阅读说明：本技术 一种液体分配装置 (Liquid dispensing device ) 是由 马修·皮特·莫布雷 于 2019-03-08 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明公开一种用于分配液体的装置100,比如水枪。所述装置100包括至少一个液体分配出口及至少一个腔室壳体102,该腔室壳体限定至少一个腔室,该腔室用于储存将通过所述液体分配出口分配的液体。为了以快捷方便的方式补充液体,所述腔室被设计成为横截面基本均匀。一开口适合供所述液体通过,以便被收纳在所述腔室中,所述开口的横截面大小与所述腔室相同或实质相同。所述装置具有一盖子104,所述盖子104可在所述开口的至少一部份被所述盖子104遮盖的一闭合位置与所述开口的至少一部份被所述盖子104揭开的一开启位置之间枢转地移动。(The present invention discloses an apparatus 100 for dispensing a liquid, such as a water gun. The device 100 comprises at least one liquid dispensing outlet and at least one chamber housing 102 defining at least one chamber for storing liquid to be dispensed through the liquid dispensing outlet. In order to replenish the liquid in a quick and convenient manner, the chamber is designed to be substantially uniform in cross-section. An opening is adapted to pass the liquid so as to be received in the chamber, the opening having a cross-sectional dimension which is the same or substantially the same as the chamber. The device has a cover 104, the cover 104 being pivotally movable between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover 104 and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover 104.)

1. A device for dispensing a liquid, the device comprising at least one chamber defined by a chamber housing extending between a first end region and a second end region, the at least one chamber being of the same or substantially the same cross-section and extending from the first end region to the second end region, the at least one chamber comprising:

an opening in the first end region of the chamber housing through which the liquid is received in the chamber; and

a cover positioned adjacent to the opening and adapted to pivotally move relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover;

the opening has a cross-sectional size that is the same or substantially the same as the at least one chamber,

the device further comprises at least one liquid dispensing outlet through which the liquid is adapted to be dispensed when the device is in use.

2. The liquid dispensing device of claim 1, wherein the liquid is or comprises water.

3. A liquid dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device is a hand-held device.

4. A liquid dispensing device according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein said device is a water gun or a toy water gun.

5. A liquid dispensing device according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the chamber housing extends longitudinally from the first end region towards the second end region, the first end region being proximal to the lid and the second end region being distal to the lid.

6. The liquid dispensing device of claim 5, wherein the at least one chamber extends longitudinally from the first end region to the second end region, or proximate to the first end region to the second end region.

7. A liquid dispensing device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the chamber extends for a distance of at least 50% of the total length of the chamber housing.

8. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

9. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the chamber and the opening are about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

10. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the chamber is about 8cm high and about 7cm wide.

11. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one liquid dispensing outlet is located in the chamber housing.

12. The liquid dispensing device of claim 11, wherein the at least one liquid dispensing outlet is located in the second end region of the chamber housing.

13. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the lid is adapted to move between a closed position in which the opening is completely covered by the lid and an open position in which the opening is completely uncovered by the lid.

14. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

15. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one chamber extends longitudinally and has a length of about 25 cm.

16. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the volume of the at least one chamber is about 700 ml.

17. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the lid is hinged to a portion of the chamber housing and is adapted to pivotally move between the open position and the closed position.

18. The liquid dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the lid comprises a locking mechanism for locking the lid to the chamber housing and unlocking the lid from the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

19. The liquid dispensing device of claim 18, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a lever or pawl with at least one tooth for engaging with complementary means on the chamber housing to lock the lid to the chamber housing and disengaging from complementary means on the chamber housing to unlock the lid from the chamber housing.

20. The liquid dispensing device of claim 19, wherein the lever or pawl is for moving to a position allowing the at least one tooth of the lever or pawl to engage the complementary means on the chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock the lid to the chamber housing when the lid is in a closed position.

21. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the chamber housing comprises a seal located at or near an edge of the first end region of the chamber housing.

22. The liquid dispensing device of claim 21, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the seal is the same or substantially the same as a cross-sectional shape of the at least one chamber.

23. The liquid dispensing device of claim 21 or 22, wherein the seal is the same size or substantially the same size as the edge of the first end region of the chamber housing.

24. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 21 to 23, wherein the seal comprises a groove for sealingly engaging with a complementary protrusion on the lid when the lid is in the closed position.

25. The liquid dispensing device of claim 24, wherein the lid comprises an inner portion, an outer portion, and a wall extending around the inner portion, the complementary protrusion being located at an edge of the wall that is distal from the inner portion of the lid.

26. The liquid dispensing device of claim 25, wherein the lid comprises a plurality of protrusions or ribs located in at least one of the outer portion and the inner portion of the lid.

27. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 1 to 26, wherein at least a portion of the device is made of plastics or similar polymeric material.

28. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 1 to 27, wherein the device comprises a handle portion located below the chamber housing, the handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with the chamber housing.

29. The liquid dispensing device of claim 28, wherein the handle portion is proximate the first end region of the chamber housing.

30. The liquid dispensing device of claim 28 or 29, wherein the handle portion comprises a grip portion extending downwardly therefrom, the grip portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

31. The liquid dispensing device of claim 30, wherein the grip portion forms an angle with the chamber housing.

32. The liquid dispensing device of claim 30 or 31, wherein the grip portion is angled towards the lid and away from the chamber housing.

33. The liquid dispensing device of claim 32, wherein the grip portion forms an angle with the chamber housing toward the lid of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

34. A liquid dispensing device according to any of claims 1 to 33, wherein the device further comprises an actuator for injecting air pressure within the chamber when actuated so as to pump the liquid from the chamber through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet in use.

35. A liquid dispensing device according to claim 34, wherein the actuator, when actuated, is for causing the device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored within the chamber, as to allow the liquid to be dispensed under pressure through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

36. A liquid dispensing device according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the actuator is a slider which slides between two positions.

37. The liquid dispensing device of claim 36, wherein the slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate to the liquid dispensing outlet to a position distal to the liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

38. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in claim 36 or 37, wherein the device comprises a slide rail located below the chamber housing, the slider being adapted to slide along the slide rail.

39. The liquid dispensing device of claim 38, wherein the slide track comprises one or more slides and the slider is adapted to slidably engage with the one or more slides to slide along the slide track.

40. The liquid dispensing device of claim 38 or 39, wherein the slide track is parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

41. The liquid dispensing device of claim 40, wherein the one or more ramps of the slide track are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

42. A liquid dispensing device as claimed in any of claims 38 to 41 (when claims 38 to 41 are appended to any of claims 28 to 33), wherein the slide track is integrally formed with the handle portion.

43. A water gun, comprising:

at least one liquid dispensing outlet;

at least one chamber housing defining at least one chamber for storing liquid to be dispensed through the liquid dispensing outlet;

the chamber extends from a first end region of the chamber housing to a second end region of the chamber housing, the cross-sections of the chambers being identical or substantially identical, the chamber comprising:

an opening in the first end region through which the liquid is received in the chamber; and

the opening has a cross-sectional dimension that is the same or substantially the same as the chamber;

wherein the monitor further comprises a cover pivotally movable relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover.

