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Patent Searching and Data


Title:
EXTERNAL WALL MOUNTED SHOWER SYSTEM
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2012/142578
Kind Code:
A2
Abstract:
A plumbing assembly is included with an associated hot water source and cold water source. The plumbing assembly includes a housing defining a cylindrical bore, a tub spout assembly mounted in said housing, a dual mode mixing cartridge mounted in said housing along the axis of the cylindrical bore for selectively mixing and directing a hot water source and a cold water source to a selected at least one of: {1} a shower head assembly; (2) a tub spout assembly. A pair of inline integral shut off valves each respectively fluidiy connected to the cold water supply and hot water supply upstream of the mixing cartridge and a rotatable handle connected to the mixing cartridge for actuating the mixing cartridge. The mixing cartridge is actuated by rotating the handle about the axis of the cylindrical bore.

Inventors:
ARNOLD DON C (US)
SEMCHUCK MARIO E (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2012/033778
Publication Date:
October 18, 2012
Filing Date:
April 16, 2012
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
FLUID DESIGNS LLC (US)
ARNOLD DON C (US)
SEMCHUCK MARIO E (US)
International Classes:
H01H77/06
Foreign References:
US20060231140A12006-10-19
US6718569B22004-04-13
US20100180375A12010-07-22
US20040041033A12004-03-04
US5829469A1998-11-03
US20090255599A12009-10-15
US5185893A1993-02-16
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
DRAKE, Jeffrey, M. et al. (Phillips Katz, Clark & Mortimer,500 West Madison Street,Suite 380, Chicago IL, US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An externally mounted plumbing assembly with an associated hot water source and cold water source, comprising:

a housing defining a cylindrical bore;

a tub spout assembly mounted in said housing;

a dual mode mixing cartridge mounted in said housing along the axis of the cylindrical bore for selectively mixing and directing the hot water source and the cold water source to a selected at least one of: (1) a shower head assembly; (2) the tub spout assembly;

a pair of inline integral shut off valves each respectively fluidly connected to the cold water supply and hot water supply upstream of the mixing cartridge;

a rotatable handle connected to the mixing cartridge for actuating the mixing cartridge;

wherein the mixing cartridge is actuated by rotating the handle about the axis of the cylindrical bore.

2. The plumbing assembly of claim 1 further comprising a safety device mechanism fluidly connected to the hot water source and the cold water source upstream of the mixing cartridge.

3. The plumbing assembly of claim 2 wherein the safety device mechanism is a pressure balancing module.

4. The plumbing assembly of claim 2 wherein the safety device mechanism is a thermostatic valve.

5. The plumbing assembly of claim 2 wherein the safety device mechanism is a combination thermostatic valve and pressure balancing module.

6. The plumbing assembly of claim 1 further comprising a replacement adapter placed upstream of the inline integral shut off valves and containing a hot water conduit, a cold water conduit, and at least one return conduit each fluidly connected to the dual mode mixing cartridge for providing hot and cold water to the dual mode mixing cartridge and then directing the water to the shower head.

7. The plumbing assembly of claim 1 wherein the mixing cartridge is a Kerox ceramic bath and shower dual mode cartridge.

8. A shower valve mounting assembly for mounting on a support structure, comprising:

A support structure having an outside surface and an inside surface defining an opening;

a receiver module for mounting on the inside surface of the support structure; a front plate located on the outside surface of the support structure;

wherein the receiver module and the front plate are movable relative to each other along a central axis of the receiver module between: (i) a pre-assembly relationship; and (ii) an assembled relationship; and

wherein the receiver module and front plate are engaged and are clamped to the support structure so that the receiver module is substantially flush with the outside surface of the support structure in the assembled relationship.

9. A shower valve mounting assembly for mounting on a support structure with an associated pair of water supplies, comprising:

a housing for mounting to the support structure;

a valve receiver module mounted in the housing for connecting to a first water supply;

a supply connector mounted in the housing for connecting to a second water supply;

a flexible telescoping tube for fluidly connecting the valve receiver module and the supply connector;

wherein the flexible telescoping tube is adjustable between: (i) a pre- assembly position; and (ii) an assembled relationship; wherein the flexible telescoping tube is adjusted so that the receiver module and supply connector are fluidly connected in the assembled relationship.

