Patent Grant
7770820
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to devices for distributing liquids such as water in desirable showering streams, such as showerheads and faucets.
2. Background of the Related Art
Showerheads are commercially available in numerous designs and configurations. While many showerheads are designed and sold for their decorative styling, there are many different showerhead mechanisms that are intended to improve or change one or more characteristic of the resulting water spray pattern. A particular spray pattern may be described by the characteristics of spray width, spray distribution or trajectory, spray velocity, and the like. Furthermore, the spray pattern may be adapted or designed for various purposes, including a more pleasant feeling to the skin, better performance at rinsing, massaging of muscles, and conservation of water, just to name a few.
The vast majority of showerheads may be categorized as being either stationary or oscillating, and having either fixed or adjustable openings or jets. Stationary showerheads with fixed jets are the simplest of all showerheads, consisting essentially of a water chamber and one or more jets directed to produce a constant pattern. Stationary showerheads with adjustable jets are typically of a similar construction, except that some may allow adjustment of the jet direction, jet opening size and/or the number of jets utilized. For example, a showerhead currently used in typical new residential home construction provides a stationary spray housing having a plurality of spray jets disposed in a circular pattern, wherein the velocity of the spray is adjustable by manually rotating an adjustment ring relative to the spray housing.
One example of a stationary showerhead is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,172,862 (Heimann et al.). The Heimann showerhead has a body with a single fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets. The fluid outlets are provided in the form of a plurality of flexible tubular extensions positioned in respective perforations of a lower elastomeric wall of the showerhead body. A movable disk or plate is provided to selectively deform or flick the flexible tubular extensions so as to “flake off” lime deposits that may have adhered to, or built up within, the extensions during operation. The movement of the disk is purely a manual operation, and the plate is not adapted to alter the direction, shape, or spray pattern of the water flow.
These stationary showerheads cause water to flow through its apertures and contact essentially the same points on a user's body in a repetitive fashion. Therefore, the user feels a stream of water continuously on the same area and, particularly at high pressures or flow rates, the user may sense that the water is drilling into the body, thus diminishing the effect derived from such a shower head. In order to reduce this undesirable feeling, various attempts have been made to provide oscillating showerheads.
Examples of oscillating spray heads include the showerheads disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,791,584 (Drew et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 3,880,357 (Baisch), U.S. Pat. No. 4,018,385 (Bruno), U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,457 (Brewer), U.S. Pat. No. 5,397,064 (Heitzman), U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,927 (Lee), U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,547 (Golan et al.), and U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,967 (Schorn). U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,457 (Brewer) discloses an oscillating showerhead that uses an impeller wheel mounted to a gearbox assembly that produces an oscillating movement of the nozzle. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,397,064 (Heitzman) discloses a showerhead having a rotary valve member driven by a turbine wheel and gear reducer for cycling the flow rate through the housing between high and low flow rates. Both of these showerheads require extremely complex mechanical structures in order to accomplish the desired motion. Consequently, these mechanisms are prone to failure due to wear on various parts and mineral deposits throughout the structure.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,691,584 (Drew et al.) also discloses an oscillating showerhead, but utilizes a nozzle mounted on a stem that rotates and pivots under forces places on it by water entering through radially-disposed slots into a chamber around a stem. Although this showerhead is simpler than those of Brewer and Heitzman, it still includes a large number of piece requiring precise dimensions and numerous connections between pieces. Furthermore, the Drew showerhead relies upon small openings for water passageways and is subject to mineral buildup and plugging with particles.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,927 (Lee) discloses a showerhead with an apparatus having a plurality of blades designed to produce vibration and pulsation. One blade is provided with an eccentric weight that causes vibration and an opposite blade is provided with a front flange that causes pulsation by momentarily blocking the water jets. Again, the construction of this showerhead is rather complex and its narrow passageways are subject to mineral buildup and plugging with particulates.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,547 (Golan et al.) discloses a showerhead including a housing, a turbine and a fluid exit body, such that fluid flowing through the turbine causes rotation of the turbine. The rotating turbine can be used to cause rotation of the fluid exit body and/or a side-to-side rocking motion in a pendulum-like manner.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,967 (Schorn) discloses a showerhead having a turbine wheel that rotates a plurality of gear disks to induce wobbling of a plurality of nozzle elements. The turbine wheel and gear disks are rotated continuously about their axes while fluid flows through the showerhead, limiting the number of nozzle elements that can be practically employed and further limiting the incorporation of shower-adjustment features.
Therefore, there is a need for an improved apparatus that delivers water in a continually changing manner, such as wobbling, orbiting, rotating, and the like. It would be desirable if the apparatus provided a simple design and construction with minimal restriction to water flow and open conduits for reducing the possibility or extent of plugging. It would be further desirable if the apparatus employed a design that facilitated easy cleaning of the fluid discharge nozzles or jets, in the event that full or partial plugging (e.g., by mineral depositing) did occur. It would be further desirable if the apparatus could be housed within a smaller housing thereby providing a higher degree of design flexibility. Ultimately, it would be desirable to have a spin driver that would operate regardless of the extent to which the spin driver was allowed to tilt.
Most spray heads, whether they are stationary or oscillating, deliver fluids in a predetermined manner. The user is not allowed to effect changes in the fluid delivery characteristics of the spray head, except perhaps increasing or decreasing the fluid flow rate by turning the control valve that communicates fluid to the spray head. One such spray head which allows user adjustments between a vibrating (i.e., massage) mode and a non-vibrating mode is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,927 (Lee). However, spray heads that allow adjustment of other fluid delivery characteristics have not been available. Another such spray head which allows user adjustments concerning the shape of the resulting spray pattern is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,664 (Heitzman, also mentioned above). The Heitzman showerhead employs a control ring for selective rotation of a pair of cam rings, which ultimately produces twisting of bundled pluralities of orifice tubes to affect a desired spray width.
WO 00/10720 discloses a shower head comprising a water supply line, nozzles arranged in a nozzle plate, and nozzle channels extending inside said nozzles. Each nozzle channel produces a jet of water directed toward the user's body. The nozzle for producing an impingement line of the jet of water directed toward the exposed body part is connected to a propulsion device configured as a water motor. The nozzles are arranged such that they can move in relation to the nozzle plate, and the ends of a plurality of nozzles located inside the shower head are displaced in relation to the nozzle plate by the water motor which moves the nozzles together. The nozzles are an integral part of a connection plate and are held together by the connection plate. The connection plate ensures sealing of the nozzle plate against the water chamber. The nozzles of WO 00/10720 are connected and sealed together near the distal end of the nozzles.
Therefore, there is also a need for an improved spray head or showerhead that allows a user to adjust or control the delivery of fluid. Characteristics of the fluid delivery that would be particularly desirable to adjust include the spray width, the spray velocity and spray flow rate. It would be desirable if the spray head were able to deliver water in the desired manner, even at low pressures or flow rates dictated or desirable for water conservation. It would be further desirable if the spray head provided a simple design and construction with minimal restriction to water flow, and enhanced fidelity such that each of a plurality of discharge nozzles or jets could be controlled.
A need further exists for a spray apparatus that facilitates direction control of its spray stream, or shower, without the need for a ball- or swivel-mounted housing. A related need exists for fluid-dispensing tubes (suitable for a spray apparatus) having particular flexing characteristics that may be employed to advantage. A need further exists for such an apparatus that is suitable for mounting within a wall, so as to conserve space, e.g., within an enclosed shower stall.
Certain terms are defined throughout this description as they are first used, while certain other terms used in this description are defined below:
“Nutating” means oscillatory movement by the axis of a rotating body, e.g., wobbling.
“Orbiting” means revolving in a generally circular or elliptical path.
“Oscillating” means to move or travel back and forth between two points by one or more various paths, and may include, e.g., at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement.
“Planar” means lying in a substantially flat or level surface, framework, or structure, and may include, e.g., plates, boards, lattices, and screens, but some degree of curvature or irregularity is allowed.
“Rotary” means characterized by turning or moving about an axis or a center, and may include, e.g., spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof.
“Spinning” means turning on or around an axis.
“Wobbling” means to move or proceed with an irregular rocking or staggering motion, and includes the motion of a circular member rolling on its edge along a surface following a circular path.
The above-described needs, problems, and deficiencies in the art, as well as others, are addressed by the present invention in its various aspects and embodiments.
In one aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, including a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, and a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets. An integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine, and a plurality of tubes are each disposed in one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing. At least a subset of the plurality of tubes are operatively-coupled to the integrating member for coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets.
It is presently preferred that at least a portion of the housing is substantially cylindrical. In various embodiments, the fluid inlet of the housing directs fluid towards the turbine in a direction selected from axial, radial, tangential, and combinations thereof.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement within the housing under rotary movement of the turbine. The rotary movement of the turbine may include spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof. The nutating of the turbine may include a wobbling motion. The oscillatory movement of the integrating member may include at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the fluid-dispensing tubes may be rigid or flexible, with the flexibility being preferably provided by manufacturing the tubes of materials including a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.
The subset of the plurality of tubes that are operatively-coupled to the integrating member are, in some embodiments, oriented with respect to one another in a configuration that is parallel, divergent, convergent, or a combination thereof.
In various embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the turbine includes a head having at least two angled or angled or curved vanes on an upper surface thereof and being radially symmetrical.
