HOSE REEL ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A hose reel assembly includes a frame and a reel rotatably coupled to the frame. The reel can include a drum and four flanges arranged to define three spools, where each spool can be configured to hold a portion of a hose. The third and fourth flanges can include one or more apertures that can allow a portion of a hose to transition from a center spool to one of the outer spools, facilitating storage of a bulky fitting and improving winding and unwinding efficiency. The hose reel assembly can be mounted on a vehicle or transportable support structure. The hose reel assembly can enable multiple hoses or hose segments to be stored compactly while minimizing tangling and easing deployment and retrieval. The flanges and apertures can be sized and spaced to optimize hose storage.

Claims

1. A reel assembly, comprising: a frame; and a reel rotatably coupled to the frame, the reel comprising: a drum; a first flange extending radially outward from the drum at a first axial end of the reel assembly; a second flange extending radially outward from the drum at a second axial end of the reel assembly opposite the first flange; a third flange extending radially outward from the drum and disposed inwardly from the first flange toward the second flange, the third flange including a first aperture; and the first flange, the second flange, and the third flange defining two spools, each spool configured to hold a portion of a hose.

2. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the third flange is greater than a diameter of the first flange.

3. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the first aperture is comprised by a plurality of first apertures.

4. The reel assembly of claim 3, wherein the plurality of first apertures includes three first apertures.

5. The reel assembly of claim 4, wherein each first aperture of the plurality of first apertures are disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other.

6. The reel assembly of claim 1, wherein the first aperture tapers from a first width to a second width.

7. The reel assembly of claim 6, wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

8. The reel assembly of claim 1, further comprising a fourth flange extending radially outward from the drum and disposed inwardly from the second flange toward the first flange, the fourth flange including a second aperture; wherein the first flange, the second flange, the third flange, and the fourth flange define three spools, each spool configured to hold a portion of the hose.

9. The reel assembly of claim 8, wherein a diameter of the fourth flange is greater than a diameter of the second flange.

10. The reel assembly of claim 8, wherein the second aperture is comprised by a plurality of second apertures.

11. The reel assembly of claim 10, wherein the plurality of second apertures includes three second apertures.

12. The reel assembly of claim 11, wherein each second aperture of the plurality of second apertures are disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other.

13. The reel assembly of claim 12, wherein the second aperture tapers from a first width to a second width.

14. The reel assembly of claim 13, wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

15. The reel assembly of claim 8, wherein a distance between the first flange and the third flange is less than a distance between the third flange and the fourth flange.

16. The reel assembly of claim 8, wherein a distance between the second flange and the fourth flange is less than a distance between the third flange and the fourth flange.

17. A reel assembly, comprising: the reel assembly of claim 8, wherein: a diameter of the third flange is greater than a diameter of the first flange, a diameter of the fourth flange is greater than a diameter of the second flange, the first aperture is comprised by a plurality of first apertures, each aperture of the plurality of first apertures are disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other, the second aperture is comprised by a plurality of second apertures, each aperture of the plurality of second apertures are disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other, a distance between the first flange and the third flange is less than a distance between the third flange and the fourth flange, and a distance between the second flange and the fourth flange is less than a distance between the third flange and the fourth flange.

18. A hose carriage, comprising: a trailer; and a reel assembly, the reel assembly comprising: a frame coupled to the trailer; and a reel rotatably coupled to the frame, the reel comprising: a drum; a first flange extending radially outward from the drum at a first axial end of the reel assembly; a second flange extending radially outward from the drum at a second axial end of the reel assembly opposite the first flange; a third flange extending radially outward from the drum and disposed inwardly from the first flange toward the second flange, the third flange including a first aperture; and the first flange, the second flange, and the third flange, defining two spools, each spool configured to hold a portion of a hose.

19. The hose carriage of claim 18, further comprising a first hose, a fitting coupled to the first hose, and a second hose coupled to the fitting; wherein a first portion of the first hose is wound about one of the two spools, a second portion of the first hose is wound about another of the two spools, and a first portion of the second hose is wound about the another of the two spools, and a second portion of the second hose is wound about the one of the two spools.

