GB2453809A

GB2453809A - Curved nozzle arrangement with automatic shut off means

Info

Publication number: GB2453809A
Application number: GB0803171A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lee Thompson; David Holdsworth; Adrian Holdsworth
Original assignee: SAFETY FILL Ltd; SUPERSPOUT Ltd
Current assignee: SAFETY FILL Ltd; SUPERSPOUT Ltd
Priority date: 2007-10-19
Filing date: 2008-02-21
Publication date: 2009-04-22
Anticipated expiration: 2028-02-21
Also published as: GB0803171D0; WO2009050502A1; GB0720428D0; GB2453809B

Abstract

A nozzle or spout 10 for attachment to the delivery orifice (2, Fig 7) of enclosed fluid canisters (1) such as a jerry can or the like, comprises a tube 12 which is curved back on itself, preferably bent in a loop 32, and an associated breather pipe 24. Arrangements whereby the tube 12 is bent around through at least 160, 270 or 360 degrees are disclosed. The arrangement allows the breather pipe 24 when choked by being submerged under the liquid in a receiving vessel to cause the flow of fluid through the device 10 to be shut off by drawing a full or partial vacuum in the supplying fluid canister (1).

Description

A FLUID DELIVERY NOZZLE

The present invention relates to a fluid delivery nozzle, and in particular a fluid delivery nozzle for attachment to a fluid container, for example a!jerry! can.

Nozzles are used to direct fluid from various fluid sources. In particular, nozzle assemblies comprising an elongate tubular body defininq a duct are often attached to fluid containers, for example, fuel cans, and other similar containers, to direct fluid from an outlet of the container more easily and into a receptacle to receive the fluid from the container. Such nozzles make it much easier to pour the fluid from the container without spilling the fluid. The nozzle assemblies are generally detachable from the fluid container and are only attached to an outlet of the fluid container when required. Typically they engage the outlet in a similar manner to a cap, also fitted to close the outlet of the fluid container.

To improve the discharge of fluid from the fluid container the nozzle assembly may include a breather pipe in addition to the main duct for the fluid flow. The breather pipe allows air to flow in a reverse direction into the fluid container as fluid flows from the container. The air admitted into the container via the breather pipe replaces the volume of fluid discharged from the container and prevents the build up of a partial vacuum within the fluid container as the fluid flows out of the container. Such breather arrangements allow a smoother and more steady flow from fluid from the container and nozzle. Without such breather arrangement a partial vacuum can be created within the fluid container as fluid discharges which may intermittently stop the flow of fluid from the container as air has to then flow back into the container through the main duct and nozzle opening into the container. Such a resulting intermittent flow is undesirable and can be difficult to control.

It is also known for the nozzle assembly to incorporate various shut-off arrangements to control the flow of fluid through the nozzle. In particular, it is known to provide automatic shut-off arrangements which shut-off the nozzle and flow of fluid from the nozzle arid from the fluid container when the receptacle which is being filled from the fluid container becomes full. In one simple automatic shut-off arrangement the breather pipe extends to the outlet end of the nozzle and is arranged to be placed within the receptacle being filled. The nozzle is attached to the fluid container with a generally airtight seal. In use when the fluid container is tipped air is adnitted via the breather pipe into the container allowing fluid to then flow from the fluid container through the nozzle and into the receptacle.

However, once the receptacle becomes full the end of the nozzle becomes submerged underneath the fluid in the receptacle. This then also closes off the end of the breather pipe preventing air from flowing into the container. As a result fluid is prevented from flowing from the fluid container and is held within the fluid container by a partial vacuum created in the airtight fluid container, such that no further fluid flows from the fluid container.

The container can then be tipped back upright and the nozzle withdrawn from the receptacle.

However when the nozzle is withdrawn from the receptacle, the fluid immediately recommences flow, allowing the possibility of spillage or overflow, unless the container is then very quickly tipped back upright. When used with larger fluid containers and larger nozzle diameters or where there is a larger amount of fluid, the resulting weight and fluid pressure on these nozzles prevents such an arrangement from adequately shutting off the flow of fluid when the receptacle is full. It has also been found that the weight and pressure of fluid in the container forces fluid to continue to flow from the nozzle, overcoming the partial vacuum, and/or flowing intermittently as occurs with nozzles which do riot have breather pipes.

Again this can result in the receptacle overflowing and spillage of the liquid which is particularly undesirable when petrol or other flammable or hazardous fluids are being used.

Another more complex nozzle arrangements which includes an automatic shut-off is described, for example, in US 2007/021542. This arrangement however, has a number of moving parts, is relatively complex to manufacture and assemble and is relatively Costly. Such a complex arrangement is also relatively delicate and maybe clogged by any contaminants in the fluid and/or otherwise damaged in use, in particular when used in an outdoor environment where such fluid containers are generally found. This arrangement also provides a significant flow restriction to the flow of fluid via the nozzle, undesirably slowing the discharge of fluid from the container.

