WO2009056887A1 - Shower arrangement - Google Patents

Shower arrangement Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2009056887A1
WO2009056887A1 PCT/GB2008/051019 GB2008051019W WO2009056887A1 WO 2009056887 A1 WO2009056887 A1 WO 2009056887A1 GB 2008051019 W GB2008051019 W GB 2008051019W WO 2009056887 A1 WO2009056887 A1 WO 2009056887A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
shower
water
air flow
air
shower head
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/GB2008/051019
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Christopher Honeyands
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
RAPRO EMULATIONS Ltd
Original Assignee
RAPRO EMULATIONS Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by RAPRO EMULATIONS Ltd filed Critical RAPRO EMULATIONS Ltd
Priority to US12/740,980 priority Critical patent/US9173809B2/en
Priority to EP08843492A priority patent/EP2217765A1/en
Publication of WO2009056887A1 publication Critical patent/WO2009056887A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR, e.g. TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K3/00—Baths; Showers; Appurtenances therefor
    • A47K3/28—Showers or bathing douches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
    • A45D20/04—Hot-air producers
    • A45D20/08—Hot-air producers heated electrically
    • A45D20/16—Fixed installed drying devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02—Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths
    • A61H33/027—Gas-water mixing nozzles therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02—Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths
    • A61H33/028—Means for producing a flow of gas, e.g. blowers, compressors
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/14—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening
    • B05B1/18—Roses; Shower heads
    • B05B1/188—Roses; Shower heads with user-actuated controlling members
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
    • B05B7/02—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge
    • B05B7/04—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge
    • B05B7/0416—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid
    • B05B7/0441—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid with one inner conduit of liquid surrounded by an external conduit of gas upstream the mixing chamber
    • B05B7/045—Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid with one inner conduit of liquid surrounded by an external conduit of gas upstream the mixing chamber the gas and liquid flows being parallel just upstream the mixing chamber
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/601—Inlet to the bath
    • A61H33/6021—Nozzles
    • A61H33/6036—Hand-held connected to a supply hose
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/14—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening
    • B05B1/18—Roses; Shower heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
    • B05B7/16—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas incorporating means for heating or cooling the material to be sprayed
    • B05B7/1606—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas incorporating means for heating or cooling the material to be sprayed the spraying of the material involving the use of an atomising fluid, e.g. air
    • B05B7/1613—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas incorporating means for heating or cooling the material to be sprayed the spraying of the material involving the use of an atomising fluid, e.g. air comprising means for heating the atomising fluid before mixing with the material to be sprayed
    • B05B7/162—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas incorporating means for heating or cooling the material to be sprayed the spraying of the material involving the use of an atomising fluid, e.g. air comprising means for heating the atomising fluid before mixing with the material to be sprayed and heat being transferred from the atomising fluid to the material to be sprayed
    • B05B7/1626—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas incorporating means for heating or cooling the material to be sprayed the spraying of the material involving the use of an atomising fluid, e.g. air comprising means for heating the atomising fluid before mixing with the material to be sprayed and heat being transferred from the atomising fluid to the material to be sprayed at the moment of mixing