20. A method of winding onto a reel assembly a first hose coupled to a second hose with a fitting, the method comprising: providing the reel assembly, wherein the reel assembly includes a frame; a reel rotatably coupled to the frame, the reel including a drum, a first flange extending radially outward from the drum at a first axial end of the reel assembly, a second flange extending radially outward from the drum at a second axial end of the reel assembly opposite the first flange, a third flange disposed inwardly from the first flange toward the second flange and including a first aperture, and the first flange, the second flange, and the third flange, defining two spools; rotating the reel to wind a first portion of the first hose onto one of the two spools; guiding a second portion of the first hose adjacent the fitting through the first aperture; rotating the reel to wind the second portion of the first hose, the fitting, and a first portion of the second hose adjacent the fitting onto another one of the two spools; guiding a second portion of the second hose through the first aperture from the another one of the two spools; and rotating the reel to wind the second portion of the second hose onto the one of the two spools.

Description

DRAWINGS

[0015] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a reel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a left-side elevational view of the reel assembly, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the reel assembly, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the reel assembly taken along line AA, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a reel assembly coupled to a trailer, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a reel assembly coupled to a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a reel assembly coupled to a vehicle depicting a first hose, a second hose, and a third hose coupled to a fitting in an unwound state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first hose, a second hose, and a third hose coupled to a fitting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a method of winding a first hose, a fitting, and a second hose onto a reel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0025] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of unwinding a first hose, a fitting, and a second hose from a reel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. A and an as used herein indicate at least one of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word about and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word substantially in describing the broadest scope of the technology. About when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by about and/or substantially is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then about and/or substantially as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

[0027] Although the open-ended term comprising, as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as consisting of or consisting essentially of. Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

[0028] As referred to herein, disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of from A to B or from about A to about B is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 110, or 29, or 38, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 19, 18, 13, 12, 210, 28, 23, 310, 39, and so on.

[0029] When an element or layer is referred to as being on, engaged to, connected to, or coupled to another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being directly on, directly engaged to, directly connected to or directly coupled to another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., between versus directly between, adjacent versus directly adjacent, etc.). As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0031] Spatially relative terms, such as inner, outer, beneath, below, lower, above, upper, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as below or beneath other elements or features would then be oriented above the other elements or features. Thus, the example term below can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0032] The present technology provides a reel assembly that can streamline the deployment of a fire hose by minimizing manual handling and setup time, accommodating bulky fittings, improving hose management, and enhancing the overall efficiency of fire suppression efforts. Fire hose deployment can require simultaneously managing several hose lengths and fittings. Fittings such as gated wyes, couplings, and valves can be bulky and rigid, making it difficult to wind or unwind a hose smoothly and quickly. The present reel assembly can address these challenges by enabling a portion of the hose to transition between two or more spools, allowing the hose and associated fittings to be stored in different spools without interference. The reel assembly can thereby facilitate faster deployment, cleaner storage, and reduced hose wear. By disposing the hose and the associated fittings across two or more spools, the reel assembly can reduce interference between the fittings and the hose. A portion of the hose adjacent a bulky fitting can be guided into one of the outer spools through a flange aperture so that the fitting does not obstruct winding, create uneven stacking on a central spool, or cause hose wear. The reel assembly can be mounted to a vehicle or to a portable frame (e.g., trailer), allowing the reel assembly to be transported and positioned as needed during firefighting operations. Such a structure can promote balance, portability, and ease of operation while minimizing setup time. These advantages can improve operational efficiency, reduce physical strain on personnel, and support a rapid and organized response in demanding firefighting conditions.