Other examples of prior fluid, in particular fuel, delivery nozzles are described in US 5,467,896; CA 2546129; and GB 2339759. GB 1402645 also describes an device fro inserting into the neck of a Jerry can to improve venting via a breather pipe in the nozzle.

It is therefore desirable to provide an improved fluid delivery nozzle which addresses the above described problems and/or which more generally offers improvements or an alternative to existing arrangements. In particular, it is desirable to provide an improved fluid delivery nozzle which is able to generally automatically shut-off a flow of fluid when a receptacle into which the fluid nozzle is discharging the fluid becomes full, yet which is also simple and cheap to manufacture, and in addition, is relatively robust. It is also desirable that the fluid delivery nozzle provides an adequate flow of fluid, and does not significantly restrict the flow rate of fluid from the fluid container.

Furthermore, it is also desirable that the fluid delivery nozzle is simple to use arid allows a reasonable time for its withdrawal from the container being filled and recovery to the non-flow position before flow recommences.

According to the present invention there is therefore provided a fluid delivery nozzle as described in the accompanying claims.

In an embodiment of the invention there is provided a fluid delivery nozzle for attachment to a fluid source. The fluid source may comprise any fluid container, and in particular any closed fluid container, and more preferably and specifically comprises a closed fuel can. The nozzle comprises a tubular body defining a fluid duct for directing a flow of fluid from the fluid source and one end of the tubular body to a nozzle outlet at an opposite end of the tubular body. A section of the tubular body and duct defined by the section of the tubular body is bent back on itself, preferably in a U bend around through at least 160°, and more preferably further bent either in complete a loop or through a second bend and into an S shape each making a total of at least 270°, and preferably through at least 360°, such that in use a flow of fluid through the tubular body and duct is turned back on itself as it flows through the fluid delivery nozzle.

The fluid delivery nozzle preferably further comprises a breather pipe having a first end located adjacent to the outlet of the tubular body and a second for locating, in use, within the fluid source. The breather pipe defines a separate duct for, in use a flow of air in a reverse direction through the fluid delivery nozzle.

Such an arrangement, in a simple and effective manner, provides improved flow control, through the nozzle, and in particular an improved shut-off of the flow through the nozzle when the breather pipe becomes choked once submerged under a fluid level in a receptacle into which the delivery nozzle is discharging fluid.

The section of the tubular body bent round in a loop preferably defines a handle.

The tubular body defining a fluid duct preferably, in use directs fluid to flow a reverse direction to the flow of fluid through a first section of the tubular body. Moreover the section of the tubular body bent around through at least 2700 preferably overlies a first section of the tubular body.

The section of the tubular body bent through 270° is preferably bent substantially upwards such that in a flow direction the bent section of the tubular body is disposed vertically above the first section of the tubular body.

The tubular body may comprise a first section, a second U-bend section, and a third section, and may also comprise an intermediate section disposed between the second and third sections. The intermediate section preferably overlies the first section and extends parallel to the first section.

The fluid delivery nozzle may also have section of the tubular body which has a reduced cross sectional flow area.

Moreover the cross sectional flow area at the outlet of the fluid nozzle may be essentially the same as the cross sectional flow area at the cross sectional flow area of the end of the fluid delivery nozz'e attached to the fluid source.

The fluid delivery nozzle may further comprise an attachment flange for attaching the fluid delivery nozzle to the fluid source.

The fluid delivery nozzle may be moulded from plastic, or may be fabricated from metal, or any other suitable material.

In another aspect of the invention, in an embodiment of he invention there is provided a nozzle or spout for attachment to the delivery orifice of enclosed fluid canisters. The device comprises a tube which is curved through at least 160 degrees, and preferably 270 degrees and yet more preferably 360 degrees to provide an enhanced flow restriction / control) and an associated breather pipe, the arrangement of which allows the breather pipe when choked by being submerged under the liquid in a receiving vessel then to cause the flow of fluid through the device to be shut off by drawing a full or partial vacuum in the supplying fluid canister. Furthermore the vacuum, or at least partial vacuum, is retained in the supplying canister by the means of retaining a balancing leg full of fluid in the primary bend of the device preventing further fluid flow until such time as the delivery canister is returned to a non-pouring position.

rrhis arrangement is relatively simple and furthermore includes no moving parts except those required to attach the device to the orifice of the supplying vessel. The 360 degree arrangement of this invention, either in the form of a continuous loop or two contiguous half loops provides an improved flow control, which in particular is required for fluid containers larger than 5 litres, may provide a useful handle and when aligned in the vertical plane above the axis of the spout or nozzle returns undelivered fluid to the supply container thereby preventing spillage post use.