44. A water gun according to claim 43, wherein said liquid is or includes water.

45. A water gun according to claim 43 or 44, wherein said chamber housing extends longitudinally from a first end region proximate said cap to a second end region distal from said cap.

46. A water gun according to claim 45, wherein said at least one chamber extends longitudinally from said first end region to said second end region, or proximate said first end region to said second end region.

47. A water gun according to claim 45 or 46, wherein said chamber extends a distance of at least 50% of the total length of said chamber housing.

48. A water gun according to any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein said chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

49. A water gun according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein said chamber is at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

50. A water gun according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein said chamber is approximately 8cm high and approximately 7cm wide.

51. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 50, wherein said liquid dispensing outlet is located in said second end region of said chamber housing.

52. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 51, wherein said cover is adapted to move between a closed position in which said opening is fully covered by said cover and an open position in which said opening is fully uncovered by said cover.

53. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 52, wherein said at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

54. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 53, wherein said at least one chamber extends longitudinally and is approximately 25cm in length.

55. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 54, wherein said at least one chamber has a volume of approximately 700 ml.

56. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 55, wherein said cover is hinged to a portion of the chamber housing and is adapted to be pivotally moved between said open and closed positions.

57. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 56, wherein said cover includes a locking mechanism for locking said cover to said chamber housing and unlocking said cover from said chamber housing when said cover is in a closed position.

58. A water gun as claimed in claim 57, wherein said locking mechanism includes a lever or pawl with at least one tooth for engaging with and disengaging from complementary means on the chamber housing to lock and unlock the cover from the chamber housing.

59. A water gun according to claim 58, wherein said lever or said pawl is adapted to move to a position allowing said at least one tooth of said lever or said pawl to engage with said complementary means on said chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock said cover to said chamber housing when said cover is in a closed position.

60. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 59, wherein said chamber housing includes a seal at or near an edge of said first end region.

61. A water gun according to claim 60, wherein a cross-sectional shape of said seal is the same or substantially the same as a cross-sectional shape of said at least one chamber.

62. A water gun according to claim 60 or 61, wherein the size of said seal is the same or substantially the same as the size of the edge of said first end region.

63. A water gun according to any one of claims 60 to 62, wherein said seal includes a groove for sealingly engaging with a complementary protrusion on said cover when said cover is in the closed position.

64. A water gun according to claim 63, wherein said cover includes an outer portion and an inner portion, said inner portion of said cover including a wall surrounding said inner portion of said cover, said complementary projections being located at edges of said wall remote from said inner portion of said cover.

65. A water gun according to claim 64, wherein the cover includes a plurality of projections or ribs located in the outer and/or inner portions of the cover.

66. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 65, wherein at least a portion of said water gun is made of plastics or similar polymeric material.

67. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 66, wherein said water gun includes a handle portion located below said chamber housing, said handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with said chamber housing.

68. A water gun according to claim 67, wherein said handle portion is proximate said first end region of said chamber housing.

69. A water gun according to claim 67 or 68, wherein said handle portion includes a grip portion extending downwardly therefrom, said grip portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

70. A water gun according to claim 69, wherein said grip portion forms an angle with said chamber housing.

71. A water gun according to claim 69 or 70, wherein said grip portion is angled towards said cover, with respect to said chamber housing.

72. A water gun according to claim 71, wherein said grip portion is angled towards said cover from said chamber housing by an angle of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

73. A water gun according to any one of claims 43 to 72, wherein said device further includes an actuator for injecting air pressure within the chamber when actuated so as to pump the liquid from the chamber through said at least one liquid dispensing outlet in use.

74. A water gun according to claim 73, wherein said actuator, when actuated, is operative to cause said device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored in said chamber, as to allow said liquid to be dispensed under pressure through said at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

75. A water gun according to claim 73 or 74, wherein said actuator is a slider which slides between two positions.

76. A water gun according to claim 75, wherein said slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate said liquid dispensing outlet to a position remote from said liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

77. A water gun according to claim 75 or 76, wherein said water gun includes a slide rail located beneath said chamber housing, said slider being adapted to slide along said slide rail.

78. A water gun according to claim 77, wherein said slide rail includes one or more slides and said slider is adapted to slidingly engage with said one or more slides for sliding along said slide rail.

79. A water gun as claimed in claim 77 or 78, wherein said slide rail is parallel or substantially parallel to said chamber housing.

80. A water gun according to claim 79, wherein the one or more slides of the slide rail are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

81. A water gun as claimed in any one of claims 77 to 80, when claim 77 to 80 is appended to any one of claims 77 to 80, wherein said slide track is integrally formed with said handle portion.

82. A water gun, comprising:

at least one liquid dispensing outlet;

at least one chamber housing defining at least one chamber for storing liquid to be dispensed through the liquid dispensing outlet;

the chamber housing extending longitudinally from a first end region at or near the rear end of the device to a second end region at or near the front end of the device;

said chamber having a uniform cross-section formed within said chamber housing and extending longitudinally from said first end region or adjacent said first end region to said second end region, said opening of said chamber being located at said second end region;

wherein the monitor includes a cover pivotally movable relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover.

83. A water gun according to claim 82, wherein said liquid dispensing outlet is located at said first end region.

84. A water gun according to claim 82 or 83, wherein said liquid is or includes water.

85. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 84, wherein said chamber extends for a distance of at least 50% of the total length of said chamber housing.

86. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 85, wherein said chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

87. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 86, wherein said chamber is at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

88. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 86, wherein said chamber is approximately 8cm high and approximately 7cm wide.

89. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 88, wherein said liquid dispensing outlet is located in said second end region of said chamber housing.

90. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 89, wherein said cover is adapted to move between a closed position in which said opening is fully covered by said cover and an open position in which said opening is fully uncovered by said cover.

91. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 90, wherein said at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

92. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 91, wherein said at least one chamber extends longitudinally and is approximately 25cm in length.

93. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 92, wherein said at least one chamber has a volume of approximately 700 ml.

94. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 93, wherein said cover is hinged to a portion of said chamber housing and is adapted to be pivotally moved between said open and closed positions.

95. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 94, wherein said cover includes a locking mechanism for locking said cover to said chamber housing and unlocking said cover from said chamber housing when said cover is in a closed position.

96. A water gun as claimed in claim 95, wherein said locking mechanism includes a lever or pawl with at least one tooth for engaging with and disengaging from complementary means on the chamber housing to lock and unlock the cover from the chamber housing.

97. A water gun according to claim 96, wherein said lever or said pawl is adapted to move to a position allowing said at least one tooth of said lever (or said pawl) to engage with said complementary surface on said chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock said cover to said chamber housing when said cover is in a closed position.

98. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 97, wherein said chamber housing includes a seal located at or near an edge of said first end region of said chamber housing.

