing. Actuating the latchinto the locked position may pull the latch arminto the hook, thereby pulling the lidand battery housingtogether and compressing the sealing membersIn the unlocked position, the lidis released and movable from the closed position to the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, the latchis actuatable between the locked position and the unlocked position by moving about a pivot. In other embodiments, the fastening assemblymay alternatively compress the sealing membersusing a different fastening assembly (e.g., a slider mechanism, screws, magnets, etc.).

With reference to, the intermediate housingis a generally hollow member extending between the first endand the second endIn the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate housingis a cylindrical tube. In other embodiments, the intermediate housingmay have other configurations. The illustrated intermediate housingincludes a first tubular portion, a second tubular portion, and a connector. The first tubular portionmay also be referred to as a first housing portion, and the second tubular portionmay also be referred to as a second housing portion. The first tubular portionand the second tubular portionmay be made of aluminum, and the connectormay be made of plastic. The first tubular portionincludes the first endof the intermediate housingand is threadably coupled to the first housing(e.g., the pump). The second tubular portionincludes the second endof the intermediate housingand is threadably coupled to the second housing(e.g., the handle portion). The connectoris disposed between the first endand the second endof the intermediate housingand is configured to couple the first tubular portionand the second tubular portiontogether. Specifically, the connectoris configured to permanently or removably couple the first tubular portionand the second tubular portiontogether such that the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionare in fluid communication with each other. The connectormay also disconnect the first tubular portionfrom the second tubular portion. Specifically, the connectormay uncouple from the first tubular portionand/or the second tubular portion. During such an arrangement, the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionwill no longer be in fluid communication. Accordingly, the connectormay also disconnect the flow of fluid from the inletto the outlets,. Uncoupling the first tubular portionfrom the second tubular portionmay help during, for example, transport and storage of the pump assemblyby making the pump assemblymore compact.

As shown in, the illustrated connectoris a collar. The collar includes two collar sections,coupled together by fasteners. The collar sections,, or halves, fit around ends of the tubular portions,to align and secure the tubular portions,together. The illustrated collars sections,also include interlocks to help locate the collar on the tubular portions,. In the illustrated embodiment, each collar section,includes a first internal ribthat is received in a first recesson an outer surface of the first tubular portionand a second internal ribthat is received in a second recesson an outer surface of the second tubular portion. In other embodiments, the collar sections,may define recesses that receive ribs formed on the tubular portions,. The fastenersextend through the first collar sectionand engage the second collar sectionto secure the collar sections,together. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastenersare threaded screws, and the collar includes four fasteners. In other embodiments, the fastenersmay be other types of fasteners, and/or the collar may include fewer or more fasteners.

As shown in, the illustrated collar also includes a carrierand two seals,. The carrieris positioned between the two collar sections,and between the two tubular portions,. The carriersupports the two seals,to inhibit fluid from leaking out of or into a junction between the tubular portions,. For example, the first sealengages the outer surface of the first tubular portion, and the second sealengages the outer surface of the second tubular portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the seals,are elastomeric members, such as O-rings or X-rings. Retaining ringsengage the carrierand the tubular portions,to help locate the carrierwithin the collar and on the tubular portions,. The illustrated retaining ringssit within grooves formed on inner surfaces of the collar sections,and engage ribs formed on the outer surfaces of the tubular portions,. The retaining ringsalso abut the seals,.

illustrates an alternative connectorbetween the first and second tubular portions,. The illustrated connectoris a sleeve including a first end threadably coupled to threadson an end of the first tubular portionand a second end threadably coupled to threadson an end of the second tubular portion. Adhesive, tape, or other suitable sealing means may be positioned between the connectorand the threads,to help secure the connector and to inhibit liquid ingress or egress from between the connectorand the tubular portions,.