In particular embodiments, the integrating member includes a first structural member, referred to frequently throughout as a planar member, having a substantially central orifice. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the integrating member need not be characterized by a planar member (i.e., curved-shape members, among others, may also be used). The turbine includes a head having at least one angled or angled or curved vane on an upper surface thereof, and a shaft depending from the turbine head and extending at least partially through the orifice in the first planar member for operatively coupling the integrating member to the turbine. The turbine shaft is preferably disposed in an opening formed through a lower portion of the turbine head, and is preferably fixed for rotation with the turbine head. Alternatively, the turbine shaft may be integrally formed with the turbine head.
In certain of the fixed-shaft embodiments, the spray apparatus further includes a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the fluid inlet. The second planar member includes a substantially central orifice within which the turbine shaft is carried for rotation, a plurality of first orifices therein, and a plurality of second orifices therein. An upstream portion of each of the coupled tubes is affixed in one of the first orifices of the second planar member, and a downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Thus, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the coupled tubes via the first orifices.
In some of these certain embodiments, a second subset of the tubes are not coupled to the integrating member. Each of the non-coupled tubes has an upstream portion affixed in one of the second orifices of the second planar member, and a downstream portion that extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Accordingly, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the non-coupled tubes via the second orifices. The housing preferably defines a flow passage for selectively communicating with the first and second orifices of the second planar member. Accordingly, the spray apparatus of these certain embodiments preferably further includes a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to either: the first orifices of the second planar member; the second orifices of the second planar member; or a combination thereof.
The turbine shaft may be equipped with a cam portion positioned beneath and/or opposite the turbine head such that the cam portion rotates with the turbine head. The cam portion is carried within the orifice of the first planar member. The cam portion may optionally be integral with the turbine head.
In a particular one of these embodiments, the cam portion has a sloping vertical profile, and further includes a means for adjusting the elevation of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying elevations of the sloping vertical profile of the cam portion. This permits the range of oscillating of the integrating member resulting from rotation of the turbine to be adjusted.
In certain of these embodiments, the shaft is disposed for nutation within the orifice of the integrating member.
In other of these embodiments, the turbine further includes an eccentric or cam portion carried about the shaft for rotation within the orifice of the integrating member, whereby spinning of the turbine about the axis of the shaft results in nutation of the eccentric/cam portion of the turbine.
In still other of these embodiments, the shaft is a crankshaft having a first end portion mounted to the turbine head and a second end portion rotatably carried within the substantially central orifice in the first planar member. The second end portion of the crankshaft is axially offset from the axis of the crankshaft by a bend in the crankshaft intermediate the first and second end portions. The crankshaft is supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing by a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the turbine head. The second planar member preferably includes a substantially central orifice within which the crankshaft is carried for rotation, and a plurality of noncentral orifices therein. An upstream portion of each of the tubes is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member, and a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Accordingly, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tubes via the noncentral orifices.
In a particular one of these embodiments, the inventive spray apparatus further includes an adjustable manifold disposed within the housing above the second planar member for directing fluid from the inlet to either: an outer sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; an inner sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; or a combination thereof.
In certain of these embodiments, the turbine includes an eccentric member carried about the turbine shaft opposite the turbine head such that the eccentric member rotates with the turbine head. The eccentric member is preferably carried within the orifice of the first planar member, and is nutated by rotation of the turbine head to induce orbiting of the integrating member.
In a particular one of these embodiments, a means for selectively pointing downstream end portions of the plurality of tubes is further provided. Accordingly, each of the coupled tubes preferably includes an elastomeric material. The pointing means preferably includes a set of spaced-apart protuberances on an outer surface of each of the coupled tubes defining a side recess between the protuberances. Each of the coupled tubes is disposed in one of a plurality of noncentral orifices formed in the first planar member, in such a manner that the first planar member is connected to the plurality of coupled tubes via the side recesses. An internally-threaded sleeve is carried for rotation about an externally-threaded sidewall portion of the housing. The sleeve has an annular groove formed in an inner surface thereof within which the first planar member is circumferentially carried. Thus, rotation of the sleeve induces vertical movement thereof that applies a vertical force to the coupled tubes at the respective side recesses.
As mentioned previously, particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus further include a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the fluid inlet. The second planar member preferably includes a substantially central orifice within which the turbine shaft is carried for rotation, and a plurality of noncentral orifices therein. An upstream portion of each of the tubes is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Accordingly, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tubes via the noncentral orifices.
In certain of these embodiments, the housing defines a flow passage for communicating with the noncentral orifices of the second planar member, and the spray apparatus further includes a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to either: an outer sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; an inner sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; or a combination thereof. The valve assembly preferably includes a stop valve having a movable stem for closing portions of the flow passage, and an actuator for moving the stem as desired to direct the fluid flow.
In some of these flow-passage embodiments, the inventive spray apparatus further includes a third planar member for removably covering the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member. The third planar member has a sloped rim about at least a portion thereof. The movable valve stem is preferably equipped with a plug and a distal end, such that movement of the valve stem in a radially-inward direction results in the plug closing off a portion of the fluid passage communicating fluid to the outer sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member. Movement of the valve stem in a radially-inward direction preferably results in the distal valve stem end engaging the sloped rim so as to remove the third planar member from the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member, prior to the plug closing off a portion of the fluid passage communicating fluid to the outer sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member.
In a particular embodiment of the inventive spray apparatus, the integrating member includes stacked complementary upper and lower plates each having a plurality of slots therein. The slots of the upper plate overlie and are conversely oriented to respective slots of the lower plate, so as to effect a plurality of common constricted slot areas through the upper and lower plates for engaging the respective coupled fluid-dispensing tubes by the extension of portions of the respective coupled tubes through the common slot areas. Preferably, at least one of the complementary plates is rotatable with respect to the other of the complementary plates for moving the coupled tubes inwardly or outwardly with respect to the central axis.
Particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus include an additional planar member supported for limited rotation about the central axis within the housing. The additional planar member includes a plurality of noncentral angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled fluid-dispensing tubes intermediate the downstream and upstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the plurality of noncentral slots of the additional planar member. The additional planar member is rotatable with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions inwardly or outwardly with respect to the central axis. This rotation is preferably achieved using an actuator carried on the housing.
In a particular embodiment of the inventive spray apparatus, the turbine shaft is carried in the orifices of the integrating member and the turbine such that the turbine is rotationally supported by the integrating member.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the integrating member engages each of the coupled tubes at a similar location on each tube. The engagement location may be: at or near a downstream portion of each coupled tube; intermediate downstream and upstream portions of each coupled tube; or at or near an upstream portion of each coupled tube.
In the latter case, the integrating member preferably includes a plurality of orifices therein, and an upstream portion of each of the coupled tubes is affixed in one of the orifices of the integrating member. In this case, it is also preferable that a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the outlets, and that each of the outlets is equipped with an O-ring through which a portion of each of the tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions is pivotally carried. A plurality of sleeves are preferably each fitted about one of the tubes intermediate the integrating member and the outlet through which the tube extends.
It is further preferred that the oscillating of the integrating member effects a coordinated oscillating of the downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes. Such oscillating preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement by the downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the tubes have downstream portions that extend at least partially through the respective fluid outlets. A plurality of flexible nozzles are preferably each carried within the fluid outlets about respective downstream portions of the tubes. The nozzles may have internal profiles that are sized and shaped to effect a desired range of nozzle movement under movement of the downstream portions of the coupled tubes within the fluid outlets. Alternatively, the downstream portions of the coupled tubes may have external profiles that are sized and shaped to effect a desired range of nozzle movement upon movement of the downstream portions of the coupled tubes with respect to the fluid outlets. Accordingly, in one particular embodiment, movement of downstream portions of the coupled tubes within the flexible nozzles results in a generally conical fluid spray pattern for each nozzle.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the coupled fluid-dispensing tubes are integrally formed with the integrating member.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the integrating member is planar and is supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing. The integrating member of certain of these embodiments includes a plurality of angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the angularly-oriented slots. The integrating member is rotatable with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions. An actuator is preferably carried by the housing for rotating the integrating member.
In a particular embodiment, the inventive spray apparatus further includes an actuator for restricting oscillatory movement of the integrating member so as to restrict movement of the coupled tubes.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, including a housing having a fluid inlet, and a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing. An integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is also provided for inducing movement of the integrating member.
In particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the integrating member includes a plurality of angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the plurality of angularly-oriented slots. The integrating member is rotatable by the actuator with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions. The actuator preferably includes a slidable lever extending through a slot in a side wall of the housing. The lever has an inner portion that engages the integrating member and an outer portion disposed outside the housing.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, including a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, and a plurality of tubes each exclusively disposed in one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing. An integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is also provided for inducing movement of the integrating member.
In various embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus, the actuator includes a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets, and the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of spraying fluid, including the steps of delivering pressurized fluid to a plurality of dispensing tubes (e.g., via a housing that carries the tubes), coupling together at least a subset of the plurality of tubes (e.g., via an integrating member) so that the coupled tubes move in a coordinated fashion under an actuating force, and applying an actuating force to the coupled tubes (e.g., via an actuator, such as a turbine, carried within a housing) to effect a desired fluid spray through the tubes.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, including a housing having a fluid inlet, an actuator carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet, an integrating member operatively coupled to the actuator for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the actuator, and a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing. At least a subset of the plurality of tubes is operatively-coupled to the integrating member for coordinated movement of the coupled tubes.