10. The shower valve mounting assembly of claim 9 wherein the first water supply is a hot water supply and the second water supply is a cold water supply.

11. The shower valve mounting assembly of claim 9 wherein the first water supply is a cold water supply and the second water supply is a hot water supply.

Description:
EXTERNAL WALL MOUNTED SHOWER SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not Applicable.

MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE [0003] Not Applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] This invention relates to functions associated with the use of a shower system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Shower valves, or more accurately described, tub and shower valves, have not changed in their basic functions and installation characteristics for many years. Such systems typically offer the following functionality: (1) tub filler only, (2) fixed shower only, (3) combination tub filler and fixed shower, (4) combination fixed shower and handheld shower, (5) combination tub filler and handheld shower, and (6) combination tub filler, fixed shower and handheld shower. [0006] The norm for shower valve installation in United States unlike many other parts of the world, is a concealed installation, rather than exposed installation. This refers to the body of the mechanism and related piping connections being hidden behind the finished surface of the wall.

[0007] Concealed shower valve installations typically contain the following shortcomings. First, unlike European and Asian shower tub and shower valves, U.S. concealed types require the installation of a separate module (spout) for water delivery (and piping connections to it). Second, typical U.S. combination systems require diverter valves to direct water to the desired outlet This is a separate mechanism from the basic valving that is contained either in the separately mounted tub spout, or concealed into the wall. The most common arrangement is a tub spout with an integral diverter that blocks the flow of water when activated, causing water to climb up the shower riser (pipe) to the showerhead. Though simple and inexpensive in concept, it is a rather primitive valving concept subject to a variety of installation variables that can cause water to unexpectedly come out of the showerhead when the valve is in the tub filling mode since there is no positive closure to the shower passage. While there is a positive closure of the tub filling passage when the valve is in the shower mode, this is rarely a 100% shutoff which is recognized by codes that allow a certain amount of "bypass."

[0008] The full combination of tub filler, fixed shower and handheld shower requires still another diverter valve to transfer flow from one shower outlet to the other. In low cost installations, this is simply a branch off the shower arm, not considered aesthetically acceptable or convenient by higher end buyers. The option is to install this second diverter midway between the shower valve and shower arm. In the case of a concealed installation, this means installing not only a diverter valve module, but a separately mounted hose connection, as well.

[0009] One of the liabilities of concealed wall shower valve installations concerns defects that cause leaks inside the wall. Such leakage is often not detected until major damage has occurred, and replacing a defective valve body requires tearing into the wall (most often involving the removal of tile or marble to gain access to it).

[0010] Concealed valve installations involve an often troublesome variable having to do with the "depth of rough-in" within the wall. This concerns the position of the valve in relation to the finished wall surface, and this requires the plumber's "best guess" on where it should be. If roughed in too deep into the wall cavity, the external trim pieces - especially the handle - can't connect If roughed in to shallow, the handle projects out from the wall disproportionately.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In accordance with one feature of the invention, a plumbing assembly is included with an associated hot water source and cold water source. The plumbing assembly includes a housing defining a cylindrical bore, a tub spout assembly mounted in said housing, a dual mode mixing cartridge mounted in said housing along the axis of the cylindrical bore for selectively mixing and directing a hot water source and a cold water source to a selected at least one of: (1) a shower head assembly; (2) a tub spout assembly. A pair of inline integral shut off valves each respectively fluidly connected to the cold water supply and hot water supply upstream of the mixing cartridge and a rotatable handle connected to the mixing cartridge for actuating the mixing cartridge. The mixing cartridge is actuated by rotating the handle about the axis of the cylindrical bore.

[0012] In one feature, a safety device mechanism is fluidly connected to the hot water source and the cold water source upstream of the mixing cartridge.

[0013] In another feature, the plumbing assembly safety device mechanism further includes a pressure balancing module.

[0014] In one feature, the plumbing assembly safety device mechanism further includes a thermostatic valve; [0015] In one feature, the plumbing assembly safety device mechanism further includes a combination thermostatic valve and pressure balancing module.

[0016] In one feature, the plumbing assembly further comprising a replacement adapter placed upstream of the inline integral shut off valves and containing a hot water conduit a cold water conduit, and at least one return conduit each fluidly connected to the mixing cartridge for providing hot and cold water to the mixing cartridge and then directing the water to the shower head.

