A back-mounted spray apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes a pair of side handles integrally formed therewith and a central handle therebetween and integrally formed therewith. Actuation of a spraying assembly of the apparatus causes the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom. The storage container has a lower or front peripheral portion that is arc-shaped in a direction extending between sides thereof according to one aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a frame member extending along a rear thereof and to which the storage container couples. The frame member has an aperture extending therethrough which is arc-shaped. A horizontal frame member is cantilevered from a vertical frame member according to another aspect. The storage container has a lower portion within an inwardly-facing channel shaped to receive and couple to the horizontal frame member.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

There is provided a spray apparatus. In particular, there is provided a back-mounted spray apparatus.

Description of the Related Art

United States Patent Application Publication No. 2021/0046494 to Lam discloses an electric power sprayer. The electric power spray has a battery system with a battery interface and a voltage transformer. The battery interface may receive a plurality of different batteries having different voltages. The voltage transformer is operatively-connected to the battery interface and converts the different voltages into a standard voltage.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,199 to Restive discloses a backpack sprayer comprising a supply tank, an expandable accumulator, a pump mechanism, an intake valve, a discharge valve, and a spray wand with a nozzle. The supply tank is designed to hold fluids, such as insecticides, herbicides, water sealants, etc. The expandable accumulator is preferably an elastomeric bladder, the function of which is to accumulate fluid from the supply tank under pressure. The volume of the bladder expands as pressurized fluid enters from the pump mechanism. As with most backpack sprayers, the pump mechanism is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the supply tank and is in fluid communication with the tank. The function of the pump mechanism is to pump fluid from the supply tank into the bladder. An intake valve, associated with an inlet opening of the bladder, enables a unidirectional flow of liquid from the pump to the bladder. Discharge of fluid from the bladder also occurs through the inlet opening upon the opening of a discharge valve. The discharge valve is normally closed to permit the bladder to accumulate a desired quantity of fluid. In the preferred embodiment, the discharge valve is hand-operated and located in a handle attached to a spray wand and nozzle. When the discharge valve is opened, the discharged fluid is directed from the accumulator and channeled through a hose, trigger handle, spray wand and spray nozzle.

Japanese Patent Reference No. 2014-135937 to Kosugi Shingo discloses a backpack type working machine. The machine includes a backpack type bush cutter formed by loading an engine, which is a drive source, on a backpack to be carried on the operator's back. The backpack includes a back surface part facing the operator's back. The backpack includes a base part extending from one end of the back surface part and loaded with the engine. The backpack includes a handle part extending from the another end of the back surface part. The backpack includes a tank for storing a fuel to be supplied to the engine. The tank extends integrally with the handle part in the same direction as the handle part and is arranged under the handle part.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,826 to Shapanus et al. discloses a portable fluid dispenser. The portable fluid dispenser has a tank, a pump coupled to the tank for pumping fluid therefrom, and a battery connected to the tank for powering the pump. The battery can be part of a removable battery pack received within an external receptacle of the tank. Some embodiments of the dispenser are adapted to be worn (such as in the form of a backpack), while others are adapted to be carried by a user. Also, in some embodiments a conduit extends through the tank in order to enable fluid to pass from the pump to another location with respect to the tank.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

There is provided, and it is an object to provide, an improved back-mounted spray apparatus, in this case a backpack sprayer.

There is accordingly provided a backpack sprayer according to a first aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes a pair of side handles integrally formed therewith and a central handle therebetween and integrally formed therewith. The backpack sprayer includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container. Actuation of the spraying assembly causes the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.

There is further provided a backpack sprayer according to a second aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The backpack sprayer includes a frame member extending along a rear thereof. The storage container couples to the frame member. The frame member includes a circular aperture extending therethrough.

There is also provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to a third aspect. The apparatus includes a backrest. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container couples to the backrest and includes a central handle integrally formed therewith and positioned between sides thereof. The central handle aligns with or is below the top of the storage container and extends rearward a distance equal to less than that of the backrest. The apparatus includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.

There is additionally provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to a fourth aspect. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes an outwardly concave recessed portion positioned between sides thereof. The storage container includes a central handle integrally formed therewith. The storage container includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.

There is yet also provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to a fifth aspect. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes a first handle integrally formed with a front thereof and a second central handle integrally formed with a rear thereof. The apparatus includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.

There is further provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to a sixth aspect. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes handle means integrally formed with and coupled thereto. The storage container includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively spray outwards therefrom.

There is yet further provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to a seventh aspect. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes at least one central handle integrally formed with the top thereof adjacent to one of a front or rear thereof. The apparatus includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.

There is yet additionally provided a back-mounted spray apparatus according to an eighth aspect. The apparatus includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes a pair of side handles integrally formed with respective sides thereof. The storage container includes a pair of arc-shaped portions each enclosing a respective said side handle. The apparatus includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom

There is also provided a backpack sprayer according to a ninth aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container has a lower or front peripheral portion that is arc-shaped in a direction extending between sides thereof. The backpack sprayer includes a frame member extending along a rear thereof. The storage container couples to the frame member. The frame member has an aperture extending therethrough which is arc-shaped at least in part.

There is further provided a backpack sprayer according to a tenth aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a frame comprising one or more vertical members and one or more horizontal members coupled to and cantilevered from the one or more vertical members. The backpack sprayer includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container has a lower portion within an inwardly-facing channel shaped to receive and couple to the one or more horizontal members of the frame.

There is yet also provided a backpack sprayer according to an eleventh aspect. The backpack sprayer includes a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed. The storage container includes a front and a rear spaced-apart from the front thereof. The storage container includes first and second sides extending between the front thereof and the rear thereof. The storage container includes a first angled surface extending between the first side thereof and the front thereof. The storage container includes a second angled surface extending between the second side thereof and the front thereof. The storage container includes a third angled surface extending between the first side thereof and the rear thereof. The storage container includes a fourth angled surface extending between the second side thereof and the rear thereof. The backpack sprayer includes a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container. Actuation of the spraying assembly causes the liquid from the storage container to be selectively spray outwards therefrom.

There is yet further provided a storage container for one or more of the above set out backpack sprayers.

There is provided a method of forming a storage container for a back-mounted spray apparatus. The method includes forming a handle via a handle mold. The method includes enclosing the handle so formed within a block assembly having one or more exterior surfaces which are outwardly convex. The method includes positioning the block assembly within a container mold. The method includes blow injecting material into the container mold.

It is emphasized that the invention relates to all combinations of the above features, even if these are recited in different claims.

Further aspects and example embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or described in the following description.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawings and first toFIG.1, there is shown a back-mounted spray apparatus, in this example a backpack sprayer40. The backpack sprayer has a front47and a rear49opposite the front thereof.

The backpack sprayer40includes a storage container42. The storage container may be referred to as a supply tank or liquid reservoir. Storage container42is made a chemically-resistant material, in this example a plastic, in this case polyethylene. However, this is not strictly required and the storage container may be made of other materials in other examples. Storage container42is shaped to receive therein a medium to be sprayed, in this example liquid44stored within an interior45thereof. The liquid may be an insecticide, herbicide, fungicide, pesticide or other such chemical composition.

As seen inFIG.1, storage container42has a front46aligned with front47of backpack sprayer40. The front of the storage container is an isosceles trapezoid in shape in this example; however this is not strictly required. Referring toFIG.2, the storage container has a rear48spaced-apart from the front thereof and aligned with rear49of storage container42. The storage container has a first or right side50and a second or left side52(seen inFIG.1) extending between front46thereof and the rear thereof. As seen inFIG.1, front46and rear48of storage container42extend between the sides of the storage container.