A still further aspect of the present invention provides a spray apparatus, including a housing having a fluid inlet, and a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing. A means is further provided for converting energy from fluid delivered through the fluid inlet into coordinated movement of at least a subset of the plurality of tubes. The converting means preferably includes an actuator (e.g., a turbine) and an integrating member in accordance with one or more of the various embodiments described herein, as well as equivalents thereto.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, comprising a housing having a fluid inlet, a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing, and an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is employed for inducing movement of the integrating member. The integrating member may be operatively coupled to the dispensing tubes at various positions along the tubes, such as intermediate the ends of the respective coupled tubes or near dispensing ends of the respective coupled tubes.
The dispensing tubes may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes. The flexibility also facilitates amplified direction/shape changes (compared to rigid dispensing tubes) in the dispensed fluid streams, e.g., when the tubes are subjected to a lateral force on one side and an opposing pivoting force (axially offset from the lateral force) on the other side.
Many of the embodiments of the invention utilize tubes that are flexible so that they bend along their length when acted upon by an orbiting member or aiming member as described herein. It should be recognized that this degree of flexibility can be accomplished using various combinations of compositions, lengths, wall thickness, diameters, and the like. Depending upon the embodiment, it is also possible to make a tube too flexible, such that it no longer exhibits sufficient resilience to cause the tube to return to it original shape, avoid kinking and localized, unpredictable bending. Rather, it is preferred that the tubes undergo smooth arcing bends from one portion of the tube to another portion, such as from one end of the tube to the other.
Alternatively, as discussed in relation to
When a tube is urged from its relaxed position so that it is smoothly bent along its length, the direction of the fluid spray from the distal outlet end will be at an even-greater angle relative to the relaxed tube position than an imaginary straight line between the tube inlet and outlet. Therefore, the flexible tubes of the invention can provide a multiplication of the spray angle relative to the angle that a rigid tube would achieve. Further still, a tube with non-uniform flexibility will concentrate a major portion of the bending in a shorter portion of the tube. A tube with the more rigid tube portion near the proximal end, for example the proximal half of the tube length, will concentrate most of the bending near the distal end, for example along the distal half of the tube length, such that the bending arc has a shorter radius and the resulting spray angle will be multiplied even more than with a tube having uniform flexibility.
Furthermore, in embodiments where the tubes extend through a fluid chamber, it is not necessary for the tubes themselves to extend the full distance between two members, such as the orbiting plate and the exit plate. Rather, a strap of the same or different material may be used for connecting the tube to, for example, the orbiting plate. Accordingly, the strap may exhibit a different degree of flexibility than the tube itself, either due to composition or dimensional differences, with the effect of more bending occurring in one or the two portions depending upon the flexibility and lengths of the two portions.
It should also be recognized that in each of the numerous embodiments of the invention detailed in this application, the tubes or straps are affixed at their proximal end and loose at their distal end. This is true whether the tubes lie within the fluid chamber or outside the fluid chamber. In this manner, the tubes are believed to be either relaxed or in slight tension, but never in compression. Furthermore, the invention includes embodiments in which the orbiting member reaches into the tubes and moves the tubes from the inside.
The flexible tubes used in the present invention are preferably made from a material such as silicone rubber or other elastomer, such as a thermoplastic elastomer. The tubes preferably exhibit a durometer hardness SHORE A of 30 to 80, more preferably to 40 to 60, and most preferably about 45. Suitable spray streams have been achieved with tubes having an internal diameter of 0.02 to 0.12 inches. Smooth arcing bends have been found in such tubes having a wall thickness of 0.015 to 0.06 inches, which may be uniform or non-uniform along a preferred length of 0.15 to 2 inches, more preferably a length of 0.15 to 1.35 inches. However, any of these parameters may be suitably changed in accordance with a particular embodiment
The smooth arcing bends of the flexible tubes provide a controlled and repeatable spray direction when acted upon by a controlled and repeatable force, such as the force of the orbiting plate. Directional control on a stationary or moving spray pattern is the achieved by changing the direction or degree of the smooth arcing bend. Therefore, using flexible tubes makes it possible to implement a large number of features that can be built into a shower nozzle to allow a user to adjust one or more aspect of the resulting spray pattern.
In order to achieve the smooth arcing bends desired, it is important that the distal end of the tube, if not the entire length of the tube extending from a secured proximal end, pass loosely around or through adjacent structure. Most particularly, the tube should extend loosely through any orbiting plate, unless the orbiting plate is securing the proximal end of the tubes, and any exit plate to avoid binding of the tube and allow for a smooth arcing bend to be achieved. Still, the clearance of an opening in an orbiting plate should be minimal so that extent of orbiting is not significantly diminished. The orbiting plate preferably has a smooth rounded point contact against the tube wall to allow arcing of the tube in all directions without binding. Embodiments having the orbiting plate positioned at the distal end may include an optional exit plate, but the tube clearance through such an exit plate must avoid interference with the tubes across their full range of intended motion and/or aiming. However, in embodiments having the orbiting plate at the proximal end or middle of the tube and requiring an exit plate to limit side to side movement of the distal end, the openings through the exit plate should provide clearance around the tubes so that the tubes do not bind across their full range of intended motion and/or aiming. Still, this clearance must not be so great that the tubes slap around within the opening. Generally, the exit plate will have a round contact point, either in the middle or top of the exit plate's thickness, to allow smooth arcing bends with minimal clearance. In certain embodiments, where the exit plate forms a wall of the fluid chamber, the clearance is even more critical because too much fluid can escape through any large gaps between the opening and the tube wall. It has been discovered that moderate amounts of water can pass through this gap and flow along the exterior of the tube before being drawn off with the fluid stream exiting the distal end of the tube. This fluid passage beneficially serves to lubricate the contact between the tubes and the opening adding to the freedom of movement. Thus, it is also found that it is not necessary or desirable for the distal ends of the tube to be sealed relative to the fluid chamber. However, certain embodiments have fluid chambers sealed at the proximal end of the tubes, providing the advantage the lateral movements of the tubes and orbiting plates are not opposed by surrounding liquid, just air.
The embodiments of the invention can produce excellent orbiting spray patterns across a wide range of speeds, including 2000 to 3000 rotations per minute (RPMs), and most preferably near 2600 RPMs, such as 2400 to 2800 RPMs. A range of RPMs about half of these ranges is desirable for massage effects.
The actuator may comprise a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet. In such instances, the integrating member may be operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine. This results in coordinated oscillatory movement of the coupled dispensing tubes.
The integrating member may comprise a planar member having a substantially central orifice. In such instances, the turbine may comprise an output shaft having a cam portion that extends at least partially through the central orifice of the planar member for operatively coupling the turbine to the integrating member.
More particularly, the cam portion may have a sloping profile. In such instances, the inventive spray apparatus may further comprise a mechanism for adjusting the engagement position (e.g., the elevation) of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying portions of the sloping profile of the cam portion. In this manner, the range of oscillating of the integrating member (and, therefore, the coupled dispensing tubes) resulting from rotation of the turbine may be adjusted.
The inventive spray apparatus may further comprise one or more focusing elements that transversely engage the periphery of the dispensing tubes. The focusing elements may be displaced by the adjustment of the engagement position of the integrating member with the turbine cam so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes.
The focusing elements may comprise a flexible arm associated with one or more dispensing tubes. In such instances, each focusing element may be connected between a movable component of the spray apparatus and a fixed component of the spray apparatus. The movable component may be a movable outlet plate disposed beneath the planar member of the integrating member. The fixed component may be a planar member transversely-mounted within the housing above the integrating member.
Alternatively, each focusing element may be associated with a sub-plurality of dispensing tubes (e.g., three) that define a cluster. In such instances, each focusing element may be operable to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes of the cluster in a unified converging (or diverging) manner. The focusing elements may be integrally formed with the integrating member. Additionally, each focusing element may be operable to produce a high impact spray, a soft impact spray, or a combination thereof from its associated cluster. Furthermore, a plurality of such focusing elements may be operable in a unified converging manner to produce a high impact shower, a soft impact shower, or a combination thereof from their respective clusters (i.e., the cluster outputs are collectively focused).
Each coupled dispensing tube of the inventive spray apparatus is preferably oscillated about a nominal position (e.g., a position defined by its own structural stiffness when unloaded). A mechanism may be provided for adjusting the nominal position of each of the dispensing tubes, so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of (i.e., point) the dispensing tubes in a unified manner.
The spray apparatus housing may be adapted for stationary mounting to a wall. In such instances, the position-adjusting mechanism may operate independently of movement of the housing (i.e., obviating the need for a typical swivel/ball housing mount).
The spray housing may be integrally formed with a handle for gripping by a user, such as in the instance of a hand-held showering apparatus.