The present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following figures in which: Figure 1 is a perspective illustration of a fluid delivery nozzle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a side view of the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 1; Figure 3 is an end view, on arrow A, of the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 2; Figure 4 is a vertical cross sectional perspective view through the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 3 on section X-X; Figure 5 is a horizontal cross sectional perspective view through the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 2 on section Y-Y; Figure 6 is an end cross sectional perspective view through the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 2 on section Z-Z; and Figure 7 is a perspective view of the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 1, and attachment clamp attaching the nozzle to a jerry can; Figure 8 is a perspective illustration of a fluid delivery nozzle in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention and attached to a jerry can; Figure 9 is an illustration of a fluid delivery nozzle in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention and attached to a jerry can; Figure 10 is an illustration of a fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 9 but with both cheek plates and both end plates removed; Figure ha is an end cross sectional schematic view of the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 9 on section Z-Z; Figure llb is a vertical cross sectona] schematic view of the fluid delivery nozzle shown in figure 9, on section X-X; Figure 12 is a cutaway illustration of the fluid delivery nozzle similar to that shown in figures 9 to llb, with one of the side cheek plates removed to shown the inside of the nozzle, and having an alternate routing of the breather pipe; Figure 13 is a perspective illustration of a fluid delivery nozzle in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the invention; and Figure 14 is a perspective schematic illustration of a neck insert and breather pipe extension tail that may be used in conjunction with the fluid delivery nozzle.

In the following description of the invention, certain terminology will be used for the purpose of reference only, and are not intended to be limiting. Terms such as "upper", "lower", "above", "below", "rightward", "leftward", "clockwise", and "counterclockwise" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "inward" and "outward" refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric centre of the component described. Terms such as "front", "rear", "side", "leftside", "rightside", "top", "bottom", "horizontal", and "vertical" describe the orientation of sections of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology will include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

Referring to the drawings, a fluid delivery nozzle 10 of a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. The nozzle 10 comprises a tubular elongate body 12 having a first end 14 for attachment to a fluid source, and an outlet 16 at the other end of the tubular body 12. The tubular body 12 defines a flow passage or duct for a flow of fluid from the fluid source and first end 14 to the outlet 16. While the fluid nozzle 10, may be used with a wide variety of fluid sources, the fluid nozzle 10 is preferably connected, and more preferably removably or detachably connected to a portable fluid canister, and in particular to a fuel can 1, as for example shown in figure 7. It will however be appreciated that the fluid nozzle 10, could be permanently attached to the portable fluid container 1 in other embodiments.

As shown, in the preferred embodiment, the end 14 of the fluid nozzle 10 comprises a mating attachment flange 18, which is configured to sealing.iy mate with an outlet 2, and neck, of a fuel can 1. The attachment flange 18, in particular, preferably includes a suitable airtight seal (not shown) to provide an air tight and fluid tight attachment of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 to the outlet 2.

The attachment flange 18, and attachment arrangement to attach the fluid delivery nozzle 10 to the fuel can 1, is generally conventional and is specific to the particular fluid container or can 1 to which the fluid nozzle 10 is adapted to be used. A clamping arrangement 20, comprising a pair of arms either side of the attachment flange 18 and for engagement in slots on either side of the can outlet 2, are pivotally connected to the end 14, of the fluid nozzle 10, to clamp the engagement flange 18, onto the outlet 2 of the fuel can 1, as again shown in figure 7. The clamp arrangement 20, has been omitted from figures 1 to 3, and only the mounting hole 22, is shown. It will however be appreciated that various attachment arrangements and flanges 18, could be used to attach the fluid nozzle to other fluid containers. For example, a threaded screw flange arrangement could be used to screw the fluid nozzle 10, onto a correspondingly threaded fuel canister outlet.

The fluid delivery nozzle 10 also further comprises a breather pipe 24, extending along the length of the fluid delivery nozzle 10, and having a first end 26, located in the outlet 16, of the fluid delivery nozzle and a second end 28. In this particular embodiment This extended section 30, of the breather pipe 24 is in this embodiment rigid and bent in order to place the end 28 of the breather pipe 24 at a suitable, generally uppermost position within the fuel can 1 when the fuel can 1 is tilted, as shown in figure 7, to discharge fluid from the can 1, and where the airspace in the can 1 generally develops as fluid is poured from the can 1. This advantageously directs air via the breather pipe 24 to the area in the fuel can 1 where the air space develops.

This further improves the flow of fluid from the fuel can 1 by better preventing build up of a partial vacuum within the fuel can 1. In another embodiment, the breather pipe 24 may comprise a flexible tail extension 30 which is suitably threaded into the can 1. Alternatively the breather pipe 24 may not include any tail section 30 and may simply terminate near the end 14 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10. An insert 50 with an attached extended breather tail 53 may additionally be placed in a mouth of the fluid container 1 outlet 2 to assist in the breathing process. This is shown and described more fully in relation to figure 14 below.

