MARINE APPLIANCE FOR WASHING ARTICLES HELD THEREIN

Abstract

A marine washing appliance for immersion washing of articles contained by the appliance; the appliance comprising; a support body and associated therewith at least one receptacle defining an internal space for retaining articles therein; said at least one receptacle each having an inlet for receiving water and an outlet for discharging water during said immersion washing. Each said receptacle includes a wall defining the internal space for retaining the articles therein, at least part of the wall including at least one opening which allows passage therethrough of a fluid from outside the receptacle to the internal space thereby enabling contact of the fluid with the articles. The passage therethrough of the fluid from outside the receptacle to the internal space is generated by motion of the appliance in water. The support body has leading end and a trailing end, the leading end including an anchorage for a tow line.

Claims

1-38. (canceled)

39. A washing receptacle comprising a space frame defining a receptacle body, a collapsible wall defining an internal space in the body for retaining articles therein, at least a part of the wall including at least one opening which allows passage therethrough of a fluid from outside the receptacle to the internal space on immersion of the receptacle or during motion induced hydraulic flow therethrough, to enable contact of the fluid with the articles for washing said articles; and at least one opening which allows the fluid to exit the receptacle; the receptacle body further comprising a closure which allows selective loading or unloading of said articles from the receptacle.

40. A washing device comprising a body having perforated wall defining an internal space for retaining articles therein, the perforated wall defining one part of the body which retains articles to be washed and another part which allows insertion in and removal of the articles from the device body; the part allowing Insertion and removal of articles forming a closure which moves between an open state in which the articles are insertable in or removable from the device body and a closed state in which the articles are retained in the body, the perforated wall allowing flow through of water used for washing the articles.

41. A marine washing appliance for immersion washing of articles contained by the appliance; the appliance comprising; a support body defining at least one receptacle defining an internal space for retaining articles therein; the at least one receptacle having an inlet for receiving water and an outlet for discharging water during said immersion washing.

42. A marine washing appliance according to claim 41, wherein the at least one receptacle comprises a wall defining the internal space for retaining the articles therein, at least part of the wall having at least one opening which allows passage therethrough of a fluid from outside the receptacle to the internal space thereby enabling contact of the fluid with the articles.

43. A marine washing appliance according to claim 41, wherein the passage of the fluid from outside the receptacle to the internal space is generated by motion of the appliance in water.

44. A marine washing appliance according to claim 41, wherein the support body has a leading end and a trailing end, the leading end comprising an anchor for a tow line.

45. A marine washing appliance according to claim 41, wherein the support body is formed from at least one module which defines the internal space and retains therein the at least one receptacle.

46. A marine washing appliance according to claim 45, wherein the support body comprises a leading end formation coupleable to a first modules; and a trailing end formation coupleable to the at least one module.

47. A marine washing appliance according to claim 46, wherein the support body comprises a plurality of cooperating modules, the leading end formation being coupled to a first module and the trailing end formation being coupled to a second module of the plurality of modules.

48. A marine washing appliance according to claim 47, wherein one said plurality of cooperating modules is detachably fitted to another module of the plurality of modules via a fastening assembly.

49. A marine washing appliance according to claim 48, wherein at least two modules of the plurality of modules comprise formations which receive and retain the fastening assembly.

50. A marine washing appliance according to claim 48, wherein the fastening assembly comprises a nut and bolt.

51. A marine washing appliance according to claim 48, wherein each module of the plurality of modules comprises a wall which defines the internal space which accommodates at least one receptacle.

52. A marine washing appliance according to claim 51, wherein the respective receptacle is detachably fitted to its respective module via releasable fasteners.

53. A marine washing appliance according to claim 46, wherein the leading end formation is detachably coupled to the first module via a releasable fastening assembly

54. A marine washing appliance according to claim 47, wherein the trailing end formation is detachably coupled to the second module via a releasable fastening assembly, the second module being the last of the plurality of modules.

55. A marine washing appliance according to claim 48, wherein the fastening assembly which connects the two modules is comprises an aquadynamic stabilizing fin.

56. A marine washing appliance according to claim 47, wherein the trailing end formation comprises an aquadynamic stabilizing tail fin.

57. A marine washing appliance according to claim 44, wherein the leading end formation is formed in an aquadynamic shape.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] The invention will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description will now be described in more detail according to a preferred but non limiting embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations wherein:

[0017] FIG. 1 shows according to a preferred embodiment a perspective view of the washing device in an expended working state populated with plates and cutlery receptacle.

[0018] FIG. 2 shows the device of FIG. 1 with cutlery receptacle removed.