99. A water gun according to claim 98, wherein a cross-sectional shape of said seal is the same or substantially the same as a cross-sectional shape of said at least one chamber.

100. A water gun according to claim 98 or 99, wherein the size of said seal is the same or substantially the same as the size of the edge of said first end region.

101. A water gun according to any one of claims 98 to 100, wherein said seal includes a groove for sealingly engaging with a complementary protrusion on said cover when said cover is in the closed position.

102. A water gun according to claim 101, wherein said cover includes an inner portion and an outer portion, said inner portion of said cover including a wall surrounding said inner portion of said cover, said complementary projection being located at an edge of said wall, said edge of said wall being remote from said inner portion of said cover.

103. A water gun according to claim 102, wherein the cover includes a plurality of projections or ribs located in the outer portion and/or the inner portion of the cover.

104. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 103, wherein at least a portion of said water gun is made of plastic or a similar polymeric material.

105. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 104, wherein said water gun includes a handle portion located below said chamber housing, said handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with said chamber housing.

106. A water gun according to claim 105, wherein said handle portion is proximate said first end region of said chamber housing.

107. A water gun according to claim 105 or 106, wherein said handle portion includes a grip portion extending downwardly therefrom, said grip portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

108. A water gun according to claim 107, wherein said grip portion forms an angle with said chamber housing.

109. A water gun according to claim 107 or 108, wherein said grip portion is angled towards said cover, with respect to said chamber housing.

110. A water gun according to claim 109, wherein said grip portion is angled toward said cover at an angle of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees with respect to said chamber housing.

111. A water gun according to any one of claims 82 to 110, wherein said means includes an actuator for injecting air pressure within said chamber when actuated so as to pump said liquid from said chamber through said at least one liquid dispensing outlet when in use.

112. A water gun according to claim 111, wherein said actuator, when actuated, is for causing said device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored within said chamber, as to allow said liquid to be dispensed under pressure through said at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

113. A water gun according to claim 111 or 112, wherein said actuator is a slider that slides between two positions.

114. A water gun according to claim 113, wherein said slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate said liquid dispensing outlet to a position remote from said liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

115. A water gun according to claim 113 or 114, wherein said water gun includes a slide rail located below said chamber housing, said slider being adapted to slide along said slide rail.

116. A water gun according to claim 115, wherein the slide rail includes one or more slides and the slider is adapted to slidingly engage with the one or more slides for sliding along the slide rail.

117. A water gun according to claim 115 or 116, wherein said slide rail is parallel or substantially parallel to said chamber housing.

118. A water gun according to claim 117, wherein the one or more slides of the slide rail are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

119. A water gun as claimed in any one of claims 115 to 118 (when claims 115 to 118 are appended to any one of claims 105 to 110), wherein said slide is integrally formed with said handle portion.

120. A toy water gun, comprising:

a body having a front end from which water can flow from a liquid dispensing outlet and a rear end opposite the front end; the body includes a chamber for storing water that may be caused to flow from the toy water gun, the chamber being elongated and extending between the front end and the rear end and including an opening through which water may be replenished to the chamber.

121. A water gun according to claim 120, wherein said opening faces in a rearward direction of said body.

122. A water gun according to claim 120 or 121, wherein a cross-section of said chamber is substantially constant along its length.

123. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 122, wherein said opening has a cross-section of the same or substantially the same size as said chamber, said cross-section being considered perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of said chamber.

124. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 123, wherein a body of said toy water gun is shaped and arranged to provide less resistance to movement in water in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of said chamber than in a direction perpendicular to said longitudinal direction.

125. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 124, wherein said body is shaped and configured such that a longitudinal length of said water gun is its maximum orthogonal direction length.

126. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 125, wherein said body includes a pistol grip proximate a rear end of said body.

127. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 126, wherein said chamber is replenished by moving said water gun through a body of water in such a manner that said rearward end guides said forward end in a direction of movement.

128. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 127, wherein said body is adapted and configured to provide said opening, said chamber being replenished by moving said water gun through a body of water in such a manner that said rearward end directs said forward end in a direction of movement to encourage water flow into said chamber through said opening.

129. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 128, wherein said body is adapted and configured to provide said opening by moving said chamber through a body of water in such a manner that said rearward end directs said forward end in a direction of movement to cause an acceleration of water flow (as compared to when said water gun is not moving through said body of water but is discharging water into said chamber) through said opening into said chamber.

130. A water gun according to any one of claims 120 to 122, wherein the size of the cross-sectional area of said opening is at least (inclusive) 3cm2 to at least (inclusive) 80cm 2.

131. A method of operating a liquid dispensing device or a water gun as claimed in any preceding claim, the method comprising the steps of:

providing a device as claimed in any preceding claim or a water gun or toy water gun;

replenishing the device or the water gun or the chamber of the toy water gun with a liquid; and

dispensing the liquid from the chamber through the device or the water gun or the at least one liquid dispensing outlet of the toy water gun.

132. The method according to claim 131, wherein said step of "replenishing said device or said chamber of said water gun or said toy water gun with a liquid" comprises:

moving any lid covering the opening from a closed position to an open position;

immersing said device or said water gun or said toy water gun in a pool of liquid such that said opening or at least a portion of said opening is below the surface of said liquid;

pulling the device or the water gun or the toy water gun out of the liquid pool.

133. The method according to claim 131 or 132, wherein said step of "replenishing said device or said water gun or said chamber of said toy water gun with a liquid" further comprises:

after the device or the water gun or the toy water gun is pulled out of the liquid pool, any cover uncovering the opening is moved from an open position to a closed position.

134. A method according to any one of claims 131 to 133, wherein said liquid dispensing device or said water gun or said toy water gun is operated with only one hand.

135. Use of a liquid dispensing device or a water gun according to any one of claims 1 to 119.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a liquid dispensing device, and in particular, but not exclusively, to a liquid device (such as a water gun or a toy water gun) for dispensing a pressurised liquid (such as water) for recreational purposes.

Background

Several devices for dispensing liquids, in particular pressurized liquids, are known, such as, but not limited to, gardening equipment for watering plants, equipment for replenishing containers (such as hot air balloons) with liquid, recreational equipment (such as water guns), and the like.

Water guns are commonly popular, especially with children, and the primary purpose of such devices is to wet another person in a water gun fight.

Water guns and the like are typically activated by manual pumping action accomplished by a trigger or similar actuating mechanism. This results in water flowing directly from the water gun. Some water guns also utilize a pressure differential between a reservoir therein and ambient air for activation. By creating pressure in the reservoir, water can flow under pressure when allowed to escape from the device.

Replenishing such devices with water can be a time consuming task and can be inconvenient in many situations. For example, if the device is a water gun for water gun action, the gun needs to be replenished quickly, so that the player can continue to shoot the gun towards other persons.

Previously known devices of this type do not allow easy or rapid replenishment of water by a flowing stream of liquid, such as from a tap. Such water guns have a small hole or opening through which water can be poured. An example is shown in US5,052,587.