Alternatively, the spray apparatus housing may be adapted for use in a kitchen faucet application (as opposed, e.g., to a wall-mounted or hand-held showering apparatus). One example of such a spray apparatus housing is employed in association with a spray apparatus that comprises a housing having a fluid inlet, a plurality of tubes for dispensing liquid from the housing, and an aerator for dispensing an air-liquid mixture from the housing. An integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is employed for inducing movement of the integrating member. A valve assembly is employed for regulating the flow of liquid between the dispensing tubes and the aerator. The aerator is preferably located centrally with respect to the dispensing tubes. The dispensing tubes may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, comprising a housing adapted for mounting within a wall space exposed by an opening in a wall. The housing has a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid supply conduit and an open end for alignment with the wall opening. A face plate is employed for engaging the open end of the housing so as to control the movement/direction of the fluid-dispensing tubes passing therethrough. The face plate has a plurality of fluid outlets. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlets of the face plate. An integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is employed for inducing movement of the integrating member. The actuator may comprises a lever connected to the integrating member and extending through a slotted portion of the face plate for applying a sliding force to the integrating member. The dispensing tubes may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
Alternatively, the actuator may comprise a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets. In such instances, the integrating member may operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, comprising a receptacle box adapted for mounting within a wall space exposed by an opening in a wall. The receptacle box has a neck for receiving a fluid supply conduit in the wall space and an open end for alignment with the wall opening. A housing is employed for fitting with the receptacle box. The housing has an open end for alignment with the open end of the receptacle box, and a fluid inlet defined by a nipple adapted for sealable fitting within the neck of the receptacle box. A face plate is employed for engaging the open end of the housing. The face plate has a plurality of fluid outlets. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlets of the face plate. An integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is employed for inducing movement of the integrating member. The actuator may comprise, e.g., a lever connected to the integrating member and extending through a slotted portion of the face plate for applying a sliding force to the integrating member. The dispensing tubes may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a spray apparatus, comprising a housing having a fluid inlet for conveying fluid to a chamber thereof, and an open end opposite the fluid inlet. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the chamber of the housing. An integrating member is at least partially carried by the housing across the open end of the housing and has a plurality of orifices for passage of the plurality of tubes therethrough for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. An actuator is provided for inducing movement of the integrating member. The dispensing tubes may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
The integrating member of the inventive spray apparatus may comprises a planar member, and the actuator may comprise an adjustable control ring that at least partially carries the planar member. More particularly, the control ring may be adjustably carried by the housing. A spring retainer may be releasably secured to the control ring in one or more positions with respect to the housing. The integrating member may be integrally formed with the control ring.
In a still further aspect the present invention provides a dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus. The inventive dispensing tube comprises a tubular body, and an aerator plug for insertion in an end of the tubular body. The plug may optionally be integrally formed with a transverse planar member in which the tubes are mounted. The tubular body may be flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubular body. The plug has one or more first passages for conducting water therethrough and one or more second passages for conducting air therethrough. At least one of the body and the plug is adapted for connection to a portion of the spray apparatus. The first passages may employ a cross-sectional shape that is one of circular, axial, curvilinear, and a combination thereof. The second passages may employ a cross-sectional shape that is one of circular, axial, curvilinear, and a combination thereof. The second passages are preferably discrete from the first passages.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus. The inventive dispensing tube comprises a flexible tubular body having a non-uniform stiffness about its periphery, whereby the application of uniform lateral force about the periphery will produce non-uniform lateral flexing of the tubular body. The non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness about its periphery. Alternatively, the non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution about its periphery.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus. The inventive dispensing tube comprises a flexible tubular body having a non-uniform stiffness along its length, whereby the application of lateral force to the tubular body will produce non-uniform flexing of the tubular body along its length. The non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness along its length. Alternatively, the non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution along its length.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus. The dispensing tube comprises a tubular body having an inlet for receiving fluid and an outlet for dispensing fluid. The tubular body is flexible along substantially its entire length, whereby the outlet of the tubular body may be easily pointed under the application of lateral force to the tubular body at one or more locations along the length of the tubular body. The tubular body may comprise a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.
Each flexible dispending tube may further comprise a strap connected at or near the inlet of its tubular body for pivotally mounting the tubular body within the housing. The strap may be pivotally mounted to the tubular body. The strap may be flexible, or it may be rigid over at least a substantial portion of its length. In the later case, the rigidity of the strap may be provided by a reinforcing member.
A more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, is provided by reference to embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
With reference now generally to
A plurality of tubes X18 are further provided, each preferably being exclusively disposed in one of the fluid outlets X16, for dispensing fluid from the housing X12. An integrating member X20 is operatively coupled to at least a subset X19 of the plurality of tubes X18 for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes X19 in the respective plurality of fluid outlets X16 in response to movement of the integrating member X20. Typically, no bearings are required since the contact forces are not significant and the moving parts are designed to be self-lubricated by the water flowing through the spray apparatus X10.
An actuator X22 is also provided for inducing movement of the integrating member X20. The actuator X22 preferably includes a turbine X24 carried for rotary movement within the housing X12 under fluid flow from the fluid inlet X14 to one or more of the fluid outlets X16. The fluid inlet X14 of the housing X12 preferably directs fluid towards the actuator X22 in a direction selected from axial, radial, tangential, and combinations thereof.
The integrating member X20 preferably includes a first planar member X26 having a substantially central orifice X28. The integrating member X20 is preferably operatively coupled to the turbine X24 for oscillatory movement relative to the housing X12 under rotary movement of the turbine X24. The rotary movement of the turbine may include spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof. The nutating of the turbine X24 may include a wobbling motion (see
The turbine X24 preferably includes a head X30 having at least one angled or curved vane (and preferably two or more radially-symmetrical vanes) X32 on an upper surface thereof, and a shaft X34 depending from the turbine head X30 and extending at least partially through the orifice X28 in the first planar member X26 for operatively coupling the integrating member X20 to the turbine X24. The turbine shaft X34 is preferably disposed in an orifice X36 formed through a lower portion of the turbine head X30, and is preferably fixed for rotation with the turbine head X30. Alternatively, as shown in
The turbine shaft may be equipped with an eccentric or cam portion X38 positioned beneath and/or opposite the turbine head X30, and affixed to the turbine shaft X34 such that the cam portion X38 rotates with the turbine head X30. The cam portion X38 is carried within the orifice X28 of the first planar member X26. The cam portion X38 may optionally be integral with the turbine head X30, as illustrated in
The oscillatory movement of the integrating member X20 may include at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement. The oscillating of the integrating member X20 preferably effects a coordinated oscillating of a portion (e.g., the downstream portion) of each of the coupled tubes X19. The coupled tubes X19 are preferably oriented with respect to one another in a configuration that is parallel, divergent, convergent, or a combination thereof. Such oscillating preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement by the coupled portion of each of the coupled tubes X19.
The integrating member X20 preferably engages each of the coupled tubes X19 at a similar location on each tube. The engagement location may be: at or near a downstream portion of each coupled tube (see
The fluid-dispensing tubes X18 may be rigid or flexible, with the flexibility being preferably provided by manufacturing the tubes of elastomeric materials including a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the tubes X18 are each disposed in one of the fluid outlets X16. Some leakage around the tubes can be accommodated by the inventive spray apparatus X10.
Turning now to the particular figures,
The integrating member 120 engages each of the coupled tubes 119 at or near an upstream portion of each coupled tube. For this purpose, the integrating member 120 preferably includes a plurality of orifices 121 therein, and an upstream portion 118u of each of the coupled tubes 119 is affixed in one of the orifices 121 of the integrating member 120. The oscillation of the integrating member 120 results in streams from the tubes moving thru substantially conical patterns. Similar structure is employed in other embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus (see, e.g.,
It is also preferable in certain embodiments (see, e.g.,
A rotary valve assembly 462 directs water flowing through the second orifice 454 to either: the coupled plurality 419 of fluid-dispensing tubes 418; the central massage nozzle 467 (via conduit 463); or a combination thereof. The rotary valve assembly 462 includes an actuator handle 464, a plug valve body 466, and a shaft 465 connecting the two for transmission of applied torque from the handle 464 to the plug valve body 466.
A cup assembly 468 is restrained loosely in a recess 470 of the integrating member 420. A central rod 418c is affixed to the cup assembly 468, and is constrained so as to pivot in an integrated fashion with the tubes 418. Thus, central massage nozzle 467, which is affixed to central rod 418c, will experience movement that preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement (along with the other coupled tubes 419) under oscillating motion of the integrating member 420.
The embodiments shown in
Those skilled in the art and given the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that
The crankshaft has a first end portion 1234u mounted to the turbine head within orifice 1236, and a second end portion 1234d rotatably carried within the substantially central orifice 1228 in the first planar member 1226. The second end portion 1234d of the crankshaft 1234 is axially offset from the axis of the crankshaft by a bend in the crankshaft intermediate the first and second end portions. The crankshaft 1234 is supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing by the second planar member 1250 which is sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member 1220 and the turbine head 1230. The second planar member 1250 preferably includes a substantially central orifice 1252 within which the crankshaft 1234 is carried for rotation, and a plurality of noncentral orifices 2351 therein. An upstream portion 1218u of each of the tubes 1218 is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices 1251 of the second planar member 1250. A downstream portion 1218d of each of the tubes 1218 extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets 1216. Accordingly, water flowing into the fluid 1214 inlet is directed through the tubes 1218, via the noncentral orifices 1251, to produce a showering spray.
The spray apparatus 1510 is further equipped with a flow diverter system 1562 for achieving a massage effect. The flow diverter system 1562 includes an adjustable manifold or plug valve body 1566 disposed within a cylindrical bore in the housing above the second planar member for directing fluid in the flow chamber 1556 to either: an outer sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices 1551 of the second planar member 1550, via shower chamber 1567; an inner sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices 1551 of the second planar member 1550, via massage chamber 1569; or a combination thereof. The plug valve body 1566 is actuated by a handle 1564 that selectively rotates that plug valve body 1566 about its axis to achieve the desired flow configuration. Thus, in the configuration depicted in
Although the plates 2326a, 2326b of the integrating member 2320 are shown being positioned at or near the bottom of the housing 2312, an alternative embodiment of the inventive spray apparatus (not shown) positions such a control member at an elevated location within the housing, much like the location for the planar member 2482 in
Particular embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus include an additional planar member supported for limited rotation about the central axis within the housing. Thus, with reference first to
In a further alternative embodiment (not shown) to the embodiment described above, the additional planar member 2982 is eliminated and the integrating member 2920 is relocated to a more centrally elevated position within the housing 2912 (i.e., to the position of the eliminated planar member 2982). In this embodiment, the outlets 2916 would be sized and shaped to fit snugly about the tubes 2918 so as to ensure that the downstream ends of the tubes are pointed in the desired direction under engagement by the elevated integrating member 2920.