[0019] FIG. 3 shows the device of FIG. 1 with its wall abbreviated to reveal more clearly its interior.

[0020] FIG. 4 shows the device of FIG. 1 in an upstanding attitude showing plate rack and utensil receptacle and which allows pre wash loading of articles therein.

[0021] FIG. 5 shows the device of FIG. 4 in an upstanding attitude showing the plate rack but utensil receptacle isolated.

[0022] FIG. 6 shows the device in a collapsed/folded non-working state for storage.

[0023] FIG. 7 shows a plan view of the collapsed view of FIG. 6.

[0024] FIGS. 8a-d show respectively elevation, perspective and plan views of a space frame according to an alternative embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an alternative rack isolated from the washing device.

[0026] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an upper hoop of a space frame including a pivotal member for closure and/or carriage.

[0027] FIG. 11 shows according to an alternative embodiment a perspective exploded view of a washing appliance.

[0028] FIG. 12 shows the appliance of FIG. 11 from an underside exploded perspective view.

[0029] FIG. 13 shows the appliance from an underside assembled perspective view with receptacles removed.

[0030] FIG. 14 shows the appliance from an underside assembled perspective view with receptacles installed.

[0031] FIG. 15 shows the appliance from a side perspective elevation fully assembled with receptacles installed and uncovered with articles retained therein.

[0032] FIG. 16 shows the appliance from a side elevation fully assembled with receptacles installed and uncovered with articles retained therein.

[0033] FIG. 17 shows the appliance from a front perspective fully assembled with receptacles installed and covered.

[0034] FIG. 18 shows the appliance from a front perspective fully assembled with receptacles installed and covered, this time including a tow line.

[0035] FIG. 19 shows the appliance from a front perspective fully folded.

[0036] FIG. 20 shows the appliance of FIG. 19 from a side elevation.

[0037] FIG. 21 shows the appliance of FIG. 19 from a side elevation from a front elevation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The present invention will now be described in more detail according to a preferred but non limiting embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations. The examples referred to herein are illustrative and are not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the invention. While various embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be appreciated that these are capable of modification, and therefore the disclosures herein are not to be construed as limiting of the precise details set forth, but to avail such changes and alterations as fall within the purview of the description. Reference is made to the drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used throughout the different drawings to designate the same or similar components.

[0039] These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the description and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanying illustrations and descriptive matter in which there is illustrated various including preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0040] It will be appreciated that although the invention will be described with reference to its use in a boating context, the invention is adaptable to other use environments such as but not limited to waterside camping, high pressure cleaning and fishing.

[0041] FIG. 1 shows according to a preferred embodiment a perspective view of the washing device 1 populated with plates and cutlery receptacle in an expanded working state. Device 1 comprises a generally cylindrical body 2 which is closed at end 3 and adapted with a closure 4 at the opposite end 5. Body 2 is formed by circular frames 6, 7 and 8 retained by wire mesh forming a substantially cylindrical collapsible wall 9.

[0042] Closure 4 according to the embodiment shown is formed from opposing jaws 10 and 11 defined by respective frames 12 and 13, retaining collapsible mesh walls 14 and 15 defining a leading end inverted cone.

[0043] Located inside cylindrical body 2 is a plate rack 16 which receives and retains plates 17 and a utensil receptacle 18. Rack 16 is preferably fixed to space frame body 2 and at or near a trailing end to minimise displacement of any plates during washing. This arrangement assists whether device 1 is towed through water or immersed in water under gravity. Likewise utensil receptacle 18 is fixedly attached to the frames 6, 7, 8 or wall 9. Alternatively receptacle 18 can ‘float’ inside to facilitate agitation during washing. In that case utensil receptacle 18 can be inserted and removed as required. Frames 12 and 13 include respective eyelets 19 and 20 which allows connection of device 1 to tow line 21 via shackle 22. This allows device 1 to be urged through water responsive to boat motion thereby inducing flow through and agitation of water for friction cleaning of articles inside the device.

[0044] Device 1 further includes a fin 25 and rudder 26 which contribute to directional and roll stability. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that adjustments can be made to the device body which influence aqua dynamics where the device is towed through water. For example fin geometry, number and location can be altered. Likewise, rudder shape, size and number can be adjusted as required to either maintain laminar flow or to deliberately induce oscillation or agitation.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the material selected for walls 9, 14 and 15 is a resilient, collapsible mesh of plastics, stainless steel or other durable material resistant to corrosion and impact damage.

[0046] FIG. 2 shows with corresponding numbering, the device of FIG. 1 with utensil 18 receptacle removed.