Storage container42has a top54and a bottom56spaced-apart from the top thereof. The top and bottom of storage container42extend between sides50and52of the storage container and extend between front46and rear48of the storage container. Referring toFIGS.2and4, the storage container is octagonal in top profile in this example; however, this is not strictly required. As seen inFIG.1, storage container42includes a removable lid58threadably coupled to top54thereof and via which liquid44is insertable into the storage container.

The storage container includes an upper portion60that extends from top54thereof towards bottom56thereof. As seen inFIG.4, the storage container includes a lower portion62that extends from the bottom thereof towards the top thereof. The lower portion of storage container42is coupled to and integrally formed with upper portion60of the storage container in this example.

Referring toFIG.2, lower portion62of the storage container has an inwardly-facing channel64in this example. Storage container42includes a peripheral portion, in this example a lower peripheral portion66extending from bottom56towards top54thereof. The lower peripheral portion may be referred to a front peripheral portion of the storage container. As seen inFIG.4, the bottom, the lower peripheral portion, and lower portion62of the storage container are u-shaped in bottom profile in this example.

As seen inFIG.1, backpack sprayer40has a longitudinal axis43. Storage container42is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis in this example. The storage container includes a first angled surface68in this example extending between right side50thereof and front46thereof. Storage container42includes a second angled surface70in this example extending between left side52thereof and the front thereof. As seen inFIG.2, the storage container includes a third angled surface72in this example extending between right side50thereof and rear48thereof. As seen inFIG.4, storage container42includes a fourth angled surface74extending between left side52thereof and the rear thereof.

Referring toFIGS.1and3, first angled surface68, second angled surface70, third angled surface72and fourth angled surface74of the storage container are each substantially the same in shape in this example. The first angled surface, second angled surface, third angled surface and fourth angled surface of storage container42are generally planar and isosceles trapezoids in shape in this example. First angled surface68and third angled surface72of the storage container seen inFIGS.1and2taper in a first direction75seen inFIG.1outwards from longitudinal axis43of backpack sprayer40in this embodiment; however this is not strictly required. Second angled surface70and fourth angled surface74of storage container42seen inFIGS.1and3taper in a second direction77outwards from the longitudinal axis of the backpack sprayer in this embodiment; however here too this is not strictly required.

As seen inFIG.1, the storage container includes fifth angled surface76in this example extending between top54thereof and right side50thereof. As seen with reference toFIGS.1and2, the fifth angled surface of the storage container tapers from the top of the storage container towards right side50of the storage container.

Referring toFIG.1, storage container42includes a sixth angled surface78in this example extending between top54thereof and left side52thereof. The sixth angled surface of storage container42tapers from the top of the storage container towards left side52of the storage container. Fifth angled surface76and sixth angled surface78are substantially the same in shape in this example, in this case being generally planar and isosceles trapezoids in shape; however this is not strictly required. As seen inFIG.1, storage container42thus tapers in directions75and77extending from longitudinal axis43of backpack sprayer40towards sides50and52thereof in this example.

As seen inFIG.2, the storage container includes a seventh angled surface79ain this example extending between top54thereof and rear48thereof. The seventh angled surface is positioned between sides50and52of storage container42. Seventh angled surface79aof storage container42is outwardly concave in this example. As seen inFIG.8, the storage container has a lower angled surface79badjacent to and which extends at an angle relative to angled surface79a; however this is not strictly required. Angled surface79bof storage container42is also outwardly concave in this example.

As seen with reference toFIGS.8to11, storage container42tapers at least in part from longitudinal axis43towards sides50and52thereof in this example. The storage container also in this example tapers at least in part from bottom56thereof towards top54thereof.

Referring toFIG.1, the storage container includes a plurality of container-carrying handles, in this example a pair of side handles80and82and central handle84seen inFIG.2and positioned between the side handles. The central handle may be referred to as a centrally-positioned handle. Handles80,82and84of storage container42are rigidly coupled together and formed therewith. The handles are integrally connected to and formed with the storage container so as to form a unitary whole in this example. Each of handles80,82and84of the storage containers as herein described and shown inFIGS.1to52may individually or collectively be referred to as handle means.

As seen inFIG.2, right side handle80of storage container42is integrally formed with right side50of the storage container. The right side handle of the storage container is formed by the right side, first angled surface68, third angled surface72and fifth angled surface76of the storage container in this example; however, this is not strictly required. The fifth angled surface of storage container42may be referred to as an upper member of right side handle80of the storage container.

The right side handle of the storage container includes a receptacle86. The receptacle is shaped to selectively receive a hand at least partially therein and may be referred to as a hand-receiving receptacle. Receptacle86tapers in a direction extending from top54of storage container42towards right side50of storage container42in this example. Right side handle80of the storage container has an opening88in fluid communication with the receptacle thereof. The opening is rectangular in profile in this example and shaped to receive a first hand (not shown) at least partially therethrough. Fifth angled surface76of storage container42extends from opening88of the right side handle outwards towards top54of the storage container. Storage container42has a first side surface89extending along side50thereof below the opening of right side handle80in this example. The first side surface of the storage container is generally planar and rectangular in this example, though this is not strictly required.

As seen inFIG.1, left side handle82of storage container42is integrally formed with left side52of the storage container. The left side handle of the storage container is formed by the left side, second angled surface70, fourth angled surface74and sixth angled surface78of storage container42in this example. The sixth angled surface of the storage container may be referred to as an upper member of left side handle82.

Left side handle82of storage container42includes a receptacle90. The receptacle is shaped to selectively receive a hand at least partially therein and may be referred to as a hand-receiving receptacle. Receptacle90tapers in a direction extending from top54of storage container42towards left side52of the storage container in this example. Left side handle82of the storage container has an opening92in fluid communication with the receptacle thereof. The opening is rectangular in profile in this example and shaped to receive a second hand (not shown) at least partially therethrough. Sixth angled surface78of storage container42extends from opening92of left side handle82outwards towards top54of the storage container. The storage container has a second side surface93extending along side52thereof and positioned below the opening of the left side handle. The second side surface is generally planar and rectangular in this example, though this is not strictly required. Left side handle82and right side handle80of storage container42are substantially mirror images of each other and otherwise substantially similar in shape in this example.

As seen inFIG.2, central handle84of storage container42is positioned between the side handles and sides50and52of the storage container. The central handle of the storage container is positioned rearwards of side handles80of the storage container in this example. Central handle84of storage container42couples to and is integrally formed with top54and rear48of the storage container in this example. The central handle of the storage container extends outwards in part and upwards in part relative to the storage container in this example. Referring toFIG.9, central handle84of storage container42is positioned level with or below top54of storage container42. The central handle of the storage container extends substantially perpendicular to side handles80of the storage container in this example. Central handle84of storage container42is fixed relative to positioning of side handles80of the storage container.

Still referring toFIG.2, the central handle of the storage container includes a base, in this example seventh angled surface79aof the storage container. Central handle84of storage container42includes an elongate outer member94shaped to be gripped by one's hand. Seventh angled surface79aof the storage container faces the elongate outer member of the central handle. Elongate outer member94of central handle84of storage container42extends perpendicular to sides50and52and side handles80of the storage container. The central handle of the storage container tapers in a direction81extending from seventh angled surface79aof storage container42to elongate outer member94. The elongate outer member of central handle84is integrally connected to and formed with storage container42so as to form a unitary whole in this example. The central handle of the storage container has an opening95formed by seventh angled surface79aof storage container42and elongate outer member94of the central handle. The opening is shaped to fit one's hand at least partially therethrough when gripping the elongate outer member.