In accordance with the invention a section 32 or sections of the main tubular body 12 extending between the first end 14 and outlet 16 is bent and curved back on itself, preferably in this embodiment in a loop section 32. In particular the main tubular body 12 is bent around through at least 160°, and more preferably in this embodiment through at least 270°, and as shown in this embodiment, is bent in a complete loop 32 through 360° as shown. The loop section 32 and bending of the tubular body 12 and duct improves the automatic shut-off characteristics of the fluid nozzle 10.

More specifically, in use, as is in some conventional fluid nozzles 10, when the fuel can 1 is tipped, air can flow into the end 26 of the breather pipe 24 and through the breather pipe 24 into the can 1. This allows fluid to then flow from the enclosed sealed can 1 through the tubular main body 12 and out of the outlet 16 into a receptacle (not shown) . When the receptacle then becomes full, and the outlet 16 is submerged below the level of the fluid in the receptacle, the end 26 of the breather pipe 24 is also submerged. This prevents air from flowing into the breather pipe 24, and a partial vacuum is then created within the sealed fuel can 1. This prevents the flow of fluid from the fuel can 1. In addition in the arrangement of the invention the loop section 32 of the tubular body 12 provides a limited restriction of fluid flow from the fuel can 1 through the delivery nozzle 10 thereby assisting with terminating flow of fluid through the fluid nozzle 10 when a vacuum is formed in the fuel can 1. In particular the loop section 32 directs the flow of fluid through the f]uid nozzle 10 back upon itself providing a further air lock in the main duct defined by the tubular body 12 further preventing any air from being admitted through the main tubular body 12 as well as through the breather pipe 12. This considerably improves the automatic shut-off of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 as compared to conventional fluid delivery nozzles 10 in which the main tubular body is generally straight and is not bent back upon itself. Indeed in testing this arrangement in which a section 32 of the main tubular body 12 is looped back can automatically shut-off the flow of fluid through the fluid delivery nozzle 10 when used with large 25 litre fuel cans 1 whereas conventional arrangements can only adequately and reliably be used with much smaller 5 litre fuel cans, and then with the risk of spillage in particular when removed from the receptacle.

It should be rioted that this loop section 32 provides a suitable restriction for flow thrnugh the fluid nozzle 10 when the breather pipe 24 becomes choked. However in the steady state condition when fluid is usually flowing through the tubular body 12, the loop section does not significantly reduce the steady state flow through the nozzle 10, which is generally simply determined by the cross sectional area of the duct and tubular flow passage.

In the particular embodiment shown, the main tubular body 12 comprises a first portion or section 34 extending from the first end 14 and attachment flange 18. The first section 34 extends into and is then connected to a second U-bend section 36 which defines a flow passage which is bent round through 180° to direct a flow through the flow passage in the opposite return direction. A third generally straight return section 38 of the tubular main body 12 extends from the end of the second section 36 generally parallel to the first section 34 of the tubular body 12, and in this case is above the first section 34 to a fourth U-bend section 38 similar to the second U-bend section 40 to in use redirect a flow through the duct back in the first direction and into a fifth section 42 of the tubular body 12 which extends generally parallel and along side the first section 34 of the tubular body 12 and into an outlet section 44 terminating in the outlet 16. The first, second, third, fourth and fifth sections 34,36,38,40,42 of the tubular body 12 thereby defining the ioop section 32 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

The outlet section 44 of the delivery nozzle 10 is preferably at an angle to the first and fifth sections 34,42 to better direct the flow from the delivery nozzle 10. However of course the outlet section 14 could be straight or indeed comprise a flexible section.

In this particular embodiment the loop section 32 arches and is curved back above the remainder of the fluid nozzle assembly 10, with the third section 38 of the tubular body 12 disposed, when in use, as shown in Figure 7 generally above the first section 34. This is the preferred arrangement and better returns any fluid contained within the nozzle assembly and duct to the container or can 1 when the can 1 and nozzle 10 are tilted back to an upright position once pouring through the nozzle 10 has terminated. It will however be appreciated that in other embodiments the loop section 32 can be disposed laterally to either side and/or below the remainder of the nozzle assembly 10.