Definitions

  • This invention relates to shower apparatus and a shower head for use with such apparatus.
  • showers for example for domestic use, comprise a shower head connected to a water supply.
  • the supply may be provided specifically for the shower, or alternatively a shared source may be used, for example by connecting pipes to the taps of a bath.
  • the shower head is typically adapted to provide a spray of water. It is known for shower heads to include venturi sections to increase the velocity of the through- flowing water to provide a stronger spray.
  • some shower heads are adjustable, to change the spray pattern to suit the user's preference.
  • some shower heads enable ambient air in the vicinity of the shower head to be drawn into the shower head to mix with the water flowing through. This may be used to create a foam effect, whereby the water contains small bubbles of air trapped within it.
  • the air may be drawn or sucked in by creating a region of low pressure inside the shower head, which may be effected by passing the water through a venturi similar to that described above. As the water velocity increases, the pressure is reduced, so that air may be drawn in in the region of the venturi, for example through gaps in the body of the shower head.
  • Such an arrangement has an incidental effect of reducing the amount of water needed to shower effectively, as the air bubbles entrained in the water increase the volume of fluid flowing out of the shower head.
  • This reduction in water usage is advantageous for two reasons - firstly by reducing the environmental and financial impact of water use, and secondly by reducing the amount of energy needed to heat the water to an acceptable level for a user of the shower. However, while this reduction in the amount of water is advantageous, the reduction is slight.
  • shower apparatus in accordance with the present invention provides a shower experience similar to that of a conventional "power shower", despite requiring much reduced power and water.
  • Apparatus in accordance with the present invention has various benefits and advantages over known systems. These include:
  • the total energy required for an effective shower is reduced. This primarily arises because there is less water to be heated. Even when the energy required to supply pressurized, optionally heated air is taken into account, the net energy usage is still reduced.
  • the invention may have a water usage of about 3 litres / minute, compared with a conventional domestic shower's usage of about 15 litres / minute, i.e. about an 80% water saving. Furthermore, an energy saving of about 79% is achievable over the same conventional shower. This energy saving provides a further advantage in that the electrical power required could be taken from a domestic ring main, rather than having to use a dedicated high current power line which is typically required by existing electric shower units.
  • the inventive apparatus may use a large water pipe (typically about 8mm diameter) for the shower fluid output.
  • the apparatus may be retrofitted to existing shower system or alternatively integrated into a new system.
  • the apparatus may be used to dry a user immediately after the shower.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows shower apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention installed in a shower enclosure
  • Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the apparatus of Fig. 1;
  • FIG. 3 schematically shows the operation of the shower head of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 4 schematically shows shower apparatus in accordance with a second aspect of the present invention.
  • Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention in a domestic shower enclosure.
  • a shower head 1 for example made from a plastics material or a chromed metal, is fluidly connected via a flexible water pipe 2 to a water supply 3, in this case a water mixer tap.
  • the shower head 1 is also in fluid communication with a pressurised air supply 4, such as an air pump or blower, via flexible air ducting 5.
  • the air supply 4 is located on a wall outside the enclosure, so that the ducting 5 enters the enclosure by passing over a shower screen 6.
  • Heating means may be provided along the air flow path, for example at the air supply 4, in order to warm the air supplied to the shower head 1.
  • the shower head 1 has, formed within it, a water inlet pipe 7 connected to the flexible pipe 2.
  • the water inlet pipe is rigidly formed so that the position and orientation of the pipe end can be accurately set.
  • the inlet pipe may be formed as a metal or plastics tube, or may be formed by moulding within the shower head 1.
  • the rear of shower head 1 is connected to ducting 5, so that an air flow, shown by the arrows on Fig. 2, can flow through the shower head 1 and out of the front of the shower head.
  • a portion of the shower head 1 forms a venturi 8 in the air flow path.
  • This has a convergent region 9 with an internal diameter which decreases in the direction of air flow, a throat region 10 located after the convergent region 9 in the direction of air flow which has a reduced internal diameter which is substantially constant along its length, and a divergent region 11 with an internal diameter which increases in the direction of air flow.
  • the shower head venturi 8 is shown in more detail in Fig. 3.
  • the water inlet pipe 7 opens inside the convergent region 9, centred within the air flow and substantially parallel thereto.
  • no shower "rose” i.e. a plate with a pattern of holes or spray orifices formed therein
  • a satisfactory spray pattern is produced due to the configuration of the divergent region 11.
  • Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • This embodiment is generally similar to that shown in Figs. 1-3, and thus like reference numerals are retained as far as possible, but has two important differences.
  • a second convergent region 12 having an internal diameter that decreases in the direction of air flow, is located after the divergent region 11 in the direction of air flow.
  • the second convergent region 12 acts as a nozzle, speeding up the fluid (now comprising droplets of water in air) flow therethrough. This leads to a stronger and more even spray, with reduced noise.
  • the water inlet pipe 7 opens in, and thus acts to introduce water to, the divergent region 11 of the venturi 8.
  • the cross-sectional area of the air flow path expands in the direction of air flow.
  • the air pressure in the divergent region 11 is lower than in either the convergent region 9 or throat region 10, where the air flow path cross-sectional area is reducing or constant respectively. Therefore, providing the water inlet pipe opening at the divergent region 11 aids the introduction of water to the air flow path in comparison to the throat or convergent regions.
  • positioning the water inlet pipe opening at the divergent region acts to suck water out of the pipe. This effect is particularly beneficial in situations where the water pressure is relatively low, for example in gravity- fed water systems.
  • the apparatus described may operate in three different modes, depending on which of the air and water supplies are selected to supply fluid to the shower head:
  • the basic mode of operation is to have both the air 4 and water 3 supplies feeding fluid to the shower head 1.
  • Air is guided under pressure to the shower head 1 through ducting 5.
  • the air's velocity is increased and its pressure reduced.
  • water enters the base of the shower head 1 from flexible water pipe 2, with sufficient pressure to cause it to flow from the opening of inlet pipe 7.
  • the water is mixed with the high velocity air in the throat 10 of the venturi 8 and kinetic energy is transferred from the air to the water.
  • the water and air exit through the divergent region 11.
  • the air and water slow and expand into a greater area, thus forming a spray of droplets within a lower velocity shower.
  • the water supply 3 may be switched off by a user, so that only air is passed through the shower head 1. If a heating means is provided, the air may be heated to a suitable temperature before exiting the shower head 1. This enables the user to be dried by the air flow before stepping out of the shower. An additional benefit if that the inside of the shower head is dried, reducing the formation of mould.
  • the water supply is switched on, but the air supply is turned off.
  • This mode may be used where a greater volume of water is needed, for example if the user is using the shower to fill a bath.
  • the water supply may for example be provided at a higher level than the shower head, so that the water is gravity-fed to the shower head.
  • the air supply may be used to recirculate air from the shower area.
  • the air and water supplies may be combined into a single unit. Controls to effect switching of the air and / or water supplies, or to control the heating means, may be provided on the shower head itself with the inclusion of appropriate electronics.
  • the shower head may be fixed to a wall, in which case any ducting would be hidden within the wall.
  • the air supply may be housed with a cupboard or roof space for example.
  • the water could be introduced at any region of the air flow path including and upstream of the divergent region of the venturi. Furthermore, the dimensions and angles of the venturi may be adjusted to alter the spray pattern, volume of water used and efficiency of the shower head.
  • the water inlet pipe 7 could have different forms, for example at least one orifice, e.g. eight, may be provided around the perimeter of the pipe so that the water comes out laterally, before being propelled forward by the air flow.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Bathtubs, Showers, And Their Attachments (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)