Chinese patent No. CN33738888A shows a water gun capable of being rapidly replenished. This publication discloses a water gun with a refill opening in the front side, which refill opening comprises a magnetic valve that can be opened or closed after pressure is applied and released. However, such magnetic valves only add complexity to the overall design, and this also means that water still needs to flow/be discharged through/through components of such valves before flowing or being discharged into the water storage tank of the water gun. That therefore also means that the water replenishment is still not rapid. Furthermore, since the refill filling opening and the dispensing outlet (jet hole) are both located on the front side of the gun, once the gun has refilled water, it may be necessary to change the direction of the gun to ensure that the dispensing outlet faces away from the user. This can be another time consuming action for the user and can also be inconvenient. In some cases, this may also increase the difficulty of using only one hand to replenish and operate the water gun, and may require the use of two hands.

Furthermore, as noted above, previously known devices may require two hands to direct liquid into the device to replenish it and dispense it from the device.

Object of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for dispensing liquids which overcomes or at least ameliorates at least some of the disadvantages described above, or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

Disclosure of Invention

In a first aspect, the invention relates to a device for dispensing a liquid, the device comprising at least one chamber defined by a chamber housing extending between a first end region and a second end region, the at least one chamber being of the same or substantially the same cross-section and extending from the first end region to the second end region, the at least one chamber comprising:

an opening in the first end region of the chamber housing through which the liquid is received in the chamber; and

a cover positioned adjacent to the opening and adapted to pivotally move relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion (preferably all) of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion (preferably all) of the opening is uncovered by the cover;

the opening has a cross-sectional size that is the same or substantially the same as the at least one chamber,

the device further comprises at least one liquid dispensing outlet through which the liquid is adapted to be dispensed when the device is in use.

In one embodiment, the liquid is (or comprises) water.

In one embodiment, the device is a handheld device.

In one embodiment, the device is a water gun (toy water gun).

In one embodiment, the chamber housing extends longitudinally from a first end region proximate the lid to a second end region distal from the lid.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber extends longitudinally from the first end region to the second end region, or proximate to the first end region to the second end region.

In one embodiment, the cross-section of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the opening has a cross-section of the same or substantially the same size as the at least one chamber, said cross-section being considered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber (or the direction in which the chamber extends).

In one embodiment, the chamber extends over a distance of at least 50% of the total length of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

In one embodiment, the chamber is at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

In one embodiment, the chamber is about 8cm high and about 7cm wide.

In one embodiment, the at least one liquid dispensing outlet is located in the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the at least one liquid dispensing outlet is located in the second end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the cover is adapted to move between a closed position in which the opening is completely covered by the cover and an open position in which the opening is completely uncovered by the cover.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber extends longitudinally and has a length of about 25 cm.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber has a volume of about 700 ml.

In one embodiment, the lid is hinged to a portion of the chamber housing and is adapted to pivotally move between the open position and the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes a locking mechanism for locking the lid to the chamber housing and unlocking the lid from the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a lever (or pawl) with at least one tooth for engaging with complementary means on the chamber housing to lock the lid to the chamber housing and disengaging from complementary surfaces on the chamber housing to unlock the lid from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the lever (or pawl) is adapted to move to a position allowing the at least one tooth of the lever (or pawl) to engage the complementary surface on the chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock the lid to the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing comprises a seal located at or near an edge of the first end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the seal is the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the seal is the same size or substantially the same size as the edge of the first end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the seal includes a groove for sealingly engaging a complementary protrusion on the lid when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes an inner portion, an outer portion, and a wall extending around the inner portion, the complementary protrusion being located at an edge of the wall that is distal from the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the lid comprises a plurality of protrusions or ribs located in the outer portion and/or the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the device (or at least a portion of the device) is made of plastic (or a similar polymeric material).

In one embodiment, the device includes a handle portion located below the chamber housing, the handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion is proximate the first end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion includes a gripping portion (preferably formed thereon) extending downwardly therefrom, the gripping portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion is angled toward the lid and away from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing toward the lid of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

In one embodiment, the device comprises an actuator for injecting air pressure within the chamber when actuated so as to pump the liquid from the chamber through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet when in use.

In one embodiment, the actuator, when actuated, is for causing the device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored within the chamber, such that the liquid is dispensed under pressure through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

In one embodiment, the actuator is a slider that slides between two positions.

In one embodiment, the slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate to the liquid dispensing outlet to a position distal to the liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a slide rail located below the chamber housing, the slider being adapted to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail includes one or more slides, and the slider is adapted to slidably engage the one or more slides to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the one or more slides of the slide track are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is integrally formed with the handle portion.

In a second aspect, the invention relates to a water gun (toy water gun) comprising:

at least one liquid dispensing outlet; and

at least one chamber housing defining at least one chamber for storing liquid to be dispensed through the liquid dispensing outlet;

the chamber extends from a first end region of the chamber housing to a second end region of the chamber housing, the cross-sections of the chambers being identical or substantially identical, the chamber comprising:

an opening in the first end region through which the liquid is received in the chamber; and

the opening has a cross-sectional dimension that is the same or substantially the same as the chamber;

wherein the monitor further comprises a cover pivotally movable relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover.

In one embodiment, the liquid is (or comprises) water.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing extends longitudinally from a first end region proximate the lid to a second end region distal from the lid.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber extends longitudinally from the first end region to the second end region, or proximate to the first end region to the second end region.

In one embodiment, the cross-section of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the opening has a cross-section of the same or substantially the same size as the at least one chamber, said cross-section being considered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber (or the direction in which the chamber extends).

In one embodiment, the chamber extends over a distance of at least 50% of the total length of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

In one embodiment, the chamber is at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

In one embodiment, the chamber is about 8cm high and about 7cm wide.

In one embodiment, the liquid dispensing outlet is located in the second end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the cover is adapted to move between a closed position in which the opening is completely covered by the cover and an open position in which the opening is completely uncovered by the cover.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber extends longitudinally from the first end region of the chamber housing to the second end region of the chamber housing, and has a length of about 25 cm.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber has a volume of about 700 ml.

In one embodiment, the lid is hinged to a portion of the chamber housing and is adapted to pivotally move between the open position and the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes a locking mechanism for locking the lid to the chamber housing and unlocking the lid from the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a lever (or pawl) with at least one tooth for engaging with complementary means on the chamber housing to lock the lid to the chamber housing and disengaging from complementary surfaces on the chamber housing to unlock the lid from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the lever (or pawl) is adapted to move to a position allowing the at least one tooth of the lever (or pawl) to engage the complementary surface on the chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock the lid to the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing comprises a seal near the lid at or near the edge of the first end region (i.e. the first end region of the chamber housing).

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the seal is the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the seal is the same size or substantially the same size as the edge of the first end region near the lid (i.e. the first end region of the chamber housing).

In one embodiment, the seal includes a groove for sealingly engaging a complementary protrusion on the lid when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes an inner portion, an outer portion, and a wall extending around the inner portion of the lid, the complementary protrusion being located at an edge of the wall that is distal from the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the lid comprises a plurality of protrusions or ribs located in the outer portion and/or the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the water gun (or at least a portion of the water gun) is made of plastic (or a similar polymeric material).