[0033] Referring now to the drawings, in certain embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 1-6, a reel assembly 100 is provided. The reel assembly 100 can include a frame 102 and a reel 104 rotatably coupled to the frame 102. The frame 102 can provide structural support for the reel 104 and can be configured to maintain the reel 104 in an operative position during winding and unwinding of a hose. The frame 102 can include materials such as aluminum, steel, or a composite material suitable for supporting the weight of the reel 104 and any hose stored thereon. The frame 102 can facilitate mounting and balanced rotation of the reel 104 during operation.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the frame 102 can include a first portion 106 and a second portion 108. The first portion 106 and the second portion 108 can cooperate to support the reel 104 and can define a mounting interface for a drum 114. The modularity of the frame 102 can allow disassembly for maintenance, transportation, or reconfiguration for various reel sizes.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the frame 102 can include a plurality of apertures 110 to reduce a weight of the reel assembly 100. The plurality of apertures 110 can be strategically positioned to maintain strength while minimizing material use. The plurality of apertures 110 can also serve as mounting or access points for accessories or protective panels. The reduced weight of the frame 102 can enhance transportability and handling of the reel assembly 100.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the frame 102 can be coupled to a vehicle or a transportable support structure 112. The coupling can allow the reel assembly 100 to be positioned on a fire truck, a utility vehicle, or other transport platforms used in hose deployment operations. The coupling arrangement can include a fastener, a bracket, or a mounting plate configured to secure the frame 102 in a position. The coupling of the frame 102 to a transportable support structure 112 can facilitate ease of relocation and operational readiness.

[0037] The transportable support structure 112 can include a trailer, a cart, a sled, or another type of tow-behind implement. The transportable support structure 112 can provide mobility for the reel assembly 100 across various types of terrain and operating conditions. The transportable support structure 112 can include wheels, skids, or runners, allowing the reel assembly 100 to be manually or mechanically moved as required. The portability of the transportable support structure 112 can improve the flexibility and responsiveness of equipment deployment.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the reel 104 can include a drum 114 that defines a cylindrical portion configured to support a hose. The drum 114 can be hollow or solid, and can have an outer surface that provides a contact surface for the hose. The drum 114 can be formed as a unitary structure or as multiple coupled sections that together define a rotational axis of the reel 104. The drum 114 can be rotatably supported by the frame 102 to allow winding and unwinding of the hose.

[0039] The drum 114 can include an axle 116 configured to permit rotation of the reel 104 relative to the frame 102. The axle 116 can also define the rotational axis of the reel 104 and can be supported by bearings or bushings housed on or within the frame 102. The axle 116 can allow the reel 104 to rotate smoothly. It should be understood that the axle 116 can be coaxial with the drum 114. The coaxial configuration can promote balanced rotation during operation. The alignment of the axle 116 and drum 114 can enhance the stability of the reel assembly 100, particularly when deployed on uneven surfaces. The coaxial arrangement can also simplify manufacturing and assembly of the reel 104. The axle 116 can include a handle 118. The handle 118 can allow manual rotation of the reel 104 for winding or unwinding the hose. The handle 118 can be permanently or removably coupled to the axle 116, and can be positioned to provide access for a user. The handle 118 can include grip features to improve control and reduce slippage during operation.

[0040] In certain embodiments, a first flange 120 can extend radially outward from the drum 114 at a first axial end 122 of the reel assembly 100. The first flange 120 can serve as a boundary surface that retains the hose along an axial length of the drum 114 during winding and can militate against lateral displacement. The first flange 120 can be circular, polygonal, or another shape suitable for retaining the hose. The first flange 120 can be integrally formed with or coupled to the drum 114.

[0041] In certain embodiments, a second flange 124 can extend radially outward from the drum 114 at a second axial end 126 of the reel assembly 100 opposite the first flange 120. The second flange 124 can serve as a boundary surface that retains the hose on the drum 114 during winding and can militate against lateral displacement. The second flange 124 can be circular, polygonal, or another shape suitable for retaining the hose. The second flange 124 can be integrally formed with or coupled to the drum 114.