The first planar member 3126 of the integrating member 3120 includes a plurality of angularly-oriented slots 3184 for engaging portions 3118c of the respective coupled tubes 3119 by the extension of the coupled tube portions 3118c through the plurality of angularly-oriented slots 3184. The integrating member 3120 is rotatable by the actuator 3122 with respect to the housing 3112 for moving the coupled tube portions 3118c. The actuator 3122 preferably includes a slidable lever 3129, best shown in
A means 3480 is further provided in this embodiment of the present invention for selectively pointing downstream end portions 3418d of the plurality of coupled tubes 3419. Accordingly, each of the coupled tubes 3419 preferably includes an elastomeric material such as a suitable rubber material. The pointing means 3480 preferably includes a set of spaced-apart protuberances 3418d-e on an outer surface of each of the coupled tubes 3419 defining a side recess 3418f between the protuberances. Each of the coupled tubes 3419 is disposed in one of a plurality of noncentral orifices 3484 formed in the first planar member 3426, in such a manner that the first planar member 3426 is connected to the plurality of coupled tubes 3419 via the side recesses 3418d-e. An internally-threaded sleeve 3413 is carried for rotation about an externally-threaded sidewall portion 3412a of the housing 3412. The sleeve 3413 has an annular groove 3415 formed in an inner surface thereof within which the first planar member 3426 is circumferentially carried. Thus, rotation of the sleeve 3413 induces vertical movement of the first planar member 3426 that applies a vertical force to the coupled tubes 3419 at the respective side recesses 3418f.
The second planar member 4150 includes a substantially central orifice 4150a within which the crankshaft 4134 is carried for rotation, and a plurality of inner, intermediate, and outer noncentral orifices 4157a, 4157b, and 4157c (see
The diverter system 4160 includes a rotating control ring 4164 that is useful for sequentially changing the resulting shower from a wide shower to a narrow shower, then to a shower/massage combination, then to a wide massage setting, and then to narrow massage setting. A third planar member 4190 removably covers the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices 4157a—interconnected by a channel 4157d—of the second planar member 4150. The third planar member 4190 has a sloped rim 4190a about at least a portion thereof. A valve system 4161 includes a movable valve stem 4163 equipped with a sealable plug 4162 and a distal end 4163a, such that movement of the valve stem 4163 in a radially-inward direction results in the plug 4162 closing off the fluid chamber or passage 4156b communicating fluid to the outer sub-pluralities of noncentral orifices 4157b-c of the second planar member 4150. More particularly, movement of the valve stem 4163 in a radially-inward direction results in the distal valve stem end 4163a first engaging the sloped rim 4190a so as to begin removing the third planar member 4190 from the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices 4157a and channel 4157d of the second planar member 4150. This initiates the massage effect and occurs prior to the plug 4162 closing off the fluid chamber or passage 4156b communicating fluid to the outer sub-plurality of noncentral orifices 4157b of the second planar member 4150. As the plug 4162 is moved towards its closing position, the shower effect is diminished and the massage effect increases. When the third planar member 4190 is completely opened, the massage effect via tubes 4118m is maximized. When the third planar member 4190 is down, water pressure in the flow chamber or passage 4156a applies a downward force to the third planar member, preventing water from entering and disabling the massage effect.
The spray apparatus 4110 further includes a means 4170 for adjusting the elevation of the integrating member 4120 relative to the crankshaft end 4134d so as to induce engagement of the integrating member 4120 with varying elevations of the sloping profile adjacent the crankshaft end 4134d. This permits the range of oscillation of the integrating member 4120 resulting from rotation of the turbine 4124 to be adjusted. More particularly, the system 4170 includes a substantially cylindrical base plate 4172 that is fitted about the substantially cylindrical upper portion 4112a of the housing 4112, so as to define the lower portion 4112b of the housing. The base plate 4172 includes a groove or recess 4112c for receiving a retaining pin 4113 carried in the control ring 4164. The groove 4112c is shaped (see
The fixed fluid-dispensing tubes 4318f are not coupled to the integrating member 4320. Each of the non-coupled tubes 4318f has an upstream portion affixed in one of a second set of orifices 4357f of the second planar member 4350, and a downstream portion that extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets 4316. Accordingly, water flowing into the fluid inlet 4314, when the diverter system is positioned as shown in
The dispensing tubes 4618 of this and the remaining embodiments described below are preferably flexible for the reasons mentioned above. Each flexible dispensing tube comprises a flexible tubular body having an inlet for receiving fluid and an outlet for dispensing fluid. The tubular body is preferably flexible along substantially its entire length, whereby the outlet of the tubular body may be easily pointed under the application of lateral force to the tubular body at one or more locations along the length of the tubular body. The tubular body may comprise a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.
The preferred flexibility of the dispensing tubes (and straps) allows for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape, and facilitates amplified direction/shape changes (compared to rigid dispensing tubes) in the dispensed fluid streams, e.g., when the tubes are subjected to a lateral force on one side and an opposing pivoting force (axially offset from the lateral force) on the other side. Such a flexible (and simplistic) configuration reduces the energy demands on the turbine, thereby making the spray apparatus generally more efficient than similar devices employing only rigid fluid discharge tubes. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the flexibility of the straps is particularly beneficial in embodiments of the inventive spray apparatus such as those described below in association with
The spray apparatus 5310 of
The spray apparatus 5410 is further equipped with a rotatable peripheral ring 5460 for adjusting the elevation of an integrating member 5420 relative to the cam portion 5438 of the turbine shaft 5434, whereby the degree of turbine oscillation applied to coupled dispensing tubes 5419 is adjusted. The ring 5460 is equipped with internal thread, tongue, etc. (not shown) that complements an external thread, groove, etc. (not shown) of an external, cylindrical region 5421 of the integrating member 5420, whereby rotation of the ring 5460 about the housing 5412 is translated into movement of the integrating member 5420 up/down relative to the cam portion 5438 of the apparatus 5410.
The spray apparatus 5510 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of reinforced straps 5518s connected to or integrally formed with the dispensing tubes 5518 at or near the inlet 5518i of its tubular body 5518b for pivotally mounting the tubular body 5518b within the housing 5512. Each strap 5518s pivotally mounts the tubular body 5518b of each tube 5518 to a second planar member 5550 by way of apertures 5551 in the second planar member 5550 that are sized to receive upper ends of the straps 5518s. The second planar member 5550 is mounted against rotation transversely within the housing 5512 generally between the integrating member 5520 and the housing inlet 5514. The focusing elements (i.e., the reinforced straps 5518s) engage the integrating member 5520 by way of apertures 5525 therein. The straps 5518s are displaced by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the integrating member 5520 with the turbine cam 5538 so as to simultaneously adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes 5518 in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes.
The spray apparatus 5610 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of spider-like arms 5642 that constituting portions of the integrating member 5620 (along with pin members 5640), as shown in a bottom view thereof in
The spray apparatus 5710 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of flexible spider-like arms 5742 each connected between a fixed ring member 5748 and the movable outlet plate 5723. The ring member 5748 and outlet plate 5723 are mounted against rotation transversely within the housing 5712. The focusing elements (i.e., the spider arms 5742) engage the tubular bodies 5718b of the dispensing tubes 5718 by way of apertures 5743 in the spider arms 5742 through which the tubular bodies extend. The spider arm 5742 are flexed and displaced by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the integrating member 5720 with the turbine cam 5738 so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes 5718 in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes. Accordingly, a focused, narrow spray configuration with smaller turbine-induced oscillations (or none) is depicted on the right half of
The spray apparatus 5810 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of flexible focusing arms or straps 5842a each connected to a second planar member 5850 mounted transversely across the housing 5812 beneath the turbine head 5830. The focusing arms 5842a cooperate with respective focusing cams 5842b to laterally displace boot portions 5842c of the focusing arms 5842a upon movement up/down of the outlet plate 5843 under rotation of the peripheral ring 5860. The boot portions 5842c cause flexing of the dispensing tubes 5818 so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the tubes 5818 in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes. Accordingly, a focused, narrow spray configuration with smaller turbine-induced oscillations (or none) is depicted on the right half of
With reference to both
The rotatable actuator ring 6064 is also operative for adjusting the elevation of stacked, dual integrating members 6020ab, 6020c via a movable outlet plate 6023, whereby the degree of turbine oscillation applied to coupled dispensing tubes 6018a and 6018b is selectively adjusted by movement of the upper integrating member 6020ab via the outlet plate 6023. Similarly, the degree of turbine oscillation applied to coupled dispensing tubes 6018c is selectively adjusted by movement of the lower integrating member 6020c via the outlet plate 6023. This mechanism is similar to that described above in reference to
The spray apparatus 6010 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of flexible focusing arms or straps 6042a each connected to the second planar member 6050 mounted above the integrating members 6020ab, 6020c. The focusing arms 6042a cooperate with respective focusing cams 6042b to laterally displace intermediate portions of the dispensing tubes upon movement up/down of the outlet plate 6043 under rotation of the peripheral ring 6064. The focusing arms comprise flange portions 6042c that engage and cause flexing of the dispensing tubes 5818 so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the tubes (only tubes 6018a are shown flexed, but the other tubes 6018b, 6018c may be similarly flexed) in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes. Accordingly, a focused, narrow spray configuration is depicted on the right half of
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art and given the benefit of this disclosure that the dispensing tubes as provided herein may comprise a flexible tubular body having a non-uniform stiffness about its periphery, whereby the application of uniform lateral force about the periphery will produce non-uniform lateral flexing of the tubular body. The non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness about its periphery. Alternatively, the non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution about its periphery. It will further be appreciated that the flexible tubular body may have a non-uniform stiffness along its length, whereby the application of lateral force to the tubular body will produce non-uniform flexing of the tubular body along its length. The non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness along its length. Alternatively, the non-uniform stiffness may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution along its length.
