Patent Description:
Known spraying or line-marking apparatus comprise a conventional aerosol of line-marking fluid, absent a dip tube, mounted inverted on a wheeled carriage so that, when the aerosol nozzle is triggered open, marking-fluid is sprayed downwardly as a line onto the surface over which the apparatus is being wheeled. <CIT> relates to a marking device that comprises a wheeled carriage and a roller detachably mounted on the carriage and arranged in use to limit the lateral extent of spray from a dispenser of marker fluid.

One problem associated with such apparatus is that the sprayed line can lack clear edge definition because of the pattern and distribution of marking-fluid as it is sprayed. Typically, this has been controlled by some form of spray-guide, mask, or shield to limit sideways spraying of marking-fluid. However, such spray-guides, masks, or shields accumulate "drips" of sprayed marking-fluid which can subsequently fall clear of and outside the sprayed line.

Another problem associated with such apparatus is a lack of lateral stability. The simplest line-marking apparatus comprise a pair of wheels, between which line-marking fluid is sprayed. The wheels set the line width and are thus close together and lack lateral stability; permitting the carriage to "rock" as it is wheeled along, resulting in, for example, a sinuous line. Additional stabilizer wheels can limit how close to a wall, or other like obstacles, a line can be sprayed.

A further problem is that, usually, the aerosol is operated by locating the spray nozzle in a fixed mounting and then forcing the aerosol can bodily down against the mounting to open a spring-loaded nozzle valve. This can result in accidental aerosol discharge even by small downward forces inadvertently applied to the aerosol can, for example, when the spraying apparatus encounters an undulation in, or on, the surface to be sprayed.

<CIT> according to its abstract discloses a line-marking apparatus, that comprises a pair of primary wheels, a pair of stabilizer wheels each attached to and separately moveable with respect to the apparatus between laterally extended and closed positions and a mask comprising an edge for defining the shape of marking fluid when sprayed on a surface.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide improved spray-guides, or masks, for defining the shape of marking-fluid when sprayed on a surface. It is a further object of the present invention to, for example, provide a spray-guide, or mask, that is easier to clean. In some aspects of the present invention it is an object to provide spray guides, or masks, that are easier to repair. In some aspects of the present invention it is an object to provide a spraying apparatus capable of a more defined edge of a line marking on a surface. In some aspects of the present invention it is an object to provide a spraying apparatus that reduces wastage of fluid to be sprayed or the like.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide an improved stabilizer for wheeled line-marking apparatus, for example, by improving steer of the apparatus, providing better stability particularly on uneven surfaces, or the like.

Aspects of the invention provide a spray-guide for use in a spraying apparatus for defining the shape of marking-fluid when sprayed on a surface, the spray-guide comprising a flexible-portion, wherein the flexible-portion comprises a plurality of teeth that have equal vertical lengths and wherein said teeth are arranged to, in use, contact the surface to be sprayed.

This provides the advantage that a portion of the spray-guide, specifically the flexible-portion, can be arranged proximal to, or even contact, the surface to be sprayed, thereby reducing a clearance between the spray-guide and the surface to be sprayed. Thus, a line may be sprayed having a more defined edge. Moreover, the spray-guide may be easier to clean, may be less susceptible to damage in use, or the like.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion of the spray-guide is at least disposed at a portion of the spray-guide nearest to the surface to be sprayed when in operation.

This provides the advantage that a clearance between the surface to be sprayed and the spray-guide is reduced, thereby providing a more defined edge of a sprayed line.

In certain embodiments, the spray-guide comprises an engaging mechanism, wherein the engaging mechanism enables a detachable engagement with a spraying apparatus, or a masking plate for a spraying apparatus.

That is, in certain embodiments, the spray-guide comprises an engaging mechanism. The engaging mechanism may enable detachable engagement with a spraying apparatus. The engaging mechanism may enable detachable engagement with a masking plate for a spraying apparatus.

In some embodiments, the engaging mechanism for detachably engaging the spray-guide with a spraying apparatus or a masking plate for a spraying apparatus, comprises apertures. The apertures may be configured to receive one or more corresponding pegs of the spraying apparatus or the masking plate for the spraying apparatus. In some embodiments, the engaging mechanism for detachably engaging the spray-guide with a spraying apparatus or a masking plate for a spraying apparatus, comprises threaded apertures. The threaded apertures may be configured to receive one or more corresponding threaded pegs, bolts or the like of the spraying apparatus or the masking plate for the spraying apparatus. In some embodiments, the engaging mechanism for detachably engaging the spray-guide with a spraying apparatus or a masking plate for a spraying apparatus, comprises a push-fit, a friction-fit or a snap-fit mechanism.