As seen inFIG.5, central handle84is first formed by injection molding in this example. A first or handle mold109is pressed together, only one half portion85of which is shown inFIG.5, with the other half portion being generally a mirror image thereof. The handle mold in this case is configured to make two handles84. Handle mold109has interior87comprising a mirror image of the handle shape. Material such as a meltable polymer, in this example heated liquid plastic is injected into the molds and the material is thereafter cooled to form the handles. Each central handle84includes a pair of spaced-apart end portions111and113. The central handle is thus generally c-shaped. One or more protrusions extend outwards from each end portion of central handle84, in this example in the form of a pair of spaced-apart tabs as seen inFIG.6by tabs115and117of end portion113.

Central handle84is then enclosed by a block assembly119. The block assembly comprises two halves portions121and123that are coupled together via fasteners, in this example screws131. Block assembly119has a first exterior surface133extending between end portions111and113of handle84. The first exterior surface of block assembly119is outwardly convex and mirrors seventh angled surface79aof the storage container seen inFIG.8. Referring back toFIG.6, the block assembly includes a second exterior surface135coupled to and extending outwards at angle relative to first exterior surface133thereof. The second exterior surface of block assembly119is outwardly convex and mirrors lower angled surface79bof the storage container seen inFIG.8.

As seen inFIG.7, a second or container mold141is provided which mirrors upper portion60and lower portion62and side handles80and82of storage container42seen inFIG.1. Referring back toFIG.7, block assembly119, with handle84enclosed therein, is positioned within the container mold along surface143of the container mold. Surface143mirrors rear48of storage container42seen inFIG.8at a location adjacent to where top54of the storage container is formed, in this example. Referring back toFIG.7, material149is next blow mold injected into container mold141so as to coat interior145of the container mold and exterior147of block assembly119.

Tabs115and117of end portions111and113of central handle84melt and bond with the rest of the material being injected therein during this process. The central handle thereby couples to and is integrally formed with the rest of the material now shaped in the form of storage container42seen inFIG.1. Central handle84is sealed to the rest of the storage container thereby. The central handle is thus joined to the rest of storage container42while positioned within container mold141. Block assembly119may be unscrewed and removed from central handle84thereafter.

There is thus provided a method of forming storage container42seen inFIG.1for backpack sprayer40. The method includes forming central handle84seen inFIG.5via handle mold109. The central handle is formed to include spaced-apart end portions111and113and elongate outer member94extending therebetween.

As seen inFIG.6, the method includes enclosing handle84so formed within block assembly119. The method includes providing the block assembly with one or more exterior surfaces133and135that are outwardly convex. The one or more exterior surfaces of the block assembly extend between end portions111and113of the handle. The end portions of handle84extend at least in part outwards from block assembly119, in this example outwards from exterior surface133of the block assembly.

Referring toFIG.7, the method includes positioning the block assembly within container mold141. The method includes blow injecting heated material149into the container mold so as to coat interior surfaces143thereof and exterior surfaces133and135of block assembly119. End portions111and113of handle84, including in this example tabs115and117thereof, melt to and integrally couple with the material so injected during the blow injecting step. Referring toFIG.11, one or more concave shapes shown by surfaces79aand79bare formed in storage container42via block assembly119. Injection blowing molding per se is known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in further detail.

The method of forming storage container42as described herein may result in many advantages. Referring toFIG.7, block assembly119, with end portions111and113of central handle84extending outwards therefrom and melting with material149within container mold141, may result in a central handle that better couples together with the rest of the storage container in a repeatable, strengthened manner. The concave shape as shown by surfaces79aand79bof storage container42seen inFIG.11, and formed by block assembly119seen inFIG.6, may strength of the storage container. The concave shape adjacent central handle84may also function to inhibit the blow mold from breaking at side handles80and82thereof seen inFIGS.8and9when the storage container is removed from mold141seen inFIG.7for example.

Block assembly119and the method as herein described, with exterior surfaces133and135of the block assembly seen inFIG.7, may facilitate material flow during the injection process while also facilitating a relatively quick release of the material from mold141thereafter. This may be advantageous because if the material remains in the mold for too long, handles84,80and/or82seen inFIGS.8and9have a greater prospect of breaking, including breaking free from the rest of storage container42seen inFIG.1. This may result in a storage container that is damaged and/or with one more holes extending therein. Referring back toFIG.7, the reduction in time of material149within mold141resulting from the above process may also result in an increase in manufacturing productivity.

Block assembly119may further provide the advantage of reducing the overall size of container mold141, which may reduce mold costs and provide an economy of scale.

The concave shape formed by surfaces79aand79binFIG.11, and formed by block assembly119seen inFIG.6, may further function to hide central handle84in part and/or inhibit the extent to which the central handle extends outwards from the rest of storage container42as seen inFIG.9. The central handle is configured to align with and/or is positioned below top54of storage container42. As seen inFIG.2, the central handle is configured to align with and/or be inwardly spaced from rear49of backpack sprayer40. As seen inFIG.8, side handles80and82align with and/or are inwardly set relative to sides50and52, respectively. The method and storage container42as herein described, with central handle84so positioned and shaped, together with the streamline side handles80and82seen inFIGS.8and9, may facilitate selective gripping and raising of backpack sprayer40on the one hand, while also on the other hand resulting in a storage container that may be more compact with reduced dimensions per unit, thereby reducing shipping costs.

Referring toFIG.11, the overall shape of storage container42and its side handles80and82thereof may further facilitate the manufacturing of backpack sprayer40. The tapering of the storage container towards sides50and52thereof may facilitate the popping off of the side handles of the storage container so formed from container mold141seen inFIG.7. This may thus enable storage container42seen inFIG.8to be removed from the container mold within a reduced amount of time. This may be advantageous because as discussed above if material149seen inFIG.7couples to container mold141for too long a time period, side handles80and82seen inFIG.1may peal off from the rest of storage container42, resulting in holes therewithin.

Still referring toFIG.7, peripheral edge portions151between adjacent surfaces143and153of mold141are beveled in this example. The peripheral edge portions of the mold so shaped may further facilitate the removal of the storage container42seen inFIG.1from the mold in a time efficient and repeatable manner. Beveled edge portions151of mold141seen inFIG.7result in rounded the storage container having rounded corners155.

As seen inFIG.1, backpack sprayer40includes a spraying assembly, in this example a blower unit96. The blower unit includes a liquid suction unit, in this example a fan unit98. However, this is not strictly required and a pump unit may be used in other embodiments, for example. Fan unit98is positioned adjacent to bottom56of storage container42in this example. Backpack sprayer includes an outlet conduit, in this example a blower unit conduit, in this case a blower unit pipe99coupled to the output of fan unit98. The blower unit pipe may be referred to as an outlet pipe. Fan unit98provides an air stream107which is directed through blower unit pipe99. Backpack sprayer40includes a spraying medium line101in fluid communication with liquid44within interior45of storage container42. The liquid is selectively fed to air stream107created by fan unit98via the spraying medium line. Spraying medium line101has a valve103actuation of which controls the extent to which liquid44flows therethrough.

Blower unit96includes a housing97coupled to and adjacent fan unit98in this example. The housing includes a filter cover105that is selectively removable for cleaning an air filter (not shown) therewithin.