Abstract

Shower apparatus comprises a shower head (1) for expelling fluid in use, means (2) for connecting the shower head (1) to a water supply (3), a pressurised air supply (4), and guidance means (5) for guiding air flow from the pressurised air supply (4) to the shower head (1).

Description

Shower Arrangement
This invention relates to shower apparatus and a shower head for use with such apparatus.
Typically, showers, for example for domestic use, comprise a shower head connected to a water supply. The supply may be provided specifically for the shower, or alternatively a shared source may be used, for example by connecting pipes to the taps of a bath. The shower head is typically adapted to provide a spray of water. It is known for shower heads to include venturi sections to increase the velocity of the through- flowing water to provide a stronger spray. In addition, some shower heads are adjustable, to change the spray pattern to suit the user's preference. Furthermore, some shower heads enable ambient air in the vicinity of the shower head to be drawn into the shower head to mix with the water flowing through. This may be used to create a foam effect, whereby the water contains small bubbles of air trapped within it. In such devices, the air may be drawn or sucked in by creating a region of low pressure inside the shower head, which may be effected by passing the water through a venturi similar to that described above. As the water velocity increases, the pressure is reduced, so that air may be drawn in in the region of the venturi, for example through gaps in the body of the shower head. Such an arrangement has an incidental effect of reducing the amount of water needed to shower effectively, as the air bubbles entrained in the water increase the volume of fluid flowing out of the shower head. This reduction in water usage is advantageous for two reasons - firstly by reducing the environmental and financial impact of water use, and secondly by reducing the amount of energy needed to heat the water to an acceptable level for a user of the shower. However, while this reduction in the amount of water is advantageous, the reduction is slight.
It is an aim of the present invention to provide shower apparatus which enables the volume of water necessary for an effective shower to be greatly reduced. This aim is achieved by providing shower apparatus by which pressurised air can be blown into the shower head for mixing with the water flow. It is a further aim of the present invention to provide shower apparatus which permits simple in-situ drying of a user of the shower. This aim is achieved by enabling pressurised air to be blown through the shower head in the absence of water.
Shower apparatus in accordance with the present invention provides a shower experience similar to that of a conventional "power shower", despite requiring much reduced power and water.
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided shower apparatus as set out in the accompanying claims.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shower head as set out in the accompanying claims.
Apparatus in accordance with the present invention has various benefits and advantages over known systems. These include:
1) The volume of water needed for an effective shower is dramatically reduced. A typical mixer shower requires in the order of 15-20 litres of water per minute, while a shower incorporating the inventive apparatus may only require in the order of 2-5 litres per minute.
2) The total energy required for an effective shower is reduced. This primarily arises because there is less water to be heated. Even when the energy required to supply pressurized, optionally heated air is taken into account, the net energy usage is still reduced. The invention may have a water usage of about 3 litres / minute, compared with a conventional domestic shower's usage of about 15 litres / minute, i.e. about an 80% water saving. Furthermore, an energy saving of about 79% is achievable over the same conventional shower. This energy saving provides a further advantage in that the electrical power required could be taken from a domestic ring main, rather than having to use a dedicated high current power line which is typically required by existing electric shower units.
3) A reduction in the water pressure needed for operation. The apparatus will work effectively even if the water is simply gravity-fed from immediately above the shower head. An ingoing water flow rate of just 3 litres per minute is sufficient for effective shower operation.
4) Unlike a conventional shower, which has many spray orifices which tend to block in hard water areas, in certain embodiments the inventive apparatus may use a large water pipe (typically about 8mm diameter) for the shower fluid output.
5) The apparatus may be retrofitted to existing shower system or alternatively integrated into a new system.
6) The apparatus may be used to dry a user immediately after the shower.
7) Mould formation on and in the shower head is reduced.
The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-
Fig. 1 schematically shows shower apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention installed in a shower enclosure;
Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the apparatus of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 schematically shows the operation of the shower head of Fig. 1; and
Fig. 4 schematically shows shower apparatus in accordance with a second aspect of the present invention. Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention in a domestic shower enclosure. A shower head 1, for example made from a plastics material or a chromed metal, is fluidly connected via a flexible water pipe 2 to a water supply 3, in this case a water mixer tap. The shower head 1 is also in fluid communication with a pressurised air supply 4, such as an air pump or blower, via flexible air ducting 5. In the embodiment shown, the air supply 4 is located on a wall outside the enclosure, so that the ducting 5 enters the enclosure by passing over a shower screen 6. Heating means (not shown) may be provided along the air flow path, for example at the air supply 4, in order to warm the air supplied to the shower head 1.
