NZ746266A - Line retrieval device - Google Patents
Line retrieval deviceInfo
- Publication number
- NZ746266A NZ746266A NZ746266A NZ74626618A NZ746266A NZ 746266 A NZ746266 A NZ 746266A NZ 746266 A NZ746266 A NZ 746266A NZ 74626618 A NZ74626618 A NZ 74626618A NZ 746266 A NZ746266 A NZ 746266A
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- spool
- line
- retrieval device
- line retrieval
- housing
- Prior art date
Links
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 44
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000003213 activating Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 210000001624 Hip Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910004682 ON-OFF Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011449 brick Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007795 chemical reaction product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000994 depressed Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000534 elicitor Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009313 farming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009987 spinning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004642 transportation engineering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003245 working Effects 0.000 description 1
Abstract
The invention relates to a line retrieval device, for retrieval of line onto a spool. The line retrieval device includes a housing, a spool holder, associated with the housing, and spool engagement means. Also included are a power source associated with the housing, an activation means associated with the housing, and a rotation device, associated with the spool holder, powered by the power source on activation by the activation means. Activation of the activation means, can rotate the spool of line when held on the spool holder and engaged by the spool engagement means, to wind the line onto the spool, until the line is substantially fully wound, and the housing is designed to be comfortably held in the hand. The invention also relates to variants thereof and a method of use. th the housing, and a rotation device, associated with the spool holder, powered by the power source on activation by the activation means. Activation of the activation means, can rotate the spool of line when held on the spool holder and engaged by the spool engagement means, to wind the line onto the spool, until the line is substantially fully wound, and the housing is designed to be comfortably held in the hand. The invention also relates to variants thereof and a method of use.
Description
LINE RETRIEVAL DEVICE
The present invention relates to a line retrieval device, and in particular to a
line retrieval device for use to retrieve bricklayer’s or builder’s line.
A standard piece of equipment in construction, large or small, is a spool of
line. The line is used by bricklayers to set the straight-guide by which the straight
row of bricks are laid. Long lengths of line may be run out to keep to lines and
boundaries on a constructions site or to ensure walls and structures are formed on
the correct line. Generally the line is simply wound by hand from the spool as
provided on purchase, or wrapped around a piece of wood or plastic in other cases.
Use of a length of string or line in construction in this way, such as simply a piece
of string wrapped around a piece of wood has been used in construction since the
time of the pyramids, and little has changed past the materials being modern
plastics.
In other uses, line may be used to mark out any straight line, such as when
marking out fence lines, boundaries or construction lines. In each of these
examples, often long lengths of line are laid out during work, and at the end these
long lines must be wound back on to the spool. As a repeated daily chore this job
takes time and must be performed carefully to ensure that the line is wound
properly onto the spool, ready for use, without kinks or tangles. If the line is wound
too quickly or without care it may need to be unwound and wound up again
properly before putting away.
Further, the laborious task of winding requires careful manual dexterity and
on long repeated action, the winding can be tiring and wearing on the hands and
fingers. Often the job must be repeated many times, for many lines and so takes
considerable time and effort. It is easy to tangle the line when hurrying to get the
job done, which can damage the line or just make it inconvenient for the next
person to unwind and use.
Therefore, there has long been a desire in the industry to find a solution to
the problem, to not only save time by quickly winding up the line efficiently but
without tangling, but also to do so in a device that can be comfortably held in the
hand, and easily carried as a useful tool.
The inventors, have themselves long desired to solve these difficult
problems. After long research and development the inventors have created a line
retrieval device that quickly and easily retrieves the line and in a manner that is
comfortable to hold in the hand, and can be easily used and carried about the work
site. The invention is a significant advance over a simple spool, and a clever
device, well-conceived. The inventive tool provides a convenient and useful
addition to the tools of every tradesperson, which can be carried in a tool box or
on a belt clip to be ready for use, at any time.
The present invention solves a problem that has existed in the industry for
many, many years, with no solution found, despite it being discussed and ideas
thought about. The inventors have now developed a solution, and beyond that, in
a highly developed, ergonomic end product, ready to be used by people in the
industry.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
The following describes a non-limiting example of the invention being used
with reference to bricklayer or builder’s line, and retrieval thereof. Bricklayers and
builders often lay out long lengths of this line and so is a very useful application of
the invention. However, other than as limited in the claims, it is not intended for the
invention to be limited to use for bricklayer’s or builder’s line and spools thereof.