In addition to coupling the fluid paths between the first tubular portionand the second tubular portiontogether, the connector(or the connectorshown in) may also couple the wiring between the battery receptacleand the motor. Specifically, the connectormay include a wire fittingconfigured to couple to the scaling tube. In some embodiments, the connectormay include two wire fittings to couple to each of the sealing tubesfor electrically coupling to the motorand the battery receptaclerespectively. Accordingly, the connectormay removably couple the electrical connection between the battery receptacleand the motor. In some embodiments, the sealing tubemay include a support rib to aide in aligning the sealing tubewith the wire fitting. In other embodiments, the connectormay only disconnect the fluid pathway between the first housingand the second housing. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the connectordoes not disconnect the electrical connection between the first housingand the second housing. In yet other embodiments, the sealing tubeof the first housingand the second housingmay include stiffer and/or more flexible portions to allow the folding of the pump assemblywithout damaging the wirings or the sealing tube. In yet other embodiments, the wire fitting and connector(or the connector) may include wiring outside the surface of the intermediate housing. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the connectorcould disconnect the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionwithout electrically disconnecting the battery receptacleand the motor.

During operation, a user inserts a battery pack into the battery receptacle. The user may then move the lidto the closed position and actuate the latchof the fastening assemblyto seal the battery from liquid ingress. To activate the motor, the user presses the switch. Upon activation, the motorrotates the impeller. Rotation of the impellerdraws fluid from the inletthrough the filter assembly. The fluid then flows around the inner housing(e.g., around the motor) and through the intermediate housing. From the intermediate housing, the fluid then flows into the second housingand out of the pump assemblythrough either or both the first outletand the second outlet.

illustrates another pump assembly. The illustrated pump assemblyis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assemblyincludes an inletfor drawing fluid into the pump assembly, a first outletfor discharging fluid out of the pump assembly, and a second outletfor discharging fluid out of the pump assembly. The pump assemblyfurther includes a first housing, a second housing, and an intermediate housing. The inletis disposed on the first housing, and the outlets,are disposed on the second housing. Accordingly, during operation, fluid flows along a fluid path into the first housingvia the inlet, through the intermediate housing, into the second housing, and out the outlets,.

With continued reference to, the intermediate housingincludes a first tubular portionand a second tubular portion. The first tubular portionand the second tubular portionare pivotably coupled together by a connector. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the connectormay disconnect the fluid path when the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionare decoupled from one another. When uncoupled, the first tubular portionmay pivot or fold relative to the second tubular portion, decreasing an overall length of the pump assembly. The illustrated pump assemblyincludes a catchsupported on the second tubular portion. The catchis configured to engage the first tubular portionwhen the first tubular portionis folded to hold the first tubular portionin a folded condition. Uncoupling the first tubular portionfrom the second tubular portionand folding the first tubular portionmay help during, for example, transport and storage of the pump assemblyby making the pump assemblymore compact.

The connectoralso includes a latchconfigured to fasten the first tubular portionand the second tubular portiontogether when the tubular portions,are aligned. In other embodiments, the connectormay include other suitable mechanisms to fasten the tubular portions,together (e.g., magnets, fasteners, snaps, etc.). In some embodiments, the intermediate housingmay include additional sealing members (e.g., O-rings) at the interface of the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion. Accordingly, the sealing members may be compressed when the tubular portions,are aligned to prevent leaking of liquid from the intermediate housing.

In other embodiments, the connectormay further include a flexible membrane configured to allow fluid to flow regardless of the relative position of the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion. For example, the connectormay include a flexible bellows that expands and bends as the first tubular portionis folded relative to the second tubular portion. In such embodiments, fluid may flow along the fluid path of the pump assemblyregardless of the coupling or orientation of the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion.

In yet other embodiments, the connectormay include a detent mechanism to allow the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionto be set at an angle. In embodiments where the first tubular portionand the second tubular portionare movable relative to one another, the pump assemblymay be positionable at an angle or in areas previously unreachable without relative movement of the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion.

In some embodiments, wires may be disposed external to the intermediate housing(e.g., along the flexible membrane or detent mechanism) to electrically connect the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion. In other embodiments, the wires may be disposed within the intermediate housingand may be supported by additional support structures (e.g., wire fittings, support ribs, etc.).

illustrate another pump assembly. The pump assemblyis part of a system including the pump assemblyand a power head. The illustrated pump assemblyis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below.