[0047] FIG. 3 shows the device of FIG. 1 with its walls 9, 14 and 15 abbreviated to reveal more clearly its interior and mode of construction. Exposed are circular frames 6, 7 and 8 retained by wire mesh forming the substantially cylindrical collapsible wall 9. Frames 12 and 13, lie in apposition with eyelets 19 and 20 connected to tow line 21 via shackle 22. Inside cylindrical body 2 is plate rack 16 which is fixed to space frame 8 and a utensil receptacle 18. Rack 16 is preferably fixed to space frame 8 at or near a trailing end to minimise displacement of any plates during washing. Receptacle 18 can ‘float’ inside to facilitate agitation during washing. In that case utensil receptacle 18 can be inserted and removed as required. Device 1 further includes a fin 25 and rudder 26 which are either attached to space frames 6, 7, 8 or to mesh wall 9.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows with corresponding numbering, the device 1 of FIG. 1 in an upstanding attitude showing the plate rack 16 and utensil receptacle 18 and which allows pre wash top loading of articles therein.

[0049] FIG. 5 shows the device of FIG. 4 in an upstanding attitude showing the plate rack 16 but utensil receptacle 18 isolated. When plates 17 are removed, device 1 can be transformed into its folded/collapsed non-working state. This is enabled firstly by rotational separation of frames 12 and 13 of closure 4 so they lie substantially in a horizontal plane. Frames 6, 7 then descend toward frame 8 to create a compact folded state for storage. In the embodiment shown, when folded, plate rack 16 sits proud of folded frames 6, 7 and 8. In an alternative embodiment not shown), rack 16 may be folded down to create a flat pack.

[0050] FIG. 6 shows with corresponding numbering, an elevation view of the device 1 in the collapsed non-working state for storage. In this view, frames 12 and 13 of jaws 10 and 11 lie flat with eyelets 19 and 20 at the extremities and wall 9 is collapsed. For re assembly, clips or other suitable fasteners may be used which accommodate movement during expansion and folding. Space frames include locations for fixation of a wall cover or cladding. Preferably, closure 4 (or any other closure embodiment), allows for a tow rope and acts as a handle and support for hanging.

[0051] FIG. 7 shows with corresponding numbering a plan view of the collapsed view of FIG. 6.

[0052] The device in FIG. 1 is a non-limiting embodiment and it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that other configurations are feasible and contemplated.

[0053] FIGS. 8a-d show respectively front and side elevation, perspective and plan views of a space frame according to an alternative embodiment. FIG. 8a shows an elevation view of a space frame 40 comprising a base 41 defined by hoop 42 and a mesh infill 43 (see FIG. 8c,d) extending upwardly from base 41 are vertical struts 44, 45, 46 and 47, each terminating at hoop 48. Each strut has at opposite ends a pivotal coupling formed by a co operating a loop and eyelet—see loop 49 and eyelet 50 of strut 47. Frame 40 further comprises a plate rack 51 mounted on base 41. Hoop 48 supports a carry frame 52 which engages respective struts 45 and 47 and terminates at its apex in eyelet 53 which allows frame 40 to be carried, hung, towed etc.

[0054] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an alternative rack 60 mounted on base 61 and isolated from the washing device.

[0055] FIG. 10a-d shows various views including a perspective view of an isolated upper hoop 70 of a space frame. Hoop 70 includes eyelets 71-78 which are capable of retaining struts (as described in relation to FIG. 8). Hoop 70 also includes a pivotal frame member 83 for closure and/or carriage and which pivots about moment connections 81 and 82 by engagement with eyelets 74 and 78. Hoop 70 supports a carry frame 83 which engages respective eyelets 74 and 78 and terminates at its apex in eyelet 84 which allows hoop 70 to be carried, hung, towed etc.

[0056] In use, the washing device accommodates such articles as eating and cooking utensils, cooking pots, plates and crockery. It will be appreciated, however, that the washing device can accommodate a variety of articles including but not limited to fishing gear, clothing (preferably in fresh water), and any article to be washed that can fit inside the device. Ideally, the device is immersed from a stationary boat or wharf, or dragged behind a boat in motion. Eyelets 19 and 20 allow device 1 to be hung to allowing drying of contents. Although the invention has been primarily described with reference to it use for washing kitchenware, eating utensils and cookware, retaining formations inside the device can be arranged to accommodate a variety of articles of different shapes. Preferably the device collapses/folds to a convenient size for stowage, but would ideally be 300-700 mm high and about 300-600 in width or diameter. Sizes outside these ranges are contemplated.