Thus,
More particularly, the spray apparatus 6510 comprises a housing 6512 having a fluid inlet 6514, a plurality of tubes 6518 for dispensing liquid from the housing, and an aerator 6568 for dispensing an air-liquid mixture from the housing 6512. An integrating member 6520 is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes 6518 for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member. A cammed turbine actuator 6524 is employed for inducing oscillatory movement of the integrating member 6520.
A valve assembly comprising the lever/actuator 6585, a transverse arm 6584, a first valve stem portion 6563a, a second valve stem portion 6563b, and the valve 6562, is employed for regulating the flow of liquid between the dispensing tubes 6518 and the aerator 6568. The aerator is preferably located centrally with respect to the dispensing tubes. The dispensing tubes are preferably flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
A further actuator stem 6563c is attached to the first valve stem portion 6563a for movement therewith. The actuator stem is operable to engage the planar member 6526 of the integrating member 6520 so as to alter the elevation at which the central orifice 6528 of the integrating member engages the turbine cam 6538, thereby providing for selective adjustment of the resulting oscillating effect of the coupled tubes 6518.
The spray apparatus 6510 further comprises one or more focusing elements, in the form of spider-like arms 6542 that constitute portions of the integrating member 6520, along with a ring member 6541 (i.e., the members 6520, 6541, and 6542 are integrally formed) that has an operating clearance about the turbine axle 6534 (which conducts fluid in this embodiment). The spider arms 5642 are connected to the dispensing tubes 5618 by way of the engagement of the arms 5642 with flexible straps 6518s that are connected (i.e., integrally formed) at or near the inlet 6518i of each tubular body 6518b for pivotally mounting the tubular body 6518b within the housing 6512. The focusing elements (i.e., the spider arms 6542) also engage outer hub portion 6519 of the integrating member 6520 so that the spider arms 6542 and the straps 6518s are both constrained by the movement of the integrating member 6520. The spider arms 6542 and straps 6518s, as well as the dispensing tubes 6518, are therefore displaced by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the integrating member 6520 with the turbine cam 6538 so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes 6518 in a unified converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to focus the shape of the shower defined by the fluid streams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes. Accordingly, an unfocused (normal), wide spray configuration with wider turbine-induced oscillations is depicted in
More particularly, the spray apparatus 6610 comprising a housing 6612 adapted for mounting within a wall space WS exposed by an opening WO in a wall W. The housing 6612 has a fluid inlet 6614 for receiving a fluid supply conduit run behind the wall, and an open end 6613 for alignment with the wall opening WO. A face plate 6612c, which ideally forms a component part of the housing 6612, is employed for engaging the open end 6613 of the housing. The face plate has a plurality of fluid outlets 6616 through which downstream portions of a plurality of tubes 6618 are disposed for dispensing fluid from the housing 6612 via the fluid outlets 6616 of the face plate 6623.
An integrating member 6620 is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes 6618 for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member 6620. An actuator is employed for inducing movement of the tubes and integrating member.
The actuator preferably comprises a pair of levers 6685a, 6685b each pivotally connected to a direction control disk 6640 and extending through a slotted portion of the face plate 6612c for applying pivoting forces to the direction control disk 6640. Thus, the lever 6685a is slidable through a slot 6686a in the face plate 6612c for adjusting the nominal orientation of each of the coupled dispensing tubes 6618, so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of (i.e., point) the dispensing tubes up or down in a unified manner. Similarly, the lever 6685b is slidable through a slot 6686b in the face plate 6612c for pointing the tubes 6618 left or right in a unified manner. Since the tube position-adjusting mechanism operates independently of movement of the housing 6612 (i.e., the housing is stationary with respect to the wall), there is no need for a typical swivel/ball housing mount. As with various other embodiments of the present invention, the dispensing tubes 6618 are preferably flexible so as to allow for easy adjustment of the fluid-dispensing direction or shape by the application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tubes.
Additionally, the actuator of the spray apparatus 6610 preferably comprises a turbine 6624 carried for rotary movement within the housing 6612 under fluid flow from the fluid inlet 6614 to one or more of the fluid outlets 6616. The integrating member 6620 is operatively coupled to the turbine 6624 for oscillatory movement relative to the housing 6612 under rotary movement of the turbine 6624. A control wheel 6660 extends partially through the face plate 6612c and engages the turbine (e.g., by a gear train, not shown) to adjust the axial position of the turbine shaft 6634, including the cam portion 6638 thereof, relative to a hub portion 6621 of the integrating member 6620, allowing for adjustment in the degree of oscillation applied to the coupled tubes 6619.
A receptacle box 6670 is mounted within the wall space WS exposed by the opening WO in the wall W for receiving the housing 6612. The receptacle box 6670 has a neck 6672 for receiving a fluid supply conduit (not shown) in the wall space and an open end 6674 for alignment with the wall opening WO and the open end 6613 of the housing 6612. The fluid inlet 6614 of the housing is defined by a nipple 6615 adapted for sealable fitting within the neck 6672 of the receptacle box 6670.
The spray apparatus 6720 employs a direction control disk 6740 for flexing the tubes 6718 at intermediate locations thereon to achieve desired pointing of the fluid dispensing spray nominal positions in unison. The direction control disk 6740 is essentially free-floating, although the inherent stiffness of the flexible tubes 6718 will constrain the control disk against (permanent) rotation. A rotatable control ring 6760 has an inner cammed profile 6762 for inducing applying a lateral force to the direction control ring 6740 when the ring 6760 is rotated.
A shaft 6764 is disposed for rotation within the housing 6712 about its own axis, and the rotation of control ring 6760 induces rotation of the crank arm 6764 by the engagement of a shoulder 6760a of the ring with a lower end 6764a of the crank arm 6764. The crank arm 6764 engages a slidable spacer 6766, such that rotation of the shaft about its axis induces a slight lift of the slidable spacer 6766 along the turbine shaft 6734, thereby moving a flange member 6768 affixed to the turbine shaft 6734 up or down. This, in turn, effects up/down movement of the turbine cam 6738, whereby the degree of oscillation imposed on the integrating member 6720 by rotation of the turbine 6724 is selectively varied.
At least one of the body 7518b and the plug 7518p is adapted for connection to a portion of the spray apparatus. In particular embodiments, like that of
It will be understood from the foregoing description that various modifications and changes may be made in the preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention without departing from its true spirit. Thus, e.g., while several components of the above-disclosed spray apparatus embodiments have been described as separate, it will be appreciated that certain of such components may be integrally manufactured for the sake of economy. For example, the tubes 4618, straps 4618s, webs 4641, posts 4640, and integrating member 4620 (see
This description is intended for purposes of illustration only and should not be construed in a limiting sense. The scope of this invention should be determined only by the language of the claims that follow. The terms “comprising,” “containing,” having,” and “including” are all intended to mean an open set or group of elements. “A,” “an” and other singular terms are intended to include the plural forms thereof unless specifically excluded.
The following is a listing that describes various embodiments of the invention, most of which have been previously described, and form part of the detailed description.
1. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets;
a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets;
an integrating member operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine; and
a plurality of tubes each disposed in one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing, at least a subset of the plurality of tubes being operatively-coupled to the integrating member for coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets.
2. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the oscillatory movement of the integrating member comprises at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement.
3. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement within the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
4. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of tubes are each sealingly disposed in one of the fluid outlets.
5. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubes are rigid.
6. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubes are flexible.
7. The spray apparatus of claim 6, wherein the tubes comprise a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.
8. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the coupled tubes are oriented with respect to one another in a configuration that is parallel, divergent, convergent, or a combination thereof.
9. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid inlet directs fluid towards the turbine in a direction selected from axial, radial, tangential, and combinations thereof.
10. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the housing is substantially cylindrical.
11. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotary movement of the turbine comprises spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof.
12. The spray apparatus of claim 11, wherein the nutating comprises a wobbling motion.
13. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the turbine comprises a head having at least two angled or curved vanes on an upper surface thereof and being radially symmetrical.
14. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein:
the integrating member comprises a first planar member having a substantially central orifice; and
the turbine comprises:
the cam portion has a sloping vertical profile; and
further comprising:
a means for adjusting the elevation of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying elevations of the sloping vertical profile of the cam portion, whereby the range of oscillating of the integrating member resulting from rotation of the turbine may be adjusted.
22. The spray apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the fluid inlet, the second planar member comprising:
a substantially central orifice within which the turbine shaft is carried for rotation; and
a plurality of noncentral orifices therein; and wherein
an upstream portion of each of the tubes is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets, such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tubes via the noncentral orifices.