Part of the apparatus of Fig. 1 is shown in more detail in Fig. 2, with the shower head 1 shown in cross-section. The shower head 1 has, formed within it, a water inlet pipe 7 connected to the flexible pipe 2. The water inlet pipe is rigidly formed so that the position and orientation of the pipe end can be accurately set. For example, the inlet pipe may be formed as a metal or plastics tube, or may be formed by moulding within the shower head 1.
The rear of shower head 1 is connected to ducting 5, so that an air flow, shown by the arrows on Fig. 2, can flow through the shower head 1 and out of the front of the shower head.
A portion of the shower head 1 forms a venturi 8 in the air flow path. This has a convergent region 9 with an internal diameter which decreases in the direction of air flow, a throat region 10 located after the convergent region 9 in the direction of air flow which has a reduced internal diameter which is substantially constant along its length, and a divergent region 11 with an internal diameter which increases in the direction of air flow.
The shower head venturi 8 is shown in more detail in Fig. 3. Here it can be seen clearly that in this embodiment, the water inlet pipe 7 opens inside the convergent region 9, centred within the air flow and substantially parallel thereto. In the embodiment shown, unlike conventional shower heads, no shower "rose" (i.e. a plate with a pattern of holes or spray orifices formed therein) is used to create a spray. Instead, a satisfactory spray pattern is produced due to the configuration of the divergent region 11.
Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is generally similar to that shown in Figs. 1-3, and thus like reference numerals are retained as far as possible, but has two important differences. Firstly, a second convergent region 12, having an internal diameter that decreases in the direction of air flow, is located after the divergent region 11 in the direction of air flow. In this case, the second convergent region 12 acts as a nozzle, speeding up the fluid (now comprising droplets of water in air) flow therethrough. This leads to a stronger and more even spray, with reduced noise.
Secondly, the water inlet pipe 7 opens in, and thus acts to introduce water to, the divergent region 11 of the venturi 8. In the divergent region, the cross-sectional area of the air flow path expands in the direction of air flow. This means that the air pressure in the divergent region 11 is lower than in either the convergent region 9 or throat region 10, where the air flow path cross-sectional area is reducing or constant respectively. Therefore, providing the water inlet pipe opening at the divergent region 11 aids the introduction of water to the air flow path in comparison to the throat or convergent regions. In fact, positioning the water inlet pipe opening at the divergent region acts to suck water out of the pipe. This effect is particularly beneficial in situations where the water pressure is relatively low, for example in gravity- fed water systems.
The apparatus described may operate in three different modes, depending on which of the air and water supplies are selected to supply fluid to the shower head:
1) Air + water (normal shower operation)
The basic mode of operation is to have both the air 4 and water 3 supplies feeding fluid to the shower head 1. Air is guided under pressure to the shower head 1 through ducting 5. As it is forced through the convergent region 9 of venturi 8, the air's velocity is increased and its pressure reduced. Meanwhile, water enters the base of the shower head 1 from flexible water pipe 2, with sufficient pressure to cause it to flow from the opening of inlet pipe 7. The water is mixed with the high velocity air in the throat 10 of the venturi 8 and kinetic energy is transferred from the air to the water. The water and air exit through the divergent region 11. Here, the air and water slow and expand into a greater area, thus forming a spray of droplets within a lower velocity shower.
2) Air only (drying)
In a second mode, the water supply 3 may be switched off by a user, so that only air is passed through the shower head 1. If a heating means is provided, the air may be heated to a suitable temperature before exiting the shower head 1. This enables the user to be dried by the air flow before stepping out of the shower. An additional benefit if that the inside of the shower head is dried, reducing the formation of mould.
3) Water only
In the third mode of operation, the water supply is switched on, but the air supply is turned off. This mode may be used where a greater volume of water is needed, for example if the user is using the shower to fill a bath.
The above described apparatus is exemplary only, and various possibilities and alternatives are possible within the scope of the claims.
The water supply may for example be provided at a higher level than the shower head, so that the water is gravity-fed to the shower head.
The air supply may be used to recirculate air from the shower area. The air and water supplies may be combined into a single unit. Controls to effect switching of the air and / or water supplies, or to control the heating means, may be provided on the shower head itself with the inclusion of appropriate electronics.
The shower head may be fixed to a wall, in which case any ducting would be hidden within the wall. The air supply may be housed with a cupboard or roof space for example.
The water could be introduced at any region of the air flow path including and upstream of the divergent region of the venturi. Furthermore, the dimensions and angles of the venturi may be adjusted to alter the spray pattern, volume of water used and efficiency of the shower head.
In addition, the water inlet pipe 7 could have different forms, for example at least one orifice, e.g. eight, may be provided around the perimeter of the pipe so that the water comes out laterally, before being propelled forward by the air flow.