[0057] According to an alternative embodiment, the device comprises a space frame of such construction as coated wire, stainless steel or plastics which defines an inner space which receives and retains articles to be held therein. The space frame is of any shape suitable for the purpose of holding articles for washing and which receives over its outside, a skin of preferably porous material, which allows fluid flow through. Skins used as a cover, may be exchangeable, inflatable and preferably aquadynamic. They may also be flexible, pliable or stiff The device can be any shape which satisfied the functional requirements described but its external appearance may also be dictated by aesthetics or a shape commensurate with a marine environment (such as but not limited to fish or other marine creature shaped).

[0058] Device 1 has been described primary with reference to use of hoops (e.g 6, 7) for supporting a wall and curved members (frames 12 and 13), which form opposing jaws 10 and 11. However, other foldable/collapsible structures are contemplated such as a cuboid shape with a removable or pivoting lid, a device in two opposing parts, divided longitudinally or equatorially with each using releasable clips for opening and closing for loading and unloading. The space frame is either self supporting so that space frame members such as struts, hoops, polygons, pyramids or squares are interconnected or rely for their support on wall covering for binding the device structure.

[0059] In a further embodiment, the device is manufactured from a plastics material forming a body including wall perforations to allow fluid flow therethrough and moulded or otherwise manufactured to provide recesses for accommodating articles to be cleaned.

[0060] FIG. 11 shows according to an alternative embodiment a perspective exploded view of a washing appliance 90. Appliance 90 comprises a body 91 formed by co-operating modules 92 and 93, leading end formation 94 and trailing end formation 95. Leading end formation 94 and trailing end formation 95 are preferably configured to be aquadynamic. Depending from module 92 is a detachable receptacle 96 which includes releasing retainers 97. Leading end formation 94 is attachable to module 92 via connection assembly 98 which comprises fastener 99 and co-operating nut 100. Module 92 has a wall 101 which defines a recess 102 which retains therein receptacle 96. Receptacle 96 is, when appliance 90 is in use, loaded with articles to be cleaned as will be described in more detail below. Leading end formation 94 is attachable to module 92 via connection assembly 98 which comprises fastener 99 and co-operating nut 100. Module 92 has a wall 101 which defines an underside recess 102 which retains therein receptacle 96. Receptacle 96 is, when appliance 90 is in use, loaded with articles to be cleaned as will be described in more detail below. Trailing end formation 95 is attachable to module 93 via connection assembly 103 which comprises fastener 104 and co-operating nut 105. Trailing end formation 95 is configured as an aquadynamic tail fin which contributes to stability as the appliance 90 travels through a water medium. This is connected to module 93 via corresponding engaging formations. Module 93 includes an abbreviated region 125 defining a recess including a rim 126 which accommodates corresponding rim contour 127 of trailing formation 95. Trailing formation 95 includes a recess 128 which neatly accommodates fastener 115.

[0061] Module 93 has a wall 106 which defines underside recess 107 which retains therein receptacles 108 and 109. Receptacles 108 and 109 are likewise, when appliance 90 is in use, loaded with articles to be cleaned. Receptacles 108 and 109 are releasably retained in recess 107 of module 93. Modules 92 and 93 are connected to each other via opposing ends 110 and 111. End 110 includes end wall 112 and a centrally located recess 113 which accommodates a fastening assembly 114. Similarly, end 111 includes end wall 115 and a centrally located recess 116. Recesses 113 and 116 co operate to accommodate bolt stem 117 of fastening assembly 114. Bolt stem 117 receives and retains connecting nut 118. Fastening assembly 114 is configured as an aquadynamic fin 119 which contributes to stability during transit through a marine environment. Fin 119 includes connecting flange 120 which engages accommodating recesses 121 and 122 in modules 92 and 93. In the manner described, appliance 90 can be assembled for use and disassembled for carriage and stowage or storage.

[0062] It will be appreciated that there is no limitation as to dimensionality of components and it is also contemplated that one module or more than two modules can be employed. It will also be appreciated that the different fastenings other than the use of nuts and bolts as described may be employed such as turn and twist, snap fit, slide fit, screw fit, clamp fit, tongue fit. Also the shape of modules 92 and 93 can vary according to size and space requirements. Likewise, the shape of the receptacles described may be adjusted to accommodate alternative geometry of the recesses of the modules. In the embodiment shown, the modules 92 and 93 oppose along a longitudinal axis via respective end walls 112 and 115. In an alternative embodiment, the modules have opposing joining faces along a transverse axis. It is preferred that the appliance when assembled has a slenderness which is best suited for aquadynamic performance in the marine environment would normally be fresh or sea water. To this end, the assembled appliance according to the embodiment shown takes on the appearance and geometry of a fish. Additional fins and other formations may be used to enhance aquadynamic performance and in use stability. Materials of constructions are preferably lightweight (such as but not limited to plastics) to enhance floatation.