23. The spray apparatus of claim 16, wherein the integrating member comprises stacked complementary upper and lower plates each having a plurality of slots therein, the slots of the upper plate overlying and being conversely oriented to respective slots of the lower plate so as to effect a plurality of common constricted slot areas through the upper and lower plates for engaging the respective coupled tubes by the extension of portions of the respective coupled tubes through the common slot areas, at least one of the complementary plates being rotatable with respect to the other of the complementary plates for moving the coupled tubes.
24. The spray apparatus of claim 23, wherein at least one of the complementary plates is rotatable with respect to the other of the complementary plates for moving the coupled tubes inwardly or outwardly with respect to the central axis.
25. The spray apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing above the integrating member and comprising:
a substantially central orifice within which the turbine shaft is carried for rotation; and
a plurality of noncentral orifices therein; and wherein
an upstream portion of each of the tubes is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets, such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tubes via the noncentral orifices.
26. The spray apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a third planar member supported for limited rotation about the central axis within the housing, the third planar member comprising a plurality of noncentral angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled tubes intermediate the downstream and upstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the plurality of noncentral slots of the third planar member, the third planar member being rotatable with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions.
27. The spray apparatus of claim 26, wherein the third planar member is rotatable with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions inwardly or outwardly with respect to the central axis.
28. The spray apparatus of claim 27, further comprising an actuator carried by the housing for rotating the third planar member.
29. The spray apparatus of claim 15, wherein the shaft is carried in the orifices of the integrating member and the turbine such that the turbine is rotationally supported by the integrating member.
30. The spray apparatus of claim 14, wherein the shaft is disposed for nutation within the orifice of the integrating member.
31. The spray apparatus of claim 14, wherein:
the turbine further comprises an eccentric portion carried about the shaft for rotation within the orifice of the integrating member, whereby spinning of the turbine about the axis of the shaft results in nutation of the turbine.
32. The spray apparatus of claim 14, wherein the shaft is a crankshaft having a first end portion mounted to the turbine head and a second end portion rotatably carried within the substantially central orifice in the first planar member, the second end portion being axially offset from the axis of the shaft by a bend in the crankshaft intermediate the first and second end portions.
33. The spray apparatus of claim 32, wherein:
the crankshaft is supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing by a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the turbine head, the second planar member comprising:
a substantially central orifice within which the crankshaft is carried for rotation; and
a plurality of noncentral orifices therein; and wherein
an upstream portion of each of the tubes is affixed in one of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets, such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tubes via the noncentral orifices.
34. The spray apparatus of claim 33, further comprising an adjustable manifold disposed within the housing above the second planar member for directing fluid from the inlet to one of:
an outer sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member;
an inner sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; and
a combination thereof.
35. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the integrating member engages each of the coupled tubes at a similar location on each tube.
36. The spray apparatus of claim 35, wherein the engagement location is at or near a downstream portion of each coupled tube.
37. The spray apparatus of claim 35, wherein the engagement location is at or near an upstream portion of each coupled tube.
38. The spray apparatus of claim 37, wherein the integrating member comprises a plurality of orifices therein, and an upstream portion of each of the coupled tubes is affixed in one of the orifices of the integrating member.
39. The spray apparatus of claim 38, wherein a downstream portion of each of the tubes extends at least partially through one of the outlets, and each of the outlets is equipped with an O-ring through which a portion of each of the tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions is pivotally carried.
40. The spray apparatus of claim 39, further comprising a plurality of sleeves each fitted about one of the tubes intermediate the integrating member and the outlet through which the tube extends.
41. The spray apparatus of claim 35, wherein the engagement location is intermediate downstream and upstream portions of each coupled tube.
42. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein oscillating of the integrating member effects a coordinated oscillating of the downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes.
43. The spray apparatus of claim 42, wherein the oscillating of the downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes comprises at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement.
44. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubes have downstream portions that extend at least partially through the respective fluid outlets, and further comprising a plurality of flexible nozzles each carried within the fluid outlets about respective downstream portions of the tubes.
45. The spray apparatus of claim 44, wherein the nozzles have internal profiles that are sized and shaped to effect a desired range of nozzle movement under movement of the downstream portions of the coupled tubes within the fluid outlets.
46. The spray apparatus of claim 44, wherein the downstream portions of the coupled tubes have external profiles that are sized and shaped to effect a desired range of nozzle movement upon movement of the downstream portions of the coupled tubes with respect to the fluid outlets.
47. The spray apparatus of claim 44, wherein movement of downstream portions of the coupled tubes within the flexible nozzles results in a generally conical fluid spray pattern for each nozzle.
48. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the coupled tubes are integrally formed with the integrating member.
49. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein:
the integrating member is planar and is supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing; and
wherein the integrating member comprises a plurality of angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the angularly-oriented slots, the integrating member being rotatable with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions.
50. The spray apparatus of claim 49, further comprising an actuator carried by the housing for rotating the integrating member.
51. The spray apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an actuator for restricting oscillatory movement of the integrating member so as to restrict movement of the coupled tubes.
52. The spray apparatus of claim 14, wherein the turbine comprises:
an eccentric member carried about the turbine shaft opposite the turbine head such that the eccentric member rotates with the head, the eccentric member being carried within the orifice of the first planar member and being nutated by rotation of the turbine head to induce orbiting of the integrating member; and
further comprising a means for selectively pointing downstream end portions of the plurality of tubes.
53. The spray apparatus of claim 52, wherein:
each of the coupled tubes comprises an elastomeric material;
the first planar member further comprises a plurality of noncentral orifices; and
the pointing means comprises:
a set of spaced-apart protuberances on an outer surface of each of the coupled tubes defining a side recess between the protuberances, each of the coupled tubes being disposed in the noncentral orifices of the first planar member in such a manner that the first planar member is connected to the plurality of coupled tubes via the side recesses; and
an internally-threaded sleeve carried for rotation about an externally-threaded sidewall portion of the housing, the sleeve having an annular groove formed in an inner surface thereof within which the first planar member is circumferentially carried, whereby rotation of the sleeve induces vertical movement thereof that applies a vertical force to the coupled tubes at the respective side recesses.
54. The spray apparatus of claim 22, wherein:
the housing defines a flow passage for communicating with the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; and
further comprising:
a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to one of:
an outer sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member;
an inner sub-plurality of the noncentral orifices of the second planar member; and
a combination thereof.
55. The spray apparatus of claim 54, wherein the valve assembly comprises:
a stop valve having a movable stem for closing portions of the flow passage; and
an actuator for moving the stem as desired to direct the fluid flow.
56. The spray apparatus of claim 55, further comprising:
a third planar member for removably covering the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member, the third planar member having a sloped rim about at least a portion thereof; and
wherein the movable valve stem is equipped with a plug, and a distal end, such that movement of the valve stem in a radially-inward direction results in the plug closing off a portion of the fluid passage communicating fluid to the outer sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member and the distal end engaging the sloped rim so as to remove the third planar member from the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member.
57. The spray apparatus of claim 56, wherein movement of the valve stem in a radially-inward direction results in the distal end engaging the sloped rim so as to remove the third planar member from the inner sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member, prior to the plug closing off a portion of the fluid passage communicating fluid to the outer sub-plurality of noncentral orifices of the second planar member.
58. The spray apparatus of claim 1, wherein the turbine comprises a head that is rotationally imbalanced.
59. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
60. The spray apparatus of claim 59, wherein the integrating member comprises a plurality of angularly-oriented slots for engaging portions of the respective coupled tubes intermediate the upstream and downstream portions thereof by the extension of the coupled tube portions through the plurality of angularly-oriented slots, the integrating member being rotatable by the actuator with respect to the housing for moving the coupled tube portions.
61. The spray apparatus of claim 60, wherein the actuator comprises a slidable lever extending through a slot in a side wall of the housing, the lever having an inner portion that engages the integrating member and an outer portion disposed outside the housing.
62. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets;
a plurality of tubes each exclusively disposed in one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
63. The spray apparatus of claim 62, wherein:
the actuator comprises a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets; and
the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
64. The spray apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a second planar member sealingly mounted against rotation within the housing between the integrating member and the fluid inlet, the second planar member comprising:
a substantially central orifice within which the turbine shaft is carried for rotation;
a plurality of first orifices therein; and
a plurality of second orifices therein; and
wherein:
an upstream portion of each of the coupled tubes is affixed in one of the first orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the coupled tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets, such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the coupled tubes via the first orifices; and
a second portion of the tubes are not coupled to the integrating member, each of the non-coupled tubes having an upstream portion affixed in one of the second orifices of the second planar member and a downstream portion that extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets, such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the non-coupled tubes via the second orifices.
65. The spray apparatus of claim 64, wherein:
the housing defines a flow passage for selectively communicating with the first and second orifices of the second planar member; and further comprising:
a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to one of:
the first orifices of the second planar member;
the second orifices of the second planar member; and
a combination thereof.
66. A method of spraying fluid, comprising the steps of:
delivering pressurized fluid to a plurality of dispensing tubes;
coupling together at least a subset of the plurality of tubes so that the coupled tubes move in a coordinated fashion under an actuating force; and
applying an actuating force to the coupled tubes to effect a desired fluid spray through the tubes.
67. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet;
an actuator carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet;
an integrating member operatively coupled to the actuator for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the actuator; and
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing, at least a subset of the plurality of tubes being operatively-coupled to the integrating member for coordinated movement of the coupled tubes.
68. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing; and
a means for converting energy from fluid delivered through the fluid inlet into coordinated movement of at least a subset of the plurality of tubes.
69. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet;
a plurality of flexible tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
70. The spray apparatus of claim 69, wherein:
the actuator comprises a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet; and
the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine, resulting in coordinated oscillatory movement of the coupled dispensing tubes.
71. The spray apparatus of claim 70, wherein:
the integrating member comprises a planar member having a substantially central orifice;
the turbine comprises an output shaft having a cam portion that extends at least partially through the central orifice of the planar member for operatively coupling the turbine to the integrating member.
72. The spray apparatus of claim 69, wherein integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes at positions intermediate the ends of the respective coupled tubes.
73. The spray apparatus of claim 69, wherein integrating member is operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes at positions near dispensing ends of the respective coupled tubes.
74. The spray apparatus of claim 71, wherein:
the cam portion has a sloping profile; and
further comprising:
a mechanism for adjusting the engagement position of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying portions of the sloping profile of the cam portion, whereby the range of oscillating of the integrating member resulting from rotation of the turbine may be adjusted.
75. The spray apparatus of claim 74, further comprising one or more focusing elements that transversely engage the periphery of the respective dispensing tubes, the focusing elements being displaced by the adjustment of the engagement position of the integrating member so as to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes in a unified converging manner.
76. The spray apparatus of claim 75, wherein each focusing element comprises a flexible arm associated with one or more dispensing tubes, each focusing element being connected between a movable component of the spray apparatus and a fixed component of the spray apparatus.
77. The spray apparatus of claim 76, wherein:
the movable component is a movable outlet plate disposed beneath the planar member of the integrating member; and
the fixed component is a planar member transversely-mounted within the housing above the integrating member.
78. The spray apparatus of claim 75, wherein each focusing element is associated with a sub-plurality of dispensing tubes that define a cluster.
79. The spray apparatus of claim 78, wherein each focusing element is operable to adjust the fluid-dispensing direction of the dispensing tubes of a cluster in a unified converging or diverging manner.
80. The spray apparatus of claim 78, wherein each focusing element is integrally formed with the integrating member.
81. The spray apparatus of claim 79, wherein each focusing element is operable to produce a high impact spray, a soft impact spray, or a combination thereof from its associated cluster.
82. The spray apparatus of claim 79, wherein the plurality of focusing elements are operable in a unified converging manner to produce a high impact shower, a soft impact shower, or a combination thereof from their respective clusters.
83. The spray apparatus of claim 70, wherein:
each coupled dispensing tubes is oscillated about a nominal position; and
further comprising a mechanism for adjusting the nominal position of each of the dispensing tubes.
84. The spray apparatus of claim 83, wherein the housing is adapted for stationary mounting to a wall, and the position-adjusting mechanism operates independently of movement of the housing.
85. The spray apparatus of claim 69, wherein the housing is integrally formed with a handle for gripping by a user.
86. The spray apparatus of claim 69, wherein the housing is adapted for use in a kitchen faucet application.
87. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing liquid from the housing;
an aerator for dispensing an air-liquid mixture from the housing;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member;
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member; and
a valve assembly for regulating the flow of liquid between the dispensing tubes and the aerator.
88. The spray apparatus of claim 87, wherein the aerator is located centrally with respect to the dispensing tubes.
89. The spray apparatus of claim 87, wherein:
the actuator comprises a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet; and
the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
90. The spray apparatus of claim 89, wherein:
the integrating member comprises a planar member having a substantially central orifice;
the turbine comprises an output shaft having a cam portion that extends at least partially through the central orifice of the planar member for operatively coupling the turbine to the integrating member.
91. The spray apparatus of claim 90, wherein:
the cam portion has a sloping profile; and
further comprising:
a means for adjusting the engagement position of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying portions of the sloping profile of the cam portion, whereby the range of oscillating of the integrating member resulting from rotation of the turbine may be adjusted.
92. The spray apparatus of claim 87, wherein the dispensing tubes are flexible.
93. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing adapted for mounting within a wall space exposed by an opening in a wall, the housing having a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid supply conduit and an open end for alignment with the wall opening;
a face plate for engaging the open end of the housing, the face plate having a plurality of fluid outlets;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlets of the face plate;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
94. The spray apparatus of claim 93, wherein the actuator comprises a lever connected to the integrating member and extending through a slotted portion of the face plate for applying a sliding force to the integrating member.
95. The spray apparatus of claim 93, wherein:
the actuator comprises a turbine carried for rotary movement within the housing under fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets; and
the integrating member is operatively coupled to the turbine for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under rotary movement of the turbine.
96. The spray apparatus of claim 94, wherein:
the integrating member comprises a planar member having a substantially central orifice;
the turbine comprises an output shaft having a cam portion that extends at least partially through the central orifice of the planar member for operatively coupling the turbine to the integrating member.
97. The spray apparatus of claim 96, wherein:
the cam portion has a sloping profile; and
further comprising:
a means for adjusting the engagement position of the integrating member relative to the cam portion so as to induce engagement of the integrating member with varying portions of the sloping profile of the cam portion, whereby the range of oscillating of the integrating member resulting from rotation of the turbine may be adjusted.
98. The spray apparatus of claim 93, wherein the dispensing tubes are flexible.
99. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a receptacle box adapted for mounting within a wall space exposed by an opening in a wall, the box having a neck for receiving a fluid supply conduit in the wall space and an open end for alignment with the wall opening;
a housing for fitting with the receptacle box, the housing having an open end for alignment with the open end of the receptacle box and a fluid inlet defined by a nipple adapted for sealable fitting within the neck of the receptacle box;
a face plate for engaging the open end of the housing, the face plate having a plurality of fluid outlets;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlets of the face plate;
an integrating member operatively coupled to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
100. The spray apparatus of claim 99, wherein the actuator comprises a lever connected to the integrating member and extending through a slotted portion of the face plate for applying a sliding force to the integrating member.
101. The spray apparatus of claim 99, wherein the dispensing tubes are flexible.
102. A spray apparatus, comprising:
a housing having a fluid inlet for conveying fluid to a chamber thereof, and an open end opposite the fluid inlet;
a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the chamber of the housing;
an integrating member at least partially carried by the housing across the open end of the housing and having a plurality of orifices for passage of the plurality of tubes therethrough for effecting coordinated movement of the coupled tubes in response to movement of the integrating member; and
an actuator for inducing movement of the integrating member.
103. The spray apparatus of claim 102, wherein:
the integrating member comprises a planar member; and
the actuator comprises an adjustable control ring that at least partially carries the planar member.
104. The spray apparatus of claim 103, wherein the control ring is adjustably carried by the housing.
105. The spray apparatus of claim 104, further comprising a spring retainer for releasably securing the control ring in one or more positions with respect to the housing.
106. The spray apparatus of claim 103, wherein the integrating member is integrally formed with the control ring.
107. The spray apparatus of claim 102, wherein the dispensing tubes are flexible.
108. A dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus, comprising:
a tubular body; and
an aerator plug for insertion in an end of the tubular body, the plug having one or more first passages for conducting water therethrough and one or more second passages for conducting air therethrough;
at least one of the body and the plug being adapted for connection to a portion of the spray apparatus.
109. The dispensing tube of claim 108, wherein the first passages employ a cross-sectional shape that is one of circular, axial, curvilinear, and a combination thereof.
110. The dispensing tube of claim 108, wherein the second passages employ a cross-sectional shape that is one of circular, axial, curvilinear, and a combination thereof.
111. The dispensing tube of claim 108, wherein the second passages are discrete from the first passages.
112. The dispensing tube of claim 108, wherein the tubular body is flexible.
113. A dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus, comprising:
a flexible tubular body having a non-uniform stiffness about its periphery, whereby the application of uniform lateral force about the periphery will produce non-uniform lateral flexing of the tubular body.
114. The dispensing tube of claim 113, wherein the non-uniform stiffness is provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness about its periphery.
115. The dispensing tube of claim 113, wherein the non-uniform stiffness is provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution about its periphery.
116. A dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus, comprising:
a flexible tubular body having a non-uniform stiffness along its length, whereby the application of lateral force to the tubular body will produce non-uniform flexing of the tubular body along its length.
117. The dispensing tube of claim 116, wherein the non-uniform stiffness is provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness along its length.
118. The dispensing tube of claim 116, wherein the non-uniform stiffness is provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution along its length.
119. A dispensing tube for conducting fluid from a spray apparatus, comprising:
a tubular body having an inlet for receiving fluid and an outlet for dispensing fluid, the tubular body being flexible along substantially its entire length, whereby the outlet of the tubular body may be easily pointed under the application of lateral force to the tubular body at one or more locations along the length of the tubular body.
120. The dispensing tube of claim 119, wherein the tubular body comprises a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.
121. The dispending tubes of claim 119, further comprising a strap connected at or near the inlet of the tubular body for pivotally mounting the tubular body within the housing.
122. The dispensing tube of claim 121, wherein the strap is pivotally mounted to the tubular body.
123. The dispensing tube of claim 121, wherein the strap is flexible.
124. The dispensing tube of claim 121, wherein the strap is rigid over at least a substantial portion of its length.
125. The dispensing tube of claim 124, wherein the rigidity of the strap is provided by a reinforcing member.
This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/917,691, filed on Aug. 13, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,278,591, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/699,723, filed on Jul. 15, 2005, the entire contents of which applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2639191 | Hruby, Jr. | May 1953 | A |
| 2848276 | Clearman | Aug 1958 | A |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 10917691 | Aug 2004 | US |
| Child | 11355515 | US |
