DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of water distribution systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a shoulder shower module for a water distribution system.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section is intended to provide information relating to the field of the invention and thus any approach or functionality described below should not be assumed to be qualified as prior art merely by its inclusion in this section.
[0003] Water distribution systems are commonly known to be employed in households, particularly, in bathrooms.
[0004] Typically, water distribution systems comprise of a plurality of outlets such as an overhead shower, a hand shower, a shoulder shower, and other water outlets. The existing shoulder shower module may include a facia unit fluidly connected to the main water supply of the water distribution system, to receive water therethrough. The facia unit may include a plurality of nozzles arranged on a front face thereof, wherein each of the plurality of nozzles may spray water therethrough, on to a user. However, the conventional facia unit of the shoulder shower arrangement is installed at a fixed angle, and therefore, does not offer the flexibility of being rotated or adjusted while in use, according to the user’s requirement.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a well felt need for an improved, reliable, and multi-functional shoulder shower module, which offers a distinctive showering experience in the form of various showering modes while also comprising a facia unit with options to toggle between the showering modes. Additionally, the present invention also seeks to provide a pivotable facia unit which is selectively adjustable per the user requirement.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide for a water distribution system, with an improved shoulder shower module.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with various showering options such as rain mode and cascade mode.
[0008] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with a diverter to toggle between the facia unit and the overhead shower.
[0009] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with a tiltable facia.
[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with one or more activation buttons on the tiltable facia to toggle between various showering modes.
[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with an anti-skid surface.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide for a shoulder shower module with a rotational mechanism to enable facia tilt, according to user requirement.
SUMMARY:
[0013] An embodiment of the present invention discloses a water distribution system that may include an overhead shower module, a shoulder shower module, and a water delivery mechanism, wherein the shoulder shower module may be mounted below the head shower module.
[0014] In this embodiment, the shoulder shower module comprises a facia which is configured to be rotatable and adjustable according to user preference.
[0015] The shoulder shower module includes delivery means to deliver showers in either a rain mode, cascade mode and an overhead shower mode.
[0016] In an aspect, the shoulder shower module offers showering in all three modes, i.e., rain mode, cascade mode and an overhead shower, simultaneously.
[0017] In another aspect, the shoulder shower module offers showering in two modes, i.e., rain and cascade mode, simultaneously.
[0018] In yet another aspect, the shoulder shower module offers showering only in a single mode, i.e., rain mode or cascade mode or overhead shower.
[0019] In yet another aspect, the shoulder shower module offers showering only in the overhead shower mode.
[0020] To achieve the various showering options, the shoulder shower module comprises of a switching means to toggle between the various modes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0021] The present invention, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objects and advantages, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings. These and other details of the present invention will be described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are furnished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention, and in which drawings:
[0022] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a water distribution system, according to the present invention.
[0023] Figure 2a illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of a shoulder shower module for the water distribution system.
[0024] Figure 2b is a front view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0025] Figure 2c is a front view of a portion of an alternate embodiment of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0026] Figure 3 is a rear view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0027] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, illustrating various components therein.
[0028] Figure 5 is a side sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0029] Figure 6 is a first perspective sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0030] Figure 7 is a second perspective sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a.
[0031] Figure 8 is a third perspective sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, wherein a rain mode is active.
[0032] Figure 9 is a fourth perspective sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, wherein the rain mode and a cascade mode are active.
[0033] Figure 10 is a fifth perspective sectional view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, wherein the rain mode, the cascade mode, and a head shower mode are active.
[0034] Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, wherein an exemplary range of pivotal adjustment of a facia unit of the shoulder shower module is illustrated.
[0035] Figure 12 is a rear perspective view of the shoulder shower module of Figure 2a, wherein a finger grip provision is illustrated.
[0036] Figure 13A is a first perspective view of a second embodiment of the shoulder shower module for the water distribution system illustrated in Figure 1.
[0037] Figure 13B is a rear view of the second embodiment pf the shoulder shower module.
[0038] Figure 13C is a second perspective view of the second embodiment of the shoulder shower module.
[0039] Figure 14A is a back view of the shoulder shower module identifying water flow to the facia unit.
[0040] Figure 14B is a back view of the shoulder shower module identifying water flow to the overhead unit.
[0041] Figure 15A is a first top view of the shoulder shower module identifying water delivery to facia.
[0042] Figure 15B is a second top view of the shoulder shower module the internal components of the water delivery system within the casing.
[0043] Figure 16A is a third top view of the shoulder shower module identifying the non-return valve.
[0044] Figure 16B is an enlarged view of the non-return valve within the shoulder shower module.