This provides the advantage that the spray-guide is easily replaceable for maintenance, cleaning or repair.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines inwardly towards the surface to be sprayed.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines inwardly towards the marking-fluid path, when in use. In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines on the spray-facing side of the flexible-portion. That is, in certain embodiments, an angle is formed between the flexible-portion and the vertical, that is, a longitudinal axis. The angle may be regarded as an inclination angle. In certain embodiments, the surface of the flexible-portion inclines inwardly. In certain embodiments, the surface of the flexible-portion inclines inwardly towards the marking-fluid path, when in use. In certain embodiments, the surface of the flexible-portion inclines on the spray-facing side of the flexible-portion.

This provides the advantage that marking-fluid may be more accurately directed, thus providing more definition to an edge of a sprayed line.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees from the vertical. That is, with respect to a vertical, or longitudinal, axis, there is formed an angle, or an inclination angle, of between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees. That is, an angle, or an inclination angle, may be formed of between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees, excluding both <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines at an angle of from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. In some examples, the flexible-portion inclines at an angle of from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees, excluding <NUM> degrees and including <NUM> degrees. The inclination angle may have a lower limit of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween. The inclination angle may have an upper limit of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween. In some examples, the flexible-portion may incline at <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical. In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical on the spray facing side of the flexible-portion. In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical on one side of the flexible-portion.

The flexible-portion comprises a plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises three teeth. In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises five teeth. In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises seven teeth. In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises three to seven teeth.

In certain embodiments, the teeth extend from a lower side, surface or face of the flexible-portion towards the surface to be sprayed. In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises a plurality of teeth disposed on the lower portion of the flexible-portion. In some embodiments, the spray-guide comprises a plurality of teeth disposed on the lower portion of the spray-guide. In some embodiments, the teeth are in a row. In some embodiments, the teeth protrude from the lower edge of the main body of the flexible-portion, or spray-guide. Aptly, the row of teeth may be such that the teeth are disposed one behind another in a row, wherein the row of teeth has a longitudinal axis parallel to the direction of travel when in use. This provides the advantage that the marking-fluid is distributed along more than one region of the flexible-portion, so that an even amount of marking-fluid is provided along multiple regions of the flexible-portion, thus providing a more defined edge of a sprayed line. Each tooth may hold an amount of marking-fluid.

The teeth have equal vertical lengths. That is, each tooth or the teeth has / have a vertical length that is equal, that is identical, to the other teeth.

In certain embodiments, each tooth are resiliently deformable, flexible, or the like.

This provides the advantage that the teeth can bend and follow the undulations of the surface to be sprayed.

In certain embodiments, some, or each tooth inclines inwardly towards the surface to be sprayed.

In certain embodiments, some or each, tooth inclines inwardly towards the marking-fluic path, when in use. In certain embodiments, the, some, or each, tooth inclines on the spray-facing side of the flexible-portion. That is, in certain embodiments, an angle is formed between some or each, tooth and the vertical, that is, a vertical or a longitudinal axis of a tooth. The angle may be regarded as an inclination angle. In certain embodiments, the surface of some or each, tooth inclines inwardly. In certain embodiments, the surface of some or each, tooth inclines inwardly towards the marking-fluid path, when in use. In certain embodiments the surface of some or each, tooth inclines on the spray-facing side of the tooth, or teeth.

In certain embodiments, some or each, tooth inclines between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees from the vertical. That is, with respect to a vertical, or longitudinal, axis, there is formed an angle of between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees. That is, an angle, or an inclination angle, may be formed of between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees, excluding both <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees.

In certain embodiments, some or each tooth inclines at an angle of from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. In some examples, some or each tooth inclines at an angle of from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees, excluding <NUM> degrees and including <NUM> degrees. The inclination angle, of some or each, tooth may have lower limit of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween. The inclination angle, of some or each, tooth may have an upper limit of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween. In some examples, some or each tooth may incline at <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> degrees, or any integer therebetween.

In certain embodiments, some or each, tooth inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical. In certain embodiments, some or each, tooth inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical on the spray facing side of the flexible-portion. In certain embodiments, some or each, tooth inclines at <NUM> degrees from the vertical on one side of the flexible-portion.

In some embodiments some or each, tooth comprises a non-stick material.

In certain embodiments, some or each tooth comprises a silicone. In certain embodiments, some or each tooth comprises a silicone material.

In some embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises a non-stick material.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises a silicone. In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion comprises a silicone material.

In certain embodiments, the silicone material comprises a cured silicone rubber.

In embodiments wherein some or each tooth, the flexible-portion or both some or each teeth and the flexible portion, comprises a non-stick material, for example, silicone, this provides the advantage that marking-fluid does not adhere well, on or to, each tooth, the flexible-portion, or both each tooth and the flexible-portion, such that a continuous flow of marking-fluid is provided to the surface to be sprayed, thus providing even application of the marking-fluid resulting in a more defined edge of a line marking on a surface.

In embodiments wherein some or each tooth, the flexible-portion or both some or each teeth and the flexible portion, comprises a non-stick material, for example, silicone, this provides the advantage that marking-fluid when dry, does not strongly adhere to, the or each tooth, the flexible-portion, or both each tooth and the flexible-portion, such that the dried marking-fluid can be easily removed from the flexible-portion or teeth by, for example, by mechanical means such as scraping or flexing and thus mitigating the use of cleaning chemicals.

In embodiments wherein some or each tooth, the flexible-portion or both the, some or each teeth and the flexible portion, comprises a material with low surface energy, for example, silicone, this provides the advantage that marking-fluid, does not wet the surface of each tooth, the flexible-portion, or both each tooth and the flexible-portion, such that the marking-fluid flows from the teeth, or flexible portion, and does not wet and spread across the surface which would promote drying of the marking fluid. This has the advantage of reducing the build up of dried marking fluid on each tooth, the flexible-portion, or both each tooth and the flexible-portion, such as that the performance of these parts and features is consistent for extended periods between cleaning. And so a more defined edge of a line marking on a surface is maintained over an extended period of operation of the equipment.

In some embodiments some or each, tooth comprises flexible material. In some embodiments, some or each tooth is flexible. In some embodiments, the flexible material has a Shore Hardness A of <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, the silicone material has a Shore Hardness A of <NUM>. That is, each tooth may comprise a silicone material having a Shore Hardness A of <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, the flexible material may comprise a silicone material having a Shore Hardness A of <NUM>.

This provides the advantage that some or each, tooth, the flexible-portion, or both some or each tooth and the flexible-portion, have good rigidity such that the silicone parts provide good attachment to the spray-guide. Moreover, the silicone parts are easier to clean as they can be flexed to remove marking-fluid that has dried thereon, and thus the need for cleaning chemicals is mitigated.

In certain embodiments, the spray-guide further comprises at least one fin. In certain embodiments, the fin may be of the same material as the spray-guide. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the fin may be of a different material to the spray-guide. In some embodiments, the at least one fin extends from the spray-guide perpendicularly from one side of the spray-guide. In some embodiments, the at least one fin extends perpendicularly from the marking-fluid side of the spray-guide.

This provides the advantage that marking-fluid, that would otherwise not be directed towards the surface to be sprayed, is directed towards the flexible-portion, and thus towards the surface to be sprayed, in use. Thus, wastage of marking-fluid is reduced. Furthermore, the fin contributes to providing a continuous flow of marking-fluid, such that marking-fluid does not dry on the flexible-portion. The continuous flow of fluid to the surface to be sprayed provides even application of the marking-fluid and a more defined edge of a line marking on a surface.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin comprises a triangular shape. In alternative embodiments, the fin comprises other shapes, for example, rectangular, semi-circular, or square.

This provides the advantage that marking-fluid can be accurately directed to a specific region, thus optimizing flow of marking-fluid towards the surface to be sprayed.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin is located on the spray facing side of the spray-guide.

In certain embodiments, the spray-guide comprises two fins. A spray-guide with two fins advantageously helps direct the marking-fluid to the correct area.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends perpendicularly from the spray-guide, the at least one fin extending vertically along the spray-facing side of the spray-guide, in the orientation of the spray-guide when in use. That is, in certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends from the spray-guide is substantially coaxially with the vertical, that is, a longitudinal axis. That is, the at least one fin extends outwardly from the spray-guide.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends perpendicularly from the flexible-portion, the at least one fin extending vertically along the spray-facing side of the flexible-portion, in the orientation of the flexible-portion when in use. That is, in certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends from the flexible-portion is substantially coaxially with the vertical, that is, a longitudinal axis. That is, the at least one fin extends outwardly from the at least one flexible-portion.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends vertically at an angle from the horizontal.

This provides the advantage that the marking-fluid is collected by the at least one fin and is directed towards the flexible-portion, such that a continuous, or steady, flow of marking-fluid is applied to the flexible-portion.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends vertically from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees from the horizontal. That is, the at least one fin extends substantially vertically and forms an angle of from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees to the horizontal, that is, a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical, or a longitudinal axis. The angle formed may include <NUM> degrees. The angle formed may exclude <NUM> degrees. The angle formed may include <NUM> degrees. The angle formed may exclude <NUM> degrees. In some embodiments, the at least one fin extends vertically at between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees from the horizontal.

In certain embodiments, the at least one fin extends vertically at <NUM> degrees from the horizontal.

This provides the advantage that the marking-fluid is directed towards the flexible-portion continuously, or steadily, at an improved flow speed.

In certain embodiments, the flexible-portion is integrally formed within the spray-guide. Aspects of the invention also provide a masking plate comprising a spray-guide as described herein.

Aspects of the invention further provide a spraying apparatus comprising a masking plate as defined in claim <NUM>.

Reference will now be made to the drawings, which depict one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Like numerals used in the Figures refer to like components, steps and the like. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given Figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labelled with the same numeral. In addition, the use of different numerals to refer to components in different figures is not intended to indicate that the components having different numerals cannot be the same or similar to other components. The figures are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Schematic drawings presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

Example embodiments of the invention are now described, by way of example only, hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

The described example embodiment relates to an apparatus for spraying lines onto surfaces. The apparatus may be a wheeled line-marking apparatus in an exemplary embodiment.

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words 'upper', 'lower', 'upwardly and 'downwardly' designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made and are with respect to the described component when assembled and mounted. The words 'inner', 'inwardly' and 'outer', 'outwardly' refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, a designated centreline or a geometric centre of an element being described (e.g. a central axis), the particular meaning being readily apparent from the context of the description. Further, the terms 'proximal' (i.e. nearer to) and 'distal' (i.e. away from) designate positions relative to a body or a point of attachment.

Further, as used herein, the terms 'connected', 'affixed' and the like are intended to include direct connections between two members without any other members interposed therebetween, as well as, indirect connections between members in which one or more other members are interposed therebetween.

Like reference numerals are used to depict like features throughout.

Referring to <FIG>, and according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a spraying apparatus for defining the shape of marking-fluid when sprayed on a surface, for example a wheeled line-marking apparatus <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> generally includes a first end, or a front end with respect to the usual direction of travel, and a second end, or a rear end with respect to the usual direction of travel. Such direction of travel is generally indicated by the arrow D.

The apparatus <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> on which a holder <NUM> for an aerosol cannister <NUM> is retained. With further reference to <FIG>, the aerosol cannister <NUM> includes a nozzle <NUM> from which a spray of marking-fluid F is to be sprayed onto a surface, for example, the ground. The aerosol cannister <NUM> is retained within the holder <NUM> by a locking mechanism <NUM>. An operating arm <NUM> terminating in a handle <NUM> having an operating trigger (not shown) is pivotably connected to the holder <NUM>. The operating arm <NUM> extends upwardly, from the body <NUM>, and towards the second end of the apparatus <NUM>. A pushbutton <NUM> is provided as part of the operating arm <NUM> to allow, when depressed, free pivoting of the operating arm <NUM> to a desired position, and to allow, when released, locking of the operating arm <NUM> substantially in said desired position. The body <NUM> includes a portion for spraying marking-fluid, including masking plates <NUM> and, optionally, an air flow system, as described in further detail below, <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, a pair of wheels 116a, 116b are provided at the first end of the apparatus <NUM>, vertically below the aerosol cannister <NUM>. The wheels 116a, 116b are rotatably attached to the lateral outer side of a pair of side wall members 118a, 118b, each located on the lateral outer sides of the body <NUM>. Each side wall member 118a, 118b includes a wheel inner blanking plate <NUM>, with a laterally-extending axle <NUM>, to which each wheel 116a, 116b is rotatably mounted. Each wheel is provided with a series of linear spokes <NUM> extending linearly, or substantially straight, from a central hub <NUM> towards a circumferential wheel rim <NUM>. A tyre <NUM> is provided on the circumferential wheel rim <NUM> and is arranged to contact the surface, for example, the ground, in use. The distance between the wheels 116a, <NUM>, regarded as the front wheelbase, may be, in this embodiment, approximately <NUM> centimetres.

The apparatus <NUM> is further provided with a pair of stabilizing wheels 130a, 130b, disposed at the second end of the apparatus. Each stabilizing wheel 130a, 130b is provided on one of a pair of stabilising arms 132a, 132b which extend longitudinally from the body <NUM> towards a distal end. Each stabilising arm 132a, 132b is provided with a laterally-extending axle <NUM> to which each stabilizing wheel 130a, 130b is rotatably mounted. The stabilizing wheels 130a, 130b are mounted to the outside of the stabilising arms 132a, 132b, such that the stabilizing wheels 130a, 130b are arranged distal to a region of the surface in which a marking-fluid has been applied.