Claims

1. Shower apparatus comprising: a shower head for expelling fluid in use, means for connecting the shower head to a water supply, a pressurised air supply, and guidance means for guiding air flow from the pressurised air supply to the shower head.
2. Shower apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a venturi located in the air flow path, the venturi having a convergent region with an internal diameter which decreases in the direction of air flow, a throat region located after the convergent region in the direction of air flow and a divergent region, with an internal diameter which increases in the direction of air flow, located after the throat region in the direction of air flow.
3. Shower apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a second convergent region having an internal diameter which decreases in the direction of air flow, located after the divergent region in the direction of air flow.
4. Shower apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising a water inlet pipe for introducing water to the air flow path.
5. Shower apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the water inlet pipe is arranged to introduce water at a point located within the air flow.
6. Shower apparatus according to either of claims 4 and 5, wherein the water inlet pipe is arranged to introduce water to the air flow path in substantially the same direction as the air flow.
7. Shower apparatus according to any of claims 4-6 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the water inlet pipe is arranged to introduce water to the air flow path proximate the venturi.
8. Shower apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the water inlet pipe is arranged to introduce water to the air flow path in the divergent region.
9. Shower apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the water inlet pipe is arranged to introduce water to the air flow path in the convergent region.
10. Shower apparatus according to any of claims 2 to 9, wherein the venturi is located within the shower head.
11. Shower apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid expelled by the shower head in use is selectable by a user to comprise water, air or a mixture of water and air.
12. Shower apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising means for heating the air supplied to the shower head.
13. Shower apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the shower head comprises a single outlet opening.
14. A shower head for use with the apparatus according to any preceding claim.
15. Shower apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
PCT/GB2008/051019 2007-11-01 2008-10-30 Shower arrangement Ceased WO2009056887A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/740,980 US9173809B2 (en) 2007-11-01 2008-10-30 Shower arrangement
EP08843492A EP2217765A1 (en) 2007-11-01 2008-10-30 Shower arrangement