[00 7] In one feature, the plumbing assembly further includes a Kerox ceramic bath and shower cartridge.

[0018] In one feature a shower valve mounting assembly for mounting on a support structure provided. The mounting assembly includes a support structure having an outside surface and an inside surface defining an opening, a receiver module for mounting on the inside surface of the support structure, and a front plate located on the outside surface of the support structure. The receiver module and the front plate are movable relative to each other along a central axis of the receiver module between: (i) a pre-assembly relationship; and (ii) an assembled relationship. The receiver module and front plate are engaged and are clamped to the support structure so that the receiver module is substantially flush with the outside surface of the support structure in the assembled relationship.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Fig. 1 is an isometric view from the front and above of a shower system pursuant to the invention;

[0020] Fig. 2 is an isometric view similar to Fig. 1 showing the shower system pursuant to the invention;

[0021] Fig. 3 is an enlarged isometric view of a component of the system of Figs. 1 & 2. [0022] Fig. 4 is an enlarged isometric view of part of the mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the invention.

[0023] Fig. 5 is an enlarged isometric view similar to Fig. 3 showing part of the mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the invention;

[0024] Fig. 6 is an enlarged isometric view similar to Fig. 4 showing part of the mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the invention;

[0025] Fig. 7 is an enlarged isometric view of a second mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the invention;

[0026] Fig. 8 is an enlarged isometric view of a third mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the instant invention;

[0027] Fig. 9 is an isometric view from the rear and above of the third mounting assembly of the shower system pursuant to the instant invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, an overview of the shower system in the assembled state is shown and consists of a valve body assembly 114. a shower diverter assembly 118, and a shower arm support 116. Referring to Figures 1 through 3, generally, the system consists of a valve body assembly 114, mounting mechanism 104, 106 , a lower shower connector 112, shower diverter assembly 118, upper shower connector 120, shower arm support 116 and shower outlet 103. More specifically, the valve body assembly 114 contains valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 10, handle 108, and tub outlet nozzle assembly 102.

[0029] Typically, hot and cold water connections are provided which are in fluid communication with the valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110. The valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 in the described embodiment directs the hot and cold water supply to either a shower outlet 103 or tub outlet nozzle 102. In the instant embodiment, the tub outlet nozzle 102 is mounted within and integral to the valve body assembly 114. In addition, the valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 contains an off position such that the hot and cold water supplies are closed with no water being discharged downstream of the dual mode mixing cartridge 110. The handle 108 is mechanically engaged with the valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 contains two 90 degree rotational quadrants of operation (not shown). During operation, a user rotates handle 108 along axis A such that one of these quadrants is chosen with the corresponding shower or spout nozzle outlet activated. An alternative embodiment contains a valve body assembly 114 which does not contain a tub outlet nozzle 102.

[0030] Referring to Figure 2, hot water supply check valve 100 is placed upstream of and is in fluid communication with valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 while cold water supply check valve 100' is placed upstream of and is in fluid communication with valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 10. The check valves, 100, 100' are contained within and integral to the valve body assembly 114. The check valves, 100, 100' prevents the dangerous situation where hot water supply migrates to the cold water side of the valve body/spout assembly 114. In addition, the external location of the check valves 100, 100' allow for the convenient servicing and replacement of valve body assembly 114.

[0031] Valve body assembly 114 is connected via lower riser 112 to shower diverter assembly 118. Shower diverter assembly 118 is a valve which is used to divert the supply water to the shower outlet 103 via shower arm support 116, or to another attachment such as a hand shower wand (not shown).

[0032] The shower system may additionally contain a safety device mechanism (not shown) within the valve body assembly 114 upstream of the valve body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 and fluidly connected thereto. The safety device mechanism is typically a pressure balancing module, a thermostatic valve, or a combination of the two. These safety device mechanisms are used to maintain a relatively steady temperature of the water mixed and delivered to the shower outlet 103 and/or tub spout assembly 102. The check valves, 100, 100', act to reduce or eliminate hydraulic shock caused by starting and stopping of water entering the pressure balance module during operation.