[0045] Figure 17A is a first side view of the shoulder shower module according to a second embodiment of the present invention, identifying the rotational mechanism associated with the facia unit.
[0046] Figure 17B is a rear perspective view of the shoulder shower module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] Figure 17C is a sectional side view of the shoulder shower module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] Figure 17D is a sectional side view of the shoulder shower module according to a second embodiment of the present invention, identifying the mode switching mechanism on the facia.
[0049] Figure 18A is a side view of the shoulder shower module, identifying the filter washer and the input connector.
[0050] Figure 18B is an enlarged view of the filter washer and the circlip associated with the washer.
[0051] Figure 18C is a sectional side view of the shoulder shower module identifying grub screws associated with the filter washer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0052] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only one of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Examples of the present invention are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.
[0053] The embodiments of the present invention relate to a shoulder shower module for a water distribution system, that may function to provide a distinctive showering experience to a user in various modes such as a rain mode, a cascade mode, an overhead shower mode, either simultaneously or selectively, depending on user preference. To achieve the same, the present invention discloses a facia unit that may be selectively operated and pivotally adjusted as per the user’s preference.
[0054] The present invention discloses a shoulder shower module with tilt facia feature which specifically addresses the issue of a user wanting to shower without wetting their heads. The present invention discloses a shoulder shower module comprising a tiltable facia with means to toggle between the showering modes. Further, the facia can be adjusted to target specific body areas, enhancing flexibility and user experience.
[0055] The shoulder shower module offers two modes of showering, such as a Rain Mode and Cascade mode. In the rain mode, water is diverted to nozzles on the facia, providing a rain-like water delivery. In the cascade mode, water is diverted to a cascade slit on the facia, offering a different water delivery experience.
[0056] The facia is a front structure of the shoulder shower module which comprises of a switching means to toggle between the two modes of showering. Additionally, the facia may comprise of a switching means for activating the overhead shower.
[0057] Generally referring to Figures 1-18, the present invention discloses a shoulder shower module [200] for a water distribution system [100].
[0058] Referring to Figure 1, the water distribution system [100] may include an overhead shower module [102], a water supply arrangement (not shown), and the shoulder shower module [200]. A structure and arrangement of the overhead shower module [102] is not germane to the invention, and therefore, the details of the same are not repeated herein for the sake of brevity. The water supply arrangement includes a main water supply pipe (not shown) and a shower connecting water supply pipe (not shown). The main water supply pipe may be fluidly connected to the shoulder shower module [200], to provide water thereto. The shower connecting water supply pipe defines a first end and a second end, such that the first end may be connected to the shoulder shower module [200], while the second end may be connected to the overhead shower module [102], such that the shower connecting water supply pipe may provide water received from the shoulder shower module [200] to the overhead shower module [102].
[0059] Referring to Figures 2 and 13, the shoulder shower module [200] and the facia [204] will be described herein. As visualized in Figures 2 and 13, the facia [204] is a front face unit of the shoulder shower module [200].
[0060] As visualized in Figures 2, 3 and 13, the shoulder shower module [200] may include a casing member [202], a facia unit [204], at least one inlet [206] for providing main water supply pipe to the facia unit [204], and an outlet [222] for providing water to the overhead shower module [102].
[0061] In an embodiment, the casing member [202] may encase the facia unit [204] completely, together with the at least one inlet [206], and the outlet [222] therein. In this embodiment, typically, the facia unit [204] is encased within the casing [202].
[0062] Referring to Figure 2a, in one implementation, the facia unit [204] is positioned within the casing member [202], such that a front surface of the facia unit [204] is at a substantially at an even level with a front surface of the casing member [202]. In another implementation, the facia unit [204] is housed at least partially within the casing member [202], such that the front surface of the facia unit [204] protrudes outwards relative to the front surface of the casing member [202]. In yet another implementation, as seen from Figure 2c, the facia unit [204] is housed at least partially within the casing member [202], such that the front surface of the facia unit [204] is at a recess relative to the front surface of the casing member [202].
[0063] In an alternate embodiment, the casing [202] may be removed from the facia [204] and positioned at the rear side [204b] of the facia [204].
[0064] Referring to Figures 13A-13C, a second embodiment of facia [204] and its positioning on the casing [202] is disclosed. In this embodiment, the shoulder shower module [200] comprises a receded casing [2020 and is located at the rear side [204b] of the facia unit [204].
[0065] In an embodiment, the casing member [202] defines a top surface, wherein the top surface may be provided with anti-slip surface, thereby facilitating storage of various articles thereon.