[0042] In certain embodiments, a third flange 128 can extend radially outward from the drum 114 and can be disposed inwardly from the first flange 120 toward the second flange 124. The third flange 128 can include a first aperture 130 that can permit a hose to pass between adjacent spools on the reel 104. The first aperture 130 can taper from a first width W1 to a second width W2, as shown in FIG. 4. The first width W1 of the first aperture 130 can be greater than the second width W2. The tapering geometry of the first aperture 130 can facilitate movement of the hose during winding and unwinding and passing of the hose therethrough as a diameter of wound/unwound hose changes.

[0043] In certain embodiments, a fourth flange 132 can extend radially outward from the drum 114 and can be disposed inwardly from the second flange 124 toward the first flange 120. The fourth flange 132 can include a second aperture 134 that can permit a hose to pass between adjacent spools on the reel 104. The second aperture 134 can taper from a first width W1 to a second width W2, as shown in FIG. 4. The first width W1 of the second aperture 134 can be greater than the second width W2. The tapering geometry of the second aperture 134 can increase movement of the hose during winding and unwinding and passing of the hose therethrough as a diameter of wound/unwound hose changes.

[0044] With reference to FIG. 3, the first flange 120, the second flange 124, the third flange 128, and the fourth flange 132 can together define a first spool 136, a second spool 138, and a third spool 140. The third flange 128 and the fourth flange 132 can define the first spool 136. The first flange 120 and the third flange 128 can define the second spool 138. The second flange 124 and the fourth flange 132 can define the third spool 140. It should be understood, the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool can be axially aligned. The first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140 can each be configured to hold a portion of a hose, thereby facilitating organized storage and deployment. The first spool 136 can accommodate a main length of the hose, while the second spool 138 and the third spool 140 can receive hose segments adjacent fittings or couplings. This configuration can reduce tangling and can promote smoother winding and unwinding operations.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the first aperture 130 can include a plurality of first apertures 130. For example, the plurality of first apertures 130 can include two first apertures 130. The two first apertures 130 can be disposed opposite each other. The plurality of first apertures 130 can include three first apertures 130. Each first aperture 130 of the plurality of first apertures 130 can be spaced circumferentially about the third flange 128 and can be shaped to guide a portion of the hose. For example, each first aperture 130 of the plurality of first apertures 130 can be disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other. Equal spacing can promote structural strength of the third flange 128 and balanced reel performance. The inclusion of a third first aperture 130 can offer additional routing options for hoses. The plurality of first apertures 130 can permit a hose to pass between adjacent spools on the reel 104. The inclusion of the plurality of first apertures 130 can facilitate storage of the hose with a bulky fitting by allowing hose segments to transition between adjacent spools without interference. It should be understood that the number of first apertures 130 can be selected to correspond to anticipated hose arrangements and fitting locations. The inclusion of multiple apertures can provide flexibility in routing the hose between spools. The number and position of first apertures 130 can be adapted for different hose diameters or fitting types. The number and position of first apertures 130 can also be adapted for load distribution. The symmetric positioning of the plurality of first apertures 130 can improve the stability of the reel 104 during winding and unwinding.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the second aperture 134 can include a plurality of second apertures 134. For example, the plurality of second apertures 134 can include two second apertures 134. The two second apertures 134 can be disposed opposite each other. The plurality of second apertures 134 can include three second apertures 134. Each second aperture 134 of the plurality of second apertures 134 can be spaced circumferentially about the fourth flange 132 and can be shaped to guide a portion of the hose. For example, each second aperture 134 of the plurality of second apertures 134 can be disposed circumferentially at equally spaced intervals from each other. Equal spacing can promote structural strength of the fourth flange 132 and balanced reel performance. The inclusion of a third second aperture 134 can offer additional routing options for hoses. The plurality of second apertures 134 can permit a hose to pass between adjacent spools on the reel 104. The inclusion of the plurality of second apertures 134 can facilitate storage of the hose with a bulky fitting by allowing hose segments to transition between adjacent spools without interference. It should be understood that the number of second apertures 134 can be selected to correspond to anticipated hose arrangements and fitting locations. The inclusion of multiple apertures can provide flexibility in routing the hose between spools. The number and position of second apertures 134 can be adapted for different hose diameters or fitting types. The number and position of second apertures 134 can also be adapted for load distribution. The symmetric positioning of the plurality of second apertures 134 can improve the stability of the reel 104 during winding and unwinding.