[0033] Referring to Figures 4-6, the valve body assembly 114 can be clamped to a support structure wall surface 122 via a receiver module 128, resulting in the same projection from the finished wall surface 122 each time the valve body assembly 114 is installed. The support structure 122 is typically a combination of drywall and tile or other similar material used in shower installations. Referring to Figure 3, before the support structure 122 is installed and the space behind the support structure 122 is open and accessible, hot water supply 124 and cold water supply 126 are connected to the inlet tubes (not shown) of the receiver module 128. Hot water supply 124 and cold water supply 126 can be manufactured using standard copper tubing or other acceptable plumbing material. The hot water supply 124 and cold water supply 126 are connected to the receiver module 128 via the soldering of copper tubes or other mechanism. Hot water supply 124 and cold water supply 126 can be placed at a predetermined height such that the receiver module 128 and valve body assembly 114 are mounted at the desired height. A movable plate 130 slides on the hot water supply 124 and cold water supply 126 via holes 32 in movable plate 130. The movable plate 130 can be manufactured using different materials such as plastic or metal.

[0034] Referring to Figures 5-6, in the typical installation, the wall 122 is then closed leaving only the receiver module 128 on the outside of the wall surface 122. At this point when the finished wall 122 is installed, the receiver module 128 is sitting substantially unsupported in the opening 134 that has been created.

[0035] A keeper plate 136, which contains a slot 138, is placed around and slid through grooves 140 contained on the receiver module 128 such that the keeper plate 136 and receiver module 128 become mechanically engaged. In the current embodiment, the shape of the movable plate 130 and keeper plate 136 are larger than the diameter of the opening 34 in the wall 122 so that they cannot pass through opening 134. Screws 142 are then inserted through clearance holes 144 in the receiver module 128 to engage with threaded holes 146 in the movable plate 130. As these screws 142 are inserted and tightened, the receiver module 12Θ draws tight to the wall 122 in a clamping fashion with movable plate 130. Following installation, the receiver module is stationary in relation to the wall 122 and the opening 134 such that the body valve assembly 114 can be mounted to the receiver module 128.

[0036] Figures 7 shows a second mounting assembly embodiment where the shower system is adapted to existing non-pressure balance shower valves. Replacement adapter 152 is the same shape as the original valve cartridge (not shown) and is inserted into the body 154 of the shower valve assembly 148. The replacement adapter 152 consists of a hot water conduit 156 and cold water conduit 158. The hot water conduit 156 and cold water conduit 158 are fluidly connected to the body 154 on one end and to the valve body assembly 114 on the other. In addition, the replacement adapter 152 contains two return conduits 160 which are fluidly connected to the shower head assembly 103.

[0037] Hot and cold water is supplied to the valve body assembly 114 via conduits 156, 158 where it is mixed via the body dual mode mixing cartridge 110 in the valve body assembly 114. Thereafter, the mixed water is returned to the body 154 via return conduits 160 where it then proceeds to be discharged to the showerhead 103. The mixed water can alternatively be directed to spout 102. In the instant embodiment, the valve body assembly 114 contains a pressure balancing mechanism (not shown) such that the shower valve assembly 148, which previously did not contain a pressure balancing mechanism now does.

[0038] Figures 8 & 9 show an alternative mounting assembly 164 where the valve assembly 114 is adapted to an existing pair of water supplies of an exposed shower installation. The mounting assembly 164 contains a housing 165. a valve receiver module 166, a supply connector 68 which is spaced radially from the valve receiver module 166, and a cover 169. The first water supply 171 is connected to the inlet tube 167 of the receiver module 166 wherein the valve receiver module 166 and inlet tube 167 are generally along the same axis. The second water supply 173 is connected to the supply connector 168 which is spaced radially from valve receiver module 166.

[0039] The supply connector 168 is fluidly connected to a second inlet 172 of the receiver module 166 via a flexible telescoping tube 170. The ability of tube 170 to telescope enables the spatial adjustment between the second inlet 172 of the receiver module 166 and supplier connector 168 whose distance may vary from one installation to another. If the distance between the pair of water supplies is shorter or longer than specified, the telescoping tube 170 is used to adjust for the difference. In addition, angular adjustment between the second inlet 172 of the receiver module 166 and the supplier connector 168 is provided for by a flex section of the tube 170. If the first water supply 171 is higher or lower than the second water supply 173, the flexing of the tube 170 enables the adjustment for any difference. This mounting assembly 164 enables an existing exposed shower installation with the first water supply 171 and cold water supply 173, to be used with the unitary valve assembly 114 and shower system as described herein without the need to open the shower wall and provide new plumbing.