As shown in, the illustrated pump assemblyincludes an inletfor drawing fluid into the pump assembly, and an outletfor discharging fluid out of the pump assembly. The pump assemblyalso includes a first housing, an intermediate housing, and a power head attachment. The inletis disposed on the first housing, and the outletis disposed in the intermediate housingadjacent to the power head attachment. The first housingincludes an impellerand a filter assemblyconfigured to draw fluid into the inlet. The intermediate housingis disposed between the first housingand the power head attachment. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate housingis tubular in shape to allow fluid to flow from the inletto the outlet. The power head attachmentis configured to receive a rotational input (e.g., through the power head) to rotate a drive shaftthat extends through the intermediate housingand rotates the impeller. The drive shaftis surrounded by an internal tubeto help protect the drive shaftfrom fluid flowing through the intermediate housing. Accordingly, during operation, power is provided to the drive shaftwhich rotates the impeller. The impellerpulls fluid along a fluid path into the first housingvia the inlet, through the intermediate housing, and out the outlet. In some embodiments, the intermediate housingmay further include a first tubular portion and a second tubular portion that may be removably couplable to each other.

As shown in, the power headincludes a battery housing portion, a handle portion, and a tool interface. The battery housing portionof the power head includes a battery receptacleconfigured to receive and couple to a battery pack (not shown). The battery housing portionalso supports a motorconfigured to rotate a drive shaftThe drive shaftextends from the motor, through the handle portion, and into the tool interface. The drive shaftof the power headis configured to engage and drive the drive shaft() of the pump assembly. The handle portionincludes a tubular extensionconfigured to surround the drive shaft. Additionally, the handle portionincludes a triggerconfigured to control the power delivered from the battery pack to the motor.

The power headis configured to removably couple to a plurality of tool attachments (e.g., a pump assembly, a rotating saw blade, a vacuum, etc.). For example, the power headmay be part of the QUIK-LOK attachment system sold by Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the tool interfaceis configured to transfer the rotational output of the motorof the power head to rotate the drive shaftof the pump assembly. During operation, the tool attachment (e.g., pump assembly) is attached to the tool interfaceand driven by the motorthrough the drive shaftIn some embodiments, the power headmay additionally include a gear assembly to either increase the speed or the torque output by the motorinto the coupled tool attachment.

illustrate other embodiments of pump assemblies attachable to a power head (e.g., the power headshown in). More specifically,illustrates a pump assemblyhaving a tubeextending from a first housing. The illustrated pump assemblyis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below. In the illustrated embodiment, an inletis disposed in the first housingand an outletis disposed at an end of the tube. The tubemay be a flexible tube or a rigid tube. A catchis configured to couple the tubeto the pump assembly. Alternatively, the catchmay be configured to couple the tubeto the power head(depending on the length of the tube).

illustrates a pump assemblythat includes a plurality of extension tubes. The illustrated pump assembliesis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below. The pump assemblyalso includes an output shaft portionconfigured to transfer the rotational output of the power headto a first housingand an output tube portionconfigured to allow fluid to flow from an outletof the first housing. In the illustrated embodiment, both the output shaft portionand the output tube portioninclude a plurality of extension tubes. The extension tubesare configured to allow the length adjustment of the output shaft portionand/or the output tube portion. Accordingly, each extension tubeis configured to be removably coupled to another extension tube. In some embodiments, extension tubesmay include additional accessories such as an elbow tubing.

illustrates another pump assembly. The illustrated pump assemblyis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assemblyincludes a first housingand an intermediate housing. During operation, the pump assemblydraws fluid into the first housingthrough an inletand expels fluid into a flexible tubingadjacent an outletdisposed in the first housing. The pump assemblyalso includes an elbow joint, or other suitable joint, such that the housingmay be rotated relative to the attached power head. In some embodiments, the flexible tubingand outletmay be disposed in the intermediate housinginstead of or addition to the first housing.

illustrates yet another pump assembly. The illustrated pump assemblyis similar to the pump assemblydescribed above and includes like parts. Reference is hereby made to the description of the pump assemblyshown infor description of features and elements of the pump assemblynot specifically included below.

The illustrated pump assemblyincludes a housinghaving an inletfor drawing fluid into the pump assemblyand an outletfor discharging fluid out of the pump assembly. A pump including a motor and an impeller is located within the housing. The outletincludes a coupler, such as a threaded fitting, for connecting the pump assemblyto an accessory, such as a hose.