[0063] Throughout the specification a reference to article which is contained in the appliance can be taken to include articles such as, utensils, plates, clothing, kitchenware, or any other article used in a marine/boating environment which requires cleaning and can fit the receptacles.

[0064] FIG. 12 shows with corresponding numbering the appliance 90 of FIG. 11 from an underside exploded perspective view with corresponding numbering. Receptacles 96, 108 and 109 are shown exploded from their respective recesses 102 and 107. Locking nuts 100 and 105 which located on the underside can be seen from this view and are operable by finger tightening. The use of these lightweight but heavy duty nuts are convenient for a user to assemble an disassemble the appliance. Receptacle 96 fits snugly in recess 102 of module 92 during use and may be housed there when the appliance is folded for stowage. Similarly for receptacles 108 and 109. Fastener 97 is identified on receptacle 108 and is used on each receptacle. The number of fasteners may vary according to such parameters as anchorage requirements, size and weight of the receptacles.

[0065] FIG. 13 shows the appliance of FIG. 12 with the receptacles 96, 108 and 109 removed. Body 91 of appliance 90 is shown assembled. Leading end formation 94 is engaged with module 92 with locking nut 100 tightened and locked into position. Modules 92 and 93 are secured into engagement via nut 118. Trailing end formation 95 is engaged with module 93 with locking nut 105 tightened and locked into position. FIG. 14 shows the appliance 90 with receptacles 96, 108 and 109 located in position for use. safrom an underside assembled perspective view with receptacles installed.

[0066] FIG. 15 shows the appliance 90 from a side perspective elevation fully assembled and right way up with receptacles installed. Receptacles 96, 108 and 109 are shown uncovered/open and loaded with articles 140 retained therein. Articles 140 shows are plates but can include a variety of articles for washing such as but not limited to utensils, clothing and marine activity apparatuses.

[0067] FIG. 16 shows the appliance 90 from a side elevation fully assembled with receptacles 96, 108 and 109 installed and uncovered with articles 140 retained therein. From this view, it may be seen that a shackle or loop 141 is provided as one anchor for a towing line. Further shackles 143 and 143 are shown adjacent nuts 118 and 105. A user can selectively elect an anchorage for a tow line or for suspending additional articles for washing. Alternative towing arrangements are contemplated as described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 17 shows the appliance 90 from a front perspective fully assembled with receptacles 96, 108 and 109 installed and receptacles covered and ready for towing.

[0068] FIG. 18 shows the appliance 90 from a front perspective fully assembled with receptacles 96, 108 and 109 installed and covered, this time including a tow line 144. Tow line 144 is secured to a looped strap 145 which is fed through openings 146 and 147 in leading end formation 94. This arrangement allows the two line to be optimally aligned and also allows for adjustment as required. Use of strap 145 also allows appliance 90 to self-align along an optimal track as it travels through the water.

[0069] FIG. 19 shows the appliance from a front perspective fully folded. Ideally, the appliance 90 when folded self contains all of the parts for the assembled appliance. When folded modules 92 and 93 provide a carry case for ease of transportation and stowage. Recesses 150 and 151 which in its assembled state receive fastening bolts, are now used as a carry handle. FIG. 20 shows the appliance of FIG. 19 from a side elevation. FIG. 21 shows the appliance of FIG. 19 from a side elevation from a front elevation.

[0070] Each device embodiment is arranged to ensure that articles therein are held securely during washing and particularly when towing through water.

[0071] When used in tow, as the device moves thorough water, the water enters through a leading end and exits either via a trailing end and/or gradually along the length of an article. Ideally, the external shape selected and any additional fins for rudder induces either laminar flow or turbulent flow to create agitation or oscillation. For this purpose fin and rudder geometry can be adjusted to dictate required behaviour (stability, oscillation, gyration, spinning or buoyant lift of the device in flowing water.

[0072] As an alternative to internal formations arranged to accommodate and restrain articles to be cleaned, the articles can be placed freely inside the device and retained by one or more of straps, cargo nets, hooks, perforated bags, internal skin or pockets or other form of suitable restraint. Preferably the article restraint method selected for particular articles allows orientation of the article to optimise the effect from water flowthrough at the same time reducing drag and to enhance the washing effect. For example, a cup or mug would be oriented so its open end leads and captures water but at an angle which reduces any unwanted aquadynamic drag.

[0073] It will be recognised by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modification may be made to the invention broadly described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention.