US20060153697A1 - Fluid provider assembly and portable fluid provider system including same - Google Patents

Abstract

A fluid provider assembly including a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent. A motor unit is positioned within the housing, and a fluid pressurization unit is interposed between the intake end and the motor unit for pressurizing fluid within the housing such that fluid expelled from the output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through the intake vent. A portable sound damping case is also provided. The case has a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side. The base side has a fluid intake vent in a first position laterally spaced from a center point of the base. The intake end of the fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate the base of the case such that the fluid provider assembly intake vent is laterally offset from the first position.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to fluid providers, and more particularly to a portable fluid provider system for receiving fluid, pressurizing fluid, and transporting the pressurized fluid into a fluid containing member.
• The need to translocate large yet delicate or heavy objects without damaging the object or the transfer surfaces spans the gamut of practical applications. From industrial to medical settings, it is often impossible to move an object (load) or person without the aid of a transfer device to assist in the transport.
• One application example includes moving medical patients, such as accident victims, the elderly, or comatose, paralyzed or otherwise immobilized patients, who are frequently difficult to transfer or move in a safe, comfortable manner from one support surface, such as a bed, to another support surface, such as a gurney or wheeled hospital cart. Patients who cannot by themselves sit up or move can be particularly difficult to move from a stretcher to a bed or vice versa, and repositioning such patients frequently requires two or three people (e.g., nurses, orderlies or other attendants). That situation is not desirable, however, as it naturally gives rise to the possibility that the medical personnel themselves will incur back or other injuries, particularly if the patient is unusually heavy or completely immobilized. Notwithstanding the painful nature of the injury itself, such medical personnel injuries can also result in lost time and workers compensation claims.
• Another situation calling for the aid of a transfer device involves moving bulky and/or heavy industrial loads. Moving objects, such as large machine parts or household appliances, even over relatively short distances, often requires multiple human movers or a hoist, fork truck, conveyor, or the like. There are some situations, however, where hoisting, conveyor transfer or ordinary pallet and fork truck transfer is not possible or practical. For example, fork trucks cannot practically be used in residential settings to remove old appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines and the like, or reposition new appliances. Moreover, moving furniture, even over short distances within a room or building, can damage both the furniture and the floor. Providing a safe and effective portable transport system is especially important in cases where protecting the flooring surface, such as hardwood or high end marble or ceramic tile, is as much a consideration as protecting the load.
• As mentioned above, the range of applications desiring an alternative transport system is vast. Other examples of heavy or bulky yet delicate objects which require occasional and careful transport, often between pristine surfaces, include artistic sculptures or other museum exhibits, and large animals (e.g., horses, cattle, deer or elephants) in need of medical attention at farms, zoos, conservation sites or veterinary hospitals.
• In recent years, various transfer devices have been developed, mainly in the area of human medical patient transfer, which can be placed either temporarily or semi-permanently under a person already on a bed or stretcher and then inflated. The entire transfer device is then moved onto another surface along with the patient. These transfer devices frequently take the form of air mattress-type movers. Such air mattress-type movers have been provided with small perforations in the bottom and a supply of compressed air to obtain and at least temporarily maintain inflation. During such inflation, a continuous supply of pressurized air is expelled from the bottom of the transfer device to form a fluid film which supports the inflated transfer device or mat on any reasonably flat, semi-continuous surface in the same manner as an air pallet used for industrial applications within shops and plants.
• The same concept is generally applicable across the board for the translocation needs described above. An inflatable transfer pad can be positioned beneath a heavy or bulky object by lifting the object only a minimal amount, inflated with fluid, such as air, and moved along with the object to another surface or another portion of the same surface. Although air pallets for industrial and medical use and compressed air pumps for inflating the air pallets are generally known, room for improvement exists. The assignee of the present invention has also disclosed an improved material mover that incorporates a pressurized fluid (i.e., a gas, such as air, or a liquid, such as an oil) in U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ entitled “Material Mover Having A Fluid Film Reservoir,” filed concurrently herewith, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/425,673, filed on Nov. 12, 2002, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference.
• As mentioned above, the need for moving such objects or medical patients often arises in situ, and as such, demands a portable means for providing and pressuring the fluid used in the inflatable transfer device. Although conventional small pumps/compressors can be carried about fairly easily, problems exist in using these conventional pumps/compressors in connection with the inflatable transfer devices described above.
• One problem is that the air compressors must be small in order to be deemed “portable.” Small air compressors or fluid pumps have a reduced capacity to provide pressurize fluid to a transfer device. This problem is particularly troublesome when the load is very large or heavy and a significant amount of pressure is needed in order to inflate the transfer device. Parallel arrangements of multiple, individual fluid pumps or air compressors can provide the necessary pressure simultaneously when connected at various points on the transfer device. This arrangement, however, limits the effective portability and reduces the maneuverability of the transfer device since a multiple number of individually powered units are required to be connected at multiple positions around the transfer device.
• Another problem is that the pump or air compressor must be oriented in a specific position, particularly so that air can be accepted into the unit and such that the unit can operate without overheating. In conventional models, the pump is often oriented in a horizontal direction rather than a vertical direction. This orientation, how ever, requires more lateral space, and access to typically side-mounted operational controls, connections and power supply ports can be inconvenient. Furthermore, after being brought into the desired location, the pump must be removed from the container or bag in which it was carried and repositioned to allow proper air flow to the unit and to gain access to the controls and power for operation.
• Yet another problem is that typical air compressors and fluid pumps tend to generate a great deal of noise during operation, which is particularly undesirable in a hospital or nursing home setting. Conventional methods for damping sound, such as covering the loud air compressor or fluid pump with a blanket, pillow or otherwise physically muffling the loud sounds emitted therefrom, tend to induce the risk of overheating and inhibit the ability of air to properly flow into the compressor.
• Thus, it would be desirable to provide a portable fluid provider system that overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art. It would be particularly desirable to provide a cost effective portable fluid provider that enables quiet operation in a compact space without incurring the risk of overheating. It would also be desirable to provide a portable fluid provider system that enabled series interconnection with other fluid providers to maximize the final fluid output pressure and volume fed into a single filling port on a transfer device.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, particularly to provide a cost effective portable fluid provider that enables quiet operation in a compact space without incurring the risk of overheating. It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable fluid provider system that enables interconnection with a plurality of other fluid providers to maximize the final fluid output pressure and volume fed into a single filling port on a transfer device.
• According to one embodiment of the present invention, a fluid provider assembly is provided, including a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into the housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of the housing. An intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent portion is provided to allow fluid to be received into the housing. A motor unit is positioned within the housing, and a fluid pressurization unit is interposed between the intake end and the motor unit. The fluid pressurization unit can be a fan unit, or another member, such as a piston-type fluid pressurizer. The fluid pressurization unit operates to pressurize fluid within the housing such that fluid expelled from the output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through the intake end.
• The intake faceplate is preferably removable and preferably includes a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to the intake end. Preferably, the intake faceplate includes a plurality of leg members extending therefrom in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto. The leg members are preferably dimensioned to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access into the intake when the fluid provider housing is vertically oriented such that the intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which the assembly is located.
• Preferably, a coupling plate is also provided. The coupling plate preferably includes a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to the intake end of fluid provider housing in substantially the same manner as the intake faceplate after the intake faceplate is removed from the intake end of the housing. The coupling plate also includes a coupling member adapted to connect the intake end to an output end of another fluid provider.
• An intake shield is also preferably provided positioned within the housing, spaced a distance from the intake end and interposed between the intake end and the fluid pressurization unit. The intake faceplate preferably includes an access door, and a fluid filter is preferably interposed between the intake end and the intake shield in a position corresponding to at least a portion of the filter access door.
• The fluid provider assembly of the present invention facilitates an increased fluid pressurization capacity by enabling a series connection of multiple fluid providers, or a parallel connection via a manifold (e.g., a branched connector) attachment. In a series type connection, the fluid providers can be longitudinally oriented such that the coupling plate positioned on the fluid intake end of one fluid provider connects to the output end of another fluid provider, either directly or via a short length of hose. In a manifold parallel arrangement, the manifold adapter includes a single outlet port to be connected to a transfer device and a plurality of parallel inlet ports to accommodate multiple fluid providers.
• Although a plurality of fluid providers may still be required to increase the ultimate maximum pressurization capacity and volumetric output of the fluid provider system, only one of the fluid providers actually needs to be connected to the inflatable transfer device. This single port connection arrangement does not impede or inhibit the overall maneuverability of the transfer device. Moreover, connecting the fluid providers in series in this manner allows for an increase in the final output pressure fed into one inlet port of a transfer device while using fewer fluid providers than would otherwise be required for the prior art parallel arrangement described above.
• The leg members provided on the intake faceplate enable the fluid provider to be operated in a stable, vertically oriented position as well as the longitudinal (sideways) orientation described above. Because the distance between the support surface on which the fluid provider is located and the fluid intake vent is determined by the height of the leg members, an adequate clearance can be maintained and fluid flow into the fluid provider is virtually uninhibited, even during vertical orientation where the intake vent is effectively positioned on the bottom surface of the fluid provider.
• According to another embodiment of the present invention, a fluid provider is provided, including a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into the housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of the housing. The fluid provider also includes a power supply connection member positioned on the output end, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned on the output end and an operational control switch positioned on the output end. A motor unit is positioned within the housing and a fluid pressurization unit is interposed between the intake end and the motor unit. The fluid pressurization unit serves to pressurize fluid within the housing such that fluid expelled from the output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through the intake end.
• The fluid provider preferably includes a control switch cover positioned to substantially surround the operational control switch and adapted to allow access to the control switch for deliberate engaging or disengaging of an operational mode of the fluid provider while preventing unintentional engaging or disengaging of the operational mode. This is particularly important given that the fluid provider can be positioned within and completely enclosed by a sound damping carrying case, as described in more detail below. The switch cover also protects the position, either on or off, of the switch in that the fluid provider cannot be suddenly and unexpectedly engaged before the desired operation time or unexpectedly and accidentally disengaged during a delicate transfer.
• It is also preferred that the fluid conduit coupler member is provided with a contact surface that provides a locking relationship with an end of a fluid conduit, such as a hose, an adapter or a manifold, or with a coupling member on a coupling plate. More preferably, the fluid conduit coupler member is configured to engage and lock-in one end of a fluid conduit with a simple twist and click. This enables fast and efficient fluid conduit or connector plate connection with little need for adjustment and without the need for additional sealing or securing members. In that manner, the portable fluid transfer system can be properly set up and used quickly, especially in cases of emergency medical patient transfer. The lock-in feature beneficially prevents unintentional disengagement of the fluid conduit or coupling plate from the fluid provider during operation.
• An output shield is also provided, positioned within the housing and spaced a distance from the output end such that it is interposed between the output end and the motor unit. The output shield protects the motor from external elements, allows for the passage of fluid through the system, and helps to reduce the noise output from the motor during operation. This sound damping feature, in combination with the other sound damping features of the present invention, further enables quiet and efficient fluid transfer in sound-sensitive situations.
• According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a portable fluid provider system is provided. The portable fluid provider system includes a fluid provider assembly including a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into the housing and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of the housing, a motor unit positioned within the housing, and a fluid pressurization unit interposed between the intake end and the motor unit for pressurizing fluid within the housing such that fluid expelled from the output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through the intake vent, the fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from the intake end of the housing. The portable fluid provider system also includes a portable sound damping case in which the fluid provider assembly is positioned. The case has a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side. The base side has a fluid intake vent located at a first position which is laterally offset (i.e., spaced a distance) from a center point of the base. The fluid provider is positioned within the case such that the intake end of the fluid provider assembly is located proximate the base of the case. The fluid intake vent of the fluid provider assembly is located at a second position, which is laterally offset from the first position. Preferably, the second position is centrally located such that it roughly corresponds to the center point of the base of the case.
• Offsetting the vent positions from one another may seem counterintuitive from a fluid intake point of view, but therein lies an important aspect of the present invention. That is, offsetting the respective positions of the fluid provider assembly intake vent and the intake vent of the case itself actually enhances the sound damping abilities of the case without affecting or negatively impacting the fluid flow into the case or the subsequent fluid flow into the fluid provider assembly positioned therein.
• The peripheral sidewalls of the case preferably include a front sidewall, an opposed back sidewall, a first lateral (left) sidewall and an opposed second lateral (right) sidewall. The sidewalls can be substantially integral (i.e., wrapped) or individual and joined (i.e., sewn at seamlines). Preferably, an additional external sidewall is positioned on the outer surface of the back sidewall and connected proximate the base and lateral sidewalls to form a pocket having an opening proximate the top side of the case. A foldable auxiliary pad is preferably provided, foldably positioned in the pocket. The auxiliary pad can be used when the surface from which the object (load) or person is to be moved is not ideal for producing the fluid film on which the transfer device effectively floats during at least a portion of the transfer. Additionally, and potentially more importantly, the auxiliary pad can also be used to effectively extend a surface by providing a bridge to span the distance between adjacent transfer surfaces (i.e., a bed and a gurney). This can be especially helpful if the transfer surfaces are not coplanar or if there is a significant gap between transfer surfaces, as mentioned above.
• A plurality of leg members are also provided on the case, extending from the outer surface of the base in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto. The leg members are preferably dimensioned to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to the fluid intake vent of the case when the base of the case is proximate a surface on which the case is resting. Thus, the case can be stably positioned on a surface while fluid is still allowed to flow underneath the case, through the vent in the base, and into both the case and the fluid provider assembly positioned therein.
• It is also preferred that the case further includes a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of the top side in a sufficient location to provide direct access to the output end of the fluid provider positioned within the case when the closeable top side of the case is in a closed position without opening the entire top side of the case. The closeable flap member also contributes to the sound damping qualities of the case in that the operational control features of the fluid provider assembly can be directly accessed and used without removing the fluid provider from the case, and without completely opening the entire top side of the case. The structure and design of the case permit fluid flow into the case in such a way that the fluid provider can safely and effectively operate even while being substantially enclosed to reduce the noise output.
• The case also preferably includes a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of the back sidewall of the case. Additional securing straps can also be positioned to extend from at least one of the lateral sidewalls, although these straps are usually used to secure other components of the portable fluid provider system, like an inflatable transfer device and connection tubing. It is particularly preferable, however, to include a plurality of securing straps extending from the inner surface of the base side of the case. The straps secure the fluid provider assembly in a central position within the case, such that the center of gravity of the fluid provider assembly is also centrally located. This improves the portability of the system by making it easier for a user to carry and by preventing the fluid provider assembly from tipping or shifting in the case when the case containing the fluid provider assembly is moved from one location to another.
• It is also preferable to include at least one vent positioned on at least one of the first and the second lateral sidewalls, and at least one vent on the flap member of the top side to facilitate fluid exchange between the case and the atmosphere surrounding the case to prevent overheating of the fluid provider assembly positioned within the case. Providing vents on at least one of the sidewalls further increases the amount of fluid that flows into the case and improves the overall performance of the fluid provider assembly positioned therein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• For a more complete understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description of a preferred mode of practicing the invention, read in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
• FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a fluid provider according to one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a rear view of the fluid provider shown inFIG. 1;
• FIG. 3 is a top view showing the output end of the fluid provider shown inFIG. 1;
• FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing the intake end of the fluid provider shown inFIG. 1;
• FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the fluid provider shown inFIG. 1;
• FIG. 6 is a left-side view of the fluid provider shown inFIG. 1;
• FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the intake end of a fluid provider assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the output end of a fluid provider according to one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a coupling plate and connector hose according to one embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the sound damping carrying case according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the sound damping carrying case shown inFIG. 10;
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the structural features of the fluid provider and the sound damping carrying case;
• FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the portable fluid provider system; and
• FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the portable fluid provider system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• FIGS. 1-6 are various non-perspective views showing an embodiment of a vertically oriented fluid provider according to the present invention, and are best read in conjunction with the perspective views shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. The elongatefluid provider housing100 includes anintake end10 and anopposed output end40. A fluid pressurization unit50 (seeFIG. 7) is positioned within thehousing100 proximate theintake end10. Thefluid pressurization unit50 is spaced a distance from theintake end10, and anintake shield51 is interposed therebetween. A motor unit60 (not shown) is positioned within thehousing100, interposed between thefluid pressurization unit50 and anoutput shield45 located proximate the output end40 (seeFIG. 8).
• A plurality offlat surfaces110,111 are provided on exterior portions of thefluid provider housing100, which is otherwise substantially cylindrical in shape. Theseflat surfaces110,111 can be provided with a variety of attachments to aid in the transportability and connection capabilities of the fluid provider assembly. For example, a hook-and-loop type fastener can be provided on theflat surfaces110,111 which is configured to mate with a corresponding hook-and-loop type fastener on a portion of an uninflated transfer device. In that manner, the transfer device and the fluid provider can be toted together. A plurality of wheels can also be attached to a portion of theflat surfaces110,111 as a transportation feature. Moreover, output attachments, such as adapters or fluid conduit extensions, can also be attached to the fluid provider assembly atflat surfaces110,111. It is also possible to provide a specialized adapter on one offlat surfaces110,111 configured to be positioned and secured directly atop an inlet port of a transfer device without the need for hoses or extension adapters. Notwithstanding the above features, the exact overall shape of thefluid provider housing100 is not critical, however, and a variety of shapes may be substituted for the cylindrical embodiments shown herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
• For the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1-8, theintake end10 is preferably provided with anintake faceplate20, shown in more detail inFIG. 4, or alternatively, acoupling plate30, as shown inFIG. 9. Theintake faceplate20 can be configured to be substantially permanently connected to theintake end10. As shown inFIG. 7, however, theintake faceplate20 is configured to be detachably connected to theintake end10, and thecoupling plate30 is also configured to be detachably connected to theintake end10 of thefluid provider housing100 in place of theintake faceplate10 to facilitate a series link with the output end of another fluid provider. The structure and function of thecoupling plate30 are described in more detail with reference toFIG. 9 herein below.
• Theintake faceplate20 includes a centrally positioned intake vent comprising a plurality of fluid receiving (vent)openings22. As shown inFIG. 4, the pattern of thevent openings22 can include a variety of elongate shapes radiating from a central hub along with a plurality of circular or elliptical openings interposed therebetween. The exact pattern and shapes of the fluidintake vent openings22 is not limited, however, so long as a sufficient amount of fluid can be received therethrough. The design of the fluid intake vent also contributes to the noise reducing features of the present invention by damping the sound emitted from the fluid pressurization and motor units operating within thefluid provider housing100.
• Theintake end10 also includes a plurality ofleg members23 disposed around the circumferential periphery of theintake faceplate20. Theleg members23 extend away from the plane of theintake faceplate20 in a direction that is substantially perpendicular thereto. The exact shape, height, number and position of theleg members23 is not critical, so long as thefluid provider housing100 can be stably supported thereon when arranged in a vertical orientation, such that theintake end10 closest to the supporting surface is spaced a distance therefrom by the height of theleg members23. It is preferred, however, that at least threeleg members23 be provided, and that each of theleg members23 have a height of at least 0.5 inch in order to optimize the fluid flow into theintake vent openings22.
• A pair of diametrically opposed strap guides25,26 are respectively provided on the left and right hand sides of theintake faceplate20. The strap guides25,26 are used in conjunction with the securing straps on the base side of thesound damping case200, which is shown inFIGS. 10-14 and described in more detail below.
• As shown inFIG. 7, theintake faceplate20 also includes afilter access door24 positioned in a central location to provide access to afilter28. Theintake shield51 is inset a distance from the outermost portion of theintake end10 such that thefilter28 can be positioned between theintake shield51 and the outermost edge of theintake end10. The position of thefilter access door24 on theintake faceplate20 corresponds to the location of thefilter28. Further, thefilter access door24 can include ahinge27 as shown, or otherwise be provided with a removable connection interface with respect to theintake faceplate20 in order to provide access to thefilter28 when theintake faceplate20 is secured to theintake end10 of thefluid provider housing100. Thefilter access door24 can also comprise a portion of the intake vent, in that some of thevent openings22 of the intake vent can be positioned on thefilter access door24 as shown inFIG. 7.
• FIG. 8 is a perspective view of theoutput end40 of a fluid provided according to one embodiment of the present invention. Theoutput end40 includes a plurality of connection and operational components for the fluid provider1. As also shown inFIG. 3, theoutput end40 includes apower supply connection41 configured to receive a 3-prong power connector. Thispower supply connection41 is adapted to receive a corresponding connector provided on an AC power cord, for example, or a connector for an auxiliary power source, such as a DC battery source, which can be transported and used within the carrying case described below. It should be noted, however, that a standard AC connection cord preferably can not be used to provide the connection between the fluid provider and a DC power source for safety reasons. This is especially relevant when the fluid provider is used in the medical industry, which requires particular (i.e., hospital grade hubble plugs) power connectors having green-dot approval. Providing an auxiliary power source that can be contained within the portable case increases the level of portability of the fluid provider of the present invention. Moreover, such an auxiliary power source eliminates the need to employ an externally extending AC power cord connection and the undesirable tether aspect of such cords. This also improves the functionality of the fluid provider with respect to portability and maneuverability.
• Theoutput end40 also includes anoperational switch43, that is, an ON/OFF switch, which can be enclosed by aswitch cover44 to prevent accidental or otherwise unintentional power activation or power termination to the fluid provider. The switch cover44 can be hingeably connected to theoutput end40 as shown inFIGS. 3 and 8, or otherwise removably connected to allow only deliberate access to theoperational switch43. A pair of strap guides47,48 are also provided. A separate carrying strap (not shown) can be laced therethrough to aid in carrying the portable fluid provider assembly.
• FIGS. 3 and 8 also show that theoutput end40 further includes afluid conduit coupler42 configured to receive and mechanically, twistably lock-in one end of a fluid conduit (i.e., hose, not shown), the other end of which is adapted to be connected to a fluid receiving port provided on an inflatable apparatus (e.g., transfer device). The fluid conduit can be a hose, like theconnector hose33 shown inFIG. 9. The fluid conduit can also be any one of a variety of fluid conducting members, such as PVC tubes or other flexible or rigid attachment members or adapters. A short fluid conduit can be employed in place of a hose-like fluid conduit to eliminate the unnecessary and undesirable tether aspect of long hosing and further improve the portability and maneuverability of the fluid provider of the present invention.
• Additionally, a multiple conduit branch connector can be attached to thecoupler42 so that a single fluid provider can provide fluid to a plurality of fluid receptacles. It should also be noted that the terminal end of the fluid conduit can be fitted with a variety of adapters configured to attach to different fluid receiving ports on different fluid receptacles in various manners. One example includes an adapter having a substantially planar mating surface provided with a hook-and-loop type fastener (i.e., Velcro®) that is configured to attach over a port such as a fluid receiving port of a material mover, for example, having a corresponding hook-and-loop fastener provided on the periphery thereof.
• Thefluid conduit coupler42 can also be configured to directly receive acoupling member32 provided on thecoupling plate30 shown inFIG. 9, which is connected to theintake end10 of another fluid provider (not shown). This series-type connection of sequentially oriented fluid providers increases the ultimate output pressurization of thefinal output end40 of the series of fluid provider assemblies to a degree that would not otherwise be possible using a single fluid provider. This eliminates the need for providing multiple filling ports/positions on the fluid receiving apparatus, and enables faster and more efficient fluid transfer from the fluid provider.
• As mentioned above,FIG. 9 shows that theremovable coupling plate30 can be connected (by a press-fit, for example) to theintake end10 in place of theintake faceplate20 to facilitate a series connection with another fluid provider, or with a series of other fluid providers. Thecoupling member32 can also connect to anintermediate hose33, as shown inFIG. 9, or directly to thefluid conduit coupler42 of theoutput end40 of another fluid provider (not shown). It should be noted, however, that providing an intermediate connection hose can help absorb, and thus reduce, system vibrations and provide a secure connection that is not subject to separation during operation of the fluid provider.
• The fluid provider assembly of the present invention can be transported in and operated from a position within asound damping case200, as shown inFIGS. 12-13.FIGS. 10-14 show various perspective views of thesound damping case200, hereinafter referred to simply as the “case”200, which includes a substantially rigid bottom side orbase210, and a plurality of peripheral sidewalls, which can be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. The peripheral sidewalls extend from the peripheral edges of the base210 in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, and substantially surround thebase210. The peripheral sidewalls include afront sidewall230, aback sidewall240, a first (e.g., left)lateral sidewall250, and an opposed second (e.g., right)lateral sidewall260.
• Thecase200 also includes a closeabletop side220, one edge of which can be hingedly attached to a top portion of any one of the peripheral sidewalls. It is preferred, however, that thetop side220 is hingedly (flap-like) attached to a portion of the top edge ofback sidewall240, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13. The top side can be integral with the back sidewall as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, or flapably attached via a seam-line, zipper, or other joining means. Thetop side220 can be positioned and secured (e.g., zipped as shown, or snapped or attached using Velcro®) over the lengths of the top edges of the other sidewalls to completely close thecase200.
• FIG. 10 shows thecloseable flap member221 positioned on thetop side220 to provide direct access to the operational components located on theoutput end40 of a fluid provider positioned within thecase200 without having to fully open the entiretop side220. This feature optimizes the sound damping qualities of thecase200 in that operational access can be gained without exposing the fluid provider to any significant degree, thereby containing (i.e., damping) the noise generated by the fluid provider without hindering operational efficiency. This sound damping aspect of the present invention holds special significance in situations where the fluid provider assembly is used in a medical facility, such as a hospital or nursing home, where disturbances to patients should be limited as much as possible. Thus, thecase200 effectively reduces the excess noise associated with operating the fluid provider of the present invention and provides a secure carrying means for transporting the fluid provider assembly.
• As best shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, a plurality ofleg post members212 extend downwardly from the outer surface of the base210 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane thereof. Theleg members212 are positioned at various locations around the periphery of thebase210, particularly proximate the corners thereof. As shown, some of theleg members212 are somewhat centrally positioned to provide added support for a fluid provider which is likewise centrally positioned within thecase200. The support provided, which is attributed to the position of theleg members212, is but one attribute of theleg members212, however, and another important attribute of theleg members212 is that they elevate the base210 from the support surface (e.g., floor) to enable sufficient and substantially uninhibited fluid flow into thecase200 from thebase210, as described below.
• Afluid intake vent211 is provided on the base210 in a first position, which is at least laterally offset from the center point of thebase210. That is, it is preferred that thefluid intake vent211 be offset from a corresponding fluid intake vent22 on theintake end10 of a fluid provider which is preferably centrally positioned and secured within thecase200 as described above. Offsetting the vent positions in this manner further enhances the sound damping capabilities of thecase200 without hindering the fluid flow between theintake vent211 of thecase200 and theintake vent openings22 of theintake end10 of the fluid provider assembly.
• As shown inFIGS. 10-14, anadditional fluid vent261 can be provided on a portion of one of at least one of the first and second lateral sidewalls (260 as shown) to further increase the amount of fluid flow into thecase200. Positioning thevent261 in this manner effectively increases the fluid available to theintake end10 of a fluid provider assembly positioned within thecase200 without compromising the sound damping qualities of thecase200. It is also desirable to provide such a vent in order to reduce the chances of overheating the fluid provider assembly positioned within thecase200. Along those lines, yet anothervent222 is positioned on thecloseable flap member221 of thetop side220. In that manner, when theflap member221 is in the closed position, such that the operational controls positioned on theoutput end40 of thefluid provider housing100 positioned within thecase200 cannot be directly accessed, fluid (i.e., air or liquid) can exit thecase200 through thevent222, which can prevent overheating of the enclosed fluid provider assembly in the event it is accidentally turned on while the flap member is closed.
• As shown inFIG. 12, the unique structural relationship between the components of thecase200 and the fluid provider assembly yield the novel configuration of the present invention. In order to provide and maintain the proper relationship between components, a plurality of securing straps are provided within thecase200 to fix the location of the fluid provider assembly positioned therein. As shown inFIG. 12, a pair of securing straps214 (the left-hand strap is hidden inFIG. 12) are provided to extend from the inner surface of the base210 on either side of the center point thereof, such that one end of each of thestraps214 is affixed to thebase210. The sides of thefluid provider housing100 proximate theintake end10 are preferably equipped with strap guides25,26 as mentioned above, in the form of molded loops or other protruding members through which the un-affixed ends of thestraps214 are laced. Eachstrap214 is then doubled over and re-secured to itself via a hook-and loop type fastener, such as Velcro®, which is provided thereon. Thestraps214 prevent undesired lateral movement and inhibit vertical displacement of the fluid provider assembly positioned within thecase200.
• It is also preferred to include a plurality of securing straps extending from at least one of the plurality of peripheral sidewalls. As shown inFIG. 12, a pair of securingstraps242,243 are provided such that one end of eachstrap242,243 is affixed to a portion of theback sidewall240, and the other end extends at least partially around the outer circumference proximate theoutput end40 of afluid provider housing100 positioned within thecase200.Strap243 is laced through a loop member provided at the distal end ofstrap242 and re-secured onto itself using a hook-and-loop type fastener, such as VELCRO®. Ultimately, the twostraps242,243 essentially circumscribe the fluid provider and lend stability. Thus, the portable fluid provider system includes all of the necessary components required to move an object or person between locations, all contained within a single, compact carrying case that dampens operational sound.
• As shown inFIG. 12, other securingstraps252,262 extending from thelateral sidewalls250,260 can also be provided. The additional securing straps252,262 can be used to maintain the position of other occupants of thecase200, such as anun-inflated transfer device300 orconnector tubing310 located on either side of the fluid provider. As shown inFIG. 13, however, theun-inflated transfer device300 and theconnector tubing310 positioned within thecase200 are not secured using the above-mentionedstraps252,262. Instead, the sheer bulk of these occupants helps to secure the position of all of the occupants within thecase200.
• FIG. 14 shows the fully closed sound damping carryingcase200 having the fluid provider assembly of the present invention positioned therein. Thepocket245 provided on the backside240 (see alsoFIG. 12) holds a foldedauxiliary pad320. Theauxiliary pad320 is preferably semi-rigid, at least in sections, and is useful for enhancing the transfer surface to allow the transfer device to produce a more efficient fluid film from the fluid provider. Additionally, theauxiliary pad320 can be used to extend the transfer surface, for example, to bridge a gap between a bed and a gurney or provide a ramp over a stepped section of flooring.
• While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to the preferred mode as illustrated in the drawings, it will be understood by one skilled in the art that various changes in detail may be effected therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (44)

1. A fluid provider assembly, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing, said output end being substantially coaxial with said input end;

an intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent portion to allow fluid to be received into said housing;

a plurality of members extending from said intake faceplate in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which the assembly is located;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

2. The assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising an intake shield positioned within said housing, said intake shield being spaced a distance from said intake end and interposed between said intake end and said fluid pressurization unit.

3. (canceled)

4. The assembly ofclaim 1, wherein said intake faceplate is removable, said intake faceplate having a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to said intake end.

5. The assembly ofclaim 4, further comprising a coupling plate having a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to said intake end of fluid provider housing in substantially the same manner as said intake faceplate after said intake faceplate is removed from said intake end of said housing, said coupling plate having a coupling member adapted to connect said intake end to an output end of another fluid provider.

6. A fluid provider, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing;

a power supply connection member positioned on said output end;

a fluid conduit coupler member positioned on said output end;

an operational control switch positioned on said output end;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

7. The fluid provider ofclaim 6, further comprising a control switch cover positioned to substantially surround said operational control switch and adapted to allow access to said control switch for deliberate engaging or disengaging of an operational mode of said fluid provider while preventing unintentional engaging or disengaging of said operational mode.

8. The fluid provider ofclaim 6, said fluid conduit coupler member further comprising a contact surface for providing a locking relationship with an end of a fluid conduit.

9. The fluid provider ofclaim 6, further comprising an output shield positioned within said housing, said output shield being spaced a distance from said output end and interposed between said output end and said motor unit.

10. A fluid provider, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing;

a fluid intake vent portion positioned on said intake end to allow fluid to be received into said housing;

a plurality of leg members extending from said intake end in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

11. The fluid provider ofclaim 10, further comprising an intake shield positioned within said housing, said intake shield being spaced a distance from said intake end and interposed between said intake end and said fluid pressurization unit.

12. The fluid provider ofclaim 11, said intake end further comprising an access door.

13. The fluid provider ofclaim 12, further comprising a fluid filter interposed between said intake end and said intake shield in a position corresponding to at least a portion of said filter access end.

14. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider assembly comprising

a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

15. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 14, wherein said intake end of said fluid provider housing further comprises an intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent portion to allow fluid to be received into said housing.

16. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 15, said intake faceplate further comprising a plurality of leg members extending therefrom in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located.

17. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 15, wherein said intake faceplate is removable and has a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to said intake end.

18. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 14, said output end further comprising a power supply connection member positioned thereon, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned thereon, and an operational control switch positioned thereon.

19. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 18, said output end further comprising a control switch cover positioned to substantially surround said operational control switch and adapted to allow access to said control switch for deliberate engaging or disengaging of an operational mode of said fluid provider while preventing unintentional engaging or disengaging of said operational mode.

20. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 17, said fluid provider assembly further comprising a coupling plate having a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to said intake end of fluid provider housing in substantially the same manner as said intake faceplate after said intake faceplate is removed from said intake end of said housing, said coupling plate having a coupling member adapted to connect said intake end to an output end of another fluid provider.

21. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 15, said intake faceplate further comprising an access door substantially centrally positioned thereon.

22. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 21, further comprising a fluid filter interposed between said intake end and said fluid pressurization unit in a position corresponding to at least a portion of said access door.

23. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 18, further comprising a detachable fluid conduit for conveying a pressurized fluid from said fluid provider to a port of a fluid receptacle adapted to mate with said fluid conduit coupler mechanism of said output end.

24. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 18, further comprising a detachable power cord adaptable to be connected to said power supply connection mechanism of said output end.

25. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 14, said peripheral sidewalls of said case further comprising a front sidewall, an opposed back sidewall, a first lateral sidewall and an opposed second lateral sidewall.

26. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 25, said case further comprising an external sidewall positioned on an outer surface of said back sidewall, said external sidewall being attached to said back sidewall along lateral and bottom peripheral edges of said back sidewall to form a pocket having an opening proximate said top side of said case.

27. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 26, further comprising an auxiliary pad positioned in said pocket.

28. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 14, said case further comprising a plurality of leg members extending from an outer surface of said base side in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent of said case when said base side of said case is positioned proximate a surface on which said case is resting.

29. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 14, said case further comprising a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of said top side of said case in a location sufficient to provide direct access to said output end of said fluid provider positioned within said case when said top side of said case is in a closed position without opening said top side of said case.

30. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 25, said case further comprising a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of said base side of said case.

31. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 30, said case further comprising at least one securing strap extending from an inner surface of at least one of said first and said second lateral sidewalls.

32. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 30, said case further comprising a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of said back sidewall of said case.

33. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 25, further comprising at least one vent positioned on at least one of said first and said second lateral sidewalls.

34. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 29, said flap member further comprising a vent to facilitate fluid exchange between said case and the atmosphere surrounding said case to prevent overheating of said fluid provider assembly positioned within said case.

35. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider comprising

a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing, a plurality of leg members extending from said intake end in a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane thereof, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located, a power supply connection member positioned on said output end, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned on said output end, and an operational control switch positioned on said output end,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side, a plurality of leg members extending from an outer surface of said base side in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent of said case when said base side of said case is proximate a surface on which said case is resting, a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of said top side in a location sufficient to provide direct access to said output end of said fluid provider positioned within said case when said top side of said case is in a closed position without opening said top side of said case, and a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of at least one of said base side and at least one of said peripheral sidewalls of said case;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

36. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider assembly comprising

a fluid provider housing comprising

an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing, said intake end having a contact surface,

an intake faceplate having a contact surface configured to mate with said contact surface of said intake end,

an output end opposing said intake end and having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing, said output end comprising a power supply connection member, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned to correspond to said fluid output vent, and an operational control switch,

said intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent to allow fluid to be received into said housing, said intake faceplate further comprising a plurality of leg members extending therefrom in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said motor unit for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side, a plurality of leg members extending from an outer surface of said base side in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent of said case when said base side of said case is proximate a surface on which said case is resting, a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of said top side in a location sufficient to provide direct access to said output end of said fluid provider positioned within said case when said top side of said case is in a closed position without opening said top side of said case, and a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of at least one of said base side and at least one of said peripheral sidewalls of said case;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

37. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 36, wherein said contact surface of said intake faceplate is configured to be detachably connected to said intake end such that said intake faceplate is removable.

38. The portable fluid provider system ofclaim 37, wherein said fluid provider assembly further comprises a coupling plate, said coupling plate having a contact surface configured to be detachably connected to said intake end of fluid provider housing in substantially the same manner as said intake faceplate in place thereof, said coupling plate further comprising a coupling member adapted to connect said intake end to an output end of another fluid provider.

39. A fluid provider assembly, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing, said output end being substantially coaxial with said input end;

an intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent portion to allow fluid to be received into said housing;

a plurality of members extending from said intake faceplate in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which the assembly is located;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

40. A fluid provider, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing;

a power supply connection member positioned on said output end;

a fluid conduit coupler member positioned on said output end;

an operational control switch positioned on said output end;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

41. A fluid provider, comprising:

a fluid provider housing having an intake end for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end for expelling fluid out of said housing;

a fluid intake vent portion positioned on said intake end to allow fluid to be received into said housing;

a plurality of leg members extending from said intake end in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located;

a motor unit positioned within said housing; and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output end has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake end.

42. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider assembly comprising

a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

43. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider comprising

a fluid provider housing having an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing and an opposed output end having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing, a plurality of leg members extending from said intake end in a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane thereof, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located, a power supply connection member positioned on said output end, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned on said output end, and an operational control switch positioned on said output end,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side, a plurality of leg members extending from an outer surface of said base side in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent of said case when said base side of said case is proximate a surface on which said case is resting, a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of said top side in a location sufficient to provide direct access to said output end of said fluid provider positioned within said case when said top side of said case is in a closed position without opening said top side of said case, and a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of at least one of said base side and at least one of said peripheral sidewalls of said case;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

44. A portable fluid provider system, comprising:

a fluid provider assembly comprising

a fluid provider housing comprising

an intake end having a fluid intake vent for receiving fluid into said housing, said intake end having a contact surface,

an intake faceplate having a contact surface configured to mate with said contact surface of said intake end,

an output end opposing said intake end and having a fluid output vent for expelling fluid out of said housing, said output end comprising a power supply connection member, a fluid conduit coupler member positioned to correspond to said fluid output vent, and an operational control switch,

said intake faceplate having a fluid intake vent to allow fluid to be received into said housing, said intake faceplate further comprising a plurality of leg members extending therefrom in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent portion when said housing is oriented such that said intake end is positioned proximate a supporting surface on which said fluid provider is located,

a motor unit positioned within said housing, and

a fluid pressurization unit interposed between said intake end and said output end for pressurizing fluid within said housing such that fluid expelled from said output vent has a higher pressure than fluid received through said intake vent, said fluid pressurization unit being spaced a distance from said intake end of said housing; and

a portable sound damping case in which said fluid provider assembly is positioned, said case having a base side, peripheral sidewalls, and a closeable top side, said base side having a fluid intake vent located at a first position laterally spaced a distance from a center point of said base side, a plurality of leg members extending from an outer surface of said base side in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto, said leg members having a sufficient dimension to enable substantially uninhibited fluid flow access to said fluid intake vent of said case when said base side of said case is proximate a surface on which said case is resting, a closeable flap member positioned on a portion of said top side in a location sufficient to provide direct access to said output end of said fluid provider positioned within said case when said top side of said case is in a closed position without opening said top side of said case, and a plurality of securing straps extending from an inner surface of at least one of said base side and at least one of said peripheral sidewalls of said case;

wherein said intake end of said fluid provider assembly is positioned proximate said base side of said case such that said fluid intake vent of said fluid provider assembly is located in a second position laterally offset from said first position.

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