The stabilising arms 132a, 132b are pivotably connected to the body <NUM>. Each pivotable connection is operable by a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be used to selectively lock each stabilising arm 132a, 132b into a desired position, thereby allowing the user to create circular patterns or the like, in use. Moreover, in some examples, the stabilising arms 132a, 132b may be spring-biased such that they are biased towards a first configuration in which the apparatus <NUM> is to be driven in a straight line. In some examples, the stabilising arms 132a, 132b may be operated in isolation, that is independently of one another, whereas in other examples the stabilising arms 132a, 132b may be operably coupled such that they move in unison, that is movement of one is dependent upon, or causes movement of, the other.

Each stabilizing wheel 130a, 130b is provided with a plurality of curved and flexible spokes <NUM> extending from a central hub <NUM> towards a circumferential wheel rim <NUM>. The curved and flexible spokes <NUM> are arranged to act as shock absorbers, such that the spokes flex when the apparatus encounters an uneven surface. As best shown in <FIG>, a tyre <NUM> is provided on the circumferential wheel rim <NUM> and is arranged to contact a surface, for example, the ground, in use. The distance between the stabilizing wheels 130a, 130b, regarded as the rear wheelbase, may be smaller than the front wheelbase. In some examples, the rear wheelbase may be approximately <NUM> centimetres.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, an air flow system <NUM> may optionally be provided and may include each wheel inner blanking plate <NUM>, where each blanking plate <NUM> defines a housing for an impeller or fan <NUM> powered by an electric motor (not shown). The blanking plate <NUM> may include a stationary plate <NUM> having an aperture <NUM> to allow air to flow towards the impeller or fan <NUM>. In examples where the impeller or fan <NUM> and the electric motor (not shown) are present, air is drawn in through apertures <NUM> and is expelled radially and downwardly through a duct <NUM> towards a spraying region. The spraying region may generally be enclosed between the masking plates <NUM> and vertically below the nozzle <NUM> of the aerosol cannister <NUM>. The expelled air directs the sprayed liquid in the spraying region towards a defined region of the surface, or towards the masking plates <NUM>. The electric motor (not shown) may be powered by any appropriate power source, for example, a type AA <NUM>. 2v rechargeable battery, or the like. A switch (not shown) formed as part of the body <NUM> may be used to operate the electric motor (not shown).

Additionally, <FIG> illustrates a spraying region having a width W defined as the distance between the opposing masking plates <NUM>. The width W can range from, for example, <NUM> to <NUM>, depending on the desired line to be sprayed. It may be preferable that the width W is adjustable between several configurations, in use. For example, the width W may be adjustable between a first configuration, in which W is, in this embodiment, equal to <NUM>, and a second configuration, in this embodiment, in which W is equal to <NUM>.

Additionally, as best shown in <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> may comprise a pointer <NUM>. The pointer <NUM> may be formed as part of the masking plate <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, or as part of the body <NUM> of the apparatus. The pointer <NUM> provides a visual indication of a projected edge of the line to be sprayed. Thus, in use, the user can readily recognise where the edge of a sprayed line will be formed.

Additionally, or alternatively, the apparatus <NUM> may comprise a detachable pointer <NUM>, as best shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The detachable pointer <NUM> comprises a first end <NUM>, forming an attachment end, a second end <NUM>, forming a pointed end. The first end <NUM> comprises a slot <NUM> for detachably mounting the first end <NUM> to the apparatus <NUM>. The second end <NUM> includes a curved profile <NUM> terminating in a protrusion <NUM>. A flexible section <NUM>, for example, a flexible strap <NUM> is formed between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. In other examples, the detachable pointer <NUM> may comprise a wheel (not shown) for contacting the ground, in use. The detachable pointer <NUM> may, in some embodiments, optionally be used as a scraping tool to clean the apparatus, for example, to scrape off marking fluid. In some embodiments the detachable pointer may have a sharp edge, for example, at the back end of the flexible section <NUM>. The sharp edge, in some embodiments, may be configured to fit between fins, for example, on the masking plate. In embodiments where the sharp edge is configured to fit between fins, enables the sharp edge to be used to clean, for example, remove marking fluid, between the fins. The detachable pointer may be used to clean other areas of the apparatus. The sharp edge of the detachable pointer may be used to clean other areas of the apparatus.

In alternative embodiments the pointer <NUM> may be an integral part of, for example, the masking plate or apparatus.