In one embodiment, the water gun includes a handle portion located below the chamber housing, the handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion is proximate the first end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion includes a gripping portion (preferably formed thereon) extending downwardly therefrom, the gripping portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion is angled toward the lid and away from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing toward the lid of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

In one embodiment, the device further comprises an actuator for injecting air pressure within the chamber when actuated so as to pump the liquid from the chamber through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet in use.

In one embodiment, the actuator, when actuated, is for causing the device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored within the chamber, such that the liquid is dispensed under pressure through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

In one embodiment, the actuator is a slider that slides between two positions.

In one embodiment, the slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate to the liquid dispensing outlet to a position distal to the liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

In one embodiment, the water gun includes a slide rail located below the chamber housing, the slider being adapted to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail includes one or more slides, and the slider is adapted to slidably engage the one or more slides to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the one or more slides of the slide track are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is integrally formed with the handle portion.

In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a water gun (toy water gun) comprising:

at least one liquid dispensing outlet; and

at least one chamber housing defining at least one chamber for storing liquid to be dispensed through the liquid dispensing outlet;

the chamber housing extending longitudinally from a rear end at or near the device to a front end at or near the device;

said chamber having a uniform cross-section formed within said chamber housing and extending longitudinally from said first end region or adjacent said first end region to said second end region, said opening of said chamber being located at said second end region;

wherein the monitor includes a cover pivotally movable relative to the chamber between a closed position in which at least a portion of the opening is covered by the cover and an open position in which at least a portion of the opening is uncovered by the cover.

In one embodiment, the liquid dispensing outlet is located in the first end region.

In one embodiment, the liquid is (or comprises) water.

In one embodiment, the cross-section of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the at least one chamber is substantially constant along its length or the direction of extension of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the opening has a cross-section of the same or substantially the same size as the at least one chamber, said cross-section being considered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber (or the direction in which the chamber extends).

In one embodiment, the chamber extends over a distance of at least 50% of the total length of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing is approximately 35cm in length.

In one embodiment, the chamber is at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide.

In one embodiment, the chamber is about 8cm high and about 7cm wide.

In one embodiment, the liquid dispensing outlet is located in the second end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the cover is adapted to move between a closed position in which the opening is completely covered by the cover and an open position in which the opening is completely uncovered by the cover.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber is octagonal or substantially octagonal in cross-section.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber extends longitudinally and has a length of about 25 cm.

In one embodiment, the at least one chamber has a volume of about 700 ml.

In one embodiment, the lid is hinged to a portion of the chamber housing and is adapted to pivotally move between the open position and the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes a locking mechanism for locking the lid to the chamber housing and unlocking the lid from the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a lever (or pawl) with at least one tooth for engaging with a complementary surface on the chamber housing to lock the lid to the chamber housing and disengaging from complementary means on the chamber housing to unlock the lid from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the lever (or pawl) is adapted to move to a position allowing the at least one tooth of the lever (or pawl) to engage the complementary surface on the chamber housing in a snap-fit arrangement to lock the lid to the chamber housing when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the chamber housing comprises a seal near the lid at or near the edge of the first end region (i.e. the first end region of the chamber housing).

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the seal is the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the at least one chamber.

In one embodiment, the seal is the same size or substantially the same size as the edge of the first end region near the lid (i.e. the first end region of the chamber housing).

In one embodiment, the seal includes a groove for sealingly engaging a complementary protrusion on the lid when the lid is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the lid includes an inner portion, an outer portion, and a wall extending around the inner portion, the complementary protrusion being located at an edge of the wall that is distal from the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the lid comprises a plurality of protrusions or ribs located in the outer portion and/or the inner portion of the lid.

In one embodiment, the water gun (or at least a portion of the water gun) is made of plastic (or a similar polymeric material).

In one embodiment, the water gun includes a handle portion located below the chamber housing, the handle portion being mounted to or integrally formed with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion is proximate the first end region of the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the handle portion includes a gripping portion (preferably formed thereon) extending downwardly therefrom, the gripping portion facilitating gripping by a hand of a user.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion is angled toward the lid and away from the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the gripping portion forms an angle with the chamber housing toward the lid of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

In one embodiment, the device comprises an actuator for injecting air pressure within the chamber when actuated so as to pump the liquid from the chamber through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet when in use.

In one embodiment, the actuator, when actuated, is for causing the device, in use, to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored within the chamber, such that the liquid is dispensed under pressure through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet.

In one embodiment, the actuator is a slider that slides between two positions.

In one embodiment, the slider is adapted to slide from a position proximate to the liquid dispensing outlet to a position distal to the liquid dispensing outlet, and vice versa.

In one embodiment, the water gun includes a slide rail located below the chamber housing, the slider being adapted to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail includes one or more slides, and the slider is adapted to slidably engage the one or more slides to slide along the slide rail.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the one or more slides of the slide track are parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing.

In one embodiment, the slide rail is integrally formed with the handle portion.

In a fourth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a toy water gun comprising a body having a front end from which water can flow from a liquid dispensing outlet and a rear end located on the body opposite the front end; the body includes a chamber for storing water that may be caused to flow from the toy water gun, the chamber being elongated and extending between the front end and the rear end and including an opening through which water may be replenished to the chamber.

In one embodiment, the opening faces in a rearward direction of the body.

In one embodiment, the cross-section of the chamber is substantially constant along its length.

In one embodiment, the opening has a cross-section of the same or substantially the same size as the chamber, the cross-section being considered perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the chamber (or the direction in which the chamber extends).

In one embodiment, the body of the toy water gun is shaped and configured to provide less resistance to motion in water in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the chamber than in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

In one embodiment, the body is shaped and configured such that a longitudinal length of the water gun is its maximum orthogonal direction length.

In one embodiment, the body includes a pistol grip near the rear end of the body.

In one embodiment, the chamber is replenished by moving the water gun through a body of water in such a way that the rear end guides the front end in a direction of movement.

In one embodiment, the body is adapted and configured to provide the opening such that the chamber is replenished by moving the water gun through a body of water in a manner that directs the forward end in a direction of movement with the rearward end to encourage water flow into the chamber through the opening.

In one embodiment, the body is adapted and configured to provide the opening such that the chamber is replenished by moving the water gun through a body of water in a manner that directs the forward end in a direction of movement with the rearward end to cause a flow of water (as compared to a situation in which the water gun is not moving through the body of water but is discharging water into the chamber) to accelerate through the opening into the chamber.