For clarity, any prior art referred to herein, does not constitute an admission
that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge, in Australia or
elsewhere.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a line retrieval device that
at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art.
It is a further and separate object of the invention to provide a method of use of a
line retrieval device that at least ameliorates one or more problems of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention provides a line retrieval device for
retrieval of line onto a spool, the line retrieval device including:
a housing;
a spool holder, associated with the housing, the spool holder including spool
engagement means;
a power source associated with the housing;
an activation means associated with the housing;
a rotation device, associated with the spool holder, powered by the power
source on activation by the activation means,
wherein, activation of the activation means, can rotate the spool of line when held
on the spool holder and engaged by the spool engagement means, to wind the
line onto the spool, until the line is substantially fully wound, and the housing is
designed to be comfortably held in the hand.
The line may be any suitable line. The line may be plastic line. The line may
be builder’s line. The line may be bricklayer’s line. The line may be “string” line or
similar. The line may be string or other material in other applications of the
invention. The line may be line used in construction. The line may be susceptible
to tangling. The line may be a very long length of line.
The spool may be any spool for holding line. Preferably, the spool is a spool
of bricklayer’s or builder’s line. Preferably, the spool is of the form similar to a
shallow cotton reel, as a convenient receptacle for storing line. Generally, the spool
is circular in cross-section with a standard sized aperture or hole. Preferably, the
aperture or hole itself is somewhat cylindrical having a cylindrical wall. It is into this
aperture that the spool holder and spool engagement means are used to hold the
spool on the apparatus for use. Preferably, the spool has a hole with a cylindrical
wall and the spool holder fits within the hole, whereby the spool engagement
means can hold the spool in place. Preferably, the spool engagement means
engage with the sides of the hole in the spool to hold the spool in place. Preferably,
the spool engagement means engage with the sides of the hole, the cylindrical
wall, in the spool to hold the spool in place. The spool holder and engagement
means may be replaced by any means of holding the spool of line on the
apparatus. The example is a useful one for the standard forms of spools of line
and it is envisaged that the apparatus will be designed to be easily used and
replaced with spools of line without the need for explanation.
Preferably, the line retrieval device may be used by tradespeople in their
day to day work. The line retrieval device may be used in the building or
construction industry. The line retrieval device may be used in agriculture or
farming.
Preferably, the housing is ergonomically designed to be held comfortably in
the hand. Most preferably, the housing provides a compact housing for the
components of the device and can be held very comfortably in the hand during
use. Preferably, the housing includes shaped sides for holding in the hand, to
assist grip and comfortable use. Most preferably, the housing includes a head part
which fits readily in the palm of the hand for ease of holding. The small, convenient
size of the housing may makes the use of the device particularly useful and
comfortable. Even repeated use to wind more than one line may be completed
without wear to the hand, or undue effort. The housing may be particular curved,
sized and shaped to fit into the palm of the hand conveniently.
Most preferably, the housing includes a head part and a skirt. Preferably,
the head part is adapted to be held in the hand and the skirt part is adapted to
receive the spool thereon. The skirt part may include or be the spool holder.
Preferably, the housing may be held by the head part and this enables the line to
be wound quickly and safely onto the spool held on the spool holder, separated
from the position of the fingers by the skirt part of the housing. Preferably, the
housing includes a head portion, waisted portion and skirt portion and the user can
hold the head portion comfortably in the hand, during use.
In other forms of the invention the housing may not be so ergonomically
designed but instead may be simply designed to house the components. The
ergonomic design of the housing may be omitted on inferior versions of the design.
In yet other forms of the invention the housing may be incorporated into something
else or form part of another hand held, tool for example.
The housing is preferably made of a suitable plastics material. Preferably,
the housing includes a closure. Preferably, the closure is a door by which the inside
of the device can be accessed. Preferably, the closure enables access to the
insides such as to replace the power source, or batteries or other components.
The closure may be a battery cover of a known form. Preferably, the housing is
ergonomic to be held easily in the hand.
A belt clip may be included. Any suitable clip or attachment may be included
so that the device may be carried hands free. Preferably, the belt clip includes a
spring or bias portion to bias the device against a belt or similar. The belt clip may
be a metal or plastic spring which may be pushed onto the belt of the wearer to
suspend the device so it may be carried with the belt. The belt clip may be of a
known form. The belt clip may be replaced by any suitable lock or clip mechanism
whereby the device may be “worn” by the user. The device may also be readily
carried in the pocket as it is small and smooth. The compact device may also be
carried in a bag, or tool box with no difficulty and as it is compact it is resistant to
damage.
The spool holder may take any suitable form. Preferably, the spool holder
forms part of the housing. There may be more than one spool holder to hold the
spool, eg it may be formed in parts. Preferably, there is a single spool holder
formed from the housing for receipt of a single spool of line.
The spool holder may include a post on to which the spool is pushed to fit
and engage and the spool rotates with the post on operation of the rotation device.
Preferably, the post is adapted to have a suitable size to fit within the hole of a
spool, to fit within the cylindrical wall. Preferably, the post is circular in cross-
section. It is envisaged that other forms of spool, other than the standard could be
used and the device adapted to suit these other forms of spool. When used with
standard spools the aperture is a standard size and may be pushed onto the post
for a snug fit. There may be a push fit for the post and the aperture of the spool,
as described further below.
The spool holder may include a spool recess. The spool recess may be
adapted to comfortably receive the spool. Preferably, the spool recess surrounds
the spool engagement means on which the spool of line is fitted. The spool recess
may be part of the skirt of the housing. Preferably, the spool recess is adapted to
facilitate the rotation of the spool. Preferably, the facilitation is for rotation in either
direction, in some forms of the invention. The spool recess may include a flat
smooth surface on which the spool smoothly rotates. Preferably, the surface of the
spool recess is low friction. The spool recess may be a shallow recess, with an
edge into which a spool comfortably sits to assist to maintain the spool in position
during use.
Ideally, once the spool is engaged with the spool engagement means, it sits
within the spool recess so that it is further held in place. The spool engagement
means may include the spool recess or it may be a separate part. Most preferably,
once the spool is engaged with the spool engagement means it sits in the spool
recess to freely rotate. The spool engagement means preferably includes a post
and it is on this post that the spool rotates within the recess. The spool recess is
the base of the housing and it here that the line rotates onto the spool. The fingers
of the person are held behind the housing and so are protected allowing the line
to be wound quickly, and safely. The line may be some extent be restrained or
contained by the configuration of the spool recess.
The spool engagement means may take any suitable form. Preferably, the
spool engagement means include one or more prong. There may be any suitable
number of prongs extending from a central post. It is through use of the spool
engagement means that the spool of line is held on the device for rotation.
Preferably, the spool engagement means include a plurality of prongs which are
movable between a first state and second state. Preferably, the prongs in the first
state are extended out. Preferably, the prongs in the second state are pushed in.
Most preferably, as the spool is pushed onto the spool holder the prongs of the
spool engagement means are pushed in, and then push out against the sides of
the hole of the spool which holds the spool in an engaged state on the spool holder.
The prongs may also be springs, or any resilient material that bias against the
sides of the spool to firmly hold the spool in place but that may be readily removed
or replaced. The spool may be held in place in this way during use. The spool may
be removed by a firm pull away from the spool holder to disengage the spool
engagement means, which then move back to the first state. Preferably, the user
will hold the housing conveniently in one hand and push the spool onto the spool
holder and spool engagement means whereby the spool is held on the device and
will be rotated so that line will wind on, on activation of the rotation means.
Preferably, a spool locator is included to conveniently align the spool. The
spool locator may take any suitable form. There may be a spool locator, to indicate
the preferential location point for installation of the spool. There may be a spool
stopper to prevent winding or unwinding of the line beyond a certain point. The
spool stopper may be in the form of projection. Other forms of catch, control or
projections may also be used to assist with the alignment and winding of the line
on to the spool.
The power source may take any suitable form. Preferably, the power source
is a battery. Preferably the battery is a 9 volt battery. There may be more than one
battery. Any suitable type of battery may be used. Preferably, the power source
provides power which when activated by the activation device operates the rotation
device to wind the line on to the spool.
The power source may be omitted in other forms of the invention. For
example, the power source could be or be replaced by a clockwork or wind up
mechanism. The power source may include a solar powered battery system. The
power source may include a rechargeable battery system. Any suitable form of
power to cause rotation on activation may be used. Preferably, light, low voltage
batteries are used. Preferably, the device may be used for a very long time without
the need to replace the batteries.
The activation means may take any suitable form. There may be more than
one activation means. Preferably, the activation means is an on/off button which
on activation causes a circuit to be formed with the power source and the rotation
device whereby rotation occurs. On deactivation the reverse occurs to break the
circuit with the power source and cease the rotation. There may be further circuitry
included and other switching as would be understood by the person skilled in the
art.
The activation device may be chosen from the following group: button; lever;
switch; touch screen; or a combination thereof. There may be any suitable number
of activations devices of combinations thereof. Preferably, the activation device is
accessible by the hand of the person at a convenient position on the housing. The
activation device may be a 1 amp push button switch to activate the rotation
device.
Most preferably, the ergonomic design means that the activation device is
positioned conveniently to be used while holding the housing. Preferably, the
housing includes a head and a waisted portion and the activation may be caused
through pressing a button on the head at the natural position of the fingers. Other
positions may be used instead. Where the button is situated at the head of the
housing the rotation may be caused and spool wound without risk of contact with
the spinning spool as the fingers are behind the skirt or base of the housing for
protection.
The rotation device may be any suitable rotation device. The rotation device
may be a 6 volt motor with a gearbox attached. Preferably, the rotation device is
contained within the housing. Preferably, the rotation device is connected to the
spool holder. Preferably, the rotation device may rotate in a single direction. The
rotation device may rotate in more than one direction. Preferably, the spool holder
holds the spool and the rotation device rotates the held spool to wind up the line.
Preferably, the rotation device includes a motor or gearbox to rotate. The rotation
device may be a small simple rotation device. In other forms of the invention the
rotation device may be more sophisticated.
Preferably, the association with the spool holder is that the spool holder
holds the spool and rotates when driven by the rotation device.
The association may be any suitable association so that the spool is suitably
held and rotated, separate from the held housing.
The invention also provides a method of winding a spool of line on a line
retrieval device, the line retrieval device including a housing, spool holder with
spool engagement means, power source, activation means and rotation device,
the method including the following steps:
a) putting the spool on the spool holder by use of the hole of the spool;
b) engaging the spool engagement means with the sides of the hole of the
spool so the spool is firmly held;
c) activating the rotation means by use of the activation means;
d) rotating the spool due to the activation means causing power from the power
source to cause rotation of the rotation means, so that line is wound on to the
spool; and
e) continuing rotation until substantially all the line is wound onto the spool.
The device of the method may be the device of the invention in any of its
forms or variants. The rotation may be quick rotation for quick winding of the line
onto the spool. Preferably, the ergonomic design of the device enables the line to
be wound quickly and efficiently, without contact with the line.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described in connection with a non-limiting
preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective rear view of a line winder according to a preferred
embodiment of the invention with the spool of line omitted for ease of illustration;
Figure 2 is a view from above of the line winder of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a front view of the line winder of Figures 1 and 2;
Figure 4 is a side view of the line winder of Figure 1 to 3;
Figure 5 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the inside of the line
winder of Figures 1 to 4;
Figure 6 is a detailed view of the spool holder, in the base of the housing of
the invention of Figures 1 to 5;
Figure 7 is a detailed front perspective view of the spool engagement and
spool holder of Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a detailed view from below of the spool holder of the invention of
Figures 6 and 7;
Figure 9 is perspective view of the battery cover of the embodiment of
Figures 1 to 8; and
Figure 10 is a side view of the battery cover of Figure 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS INCLUDING A BEST METHOD
Referring to Figures 1 to 10, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be
described, where line winder 1 has body 10 housing the components. The body or
housing has been designed with great care for this useful invention and adds to
the invention due to the ergonomic design and careful positioning of the controls,
for example. Spool holder 12 would hold a standard spool of line, fitted with a push
fit onto spool holder 12, however the spool and line is omitted throughout for ease
of illustration. The spool is a standard spool of line used frequently by builders and
bricklayers, for example.
Prongs 14 can be seen on spool holder 12 and it is through use of these that
the spool is held upon the device. Spool holder 12 is important as this includes
both a “post” on which the spool of line is held but also a recess, the base of body
in which the spool of thread smoothly turns, more on this below. It is through
use of prongs 14 that by a push fit the spool is replaced onto spool holder 12 ready
to be rotated and the line retrieved. Once the line is wound on the spool may be
replaced with a further spool to be filled. Prongs 14 are bias outwards by a spring
mechanism, easily overcome by a gentle push. Once in place the spring pushes
back so the prongs press against the sides of the spool and holding firm.
Body 10, as can be seen is carefully shaped to be particularly comfortable
and useful to use. Body 10 can be seen to include head 16, which fits comfortably
in the palm of the hand. The size, curve and shaping have been particularly
designed in this regard. Body 10 can be seen to include waist 18 which enables
body 10 to be readily held in the hand further as it allows the head to be gripped
and the hands grip the waisted part. Skirt 20 is shaped to receive the spool on the
spool holder and protect the hand of the person in use, with base 21 (refer Figure
6, the underside to skirt 20). The ergonomic design is important as the line can,
through use of the invention be wound very quickly, efficiently but in a comfortable
manner. Due the careful ergonomic design which feels good in the hand, it is no
problem if more lines need to be wound up, several can be wound up quickly, one
after the other.
Each part of body 10 has been very carefully designed to enable safe and
comfortable use by a person. The design enables a very compact tool to be used
and easily carried. The small size and compact design makes it light and can be
fitted to a belt and carried everywhere, ready for use.
To this end clip 22 is included, so that the apparatus can be clipped to an
item or clothing and readily carried. Clip 22 as shown is a belt clip with a bias part
that enables the quick and easy storage and transportation of the winder for when
not in use. Then at the end of the day when line is to be wound up, the device is
safe to handle, it does not need to be hunted for in a tool box or vehicle. Instead
the winder can be taken from the belt, used and then replaced ready for use again
the next day. If it is not desired to wear the winder the winder is a compact shape
that also can fit easily in a shirt or trouser pocket, in a glove box or compartment
of a tool box.
Referring in particular to Figure 5 the internal workings can be seen including
post 24 which drives the rotation of the spool when held on spool holder 12,
engaged with prongs 14 of winder 1. Motor 26 and gearbox 27 form the rotation
device that is powered by the battery (not shown) that would fit in the battery cavity
(not labelled) in the usual manner.
Operation of the rotation by motor 26 and gearbox 27 is by use of switch 28,
in the form of an on off button 28. On operation or activation of the circuit through
use of the on/off button rotation is elicited of the held spool on the post, which
rotates and winds up the line.
Holes 30 are for receipt of screws (not shown) for keeping the two parts of
the body together in the usual manner. Usual fixings are used to keep the housing
secure after assembly.
Battery cover 32 has prongs 34 and a clip opening 36 in the usual manner.
Spool stopper 38 is included on spool holder 12 with spool locator 40 and
spool recess 42. As mentioned above, spool recess 42 is important as it is a
smooth circular recess with an edge, within which the spool smoothly rotates. The
configuration is adapted to suit the application of a standard sized spool. Various
sizes may be accommodated through the use of different apparatus. Spool stopper
38 assists to prevent overwinding.
In use, a spool of thread is pushed over prongs 14 whereby these are
depressed inside the device. These prongs 14 then push out against the sides of
the spool hole, and hold the spool sufficiently in place to be maintained on winder
1 while rotation takes place, within recess 42. The battery (not shown) has already
been put in place through opening battery cover 32 accessing using clip 36. After
the battery has been pushed into place in the recess (not labelled) battery cover
32 can be pushed back in place with prongs 34 in their corresponding recesses.
Referring in particular to Figure 6, spool recess 42 below base 20 of winder
1 is important as it is especially designed to enable smooth winding in of the line,
under power. Use of a simple, flat surface or post would not work the same as the
inventors have carefully designed multiple aspects that allow the line to wind
smoothly, without catching or tangling. Spool recess 42 surrounds the post of spool
holder 12 generally, with spool stopper 38 and spool locator 40 as can be seen
surrounded by spool recess 42. The spool is simply pushed onto spool holder 12
to engage with prongs 14. Prongs 14 being biased out so that on gentle pressure
the spool may be pressed onto spool holder 12 and then the bias prongs press
against the inner surface of the hole of the spool to maintain the spool on spool
holder 12. To remove a gentle tug will override the bias pressing of prongs 14.
On activation of switch 28 power is now supplied to motor 26 and gearbox
27 so that rotation of post 24 causes rotation of the post of spool holder 12. In this
way the spool rotates and line is wound neatly onto the spool, smoothly and
efficiently and without tangling.
The uniform and quick action of the motor speedily performs the winding
while the person holds the winder comfortably in their hand. The task takes
seconds rather than many minutes and so saves significant time on the work site.
Once complete the spool can easily be pulled from the spool holder and put away.
The process can quickly be repeated for a number of string lines until they are all
wound up and storable.
Overall the inventors have developed a very clever device, which has
multiple applications in a number of industries.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
The line retrieval device of the invention may be manufactured industrially
and supplied to wholesalers, retailers or direct to the end user.
It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that changes may be made
to the embodiment disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of
the invention in its various aspects.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST:
1 Winder
Body
12 Spool holder
14 Prongs
16 Head of 10
18 Waist of 10
Skirt of 10
21 Base of 10
22 Clip
24 Post
26 Motor
27 Gearbox
28 Switch
Holes
32 Cover
34 Prongs of 32
36 Clip of 32
38 Spool stopper
40 Spool locator
42 Spool recess
Claims (57)
1. A line retrieval device for retrieval of line onto a spool, the line retrieval device including: a housing; a spool holder, associated with the housing, the spool holder including spool engagement means; a power source associated with the housing; an activation means associated with the housing; a rotation device, associated with the spool holder, powered by the power source on activation by the activation means, wherein, activation of the activation means, can rotate the spool of line when held on the spool holder and engaged by the spool engagement means, to wind the line onto the spool, until the line is substantially fully wound, and the housing is designed to be comfortably held in the hand.
2. The line retrieval device of claim 1, wherein the line is chosen from the group: plastic line; builder’s line; bricklayer’s line; “string” line; or similar.
3. The line retrieval device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the line is susceptible to tangling.
4. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the line is a very long length of line.
5. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spool is a spool of bricklayer’s or builder’s line.
6. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the spool is of the form similar to a shallow cotton reel, as a convenient receptacle for storing line.
7. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the spool is circular in cross-section with a standard sized aperture or hole.
8. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the spool has a hole with a cylindrical wall and the spool holder fits within the hole, whereby the spool engagement means can hold the spool in place.
9. The line retrieval device of claim 8, wherein the spool engagement means engage with the sides of the hole in the spool to hold the spool in place.
10. The line retrieval device of claim 8, wherein the spool engagement means engage with the sides of the hole, the cylindrical wall, in the spool to hold the spool in place.
11. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the housing is ergonomically designed to be held comfortably in the hand.
12. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the housing provides a compact housing for the components of the device and can be held very comfortably in the hand during use.
13. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing includes shaped sides for holding in the hand, to assist grip and comfortable use.
14. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the housing includes a head part which fits readily in the palm of the hand for ease of holding.
15. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the particular curved, sized and shaped to fit into the palm of the hand conveniently.
16. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the housing includes a head part and a skirt where the head part is adapted to be held in the hand and the skirt part is adapted to receive the spool thereon.
17. The line retrieval device of claim 16, wherein the skirt part includes or is the spool holder.
18. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the housing may be held by a head part and this enables the line to be wound quickly and safely onto the spool held on the spool holder, separated from the position of the fingers by a skirt part of the housing.
19. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the housing includes a head portion, waisted portion and skirt portion and the user can hold the head portion comfortably in the hand, during use.
20. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the a belt clip is included so that the device may be carried hands free.
21. The line retrieval device of claim 20, wherein the belt clip includes a spring or bias portion to bias the device against a belt or similar.
22. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the spool holder is formed from the housing for receipt of a single spool of line.
23. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the spool holder includes a post on to which the spool is pushed to fit and engage and the spool rotates with the post on operation of the rotation device.
24. The line retrieval device of claim 23, wherein the post is adapted to have a suitable size to fit within the hole of a spool, and to fit within the cylindrical wall.
25. The line retrieval device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein a push fit is used for the post and the aperture of the spool.
26. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the spool holder includes a spool recess.
27. The line retrieval device of claim 26, wherein the spool recess is adapted to comfortably receive the spool.
28. The line retrieval device of claim 26 or 27, wherein the spool recess is adapted to surrounds the spool engagement means on which the spool of line is fitted.
29. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the spool recess is part of a skirt of the housing.
30. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein the spool recess is adapted to facilitate the rotation of the spool.
31. The line retrieval device of claim 30, wherein the facilitation is for rotation in either direction.
32. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the spool recess includes a flat smooth surface on which the spool smoothly rotates.
33. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 26 to 32, wherein the surface of the spool recess is low friction.
34. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein the spool recess is a shallow recess, with an edge into which a spool comfortably sits to assist to maintain the spool in position during use.
35. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein once the spool is engaged with the spool engagement means, it sits within the spool recess to freely rotate.
36. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the fingers of the person are held behind the housing and so are protected allowing the line to be wound quickly, and safely.
37. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 36, wherein the spool engagement means include one or more prong.
38. The line retrieval device of claim 37, wherein the or each prong extend from a central post.
39. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein it is through use of the spool engagement means that the spool of line is held on the device for rotation.
40. The line retrieval device of claim 37 or 38, wherein the spool engagement means include a plurality of prongs which are movable between a first state and second state.
41. The line retrieval device of claim 40, wherein the prongs in the first state are extended out and the prongs in the second state are pushed in.
42. The line retrieval device of claim 41, wherein as the spool is pushed onto the spool holder the prongs of the spool engagement means are pushed in, and then push out against the sides of the hole of the spool which holds the spool in an engaged state on the spool holder.
43. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 37 to 42, wherein the or each prong extend are also springs, or any resilient material that bias against the sides of the spool to firmly hold the spool in place but that may be readily removed or replaced.
44. The line retrieval device of claim 40 or 41, wherein the spool may be removed by a firm pull away from the spool holder to disengage the spool engagement means, which then move back to the first state.
45. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 44, wherein the spool locator is included to conveniently align the spool and to indicate the preferential location point for installation of the spool.
46. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 45, wherein a spool stopper in the form of projection is included to prevent winding or unwinding of the line beyond a certain point.
47. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 46, wherein a power source is included to provide power which when activated by the activation device operates the rotation device to wind the line on to the spool.
48. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein a power source could be or be replaced by a clockwork or wind up mechanism.
49. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 48, wherein the power source includes a solar powered battery system or rechargeable battery system.
50. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 49, wherein the activation means is an on/off button which on activation causes a circuit to be formed with the power source and the rotation device whereby rotation occurs.
51. The line retrieval device of claim 50, wherein on deactivation the reverse occurs to break the circuit with the power source and cease the rotation.
52. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 51, wherein the activation device is accessible by the hand of the person at a convenient position on the housing.
53. The line retrieval device according to any one of claims 1 to 52, wherein the rotation device is contained within the housing and connected to the spool holder.
54. The line retrieval device of claim 53, wherein the rotation device may rotate in a single direction.
55. The line retrieval device of claim 53, wherein the rotation device may rotate in more than one direction.
56. A method of winding a spool of line on a line retrieval device, the line retrieval device including a housing, spool holder with spool engagement means, power source, activation means and rotation device, the method including the following steps: a) putting the spool on the spool holder by use of the hole of the spool; b) engaging the spool engagement means with the sides of the hole of the spool so the spool is firmly held; c) activating the rotation means by use of the activation means; d) rotating the spool due to the activation means causing power from the power source to cause rotation of the rotation means, so that line is wound on to the spool; and e) continuing rotation until substantially all the line is wound onto the spool.
57. The method of claim 56, wherein the device is the device of any one of claims 1 to 55.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2017903681 | 2017-09-11 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ746266A true NZ746266A (en) |
Family
ID=
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US2776644A (en) | Animal tethering device | |
US2919676A (en) | Leash retaining means | |
US4182005A (en) | Electrical cord holder | |
US6962306B2 (en) | Units for storing flexible elongated objects | |
US8496229B1 (en) | Powered fish tape | |
CA2643904A1 (en) | Ring-shaped retractable pet lead | |
US7434820B1 (en) | Yarn Storage Apparatus | |
US20170210592A1 (en) | Universal winder | |
EP3107852A1 (en) | Cable winding device | |
US9643814B2 (en) | Universal winder | |
US20150305314A1 (en) | Compact Portable Fishing Pole | |
AU2018102224A4 (en) | Line retrieval device | |
NZ746266A (en) | Line retrieval device | |
US6752369B1 (en) | Camera steadying device | |
US2222802A (en) | Self-fastening line reel | |
US8534582B2 (en) | Wound rope or cord support | |
US3259335A (en) | Thread dispenser with rewind means | |
US10426562B1 (en) | Wearable multi-accessory tool for nurses and other health care workers | |
US20050218173A1 (en) | Line reel with cutting blade | |
KR100835542B1 (en) | Tape bending/cutting device for roll type adhesive tape case | |
CN212355080U (en) | Scroll saw storage device | |
US9334141B2 (en) | Wound rope or cord support | |
US1014322A (en) | Reel. | |
US11866293B2 (en) | Automated string winding handheld tool | |
US2253983A (en) | Wire winder |