Referring to <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> may further comprise a protective plate <NUM>. The protective plate <NUM> includes a first end <NUM>, including a pair of arms <NUM>, and a second end <NUM>, including a substantially planar protective portion <NUM>. The planar protective portion extends perpendicularly to a wall <NUM>. The wall <NUM> and the pair of arms <NUM> at the first end <NUM> are generally coplanar. The pair of arms <NUM> are arranged to be received within a receiving portion <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. Thus, the protective plate <NUM> may be detachably coupled to the apparatus <NUM>. In particular, the receiving portion <NUM> may be adjacent to the body <NUM>, the holder <NUM> or both the body <NUM> and the holder <NUM>. Tus, the protective plate <NUM> may serve to protect a portion of the apparatus <NUM>, for example, the body <NUM>, the holder <NUM> or both the body <NUM> and the holder <NUM>, from overspray, in use. That is, the protective plate <NUM> protects the apparatus <NUM> from a sprayed fluid.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, in use, a switch may be operated to start the fans <NUM>, if an air flow system <NUM> is present, a trigger of the operating arm <NUM> is pulled to actuate the aerosol cannister <NUM> and the apparatus <NUM> sprays a line L, as shown in <FIG>, as it is wheeled along the surface. The air flow, emerging from the ducts <NUM> longitudinally along and downwardly across masking plate <NUM> edges, laterally contains over-sprayed marking-fluid and blows droplets of marking-fluid that accumulate along the masking plate <NUM> bottom edges back onto the sprayed line, thereby producing a well-defined sprayed line. Moreover, the masking plates <NUM> also serve to direct marking-fluid towards the surface, allowing droplets of marking-fluid to drop onto the surface having the sprayed marking-fluid thereon. Thus, either the masking plates <NUM>, or a combination of the masking plates <NUM> and the air flow system <NUM>, serve to produce a sprayed line having well-defined outer edges. The masking plates <NUM> are described in further detail below.

In use, the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b, including the stabilizing wheels 130a, 130b, can be adjusted to a desired configuration. As shown in <FIG>, in a first configuration, the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b are substantially parallel. Moreover, the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b do not form an angle with respect to their respective transverse axis, indicated T in <FIG>, which extends from a point of attachment of the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b in a direction directly opposite that to the direction of travel. In this first configuration, a straight line will be sprayed. This first configuration may be useful where it is desirable to have a small rear wheelbase, for example, where space is limited, such as adjacent to a wall or other structure.

As shown in <FIG>, in a second configuration, the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b are not parallel, but each stabilizing arm 132a, 132b forms an equal and opposite angle with respect to their respective transverse axis, indicated T in <FIG>. In this second configuration, a straight line will also be sprayed. However, this second configuration may be useful where it is desirable to have a large rear wheelbase, for example, to ensure extra stability.

As shown in <FIG>, in a third configuration, the stabilizing arms 132a, <NUM> are substantially parallel and each form an angle with respect to their respective transverse axis T. In this third configuration, a curved line will be sprayed. The curvature of the sprayed line may be altered by changing the respective angles of the stabilizing arms 132a, 132b with respect to the transverse axes T.

As shown in <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> comprises provided a pair of opposing masking plates <NUM>. The masking plates <NUM> may be used in conjunction with the apparatus <NUM> as described herein, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In particular, a masking plate <NUM> is disposed on an inner surface of the body <NUM> to each lateral side of the spray of marking-fluid F that is to be sprayed from the nozzle <NUM> of the aerosol cannister <NUM>, in use. Thus, the masking plates <NUM> define a region in which fluid is to be sprayed, and thus define the width and geometry of the spray pattern. In some examples, the masking plates <NUM> may be installed such that the spraying region has a width of <NUM>. The width of the spraying region, and thus the sprayed pattern, is generally defined by the distance between the two masking plates. The masking plates <NUM> may be adjustable between various settings, for example, the masking plates <NUM> may be adjustable between a first setting, for example including a distance of <NUM>, and a second setting, for example including a distance of <NUM>. The masking plates <NUM> may be adjusted in any appropriate manner to any appropriate setting. In some examples, the masking plate <NUM> includes a spray-guide having a flexible portion <NUM>, as described below. The spray-guide may be integral with the masking plate <NUM>, as described in the present examples, or may be formed as a separate component which can be attached to the masking plate <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG>, one embodiment of the masking plate <NUM> includes a bottom edge <NUM>, a top edge <NUM>, and first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> connecting the bottom edge <NUM> and the top edge <NUM>. The first side edge <NUM> is formed at a front end of the masking plate <NUM>, with respect to the direction of travel D, and the second side edge <NUM> is formed at a rear end of the making plate, with respect to the direction of travel D. The masking plate <NUM> includes a first face <NUM> and a second face <NUM>, each face <NUM>, <NUM> being bound and formed by the bottom, top and two side edges <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and each face <NUM>, <NUM> facing outwardly. The first face <NUM> faces towards the inner surface of the body <NUM>, and the second face <NUM> is arranged to receive, and direct, making fluid.

The first side edge <NUM> is provided with a front wall <NUM> extending inwardly from the second face <NUM> towards the spraying region, which may be a curved front wall <NUM>. The curved front wall <NUM> curves from the top edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM> to the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>. Thus, the front wall <NUM> is arranged to direct marking-fluid towards the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>. The second side edge <NUM> is provided with a rear wall <NUM> extending inwardly from the second face <NUM> towards the spraying region, which may be substantially vertical. The rear wall <NUM> may be provided as a curved rear profile of the masking plate <NUM>, curving inwardly and rearwardly to form the rear wall <NUM>. Thus, the rear wall <NUM> is arranged to prevent leakage of marking-fluid outside of the spraying region. In other examples, the masking plate <NUM> may not include the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, and instead be generally defined as a rectangular block.

The bottom edge <NUM>, or a portion thereof, is generally disposed proximal to, or is arranged to engage with, the surface to be sprayed. The bottom edge <NUM> generally serves to allow marking-fluid to drip therefrom onto the surface to be sprayed. Thus, the clearance between the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plates <NUM> and the surface may be important for line definition. For example, if the masking plates <NUM> are close, or very close, to the surface, the edges of the sprayed line tend to be better defined, as drips terminate at the surface quicker at smaller clearances than larger clearances. Thus, it may be desirable for the apparatus <NUM> to have a large clearance with respect to the ground, so that it may be operated correctly and with ease, but also for the masking plates <NUM> to have a small clearance with respect to the ground.

The masking plate <NUM> comprises a flexible-portion <NUM> extending from the bottom edge <NUM> towards the surface to be sprayed. The flexible-portion <NUM> is arranged to be proximal to, or engage, the surface to be sprayed. The flexible-portion <NUM> is attachable to the masking plate <NUM> by virtue of apertures <NUM>, extending through the flexible-portion <NUM>, that provide a friction-fit, a push-fit or a snap-fit, with a corresponding plurality of mounting pegs <NUM> formed as part of the first face <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>. Thus, the flexible-portion <NUM> may be readily attached to, or detached from, the masking plate <NUM>. Moreover, the flexible-portion <NUM> may be retrofitted to existing masking plates or spray-guides.

The flexible-portion <NUM> further includes a plurality of teeth <NUM> extending from a bottom edge of the flexible-portion <NUM> towards the surface to be sprayed. In the depicted example, three teeth are shown. The teeth <NUM>, or a portion thereof, are arranged to be proximal to, or engage, the surface to be sprayed. The teeth <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM> are generally inclined inwardly, with respect to the vertical, or a longitudinal, axis, towards the spraying region. That is, the teeth <NUM> of one masking plate <NUM> extend inwardly towards the opposing masking plate <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the angle is <NUM> degrees to the vertical. In other examples, the flexible-portion <NUM> may be generally inclined inwardly, with respect to the vertical, or a longitudinal, axis, towards the spraying region. In such examples, the teeth <NUM> may be coplanar, and thus share the same inclination angle, or may be angled with respect to the flexible-portion <NUM>.

In the depicted embodiment, the teeth <NUM> are arranged in a regular configuration, that is, each single tooth of the teeth <NUM> is substantially identical in dimension, arrangement and the like. In this embodiment, the teeth <NUM> are arranged having a distance between each tooth of <NUM>. In some examples, there may be provided three teeth <NUM> disposed centrally along the bottom edge of the flexible-portion <NUM>, having a central tooth that is longer than the teeth flanking the central tooth.

The flexible-portion <NUM> generally comprises a flexible material, such as a silicone, such that the flexible-portion <NUM> may contact the surface to be sprayed (i.e. the ground) without being damaged. Further, the flexible-portion <NUM> may be resiliently deformable, such that the flexible-portion <NUM> may contact the surface to be sprayed in use, and then return to its original configuration. Moreover, the flexible material allows marking-fluid to continuously drip from the bottom edge of the flexible-portion, that is, the flexible-portion prevents marking-fluid drying thereon. Thus, a better defined edge of a sprayed line may be provided. Moreover, the teeth <NUM> may generally comprise a flexible material, such as a silicone, such that the teeth <NUM> may contact the surface to be sprayed (i.e. the ground) in a similar manner to the flexible-portion <NUM>. In this way, a minimal clearance can be provided between the masking plate <NUM>, at its flexible-portion <NUM>, and the surface, thus providing a well-defined edge of a sprayed line. Moreover, the teeth <NUM> are arranged to contact the surface to be sprayed, in use, thereby defining an outer edge or boundary in which the marking-fluid does not cross. The flexible-portion <NUM> and the teeth <NUM> may comprise the same or different materials, and may be integral or separate components.

Each masking plate <NUM> also includes one or more fins <NUM> that are arranged to guide marking-fluid sprayed from the nozzle <NUM> towards the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>, particularly the flexible-portion <NUM>, namely the teeth <NUM>. The fins <NUM> serve to provide a continuous flow of marking-fluid to the flexible-portion <NUM>, namely the teeth <NUM>, thereby substantially mitigating, and even eliminating, the risk that the marking-fluid dries on the flexible-portion <NUM>. In this way, the fins <NUM> cooperate with the flexible-portion <NUM>, and the teeth <NUM>, to provide a well-defined sprayed line.

Each fin <NUM> generally extend from an apex proximal, or at, the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM> adjacent the flexible-portion <NUM>, upwardly towards a base proximal, or at, the top edge <NUM> of the masking plate. Thus, each of the fins <NUM> may generally be defined as a triangular structure. The fins <NUM> may be formed as a right-angled triangle.

In the depicted example, a pair of fins <NUM> is provided. The pair of fins <NUM> may each be orientated off-axis with respect to the vertical, that is a vertical or longitudinal axis, and thus form an inclination angle. In some embodiments, the inclination angle of a fin may be between <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. In some specific embodiments the inclined angle of a fin is <NUM> degrees. Put another way, each fin may form an angle of between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees, excluding <NUM> and <NUM> degrees, with respect to the bottom edge of the masking plate <NUM>.

Each fin <NUM> may be opposingly inclined. The first fin and the second fin may be inclined to substantially form a partial funnel shape, for example, an isosceles trapezium having its shorter edge defined by an imaginary line between the apex of each fin <NUM>, that is, proximal to, or at, the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>, and its longer edge defined by an imaginary line between the base of each fin, that is, proximal to, or at, the top edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>.

Additionally, the masking plate <NUM> includes a pointer <NUM> comprising a point <NUM>. In some examples, a pointer <NUM> may be attached thereto, as described above. In the example shown, the pointer <NUM> may be detachably mounted to the masking plate <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another example of a masking plate <NUM>. The masking plate <NUM> of <FIG> is substantially similar to that described in relation to <FIG>, and so like elements are denoted with like reference numerals. The differences between the masking plates <NUM> of <FIG> and the masking plates <NUM> of <FIG> are discussed below.

The masking plate <NUM> in this example does not include fins. Moreover, the masking plate includes seven teeth <NUM> rather than three teeth. The remaining features of masking plate <NUM> of <FIG> are the same as those described in the masking plates <NUM> of <FIG>.

Further, in some examples, there may be provided seven teeth <NUM> disposed centrally along the bottom edge of the flexible-portion <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. The teeth <NUM> may include a central tooth 224a with a first length, two primary teeth 224b flanking the central tooth 224a at each side thereof and each having a second length, two secondary teeth 224c flanking the primary teeth 224b at each side thereof and each having a third length, and two tertiary teeth 224d flanking the secondary teeth 224c at each side thereof and each having a fourth length. As shown in <FIG>, the first length, the second length, the third length and the fourth length are equal.

Referring to <FIG>, in use, a marking-fluid is introduced proximal the top edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>. The marking-fluid is continuously directed, by the fins <NUM> where present, the curved front wall <NUM> and the rear wall <NUM>, towards the bottom edge <NUM> of the masking plate <NUM>, particularly towards the flexible-portion <NUM> and the teeth <NUM> provided centrally at a lower end of the masking plate <NUM>. The marking-fluid continuously flows from an upper end of each tooth <NUM> towards a lower end of each tooth <NUM>, and as the respective tooth <NUM> contacts the ground, is brushed onto the surface to be sprayed.

Claim 1:
A masking plate (<NUM>) comprising a spray-guide for use in a spraying apparatus and for defining the shape of marking-fluid when sprayed on a surface, the spray-guide comprising a flexible-portion (<NUM>),
wherein the flexible-portion (<NUM>) comprises a plurality of teeth (<NUM>); and
wherein the teeth have equal vertical lengths, characterized in that said teeth are arranged to, in use, contact the surface to be sprayed.