Blower unit96includes a drive motor, in this example comprising a two-stroke or four-stroke internal combustion engine100. However, this is not strictly required and the motor may be an electric motor in other embodiments. Engine100is positioned within housing97. The engine operates via an energy source, in this example fuel102stored within a fuel container104. The fuel container is positioned adjacent to the engine in this example; however, this is not strictly required and the engine or motor may be battery powered, such as lithium battery powered, in other embodiments for example. Engine100operatively connects to and selectively operates/actuates fan unit98in this example. The engine includes a starter, in this example a pull-rope starter106, with outwards pulling thereof functioning to start the engine.

Still referring toFIG.1, blower unit96includes a gripping handle108coupled to blower unit pipe99via a collar110. The gripping handle includes a power or gas lever112, a stop switch114and an operating lever116. In operation, when engine100is started via pull-rope starter106, actuation of the gas lever and operating lever causes the engine to drive or actuate fan unit98. Actuation of the fan unit causes the fan unit to generate air stream107through blower unit96and blower unit pipe99. With valve103in an at least partially open position, liquid44passing from storage container42and through spraying medium line101mixes with the air stream and exits from outlet118of blower unit pipe99in spray form. Blower units per se, including their various parts and functionings, are well known to those skilled in the art and blower unit96will thus not be described in further detail.

As seen inFIG.2, backpack sprayer40includes a carrier frame assembly120. The frame assembly includes a frame member122extending along rear49thereof. The frame member is planar in this example and generally rectangular in shape; however, this is not strictly required. Frame member122has a longitudinal axis124extending from a top126thereof seen inFIG.3towards a bottom128thereof seen inFIG.1. The longitudinal axis of the frame member extends parallel to longitudinal axis43of backpack sprayer40seen inFIG.1in this example.

As seen inFIG.3, the backpack sprayer includes a pair of spaced-apart, length-adjustable backpack straps125and127coupled to top126of frame member122. The operator (not shown) of backpack sprayer40extends his or her arms through the backpack straps, with the backpack straps thereafter resting on the respective shoulders of the operator. Backpack straps125and127thus enable backpack sprayer40to be back-mounted, with frame member122being shaped in this example to extend along/adjacent and/or abut the back of the operator (not shown). As seen inFIG.2, central handle84is positioned to align with and/or be inwardly positioned relative to the frame member of carrier frame assembly120in this example.

As seen inFIG.1, frame member122includes a lower peripheral portion129extending along bottom128thereof. As seen inFIG.3, the frame member has a width WFextending between sides130and132thereof. The frame member has a pair of spaced-apart side peripheral portions134and136extending along the sides thereof.

Referring toFIG.1, carrier frame assembly120further includes a base member, in this example a horizontal member, in this case in the form of a horizontally-extending stand137. The stand is generally planar and rectangular in top profile in this example, though this is not strictly required. Stand137couples to and extends outwards from frame member122of carrier frame assembly120. The stand in this example is cantilevered to and extends perpendicularly outwards from the frame member of the carrier frame assembly. Stand137and storage container42form a C-shape in side profile with an opening139therebetween in this example. The stand and storage container are thus shaped in this example to receive fuel container104, engine100and fan unit98of blower unit96therebetween. The fuel container, engine and fan unit of the blower unit operatively couple to carrier frame assembly120. Fuel container104, engine100and fan unit98of blower unit96are supported by and received on stand137in this example. The engine and fan unit are also supported in part and couple to frame member122in this example.

As seen inFIG.3, carrier frame assembly120includes a frame138. The frame includes a first one or more elongate members, in this example vertical members, in this case a pair of spaced-apart side portions140and142. The side portions of frame138extend adjacent to respective sides130and132of frame member122in this example. Side portions140and142of the frame extend from top126of the frame member towards bottom128of the frame member seen inFIG.1in this example. Referring back toFIG.3, the side portions of frame138couple to frame member122, in this example via side peripheral portions134and136of the frame member. The side peripheral portions of frame member122are channel-shaped at least in part so as to receive side portions140and142in this example.

As seen inFIG.2, frame138includes a second one or more elongate members, in this example one or more horizontal members, in this case, an upper portion144. The upper portion of the frame couples to and extends between side portions140and142of the frame. Upper portion144of frame138is cantilevered to the side portions of the frame in this example. The upper portion of the frame extends from rear49towards front47of backpack sprayer40. Side portions140and142and upper portion144of frame138comprise metal tubing in this example; however this is not strictly required. As seen inFIG.3, the upper portion of the frame is u-shaped in top view and integrally formed with the side portions of the frame in this example.

Stand137seen inFIG.1is spaced-apart from upper portion144of frame138seen inFIG.3. The stand seen inFIG.1couples to the upper portion of the frame seen inFIG.3via side portions140and142of the frame in this example and via frame member122.

Still referring toFIG.3, lower portion62of storage container42extends overtop of upper portion144of frame138. Inwardly-facing channel64of the storage container is shaped to receive and couple to the upper portion of the frame. Lower portion62of storage container42encloses and couples to upper portion144of frame138thereby. The storage container thus couples to frame member122via the frame. As seen with references toFIGS.1to3, front46and sides50and52of the storage container are thus shaped to enclose upper portion144of frame138and cover the upper portion of the frame when backpack sprayer40is viewed from the sides and the front thereof.

As seen inFIG.3, carrier frame assembly120includes one or more fasteners, in this example bolts148and150. Upper portion144of frame138further couples to lower portion62of storage container42via the bolts.

FIGS.12to14show a backpack sprayer40.1according to a second aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40shown inFIGS.1to11with the addition of decimal extension “.1”. Backpack sprayer40.1is substantially the same as backpack sprayer40shown inFIGS.1to11with at least the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.12, frame member122.1has a first, lower or central aperture152extending therethrough. The central aperture of the frame member is arc-shaped at least in part in front/rear profile a direction extending between sides50.1and52.1of storage container42.1. Central aperture152of frame member122.1is in circular in this example. The central aperture of the frame member aligns with longitudinal axis124.1of frame member122.1in this example.

Central aperture152of frame member122.1is positioned between sides130.1and132.1of the frame member and enclosed between side portions140.1and142.1of frame138.1in this example. As seen inFIG.13, the central aperture of the frame member is positioned between top126.1and bottom128.1of the frame member in this example. Referring back toFIG.12, central aperture152of frame member122.1has a diameter DA. The diameter of the central aperture of the frame member is equal to or less than the width WF.1of frame member122.1in this example. In this embodiment, diameter DAof central aperture152of the frame member is equal to and spams approximately one third of the width of the frame member; however this is not strictly required.

Referring toFIG.13, frame member122.1has a second or upper aperture154spaced-apart from the central aperture of the frame member. The upper aperture of the frame member is oblong in this example. Upper aperture154of the frame member is arc-shaped at least in part in front/rear profile in a direction extending between sides50.1and52.1of storage container42.1. Apertures152and154of frame member122.1align with longitudinal axis124.1of the frame member in this example. Diameter DAof central aperture152is larger than that of upper aperture154of the frame member in this example. The apertures of frame member122.1extend about spaced-apart axes156and158that extend parallel with each other in this example. Axes156and158extend perpendicular to longitudinal axis124.1of carrier frame assembly120.1.

Still referring toFIG.13, lower peripheral portion129.1of frame member122.1is arc-shaped at least in part. The lower peripheral portion of the frame member in this example is arc-shaped in a direction extending between sides130.1and132.1of frame member122.1and in a direction extending between sides50.1and52.1of storage container42.1. Lower peripheral portion129.1of frame member122.1is outwardly concave in this example from the perspective ofFIG.13. The lower peripheral portion of the frame member is downwardly facing in this example from the perspective ofFIG.13. Lower peripheral portion129.1of frame member122.1extends about an axis parallel to axes156and158of apertures152and154in this example.