In one embodiment, the size of the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least (including) 3cm²To at least (including) 80cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 3cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 4cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 5cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 6cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 7cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 8cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 9cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 10cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 15cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 20cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 25cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 30cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 35cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 40cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 50cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 60cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 70cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 80cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 90cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 100cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 120cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 25cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 30cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 35cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 40cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 50cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 60cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 70cm²。

In one embodiment, theThe cross-sectional area of the opening is about 80cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 90cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 100cm²。

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is about 120cm²。

In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method of operating a liquid dispensing device or a water gun or a toy water gun as claimed in any preceding claim, the method comprising the steps of:

providing a device as claimed in any preceding claim or a water gun or toy water gun;

replenishing the device or the water gun or the chamber of the toy water gun with a liquid; and

dispensing the liquid from the chamber through the device or the water gun or the at least one liquid dispensing outlet of the toy water gun.

In one embodiment, the step of "replenishing the device or the water gun or the chamber of the toy water gun with a liquid" comprises:

moving any lid covering the opening from a closed position to an open position;

immersing said device or said water gun or said toy water gun in a pool of liquid such that said opening or at least a portion of said opening is below the surface of said liquid; and

pulling the device or the water gun or the toy water gun out of the liquid pool.

In one embodiment, the step of "replenishing the device or the water gun or the chamber of the toy water gun with a liquid" further comprises:

after the device or the water gun or the toy water gun is pulled out of the liquid pool, any cover uncovering the opening is moved from an open position to a closed position.

In one embodiment, the liquid dispensing device or the water gun or the toy water gun is operable with only one hand.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a liquid dispensing device or a water gun according to any one of the preceding aspects.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In this specification, references to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information are made to provide background for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, are prior art, or constitute common general knowledge in the art, in any jurisdiction.

For purposes of the description hereinafter, "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "transverse," "longitudinal," and the like, as well as derivatives thereof, shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. It is to be understood, however, that various alternative modifications may be made to the invention unless explicitly stated to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

It is well known that the terms "comprises" and "comprising" may have an exclusive or inclusive meaning in various jurisdictions. For the purposes of this description, and unless otherwise indicated, the word "comprising" shall have an inclusive meaning, i.e.: the word will be understood to mean not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non-specified components or elements. This reason will also apply when "comprising" is used in connection with the apparatus or with one or more steps in a method or process.

As used above and below, the term "and/or" means "and", "or", or both.

As used hereinabove and hereinafter, the meaning of "(s)" following an English noun includes the plural and/or singular forms of that noun.

As used above and below, and unless otherwise noted, the phrase "first end region" may also mean "first end portion" or "first end". Likewise, the phrase "second end region" may also mean "second end portion" or "second end" unless otherwise specified.

When used in the claims and/or summary, and unless otherwise indicated, the word "for" should be interpreted to mean "suitable" rather than, for example, explicitly "suitable" or "for" the stated purpose.

Unless otherwise indicated, the steps recited in any description of the method or process may be performed in any suitable order and are not necessarily limited to the order recited.

Drawings

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a side view of a liquid dispensing device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the liquid dispensing device of FIG. 1 with a lid in an open position.

Fig. 3 shows a rear plan view of the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1 with the lid in the closed position.

Fig. 4 shows a rear plan view of the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1 with the lid in an open position.

Fig. 5 shows a top perspective view of the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1 with the lid in a closed position.

Fig. 6 shows a top plan view of a seal for the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1.

Fig. 7 shows a variant of the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1, in which the slide comprises only one slide.

Fig. 8 and 9 show a variation of the liquid dispensing device of fig. 1, wherein the lid includes a plurality of ribs.

Detailed Description

The detailed description of the exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings that illustrate, by way of illustration, and in their best mode, exemplary embodiments. Although these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present teachings. Accordingly, the specific embodiments herein are provided for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting of the invention.

Reference will now be made to fig. 1-5, which show side views of a liquid dispensing device 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The liquid dispensing device 100 is preferably a toy in the form of a water gun.

The device 100 is typically in the form of a water gun having two end regions 100a and 100 b. The end regions 100a and 100b also represent the front and rear ends of the gun. In other words, the end region 100b is located at the discharge end (rear end) of the barrel of the water gun, while the end region 100a is located at the opposite end (front end).

As shown, the device 100 may include a chamber 106 (see fig. 4), the chamber 106 extending between the two end regions 100a and 100b of the device 100. Which preferably extends from one end region 100a (the rear end of the device) to the other end region 100b (the front end of the device). The chamber 106 may be defined by a chamber housing 102, namely: the chamber 106 is preferably located within the chamber housing 102.

The chamber 106 is preferably elongate and extends between the end regions 100a and 100b of the water gun/device 100.

In the illustrated example of the gun/device 100, the first and second end regions 102a, 102b of the chamber housing 102 define the chamber 106 and are shown as being located opposite one another. Although only one chamber 106 is shown for simplicity of design, and one chamber 106 is preferred from the perspective of the manufacturer and user, the device 100 may include more than one chamber, and each chamber may be located within a separate chamber housing. Alternatively, multiple chambers may be located within a single chamber housing.

The chamber 106 may include an opening 103 at the first end region 102 a. The opening 103 may be adapted to receive a liquid, such as water, or a liquid including water. In other words, the liquid (e.g., water) may be received from the chamber 106 through the opening 103.

The cover 104 is pivotally movable relative to the chamber 106 between a closed position, as shown in fig. 1, 3 and 5, in which the opening 103 is partially or completely covered by the cover 104, and an open position, as shown in fig. 2 and 4, in which the opening 103 is partially or completely uncovered by the cover 104.

As shown, the cross-sectional size and shape of the opening 104 and the cross-sectional size and shape of the chamber 106 may be the same or substantially the same (the direction of the cross-section is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction or extension of the chamber 106).

As shown, the cross-section of the chamber 106 may be octagonal or substantially octagonal. However, the cross-section of the chamber 106 may be many other shapes, such as, but not limited to, circular, square, rectangular, or any other suitable polygonal shape.

The chamber 106 may extend longitudinally and may be approximately 25cm in length. The volume of the chamber 106 may be 700ml or about 700ml, i.e.: it may hold 700ml or about 700ml of liquid.

The chamber housing 102 may extend (longitudinally) between the first end region 102a and the second end region 102 b. The first end region 102a may be proximate to the lid 104 of the chamber 106 and the second end region 102b may be distal to the lid 104. In the embodiment shown, the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102 is located at or near the rear end of the device 100 (i.e., the end 100a), while the second end region 102b of the chamber housing 102 is located at or near the front end of the device 100 (i.e., the end 100 b).

The chamber 106 may be an elongated chamber. The chamber 106 may extend longitudinally from the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102 to the second end region 102b of the chamber housing 102, or may extend longitudinally near the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102 to the second end region 102b of the chamber housing 102. However, the chamber 106 may be of many other suitable shapes, including an L-shape or a U-shape. Although chambers 106 having an elongated shape are most preferred, at least for simplicity of construction. Having an elongated chamber 106 (rather than an L-shape or U-shape) may also mean that the liquid may be stored at the same or substantially the same level within the chamber 106, and thus the liquid may be dispensed from the device 100 at a consistent flow rate or pressure.