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0721477A GB2454228B (en) 2007-11-01 2007-11-01 Shower head and shower apparatus
GB0721477.8 2007-11-01

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2009056887A1 true WO2009056887A1 (en) 2009-05-07

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US (1) US9173809B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2217765A1 (en)
GB (1) GB2454228B (en)
WO (1) WO2009056887A1 (en)

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GB2492114A (en) * 2011-06-22 2012-12-26 Kelda Showers Ltd An aerated shower head having a pressurised air inlet
WO2012175966A1 (en) 2011-06-22 2012-12-27 Kelda Showers Limited Shower heads and shower apparatus
CN106120971A (en) * 2015-08-06 2016-11-16 李峰 A kind of integrated shower nozzle being suitable to the full-automatic handwashing facilities that public place uses
WO2018037210A1 (en) * 2016-08-22 2018-03-01 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head producing a suspension of water droplets in air
WO2021209749A1 (en) 2020-04-14 2021-10-21 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head and method of operation to produce a suspension of water droplets in air

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WO2012110790A1 (en) 2011-02-17 2012-08-23 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head
US9855569B2 (en) 2011-02-17 2018-01-02 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head
CN103379964B (en) * 2011-02-17 2016-06-01 凯尔达淋浴设备有限公司 Shower head
CN103379964A (en) * 2011-02-17 2013-10-30 凯尔达淋浴设备有限公司 Shower head
WO2012175966A1 (en) 2011-06-22 2012-12-27 Kelda Showers Limited Shower heads and shower apparatus
GB2492113A (en) * 2011-06-22 2012-12-26 Kelda Showers Ltd An aerated shower head having inner and outer pressurised air inlets
GB2492112A (en) * 2011-06-22 2012-12-26 Kelda Showers Ltd An aerated shower head with a pressurised air inlet to form a vortex in the mixing chamber
GB2492113B (en) * 2011-06-22 2017-08-09 Kelda Showers Ltd Shower heads and shower apparatus
US9751095B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2017-09-05 Kelda Showers Limited Shower heads and shower apparatus
GB2492114B (en) * 2011-06-22 2017-09-13 Kelda Showers Ltd Shower heads and shower apparatus
GB2492114A (en) * 2011-06-22 2012-12-26 Kelda Showers Ltd An aerated shower head having a pressurised air inlet
CN106120971A (en) * 2015-08-06 2016-11-16 李峰 A kind of integrated shower nozzle being suitable to the full-automatic handwashing facilities that public place uses
CN106120971B (en) * 2015-08-06 2017-12-26 李峰 A kind of integrated shower nozzle of the full-automatic handwashing facilities used suitable for public place
WO2018037210A1 (en) * 2016-08-22 2018-03-01 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head producing a suspension of water droplets in air
CN109862968A (en) * 2016-08-22 2019-06-07 凯尔达淋浴设备有限公司 Shower head that produces a suspension of water droplets in the air
WO2021209749A1 (en) 2020-04-14 2021-10-21 Kelda Showers Limited Shower head and method of operation to produce a suspension of water droplets in air

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US9173809B2 (en) 2015-11-03
US20100252658A1 (en) 2010-10-07
GB2454228A (en) 2009-05-06
GB2454228B (en) 2011-08-03
GB0721477D0 (en) 2007-12-12
EP2217765A1 (en) 2010-08-18

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