[0047] In certain embodiments, a diameter of the first flange 120 can be equal to a diameter of the second flange 124. The equal diameters of the first flange 120 and the second flange 124 can provide symmetry across the reel assembly 100, improving balance. The matching diameters can also simplify fabrication and replacement of components. Symmetry in the flange configuration can further stabilize rotation during high-speed winding and unwinding.

[0048] In certain embodiments, a diameter of the third flange 128 can be greater than a diameter of the first flange 120. This configuration can increase the storage capacity of the first spool 136. A diameter of the fourth flange 132 can be greater than a diameter of the second flange 124. This configuration can increase the storage capacity of the first spool 136. A diameter of the third flange 128 can be equal to a diameter of the fourth flange 132. Equal diameters of the third flange 128 and the fourth flange 132 can promote consistent spacing and hose distribution across the first spool 136.

[0049] With reference to FIG. 3, a distance S1 between the first flange 120 and the third flange 128 can be less than a distance S2 between the third flange 128 and the fourth flange 132. The greater spacing between the third flange 128 and the fourth flange 132 can accommodate one or more segments of the hose. This dimensional variation can improve organization of the hose and militate against interference between fittings and wound layers of the hose. A distance S3 between the second flange 124 and the fourth flange 132 can be less than the distance S2 between the third flange 128 and the fourth flange 132. This configuration can allow fittings or couplings positioned along different portions of the hose to be stored without interference. This dimensional variation can improve organization of the hose and militate against interference between fittings and wound layers of the hose.

[0050] In certain embodiments, a first hose 142 can be wound about the reel 104 within at least one of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140. The first hose 142 can be arranged in a helical or layered pattern to promote compact storage and balanced distribution of weight across the reel 104. The configuration can allow the first hose 142 to be deployed in a controlled manner as the reel 104 is rotated about the axle 116. The arrangement of the first hose 142 within one or more of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140 can facilitate smooth winding and unwinding while militating against the likelihood of kinks or tangling during deployment of the hose.

[0051] With reference to FIGS. 7-8, the first hose 142 can include a fitting 144 coupled to the first hose 142 and a second hose 146 coupled to the fitting 144. The fitting 144 can include a coupling, a gated wye, a water thief, a tee valve, or a nozzle configured to couple the first hose 142 and the second hose 146 in fluid communication. It should be understood that the fitting 144 can be any implement configured to couple two or more hoses. As shown in FIG. 8, the fitting 144 is a gated wye. The fitting 144 can be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material such as brass, stainless steel, or aluminum to withstand internal pressure and mechanical stress during firefighting operations. The fitting 144 can vary in size and geometry depending on its intended function, such as flow division, directional control, or terminal discharge. The fitting 144 can be positioned such that it transitions between two spools of the reel 104 during winding or unwinding operations.

[0052] In certain embodiments, a first hose 142, a fitting 144 coupled to the first hose 142, and a second hose 146 coupled to the fitting 144, and a third hose 156 coupled to the fitting 144 can be wound about the reel 104. A first portion 148 of the first hose 142 can be wound about one of the three spools 136, 138, 140, and a second portion 150 of the first hose 142 can be disposed through one of the first aperture 130 and the second aperture 134 and wound about another of the three spools 136, 138, 140. Along with the second portion 150 of the first hose 142, the fitting 144 can also be would about the another of the three spools 136, 138, 140. A first portion 152 of the second hose 146 can also be wound about the another of the three spools 136, 138, 140. A second portion 154 of the second hose 146 can then be disposed through the one of the first aperture 130 and the second aperture 134 and wound about the one of the three spools 136, 138, 140. A first portion 158 of the third hose 156 can also be wound about the same spool as the second portion 150 of the first hose 142. A second portion 160 of the third hose 156 can then be wound about the one of the three spools 136, 138, 140. The first hose 142, the fitting 144, the second hose 146, and the third hose 156 can be distributed across spools 136, 138, 140, thereby reducing interference between the first hose 142, the fitting 144, the second hose 146, and the third hose 156 during winding and unwinding while maintaining an organized arrangement on the reel 104.

[0053] In certain embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 9, a method 200 of winding a first hose 142, a fitting 144, and a second hose 146 onto a reel 104 of the reel assembly 100 is provided. The method 200 can include rotating the reel 104 to wind a first portion 148 of the first hose 142 onto one of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140. It should be understood that the first hose 142 and the second hose 146 can be maintained under tension during winding to promote layering and militate against twisting of the first hose 142 and the second hose 146. The first hose 142 can be guided laterally as it is wound so that it is distributed between respective flanges 120, 124, 128, 132 which define the respective spools 136, 138, 140.

[0054] The method 200 can include guiding a second portion 150 of the first hose 142, disposed adjacent to a fitting 144 coupled to the first hose 142, through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134. The guiding step can allow the fitting 144 to transition from one of the spools 136, 138, 140 to an adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140. The fitting 144 can therefore be passed through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134.

[0055] Once the fitting 144 and adjacent portion of the first hose 142 are disposed through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134, the reel 104 can be rotated to wind the second portion 150 of the first hose 142, the fitting 144, and a first portion 152 of the second hose 146 onto the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140. The winding can position the second portion 150 of the first hose 142, the fitting 144, and a first portion 152 of the second hose 146 on the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140 between its respective flanges 120, 124, 128, 132.

[0056] The method 200 can include guiding a second portion 154 of the second hose 146 through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134. The guiding step can allow the second portion 154 of the second hose 146 to transition from one of the spools 136, 138, 140 to the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140. Once the second portion 154 of the second hose 146 is disposed through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134, the reel 104 can be rotated to wind the second portion 154 of the second hose 146 onto the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140. The arrangement of the first hose 142, the fitting 144, and the second hose 146 can distribute a combined length of the first hose 142, the fitting 144, and the second hose 146 across the spools 136, 138, 140, thereby reducing interference caused by the fitting 144. The described sequence of winding and guiding can facilitate hose storage and efficient deployment when the first hose 142 and the second hose 146 are later unwound.

[0057] In certain embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 10, a method 300 of unwinding a first hose 142, a fitting 144, and a second hose 146 from a reel 104 of the reel assembly 100 is provided. The method 300 can include rotating the reel 104 to unwind a second portion 154 of the second hose 146 from one of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140. The second hose 146 can be maintained under light tension during unwinding to militate against slack accumulation and militating against tangling as it is unwound from the one of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140.

[0058] The method 300 can include guiding the second portion 154 of the second hose through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134. The guiding step can allow the second portion 154 of the second hose 146 to transition from the one of the spools 136, 138, 140 to an adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140.

[0059] Once the second portion 154 of the second hose 146 is disposed through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134, the reel 104 can be rotated to unwind a first portion 152 of the second hose 146, the fitting 144, and a second portion 150 of the first hose 142 from the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140.

[0060] The method 300 can include guiding the second hose 146, the fitting 144, and the second portion 150 of the first hose 142 through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134. The guiding step can allow the second hose 146, the fitting 144, and the second portion 150 of the first hose 142 to transition from the adjacent one of the spools 136, 138, 140 to one of the spools 136, 138, 140. Once the second hose 146, the fitting 144, and the second portion 150 of the first hose 142 are disposed through the first aperture 130 or the second aperture 134, the reel 104 can be rotated to unwind the first portion 148 of the first hose 142 from the one of the first spool 136, the second spool 138, and the third spool 140. The sequence of unwinding and guiding can facilitate controlled hose deployment and militate against tangling, kinking, or obstruction during active use.

[0061] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0062] In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present technology, with substantially similar results.