The cross-section of the chamber 106 is preferably the same or substantially the same along the longitudinal length of the chamber. In one embodiment, the cross-section of the chamber 106 is substantially constant (i.e., constant in size) along its length or direction of extension of the chamber 106. The opening 103 has a cross-sectional dimension that is the same or substantially the same as the chamber 106, the cross-section being considered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber 106.

In one embodiment, the chamber 106 extends for a distance of at least 50% of the total length of the chamber housing 102. In one embodiment, the length of the chamber housing 102 may be approximately 35 cm. In one embodiment, the chamber 106 may be at least about 6cm high and about 5cm wide. In one embodiment, the chamber 106 may be about 8cm high and about 7cm wide.

The device 100 may include at least one liquid dispensing outlet 130 (see fig. 5), the liquid being adapted to be dispensed through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet 130. The liquid dispensing outlet 130 may be formed on a nozzle 130 a. The nozzle 130a and/or the liquid dispensing outlet 130 may be located at the second end region 102b of the chamber housing 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 104 may be hingedly connected to a portion of the chamber housing 102 and configured to pivotally move between the open position and the closed position relative to the chamber 106. Although it is most preferred to have a pivotally mounted cover (at least because it prevents the cover 104 from being lost or inadvertently left on its own), the cover 104 may be removably mounted to the chamber housing 102. Likewise, due to such a pivoting arrangement, the act of opening and closing the cover 104 and the act of grasping the device 100 may be performed by a user with one hand.

An example of a locking mechanism for the cover 104 will now be described. The locking mechanism is used to lock the lid 104 to the chamber housing 102 and unlock the lid 104 from the chamber housing 102 when the lid 104 is in the closed position.

As shown in fig. 2, the locking mechanism may include a lever 122 (or pawl) with at least one tooth 124 on the lever 122 (or pawl), the tooth 124 being operable to engage with a complementary device 126 on the chamber housing 102 to lock the cover 104 to the chamber housing 102. Likewise, the teeth 124 may be used to disengage from complementary means 126 on the chamber housing 102 to unlock the lid 104 from the chamber housing 102.

The lever 122 may be used to allow the teeth 124 of the lever 122 to engage the complementary surface 126 on the chamber housing 102 in a snap-fit arrangement to lock the lid 104 to the chamber housing 102 when the lid 104 is in a closed position. For example, the lever 122 may be made of a flexible/resilient material (e.g., a flexible molded plastic) such that when the lid 104 is pivoted to the closed position and an external force is applied to the outer surface of the lid 104 (e.g., in a direction in which a user pushes the lid 104 toward the opening 103 with their fingers or hands), the teeth 124 of the lever 122 snap-engage the complementary surface 126 on the chamber housing 102 in a snap-fit arrangement, thereby locking the lid 104 to the chamber housing 102. Alternatively, due to such a locking mechanism, the cover 104 may be locked to the chamber housing 102 solely by the momentum of the cover 104 without manually pushing the cover 104 toward the opening 103. Rapid movement of the water gun held in one hand of the user may cause the open cover to switch to the closed and closed-off states.

Applying an external force to the lever 122 may cause the teeth 124 of the lever 122 to disengage from the complementary surfaces 126 on the chamber housing 102, thereby unlocking the lid 104 from the chamber housing 102. Once unlocked, the lid 104 may be pivoted from the closed position to the open position.

Of course, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such a snap-in arrangement may be achieved by a number of means, such as using a suitable biasing means (e.g., a spring) to bias the lever 122 to a particular position.

As shown, the lid 104 can include an interior portion 104b, the interior portion 104b configured to face the chamber 106 when the lid 104 is in the closed position. The outer portion 104a may be located opposite the inner portion 104 b. As shown in fig. 8 and 9, the cover 104 may include a plurality of protrusions or ribs 160a, 1160b, 160c, and 160d in the outer portion 104 a. The inner portion 104b may have ribs 161a, 161b, 161c and 161d therein. These ribs 160a-160d and 161a-161d may enhance the structural strength of the cover 104 to prevent the cover 104 from being easily broken or deformed.

The chamber housing 102 may include a seal 111 at or near the edge of the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102. In particular, the seal 111 may be located near or near an edge 109 on the end of the chamber housing 102 near the lid 104 (i.e., the first end region 102 a). The cross-sectional shape of the seal 111 may be the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the chamber 106. In the embodiment shown, the seal 111 and the chamber 106 are octagonal in shape. At an end of the chamber housing 102 near the cover 104, the seal 111 may be the same size or substantially the same size as the rim 109.

The seal 111 may include a groove 113a (see fig. 6) for sealingly engaging a complementary protrusion 113b on the lid 104 when the lid 104 is in the closed position. The seal 111 may be made of rubber or silicone or a number of other suitable elastomeric or resilient materials.

The inner portion 104b of the cover 104 can include a wall 115 extending around the inner portion 104b of the cover 104. The complementary protrusion 113b can be located at an edge 115a of the wall 115, the edge 115a of the wall 115 being distal from the inner portion 104b of the lid 104.

The device 100 (or at least a portion of the device 100) is made of plastic (or a similar polymeric material).

The apparatus 100 may include a handle portion 114 positioned below the chamber housing 102. The handle portion 114 may be mounted to the chamber housing 102 by suitable mounting or fastening means, such as screws. Alternatively, the handle portion 114 may be integrally formed with the chamber housing 102.

As shown, the handle portion 114 may include a gripping portion 116. The gripping portion 116 may preferably be formed on the handle portion 114 and may extend downwardly from the handle portion 114. The gripping portion 116 may facilitate gripping by a user's hand.

As shown, the handle portion 114 and the grip portion 116 may resemble the handle portion and grip portion of a pistol or similar hand gun, while the chamber housing 102 may resemble the barrel of such a pistol.

The gripping portion 116 is angled (preferably toward the lid 104) away from the chamber housing 102. The gripping portion 116 may be angled toward the lid 104 from the chamber housing 102 at an angle of between about 110 degrees and about 130 degrees.

In one embodiment, the device 100 may include an actuator 112, the actuator 112 being actuatable to inject air pressure within the chamber 106 to pump the liquid from the chamber 106 through the liquid dispensing outlet 130. Many suitable types of pumping mechanisms known in the art or that may become known in the future may be incorporated into the device 100. In one embodiment, the actuator 112 is used to cause the device 100 to apply an air pressure greater than ambient air pressure to any liquid stored in the chamber 106, so that the liquid stored in the chamber 106 can be dispensed under pressure through the liquid dispensing outlet 130. Any suitable pumping mechanism, including those currently used in water guns for pumping and dispensing liquids, may be used with the apparatus 100 of the present invention. The working principle of such a pumping mechanism is obvious to a person skilled in the art and therefore does not need to be explained in this description.

As shown, the actuator 112 may be a slider 112a adapted to pump the liquid from the chamber 106 through the liquid dispensing outlet 130 when the slider 112a slides between two positions. The slider 112a may be adapted to slide from a position proximate to the liquid dispensing outlet 130 to a position distal to the liquid dispensing outlet 130 and vice versa.