As can be seen most clearly from Figures 4 to 6 the cross-sectional flow area through the fluid delivery nozzle is, in this embodiment reduced through a section of the fluid nozzle 10 before then increasing to the initial cross sectional area at the outlet 16. This provides a localised restriction and throttle in the overall flow passage through the fluid delivery nozzle 10. This further enhances the automatic shut-off of the flow through the fluid delivery nozzle 10 when in use the breather pipe 24 becomes choked. It should however be noted that since the cross sectional area is only reduced over a localised section of the fluid delivery nozzle 10, and returns to substantially the initial flow passage area at the outlet 16, this restriction does not overly reduce the steady state flow of fluid through the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

The tubular main body 12, in this particular arrangement and as described is generally circular. The fluid delivery nozzle 10 has a generally circular initial flow cross section which is then reduced, approximately by half to have a semi-circular flow cross section through the first section 34 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10. The cross sectional flow area then increases through the second section 36 back to a generally circular cross sectional area over the third section 38. Through the fourth section 40 the cross sectional area then changes and reduces back to a half circular section which continues through the fifth section 12 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10, finally then returning to a generally circular full cross sectional flow area in the outlet section 44 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

The first and fifth sections 34,42 are arranged in the preferred arrangement shown side by side next to each other and each having a generally semi circular flow cross section and abut against each other to form a complete circular profile, with a dividing wall 48 divides the first section 31 from the overlying section 32. The third section 38 has a corresponding circular cross sect.ion disposed above the first and fifth sections 34,42. This arrangement provides a generally smooth outer profile for the fluid delivery nozzle 10 which has an attractive appearance as well as reducing the chance that of the nozzle 10 being snagged or otherwise knocked.

In other embodiments however the cross sectional area may be maintained substantially constant throughout the fluid delivery nozzle 10 with, for example both the first and fifth sections 34,42 both having a circular cross section which is disposed side by side. It would also he appreciated that the flow cross section of the various sections may be rectangular or square, or indeed have any other suitable shape.

In order to further improve the arrangement the length of the loop section 32 may also be increased by either extending the first and third sections 34,38 and/or spacing the third section 38 further away from the first section 34 and increasing the lengths of the second and fourth sections 36,40. It is however generally desirable to reduce the size of the loop section 32 to reduce the overall length, and flow passage length, of the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

As well as improving the shut-off performance of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 the loop section 32 also, in particular if the third section 38 is suitably spaced from the first section 34 such that there is a clearance therebetween, provides a convenient handle with which the user can hold the fluid nozzle 10 and thereby steady the can 1 in use.

The fluid deUvery nozzle 10 may also include a protective shield flange 46 disposed towards the outlet 16 end of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 and projecting from the outer periphery of the tubular main body 12. This shield 46 preferably extends beyond the loop section 32 to thereby protect the loop section 32. This flange 16 is however optional and indeed has been omitted, in the interest of clarity from figures 4 to 6.

As shown the breather pipe 24, this embodiment extends through the tubular body 12. adjacent to the bottom of the tubular main body 12 and is located within the tubular main body 12. It will however be appreciated that the breather pipe 24 could be provided external to the main tubular body 12 or otherwise disposed within the tubular main body 12.

The fluid nozzle 10 is preferably moulded from a suitable plastic material but could be made from metal, in particular bent steel tubing, or indeed from any other

suitable materials.

The fluid nozzle 10 of this invention provides an improved shut-off of the flow of fluid through the delivery nozzle 10 when the breather pipe 24 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 becomes choked by being submerged under liquid in a receiving vessel or receptacle. In addition this arrangement is relatively simple, and in the preferred arrangement includes essentially no moving parts, except those required to attach the device to the fluid container or can 1. The preferred loop section 32 of this arrangement furthermore provides a useful handle to steady the arrangement and assist in handling during pouring from the container or can 1. When the loop section 32 is aligned above the axis of the nozzle 10 and outlet 16 the nozzle 10 better returns any undelivered fluid form within the nozzle back to the container when the nozzle and can 1 are tilted back after pouring.

It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the particular arrangement shown in this first embodiment.

In particular while in this embodiment the loop section 32, and the main body is bent through 3600 such that the outlet section 44 is initially extending in the same direction as the first section in other embodiments the loop section 32 may only extend and be bent around through at least 2700 such that then the outlet section 42 is at an angle to the first section 34. Indeed the fifth section 42 of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 of the preferred embodiment may be omitted and/or combined with the outlet section 44 such that the outlet 16 is disposed at the end of the fourth section 40 rather than at a distal end of the fluid delivery nozzle 10. In such an arrangement the ioop section 32 would be located at the distal end of the fluid delivery nozzle 10 which in itself may be advantageous in providing a steading handle for the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

It will also be appreciated that the loop section 32 could be curved less or more than 360°, however, it is generally desirable to keep the tubular body 12 and overall length of the fluid nozzle 10 as short as possible to reduce flow losses and minimise the overall size of the fluid delivery nozzle 10.

A second embodiment of the invention is shown in figure 8. The fluid delivery nozzle 100 in this embodiment functions, and is generally similar to the fluid delivery nozzle 10 of the first embodiment. Like reference numerals, incremented by 100 are therefore used for like or corresponding elements of this and the previous embodiments where appropriate. In this embodiment the loop section 32 is replaced with an S shaped section 132 comprising two consecutive U bend sections 136, 138 in flow series, but this time arranged in an S shaped configuration. The U bend sections 138,136 similarly direct the flow back on itself, as in the first embodiment. and function similarly, thereby achieving the same purpose. Specifically the U-bends maintain a vacuum in the supplying vessel whilst turning the delivery end (and hence the output flow) towards the receiving receptacle. As shown, in this embodiment the breather pipe 124 is in this embodiment also located externally rather than within the tubular assembly vessel, so as to provide a straighter path but could be located internally within or alongside the tubular body 112. This S shaped arrangement is simpler to manufacture than the first embodiment and loop section 32.

A third embodiment of the invention, and fluid delivery nozzle 200 is shown in figures 9 to lib. The fluid delivery nozzle 200 is functionally identical to the S shaped fluid delivery nozzle 100 of the second embodiment, and directs a flow F of fluid through the fluid delivery nozzle 200 in a S shaped flow path as shown in figure lib. Like reference numerals, incremented by 200, are again used for like or corresponding elements of this and the previous embodiments where appropriate. This embodiment is more compact than the second embodiment 200, yet is still simple to manufacture.

The fluid delivery nozzle 200 of this embodiment has a tubular main body 212 that comprises two tubular sections 234 and 242. These two tubular sections 234,242 are disposed parallel to and spaced apart from each other in an overlapping configuration. One of the tubular sections 234 extends from and has an end that is attached to the attachment flange 218 that connects to the fuel can 1. The other tubular section 242 extends to form an outlet section 244 of the fluid delivery nozzle 200 and terminates at an end in an outlet 216 of the fluid delivery nozzle 200. The other ends of the tubular sections 234,242 are longitudinally offset with respect to each other, and are laterally spaced apart. These ends are each terminated by respective end plates 221,223 which extend and connect to the outside of the other tubular sections 234,242 and close off the ends of the respective tubular sections 234,242. The ends of the tubular sections 234,242 attached to the terminating plates 221,223 are rebated, and cut away, to define side openings 225,227 in such a manner as to allow an unrestricted flow of fluid out of the sides of the tubular sections 234,242 and into the space between the tubular sections 234,242. A pair of cheek-plates 217, 219 are attached to the respective sides of the tubular sections 234,242 and end-plates 217,219, one on each side, so as to form a sealed enclosure and flow passage 238 between the tubular sections 234, 242 into which fluid to and from the side openings 225,227 of the tubular sections 234,242 can flow. The fluid delivery nozzle 200 thereby comprises a flattened "S" shaped tubular passage.

The end plates 221,223 in this embodiment define and correspond to the U bend sections of the previous embodiments and redirect the flow of fluid back on itself and in a reverse direction. The end plates 221, 223 may be flat, but it has been found that flow is improved by reduced turbulence if the end plates 221,223 are curved through an arc which may be any angle, although 180° is optimum.

The tubular sections 234,242 are spaced apart such that the cross sectional flow area flow passage 238 between the tubular sections 234,242 is similar in area to the cross-section of the tubular sections 234,242 themselves. A spacer web 235 may be provided therebetween to hold them in position, in particular during assembly as shown in figure 10.

A breather pipe 224 runs from an end 226 near the outlet 216 of the nozzle 200, through the body 212 of the nozzle 200 to and through the end of the nozzle 200 which attaches to the fuel can 1, to an end 228 which in use is located within the fuel can 1. This end 228 of the breather tube 224 preferably includes an extended tail section 230, which is arranged to extend beyond the attachment flange 218 and end 214 of the fluid delivery nozzle 200 into the fuel can 1, similarly to the first embodiment. Instead of such an extended portion 230, the end 228 of the breather pipe 228 may connect to a neck insert (shown in figure 14) fitted into the fuel can I as described further below. The breather pipe 224 is led in such a way as to be as close to a straight line as is practical in order to enable rapid "re-cocking" of the nozzle 200 in between operations by allowing any fluid within the breather 224 to drain quickly. It has been found advantageous to performance to keep the delivery end 226 of the breather pipe 224 located adjacent to the outlet 216, out of the flow of fluid from the outlet 216 to prevent constriction of the inward flow of air by the out-flowing fluid. As shown in figure lib, the breather pipe 224 may therefore be led through the side wall of the nozzle 200 close to the outlet 216.

While in these embodiments the breather pipes 24,124,224,324 shown as a single pipe the exact configuration of the breather pipe may be varied. The location of the breather pipes and routing could also be varied. For example and as shown the breather pipe may be routed in various manners internally within the nozzle, or even variously externally to the nozzle. In addition the single breather pipe could be replaced by two or more separate breather pipes either routed together or differently. The breather pipe while as shown generally has a circular flow cross section it could comprise any cross sectional shape of duct. In particular the breather pipe could have a squashed' profile such that it is blended into the walls of the nozzle and tubular body 12.

The nozzle 200 may be made utilising tubing of any diameter to suit the purpose to which it is to be put. In addition while the tubular sections and duct have a generally circular cross section they may have any cross sectional shape.

A fourth embodiment of the invention, and fluid delivery nozzle 300 is shown in figure 13. The fluid delivery nozzle 300 is generally the same as the fluid delivery nozzle 200 of the third embodiment. Like reference numerals, incremented by 300 are again used for like or corresponding elements of this and the previous embodiments where appropriate. In this embodiment and variation it can be seen that the near end plate 223 of the fluid nozzle 200 of the third embodiment has been omitted, and an end of the tubular section 234 delivery tube has bent so that the wall 323 of the tubular section 334 can be utilised instead to form this end plate. The breather pipe 324 is also now routed centrally in a straight line through the centre of the nozzle 300. Again, for the purposes of this description, the right hand cheek plate 317 has been removed to provide a view of the interior. This embodiment is also illustrated with a screw type attachment flange 318 for filling to smaller fuel cans 1.

Although not essential, it has been found that the action of the breather pipe 24,124,224,324 may be enhanced in particular when the nozzle 10,100,200,300 is fitted to screw-top plastic cans 1 (normally 5 or 10 litres) if a separate neck insert 50 is fitted into the neck of the fuel can 1. This neck insert 50 comprises a cylindrical section 52 having a flange 54 at one end forming a "top-hat" which can be inserted as a push fit into the neck of the can 1 with the flange 54 abutting on an outlet rim of the neck of the can 1 with the cylindrical section 52 corresponding to the neck diameter. The flange 54 section of the insert 50 both prevents the insert 50 from being pushed inside the can 1 and provides a better mating surface for the nozzle 10,100,200,300 connection, thereby improving the seal. The insert 50 also includes a breather pipe extension 56 is attached to the inside of the cylindrical portion 52 of the neck insert 50. When the nozzle 10,100,200,300 is fitted to the can 1, the end 28,128,228 of the breather tube 228 is engaged with and connected to an end 58 of the nAck insert breather pipe extension 56. The breather pipe extension 56 has a tail section 60, which is preferably flexible, and extends from the neck insert 50. The tail section 60 is, in use, first fed into the void space at the top of the can 1 when the neck insert 50 is fitted into the neck of the can 1.

This void is generally formed by the can's hollow handle.

This neck insert 50 and breather pipe extension 56 provides a clearer and more direct access into the can's void space through the tail extension. Once the neck insert 50 is fitted, it can then also be left in place, and the nozzle 10,100,200,300 removed and lid replaced on the can 1, with the insert 50 still fitted. As a result the nozzle 10,100,200,300 can be more easily fitted and removed than would he the case if the nozzle included such a breather pipe extension 30. In addition the flange 54 of the neck insert also provides a consistent mating surface between the neck of the can 1 and attachment flange 18,118,218,318 of the nozzle 10,100, 200 improving the seal across a wide variety of cans 1.

As mentioned above all of the embodiments function in the same similar manner. In use the nozzle 10,100,200,300 is attached to a fuel can 1 and fuel poured through them with the outlet 16,116,216 end of the nozzle 10,100,200,300 located in a receptacle for the fuel. When the receptacle becomes full of fuel the outlet end 16,116,216,316 of the nozzle 10,100,200,300, and end 26,126,226,326 of the breather pipe 24,124,224,324 becomes submerged under the surface of the fluid in the receptacle and receiving vessel. Flow through the nozzle 10,100,200,300 continues momentarily due to the momentum of the flowing fluid, thereby drawing a, at least partial, vacuum in the fuel can 1. Flow ceases when the vacuum balances the weight of the fluid in the nozzle 10,100,200,300. At this point fuel is also drawn up into the end 26,126,226 and length of the breather tube 24,124,224 a point balanced by the vacuum. When the nozzle outlet 16,116,216,316 end is then withdrawn from the receptacle, the fluid in the final leg (i.e. from the outlet 18,118,218,318 up to the first bend from the outlet) of the nozzle 10,100,200,300 discharges into the receptacle. This, due to the construction of the nozzle 10,100,200, 300 leaves fuel within the remainder of the nozzle 10,100,200,300 from the outlet, and a U-tube' of fluid remaining in the nozzle 10,100,200,300 with the weight of this fluid being balanced by the vacuum. The vacuum is further maintained by the fluid blocking the breather 24,124,224,324 in a capillary action, thereby preventing further flaw. As the fuel can 1 and nozzle 10,100,200,300 is then returned (rotated back) to the upright (non-pouring) position the fluid in the U-tube empties back into the fuel can 1, releasing the vacuum. At that point the breather 24,124,224,324 also drains into the fuel can 1 and the nozzle 10,100,200,300 is then ready for the next delivery cycle.

It will be noted that the nozzle 10,100,200,300 relies on an adequate seal between the nozzle 10,100,200,300 and the fuel can 1. It also relies on an integral breather arrangement internal to the can 1.

It will also be noted that while the first and remaining embodiment differ in the arrangement of the U bend sections, they both comprise two U bend sections, and the later embodiments still to some degree direct the fluid flow through 360°, albeit in 180° in one direction and then 180° in the other.

While the fluid delivery nozzle assembly 10,100,200,300 has been described with reference to use with a fuel container or can 1, and this is the preferred utilisation of the invention, the fluid delivery nozzle 10,100,200,300 may be used more widely with any fluid, and to deliver fluid from any fluid source.

The principle and mode of operation of this invention have been explained and illustrated in its preferred embodiment. However, it must be understood that this invention may be practised otherwise than as specifically explained and illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope.

Claims

1. A fluid delivery nozzle for attachment to a fluid source, the nozzle comprising a tubular body defining a fluid duct for directing a flow of fluid from the fluid source and one end of the tubular body to a nozzle outlet at an opposite end of the tubular body; wherein the tubular body and duct defined by the tubular body has a section that is bent back on itself, such that in use a flow of fluid through the tubular body and duct is turned back on itself as it flows through the fluid delivery nozzle.

2. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tubular body is bent around through at least 1600

3. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tubular body is bent around through at least 270°

4. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tubular body is bent around though at least 360°.

5. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the tubular body defining a fluid duct in use directs fluid to flow in a reverse direction to an initial flow direction of fluid through the tubular body.

6. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the tubular body defiliing a fluid duct is further configured such that in use the flow of fluid through the tubular body and duct which is turned back on itself as it flows through the fluid delivery nozzle is subsequently directed to flow in substantially the original initial flow direction.

7. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the section of the tubular body the that is bent back on itself overlies a first section of the tubular body.

8. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the section of the tubular body that is bent back on itself comprises a U bend section.

9. A fluid delivery nozzle according to any preceding claim wherein the section of the tubular body bent back on itself is bent substantially upwards such that in a flow direction the bent section of the tubular body is disposed vertically above the first section of the tubular body.

10. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any of claims 1 to 8 wherein the tubular body comprises in flow series a first section, the section of the tubular body that is bent back on itself, a reverse flow section, and a return section.

11. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 10 wherein the reverse flow section overlies the first section and extends parallel to the first section.

12. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 10 or 11 wherein the return section comprises a U bend section.

13. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein tubular body comprises two U bend sections.

14. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the tubular body is bent around in an S shape.

A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any of claims 1 or 13 wherein the tubular body is bent around in a loop.

16. A fluid delivery nozzle according to claim 15 wherein the loop defines a handle.

17. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a breather pipe having a first end located adjacent to the outlet of the tubular body and a second end for connected, in use, to the fluid source, the breather pipe defining a separate duct for, in use a flow of air in a reverse direction through the fluid delivery nozzle.

18. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 17 wherein the second end is located within the fluid source.

19. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 18 or 17 wherein breather pipe has an extension adapted to extend within and be located within the fluid source.

20. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in claim 17 or 18, further comprising a separate insert for locating within an outlet of the fluid source, the insert comprising a breather pipe extension adapted to extend within and be located within the fluid source and which is connectable to the breather pipe to extend the breather pipe.

21. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the breather pipe comprises a plurality of breather pipes.

22. A fluid delivery nozzle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the section of the tubular body has a reduced cross sectional flow area.

23. A fluid delivery nozzle of any preceding claim wherein the cross sectional flow area at the outlet of the fluid nozzle is essentially the same as the cross sectional flow area at the cross sectional flow area of the end of the fluid delivery nozzle attached to the fluid source.

24. A fluid delivery nozzle as defined in any preceding claims whereby in the fluid source comprises a fluid container.

25. A fluid delivery nozzle of claim 24 wherein the fluid container comprises a fuel can.

26. A fluid delivery nozzle according to any preceding claim further comprising an attachment flange for attaching the fluid delivery nozzle to the fluid source.

27. A fluid delivery nozzle according to any preceding claim wherein the fluid delivery nozzle is made from plastic.

28. A fluid delivery nozzle according to any of claims 1 to 26 wherein the fluid delivery nozzle is made from metal.

29. A fluid delivery nozzle substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to, and/or as shown in any one or more of figures 1 to 14.