As seen inFIG.14, storage container42.1includes a peripheral portion, in this example a lower peripheral portion66.1that is u-shaped in bottom profile in this example and which aligns with bottom68.1thereof in this embodiment.

As seen with reference toFIGS.13and14, the storage container and frame member122.1are shaped to substantially enclose upper portion144.1and side portions140.1and142.1of frame138.1therewithin and/or therebetween.

Referring toFIG.12, frame member122.1includes has a pair of spaced-apart side peripheral apertures, in this example apertures157and159. Aperture157is positioned adjacent and/or near lower peripheral portion129.1and side peripheral portion134.1of the frame member in this example. Aperture159is positioned adjacent and/or near the lower peripheral portion and side peripheral portion136.1of frame member122.1in this example.

FIGS.15to23show a backpack sprayer40.2according to a third aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40shown inFIGS.1to11with the addition of decimal extension “.2”. Backpack sprayer40.2is substantially the same as backpack sprayer40shown inFIGS.1to11with at least the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.15, storage container42.2and frame member122.2of carrier frame assembly120.2are integrally coupled together so as to form an integrated whole. There is no frame comprising tubing in this embodiment. As seen inFIG.18, stand137.2couples to bottom128.2of frame member122.2via fasteners, in this example bolts161and nuts163.

As seen inFIG.16, storage container42.2includes a peripheral portion, in this example an intermediate peripheral portion66.2of the storage container positioned between top54.2and bottom56.2of the storage container in this example. Referring back toFIG.15, the intermediate peripheral portion of the storage container is arc-shaped in this example in a direction extending between sides50.2and52.2thereof. Intermediate peripheral portion66.2of storage container42.2is outwardly concave in front profile and downwardly facing in this example and from the perspective ofFIG.15. The intermediate peripheral portion of storage container is shaped to accommodate and extend in a direction165that generally follows the curvature of fan unit98.2.

As seen inFIG.16, lower portion62.2of storage container42.2is arc-shaped and outwardly concave in side profile in this example embodiment.

The lower portion of the storage container is shaped to receive and extend in part behind fan unit98.2of blower unit96.2in this example. Bottom56.2of storage container42.2is positioned behind the fan unit in this example. Lower portion62.2of storage container42.2tapers in side profile in a direction extending from intermediate peripheral portion66.2of the storage container towards the bottom of the storage container.

As seen inFIG.17, backpack sprayer40.2includes a back pad160shaped to provide cushioning to the back of the operator (not shown) when the backpack sprayer is back-mounted. The back pad is generally planar and rectangular in rear profile in this example. Back pad160couples to and extends along frame member122.2of carrier frame assembly120.2via a plurality of fasteners, in this example bolts162,164,166and168.

As seen inFIG.20, central handle84.2of storage container42.2is positioned level with or below top54.2of the storage container. The central handle of the storage container extends outwards from rear48.2of the storage container so as to align with and/or extend to a distance equal to or less than that of back pad160.

As seen inFIG.19, carrier frame assembly120.2includes a pair of spaced-apart strengthening members, in this example flanges170and172. The flanges couple to and extend outwards sides130.2and132.2of frame member122.2in this example. As seen inFIGS.19and23, the flanges are arc-shaped like with angled or bent portions174and176and elongate vertical portions178and179coupled thereto and extending therebetween in this example. The bent portions and vertical portions are rectangular in profile in this example. As seen inFIG.20, frame member122.2of carrier frame assembly120.2is thus generally arc-shaped in side profile at least in part and along side peripheral portions134.2and136.2thereof in this example.

FIGS.24to28show a backpack sprayer40.3according to a fourth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.1shown inFIGS.12to14and backpack sprayer40.2seen inFIGS.15to23, with decimal extension “.3” replacing decimal extension “.1” and “.2”, respectively and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.3is substantially the same as backpack sprayers40.1and40.2shown inFIGS.12to14and15to23with at least the following exceptions.

Similar to backpack sprayer40.2and as seen inFIG.24, storage container42.3and frame member122.3of carrier frame assembly120.3are integrally coupled together so as to form an integrated whole. There is no frame comprising tubing in this embodiment.

As seen inFIG.25, frame member122.3has a first recessed region180extending from front47.3and tapering towards the rear49.3of backpack sprayer40.3in this example. The first recessed region is coaxial with and extends about lower aperture152.3of the frame member in this example. First recessed region180of frame member122.3is centrally annular in this example.

As seen inFIG.27, upper aperture154.3of frame member122.3does not extend all way through the frame member and may thus be referred to as a recessed region in this example. The upper aperture of the frame member extends from rear49.3of backpack sprayer40.3and tapers towards front47.3of the backpack sprayer in this example.

As seen inFIG.25, lower peripheral portion66.3of storage container42.3is arc-shaped only in a region aligned with and adjacent to front46.3of the storage container between angled surfaces68.3and70.3of the storage container in this example. The storage container tapers in a downward direction parallel to longitudinal axis43.3of backpack sprayer40.3, from sides50.3and52.3of the storage container towards the lower peripheral portion of the storage container in this example.

FIGS.29and30show a backpack sprayer40.4according to a fifth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.3shown inFIGS.24to28with decimal extension “.4” replacing decimal extension “.3” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.4is substantially the same as backpack sprayer40.3shown inFIGS.24to28with at least the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.29, frame member122.4has a second recessed region182extending from front47.4and tapering towards rear49.4of backpack sprayer40.4in this example. The second recessed region is in fluid communication with, extends about and is coaxial with first recessed region180of the frame member in this example.

Lower peripheral portion66.4of storage container42.4is continuously and fully arc-shaped in front profile along front46.3of storage container42.4including below surfaces68.4and70.4of the storage container in this example.

As seen with reference toFIGS.29and30, side peripheral portions134.4and136.4of frame member122.4are arc-shaped at least in part in front and rear profile in this example. Side peripheral portion134.4is arc-shaped and outwardly concave in a direction facing side50.4of the frame member in this example. Side peripheral portion136.4is arc-shaped and outwardly concave in a direction facing side52.4of frame member122.4in this example.

FIGS.31and32show a backpack sprayer40.5according to a sixth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with decimal extension “.5” replacing decimal extension “.2” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.5is similar to backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with at least the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.31, central handle84.5of storage container42.5is positioned between and forwards of side handles80.5and82.5of the storage container in this example. The central handle of the storage container couples to and is integrally formed with front46.5and top54.5of the storage container in this example. Central handle84.5of storage container42.5extends outwards in part and upwards in part relative to the storage container in this example. The central handle of the storage container extends substantially perpendicular to side handles80.5and82.5of the storage container in this example. Central handle84.5of the storage container is fixed relative to positioning of side handles80of the storage container.

Storage container42.5may be said to generally taper in a direction extending from lower portion62.5thereof towards top54.5thereof. The top of the storage container is thus smaller in extent or laterally section compared to the lower portion of the storage container in this embodiment.

As seen inFIGS.31and32, front46.5, side surfaces89.5and93.5and rear48.5of storage container42.5are outwardly convex in this example. As seen inFIG.31, concave surface79a.5of storage container42.5is an isosceles trapezoid in shape in this example. Concave surface79b.5of the storage container is V-shaped in front profile in this example, with end portions111.5and113.5of handle84.5coupling thereto. Concave surface79b.5may be said to comprise a beveled surface or shoulder extending between front46.5of storage container42.5and concave surface79b.5of the storage container.

FIGS.33and34show a backpack sprayer40.6according to a seventh aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.5shown inFIGS.31to32with decimal extension “.6” replacing decimal extension “.5” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.6is similar to backpack sprayer40.5shown inFIGS.31and32with the exception that storage container42.6has no side handles. Side surfaces89.6and93.6of the storage container are streamline, outwardly convex and continuous in shape in this embodiment.

FIGS.35and36show a backpack sprayer40.7according to an eighth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.6shown inFIGS.33to34with decimal extension “.7” replacing decimal extension “.6” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.7is similar to backpack sprayer40.6shown inFIGS.33to34with the following exceptions.

Storage container42.7includes a centrally-positioned first handle84.7. The first handle couples to and is integrally formed with front46.7of the storage container. First handle84.7aligns flush with and is recessed in part relative to the front of the storage container. The first handle has a recessed portion184that is triangular in this example. Surface79a.7of storage container42.7is rectangular front profile in this example and surface79b.7of the storage container is triangular front profile in this example. A slot186extends from recessed portion184of first handle84.7to lower peripheral portion66.2of the storage container. The slot and first handle are centrally positioned relative to sides50.7and52.7of storage container42.7in this example.

As seen inFIG.36, the storage container includes a centrally-positioned second handle188. The second handle is integrally formed with rear48.7of storage container42.7. Each of handles84.7and188seen inFIGS.35and36extends between opposed sides50.7and52.7of the storage container. Referring toFIG.36, the second handle aligns flush with and is recessed in part relative to rear48.7of storage container42.7. Second handle188includes a recessed portion190that is rectangular in rear profile this example. The recessed portion of the second handle is outwardly convex in this example. Backpack straps125.7and127.7couple to storage container42.7via recessed portion190of second handle188in this example.

FIGS.37and38show a backpack sprayer40.8according to a ninth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.7shown inFIGS.35to36with decimal extension “.8” replacing decimal extension “.7” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.8is similar to backpack sprayer40.7shown inFIGS.35and36with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.37, first handle84.8of storage container42.8includes an elongate protrusion192. The elongate protrusion of the first handle is integrally formed with and extends between top54.8and front46.8of the storage container. Elongate protrusion192of first handle84.8is integrally formed with and extends outwards from opposed sides50.8and52.8of storage container42.8in this example. The elongate protrusion of the first handle tapers in a first direction191extending from rear48.7towards front46.7of the storage container.

As seen inFIG.38, second handle188.8of storage container42.8includes an elongate protrusion194. The elongate protrusion of the second handle is integrally formed with and extends between top54.8and rear48.8of the storage container. Elongate protrusion194of second handle188.8is integrally formed with and extends outwards from opposed sides50.8and52.8of storage container42.8. The elongate protrusion of the second handle tapers in a second direction193(opposite first direction191) extending from rear48.7towards front46.7of storage container42.8.

As seen inFIGS.37and38, each elongate protrusions192and194is laterally and horizontally extending in this example. Each elongate protrusion is an isosceles trapezoid or bell-shaped in lateral cross-section in this example.

FIGS.39and40show a backpack sprayer40.9according to a tenth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with decimal extension “.9” replacing decimal extension “.2” and being added to parts not previously having decimal numbers. Backpack sprayer40.9is similar to backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.39, top54.9and a central upper portion196of front46.9of storage container42.9are recessed relative to lower portion62.9of the storage container. The top and central upper portion of the front of the storage container are also recessed relative to side portions200and202of the front of the storage container and relative to angled surfaces76.9and78.9of the storage container. Lower portion62.9of storage container42.9, together with recessed central upper portion196of front46.9of the storage container, form centrally-positioned first handle84.9. The front of the storage container is U-shaped in front profile in this example. There are no side handles in this embodiment, though this is not strictly required.

As seen inFIG.40, centrally-positioned second handle188.9is integrally formed with top54.9of storage container42.9in this example adjacent rear48.9of the storage container. The second handle includes a recessed portion204that is an isosceles trapezoid in shape/rear-profile in this example. Second handle188.9is outwardly concave in a downwards direction in this example. Elongate outer member94.9of the second handle aligns with or is positioned below removable lid58.9. Second handle188.9aligns with and spans a distance DHequal to less than the distance or diameter DLof removable lid58.9of storage container42.9. The handle is positioned to be generally streamline with top54.9, which slopes outwards and downwards from lid58.9towards sides50.9and52.9, front46.9and rear48.9of the storage container seen inFIGS.39and40in this example.

FIGS.41and42show a backpack sprayer40.10according to an eleventh aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.10shown inFIGS.39and40with decimal extension “.10” replacing decimal extension “.9” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.10is similar to backpack sprayer40.9shown inFIGS.39and40with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.41, storage container42.10has a front angled surface196.10generally extending between top54.10and front46.10thereof. Front46.10protrudes outwards from top and sides50.10and52.10of the storage container and forms a central handle84.10. The front angled surface is an isosceles trapezoid in front profile in this example and tapers in a direction206extending from top54.10towards stand137.10.

As seen inFIG.42, second handle188.10aligns flush with rear48.10of storage container42.10in this example. Recessed portion190.10of the second handle is an isosceles trapezoid in rear profile in this example. The recessed portion of second handle188.10tapers in an upward direction208extending from stand120.10towards top54.10of storage container42.10.

FIGS.43and44show a backpack sprayer40.11according to a twelfth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with decimal extension “.11” replacing decimal extension “.2” and being added to parts not previously having decimal numbers. Backpack sprayer40.11is similar to backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.43, backpack sprayer40.11has no side handles in this embodiment, though this is not strictly required. Front46.11of storage container42.11has a central portion210that is generally planar and an isosceles triangle in shape in this example. Referring toFIG.44, rear48.11of the storage container has a central portion212that is generally planar and an isosceles triangle in shape in this example. Handle84.11is in the form of an elongate groove that extends horizontally between sides50.11and52.11of storage container42.11in this example. The handle is between central portion212of rear48.11of the storage container and tapered curved surface214of top54.11of the storage container.

FIGS.45and46show a backpack sprayer40.12according to a thirteenth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.11shown inFIGS.43and44with decimal extension “.12” replacing decimal extension “.11” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.12is similar to backpack sprayer40.11shown inFIGS.43and44with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.45, storage container42.12includes a pair of arc-shaped portions216and218each enclosing respective side surfaces89.12and93.12thereof. Each arc-shaped portion is outwardly convex and upwardly facing in this example from the perspective ofFIG.45. Front46.12of the storage container has a central portion210.12that is recessed and an isosceles triangle in shape in this example. The front of the storage container, together with the recessed central portion of the front of the storage container, form central handle84.12.

Referring toFIG.46, handle188.12aligns with rear48.12of storage container42.12and includes a recessed portion190.12. The recessed portion is an isosceles triangle in rear profile in this example. Handle118.12is adjacent removable lid58.12in this example.

FIGS.47and48show a backpack sprayer40.13according to a fourteenth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.12shown inFIGS.45and46with decimal extension “.13” replacing decimal extension “.12” and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Backpack sprayer40.13is similar to backpack sprayer40.12shown inFIGS.45and46with the following exceptions.

As seen inFIG.47, lower portion62.13of storage container42.13extends laterally outwards relative to upper portion60.13of the storage container. The lower portion of the storage container forms outwardly extending protrusions220and222coupled to and extending outwards from side surface89.13and93.13, respectively. The protrusions may comprise side handles78.13and80.13of storage container42.13.

Central portion210.13of the storage container extends laterally outwards relative to upper portion60.13of the storage container. The central portion of storage container42.13is integrally connected to and formed with lower portion62.13of the storage container in this example so as to form a unitary whole. Central portion210.13of the storage container, together with the region of the lower portion of the storage container aligning therewith, form central handle84.13in this example.

FIGS.49and50show a backpack sprayer40.14according to a fifteenth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with decimal extension “.14” replacing decimal extension “.2” and being added to parts not previously having decimal numbers. Backpack sprayer40.14is similar to backpack sprayer40.2shown inFIGS.15to23with the exception that there are no central handles thereon.

FIGS.51and52show a backpack sprayer40.15according to a sixteenth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functionings as the backpack sprayer40.12shown inFIGS.45and46with decimal extension “.15” replacing decimal extension “.12” and being added to parts not previously having decimal numbers. Backpack sprayer40.15is similar to backpack sprayer40.12shown inFIGS.45and46with the following exceptions.

Side handles78.15and80.15are enclosed by arc-shaped portions216.15and218.15. The arc-shaped portions are outwardly convex in side profile and outwardly concave at least in part in front and rear profile in this example. Front46.15of storage container42.15is continuous and outwardly convex in shape in this example. As seen inFIG.52, backpack sprayer40.15has no central handles. The backpack sprayer has a rear48.15that is continuous and outwardly convex in shape in this example. Storage container42.15generally tapers from lower portion62.15thereof towards top54.15thereof in this example.

It will be appreciated that many variations are possible within the scope of the invention described herein.

Interpretation of Terms

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:“comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”;“connected”, “coupled”, or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof;“herein”, “above”, “below”, and words of similar import, when used to describe this specification, shall refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any particular portions of this specification;“or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list;the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” also include the meaning of any appropriate plural forms. These terms (“a”, “an”, and “the”) mean one or more unless stated otherwise;“and/or” is used to indicate one or both stated cases may occur, for example A and/or B includes both (A and B) and (A or B);“approximately” when applied to a numerical value means the numerical value±10%;where a feature is described as being “optional” or “optionally” present or described as being present “in some embodiments” it is intended that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where that feature is present and other embodiments where that feature is not necessarily present and other embodiments where that feature is excluded. Further, where any combination of features is described in this application this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for the use of exclusive terminology such as “solely,” “only” and the like in relation to the combination of features as well as the use of “negative” limitation(s)” to exclude the presence of other features; and“first” and “second” are used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or indicating the number of indicated technical features.

Where a range for a value is stated, the stated range includes all sub-ranges of the range. It is intended that the statement of a range supports the value being at an endpoint of the range as well as at any intervening value to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range, as well as any subrange or sets of sub ranges of the range unless the context clearly dictates otherwise or any portion(s) of the stated range is specifically excluded. Where the stated range includes one or both endpoints of the range, ranges excluding either or both of those included endpoints are also included in the invention.

Certain numerical values described herein are preceded by “about”. In this context, “about” provides literal support for the exact numerical value that it precedes, the exact numerical value±5%, as well as all other numerical values that are near to or approximately equal to that numerical value. Unless otherwise indicated a particular numerical value is included in “about” a specifically recited numerical value where the particular numerical value provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited numerical value in the context in which the specifically recited numerical value is presented. For example, a statement that something has the numerical value of “about 10” is to be interpreted as: the set of statements:in some embodiments the numerical value is 10;in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of 9.5 to 10.5;
and if from the context the person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that values within a certain range are substantially equivalent to 10 because the values with the range would be understood to provide substantially the same result as the value 10 then “about 10” also includes:in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of C to D where C and D are respectively lower and upper endpoints of the range that encompasses all of those values that provide a substantial equivalent to the value 10

Any aspects described above in reference to apparatus may also apply to methods and vice versa.

Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative examples may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, simultaneously or at different times.

Additional Description

Examples of backpack sprayers have been described. The following clauses are offered as further description.(1) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including a pair of side handles integrally formed therewith and a central handle therebetween and integrally formed therewith; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(2) The apparatus of clause 1, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the central handle is positioned rearwards of the side handles.(3) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle couples to and is integrally formed with the top of the storage container.(4) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle couples to and is integrally formed with the rear of the storage container.(5) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle couples to and is integrally formed with the front of the storage container.(6) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle extends outwards in part and upwards in part relative to the top of the storage container.(7) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle of the storage container extends substantially perpendicular to the side handles of the storage container.(8) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein positioning of the central handle of the storage container is fixed relative to positioning of the side handles of the storage container.(9) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the handles of the storage container are rigidly coupled together and formed therewith.(10) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle includes a base which is angled relative to the top and the sides of the storage container.(11) The apparatus of clause 10 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the base is outwardly convex at least in part.(12) The apparatus of clause 10 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the central handle includes an elongate outer member and wherein the central handle tapers in a direction extending from the base to the elongate outer member.(13) The apparatus of clause 11 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the elongate outer member of the central handle extends perpendicular to the sides of the storage container.(14) The apparatus of clause 11 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the elongate outer member of the central handle extends perpendicular to the sides of the storage container.(15) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the side handles include upper members which taper from the top of the storage container towards respective said sides of the storage container.(16) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein a first said side handle includes a hand-receiving receptacle which tapers in a direction extending from the top of the storage container towards a first said side and wherein a second said side handle includes a hand-receiving receptacle which tapers in a direction extending from the top of the storage container towards a first said side(17) The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 12 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein each said side handle has an opening and an upper member which extends from the opening towards the top of the storage container, the upper member of the side handles being isosceles trapezoids in outer shape.(18) The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 12 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein each said side handle has an opening and an upper member which extends from the opening towards the top of the storage container, the upper member of the side handles being isosceles trapezoids in outer shape.(19) The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 11 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the side handles have upper members which extend from the sides of the storage container towards the top of the storage container.(20) The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 11 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the side handles have upper members which are angled relative to the sides of the storage container and the top of the storage container.(21) The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 11 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the storage container has a longitudinal axis and tapers in directions extending from the longitudinal axis thereof towards the sides thereof(22) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the storage container further including a pair of arc-shaped portions each enclosing a respective said side handle.(23) The apparatus of clause 22, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein each said arc-shaped portion is outwardly concave at least in part.(24) The apparatus of any of clauses 22 to 23, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein each said arc-shaped portion is outwardly convex at least in part.(25) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a backrest; a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container coupling to the backrest and including a central handle integrally formed therewith and positioned between sides thereof, wherein the central handle aligns with or is below the top of the storage container and extends rearward a distance equal to less than that of the backrest; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(26) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including an outwardly concave recessed portion positioned between sides thereof and including a central handle integrally formed therewith; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(27) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including a first handle integrally formed with a front thereof and a second central handle integrally formed with a rear thereof; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(28) The apparatus of clause 27 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the first handle aligns with or is recessed relative to the front of the storage container.(29) The apparatus of any of clauses 27 to 28 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the second handle aligns with or is recessed relative to the rear of the storage container.(30) The apparatus of any of clauses 27 to 29 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the first handle has a recessed portion that is triangular.(31) The apparatus of clause 27 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the first handle comprises an elongate protrusion integrally formed with and extending between the top and the front of the storage container.(32) The apparatus of clauses 27 or 31 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the second handle comprises an elongate protrusion integrally formed with and extending between the top and the rear of the storage container.(33) The apparatus of any of clauses 31 to 32 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein each said handle extends between opposed sides of the storage container.(34) The apparatus of any of clauses 31 to 33 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the elongate protrusion of the first handle is integrally formed with and extends outwards from the opposed sides of the storage container.(35) The apparatus of any of clauses 31 to 34 or any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the elongate protrusion of the second handle is integrally formed with and extends outwards from the opposed sides of the storage container.(36) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including at least one central handle integrally formed with the top thereof adjacent to one of a front or rear thereof; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(37) The apparatus of clause 36, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the handle includes a recessed portion that is an isosceles trapezoid in shape.(38) The apparatus of any of clauses 36 to 37, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the central handle aligns with and spans a distance equal to less than that of a removable lid of the storage container.(39) The apparatus of any of clauses 36 to 38, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the central handle aligns flush with the front or the rear of the storage container.(40) The apparatus of any of clauses 36 to 39, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the central handle comprises an elongate groove extending inwards from the front or the rear of the storage container.(41) The apparatus of any preceding or subsequent clause herein, wherein the storage container includes a lower portion extending from the bottom thereof towards the top thereof and an upper portion extending from the top thereof towards the bottom thereof, and wherein the lower portion of the storage container extends laterally outwards relative to the upper portion of the storage container.(42) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including a pair of side handles integrally formed with respective sides thereof and a pair of arc-shaped portions each enclosing a respective said side handle; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively sprayed outwards therefrom.(43) The apparatus of clause 42, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein each said arc-shaped portion is outwardly concave at least in part.(44) The apparatus of any of clauses 42 to 43, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein each said arc-shaped portion is outwardly convex at least in part.(45) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed; and a frame member extending along a rear of the apparatus and to which the storage container couples, the frame member including a circular aperture extending therethrough.(46) The apparatus of clause 45, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member is planar.(47) The apparatus of any of clauses 45 to 46, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member has a width extending between sides thereof, and wherein the aperture has a diameter equal to or less than the width of the frame member.(48) The apparatus of any of clauses 45 to 47, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member has an additional circular aperture extending therein.(49) The apparatus of clause 48, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member has a longitudinal axis and wherein the apertures align with the longitudinal axis of the frame member.(50) The apparatus of any of clauses 48 to 49, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein a lower said aperture of the frame member has a diameter which is larger than an upper said aperture of the frame member.(51) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container having a lower or intermediate peripheral portion that is arc-shaped in a direction extending between sides thereof; a frame member extending along a rear of the apparatus and to which the storage container couples, the frame member having an aperture extending therethrough which is arc-shaped.(52) The apparatus of clause 51, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the aperture of the frame member extends about an axis and wherein the lower or front peripheral portion of the storage container curves about an axis which extends parallel to the axis of the aperture.(53) The apparatus of any of clauses 51 to 52, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the aperture of the frame member is arc-shaped in a direction extending between the sides of the storage container.(54) The apparatus of any of clauses 51 to 53, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member is arc-shaped in side profile.(55) The apparatus of any of clauses 51 to 54, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member is arc-shaped along a lower or front peripheral portion thereof.(56) The apparatus of any of clauses 51 to 55, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame member is arc-shaped along side peripheral portions thereof(57) The apparatus of any of clauses 51 to 56, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the aperture is circular.(58) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a frame comprising one or more vertical members and one or more horizontal members coupled to and cantilevered from the one or more vertical members; a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container having a lower portion within an inwardly-facing channel shaped to receive and couple to the one or more horizontal members of the frame.(59) The apparatus of clause 58, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the one or more vertical members of the frame comprise a pair of spaced-apart side portions of the frame extending along the rear of the apparatus, and wherein the one or more horizontal members of the frame comprise an upper portion extending from the rear towards the front of the apparatus, the upper portion of the frame being cantilevered to and integrally formed with the side portions of the frame.(60) The apparatus of clause 59, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the storage container has an upper portion which extends overtop of the upper portion of the frame, and wherein the lower portion of the storage container encloses and couples to the upper portion of the frame.(61) The apparatus of any of clauses 58 to 60, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including or more fasteners actuation thereof further couple the frame to the storage container.(62) The apparatus of any of clauses 58 to 61, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the front and the sides of the storage container are shaped to enclose the one or more horizontal members of the frame.(63) The apparatus of any of clauses 58 to 62, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the front and the sides of the storage container are shaped to cover the one or more horizontal members of the frame when the apparatus is viewed from the sides and the front thereof.(64) The apparatus of any of clauses 58 to 63, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the frame further includes a horizontally-extending stand spaced-apart from and couple to the one or more horizontal members thereof via the one or more vertical members thereof.(65) The apparatus of any preceding clause or any other clause herein, wherein the storage container is octagonal in top profile.(66) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including a front, a rear spaced-apart from the front thereof, first and second sides extending between the front thereof and the rear thereof, a first angled surface extending between the first side thereof and the front thereof, a second angled surface extending between the second side thereof and the front thereof, a third angled surface extending between the first side thereof and the rear thereof, and a fourth angled surface extending between the second side thereof and the rear thereof; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively spray outwards therefrom.(67) The apparatus of clause 66, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the front of the storage container is an isosceles trapezoid in shape.(68) The apparatus of any of clauses 66 to 67, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including a first side handle formed by the first side, the first angled surface and the third angled surface of the storage container, and including a second side handle formed by the second side, the second angled surface and the fourth angled surface of the storage container.(69) The apparatus of any one of clauses 67 to 68, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including a fifth angled surface extending between the top and a first side of the storage container, and a sixth angled surface extending between the top and a second side of the storage container.(70) The apparatus of clause 68, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including a fifth angled surface extending between the top and a first side of the storage container, the fifth angled surface being part of the first side handle, and further including a sixth angled surface extending between the top and a second side of the storage container, the sixth angled surface being part of the second side handle.(71) The apparatus of any one of clauses 69 to 70, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the fifth angled surface is an isosceles trapezoid in shape and wherein the sixth angled surface is an isosceles trapezoid in shape.(72) The apparatus of any one of clauses 69 to 71, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including a seventh angled surface extending between the top and the rear of the storage container, the seventh angled surface being positioned between the sides of the storage container.(73) The apparatus of clause 72, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including a central handle coupled to and integrally formed with the rear of the storage container, the seventh angled surface being part of said central handle.(74) A back-mounted spray apparatus comprising: a storage container shaped to receive therein liquid to be sprayed, the storage container including handle means integrally formed with and coupled thereto; and a spraying assembly coupled to the storage container, with actuation thereof causing the liquid from the storage container to be selectively spray outwards therefrom.(75) A storage container for a back-mounted spray apparatus, the storage container being according to any of the preceding clauses.(76) A method of forming a storage container for a back-mounted spray apparatus, the method comprising: forming a handle via a handle mold; enclosing the handle so formed within a block assembly having one or more exterior surfaces which are outwardly convex; positioning the block assembly within a container mold; and blow injecting material into the container mold.(77) The method of clause 76, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein within the forming the handle step, forming the handle to include a pair of spaced-apart end portions and an elongate portion extending therebetween.(78) The method of clause 77, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the end portions of the handle extend at least in part outwards from the block assembly and couple with the material during the blow injecting step.(79) The method of clause 77, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the end portions of the handle include one or more protrusions which extend outwards from the block assembly and which melt and integrally couple with the material during the blow injecting step.(80) The method of any one of clauses 76 to 79, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, wherein the one or more exterior surfaces of the block assembly extend between the end portions of the handle.(81) The method of any one of clauses 76 to 80, or any subsequent or preceding clause herein, further including within the blow injecting step, blow injecting the material into the container mold so as to coat an interior surface thereof and an exterior surface of the block assembly.(82) Apparatus including any new and inventive feature, combination of features, or sub-combination of features as described herein.(83) Methods including any new and inventive steps, acts, combination of steps and/or acts or sub-combination of steps and/or acts as described herein.