The apparatus 100 may include a slide rail 133 positioned below the chamber housing 102, the slider 112a being adapted to slide along the slide rail 133. The slide rail 133 may include one or more slides (which may be slots) 133a and 133b, and complementary devices (such as complementary protrusions) (not shown) on the slider 112 may be adapted to slidably engage the one or more slides 133a and 133b to slide along the slide rail 133. The slide rails 133 (and the slide ways) 133a and 133b) may be parallel or substantially parallel to the chamber housing 102. Fig. 1 and 2 show the slide rail 133 with two slide ways 133a and 133b, while fig. 5 shows the slide rail 133 with only one slide way 133 a.

As shown, the slide rail 133 may be integrally formed with the handle portion 116.

In one embodiment, the trigger 112b may be used as an alternative to the slider 112 or in addition to the slider 112 to pump the liquid from the chamber 106 through the liquid dispensing outlet 130.

In one embodiment, the slide rails 133 are integrally formed with the handle portion 116.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be in the form of a toy water gun 100 comprising a body having a front end (designated as end region 100a) from which water may flow from a liquid dispensing outlet 130 located at the front end 100a of the toy water gun, and a rear end (designated as end region 100b) located at an opposite region of the body from the front end. The body includes a chamber 106 for storing water (or other liquids, including liquids containing water) that may be caused to flow from the toy water gun. The chamber 106 is elongated and extends between the front end 100a and the rear end 100b and includes an opening 103 through which water can be replenished to the chamber 106 through the opening 130.

The opening 103 may face in a rearward direction of the body. The cross-section of the chamber 106 may be substantially constant along its length. The opening 103 has a cross-sectional dimension that is the same or substantially the same as the chamber 106, the cross-section being considered perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the chamber 106 (or the direction in which the chamber 106 extends). The shape of the body of the toy water gun and the underwater motion resistance in the direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the chamber may be smaller than the motion resistance in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The body is shaped and configured to enable a longitudinal length of the water gun to be a maximum orthogonal length thereof. The body includes a pistol grip shaped gripping portion 116 proximate the rear end 100a of the body.

The chamber 106 may be replenished by moving the gun through a body of water in such a way that the trailing end 100a guides the leading end 100b in the direction of movement. The body may be adapted and configured to provide the opening 103 to allow the chamber 106 to be replenished by moving the gun through a body of water in such a way that the rear end 100a directs the front end 100b in a direction of movement to promote flow of water through the opening 103 into the chamber 106.

The body may be adapted and configured to provide the opening 103 such that the chamber 106 is replenished by moving the water gun through a body/pool (e.g., a swimming pool) of water in a manner that directs the front end 100b in a direction of movement at the rear end 100a to promote acceleration of water flow (as compared to a situation in which the water gun does not move through the body of water to discharge water into the chamber 103) through the opening 103 into the chamber 106.

In the preferred embodiment of the device 100 as shown, the area of the opening 103 may be 3cm²Or 80cm²Or between 3cm²Or at least 80cm²In the meantime. For example, the area of the opening 103 may be at least 3cm²At least 4cm²At least 5cm²At least 6cm²At least 7cm²At least 8cm²At least 9cm²At least 10cm²At least 15cm²At least 20cm²At least 25cm²At least 30cm²At least 35cm²At least 40cm²At least 50cm²At least 60cm²At least 70cm²Or at least 80cm²。

The method of operating the apparatus 100 may comprise at least the following steps:

providing the apparatus 100;

replenishing the device 100 with a liquid; and

dispensing the liquid from the chamber 106 through the at least one liquid dispensing outlet 130 of the device 100.

The step of "replenishing the device or the chamber of the water gun with a liquid" may comprise at least the steps of:

moving any cover 104 covering the opening 103 from a closed position to an open position;

immersing said device 100 in a pool of liquid such that said opening 103 or at least a portion of said opening 103 is below the surface of said liquid; and

the device 100 is pulled from the liquid bath.

The step of "replenishing the device or the water gun or the chamber of the toy water gun with a liquid" may further comprise:

after the device 100 is pulled from the liquid pool, any cover 104 that uncovers the opening 103 is moved from an open position to a closed position.

In the above, the liquid pool may refer to a swimming pool, a container containing liquid, a river, a sea, an ocean, a lake, or any suitable collection of liquid in which the apparatus 100 may be immersed for replenishment.

In one embodiment, the liquid dispensing device or the water gun or the toy water gun is operable with only one hand.

The substantially uniform cross-section of the chamber 106 from the first end region 102a to the second end region 102b, and the same or substantially the same cross-sectional size of the opening 103 as the cross-sectional size of the chamber 106, may allow the chamber 106 to be quickly replenished (or filled) with the liquid.

With the opening 103 at or near the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102, a user can easily immerse the device 100 in a pool of liquid (e.g., a swimming pool) or the like and replenish the chamber 106 with liquid from the pool. In other words, if the opening 103 is not located at the first end region 102a of the chamber housing 102, the user may need to first immerse the device 100 in the well and then adjust the opening 103 to the proper complementary position by turning or rotating the device 100 to allow the liquid from the well to enter the chamber 106, which may be time consuming and inconvenient. However, by locating the opening 103 at or near the first end region 102a at the rear of the device 100, a user may simply dip the device 100 in a bath and then pull the device 100 out of the bath to replenish the chamber 106 with liquid. Such a dipping and pulling action allows for faster replenishment of the chamber 106. Pulling the device 100 in the shape of a water gun with the opening 103 towards the direction of movement causes water to be forced into the chamber 106. This is much faster than letting water naturally flow into the chamber 106. The user's action of pulling the device out is also easily accomplished. A person merely holds the device or the gun 100 on a water basin and then extends and retracts his elbow, submerging the gun in a body of water and pulling the gun out of the body of water. This is a two-stage motion (push and pull, rather than push, puff and pull) that also relies on strong arm muscles, thereby allowing the chamber 106 to be rapidly replenished with liquid. The water gun may also sweep across the top of a body of water to scoop water through the large opening of the chamber. In addition, the opening is positioned at the rear end of the water gun and pulls the water gun through a water source, so that the water resistance borne by the water gun is small. The gun is able to be moved through the water in a direction that accelerates filling, and this movement through the body of water is more streamlined than if the direction of movement of the accelerated filling is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the gun.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the configuration of the device 100 described above allows a user to operate the device 100 with only one hand. For example, the cover 104 may be moved between the open and closed positions by a user with the same hand that is used to dip the device 100 into a pool of liquid and pull the device 100 out of the pool of liquid after the chamber 106 is replenished with liquid.

It will of course be understood that whilst the above has been described by way of example of this invention, all modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the various aspects of the invention as herein before described and/or as defined in the claims.

As shown, the device 100 is a water gun or toy water gun for recreational purposes. However, the device 100 may be any other suitable type of liquid dispensing device, preferably a hand-held liquid dispensing device, such as, but not limited to, garden equipment for watering plants, liquid sprayers, equipment for replenishing containers or hot air balloons with liquid, and the like.