[0066] In another embodiment, the facia may be modified to include a display to identify the showering modes, together with options for changing the modes by means of touch.
[0067] Referring to Figures 2, 3, 9 and 13, the switching means and diverter mechanism of the shoulder shower module will be described herein. In a preferred embodiment, the shoulder shower module [200] facilitates showering in three modes, i.e., rain mode, cascade mode and an overhead shower. In order to achieve the same, the shoulder shower module [200] is provided with a switching means, which allows toggling between the various modes. The switching means may be selected from a press button, knobs, switches, and other like mechanisms.
[0068] In an embodiment, the switching means may be in the form of activation buttons or press buttons, located on the facia [204] of the shoulder shower module [200].
[0069] In another embodiment, the switching means may be distributed across the shoulder shower module [200] and may be located on the front face [204c] or at the rear side [204b] of the facia [204] or at any other side on the casing [202].
[0070] As visualized in Figures 2 and 9, the facia unit [204] of the shoulder shower module [200] may include a facia plate member [210] and a facia water supply member [212], wherein the facia water supply member [212] may be fluidly connected to the facia plate member [210]. To facilitate rain mode shower, the facia [204] may include a plurality of nozzles [210a] on the front face [204c] of the facia [204], and to facilitate the cascade mode shower, the facia [204] may include a slit [210b] on its front face [204c].
[0071] In a first embodiment, as visualized in Figures 2a and 2b, the switching means is one or more activation buttons [210c] located on the front face of the facia plate member [210].
[0072] The one or more activation buttons [210c] may include a rain mode activation button [210d], a cascade mode activation button [210e], and a diverter [210f]. A function of each of the rain mode activation button [210d], the cascade mode activation button [210e], and the diverter mode activation button [210f] will be described in brief hereinafter.
[0073] In use, upon engagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], the rain mode may be activated i.e., water may be sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia plate member [210], on to the user. Upon disengagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], the rain mode may be deactivated, and thus, flow of water from the plurality of nozzles [210a] is stopped. Additionally, the plurality of nozzles [210a] may be anti-drip nozzles.
[0074] Upon engagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], the cascade mode may be activated i.e., water may cascade from the cascade slit [210b] of the facia plate member [210], on to the user. Upon disengagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], the cascade mode may be deactivated, and thus, flow of water from the cascade slit [210b] is stopped.
[0075] Upon engagement of the diverter [210f], the overhead shower module [102] may be activated i.e., water is diverted from the facia unit [204] to the overhead shower module [102], through the shower connecting water supply pipe. Upon disengagement of the diverter [210f], the overhead shower module [102] is deactivated, and thus, flow of water from the shoulder shower module [200] to the overhead shower module [102] is stopped. In this embodiment, the diverter [210f] is in the form of a button located on the facia, together with other activation buttons [210d, 201e].
[0076] The rain mode activation button [210d], the cascade mode activation button [210e], and the diverter [210f] can be engaged and/or disengaged by the user, either singly or in any combinations thereof. Each of the rain mode activation button [210d], the cascade mode activation button [210e], and the diverter [210f], can be simultaneously engaged to activate each of the rain mode, the cascade mode, and the head shower mode, respectively, thereby providing an immersive experience to the user. Upon simultaneous engagement of each of the rain mode activation button [210d], the cascade mode activation button [210e], and the diverter [210f], each of the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia unit [204], the cascade slit [210b] of the facia unit [204], and the head shower module [102], respectively, may provide water to the user therethrough.
[0077] Referring to Figures 13A and 13C, in an alternate method of implementation, the facia [204] comprises of one mode switching means, i.e., a button [210g], located on the front face [204c] of the facia [204], for switching between the two showering modes, i.e., the rain mode and the cascade mode, delivered through the rain shower nozzles [210a] and the cascade slit [210b].
[0078] In this embodiment, the diverter [210h] is in the form of a knob and is placed at the rear side [204b] of the facia [204] on the casing [202] at its side, which also includes the main inlet [230a] and outlet pipes [230b]. As is disclosed in the previous embodiment, the diverter allows the user to divert water from the shoulder shower module [200] to the overhead shower [102].
[0079] In this embodiment, the diverter [210h] works on a pull mechanism, wherein when the knob [210h] is pulled by a user, water flow is redirected to the overhead shower [102]. Based on the status of the diverter [210h] (not engaged/engaged) the water is either channeled to the facia unit [204] (for rain or cascade mode) or to the overhead shower [102]. The knob [210h] is designed for easy grip and operation, by providing for a silicon grip [210i] making it user-friendly. For the purposes of implementation of the invention, the design and the configuration of the knob is not a limitation and is only a facilitating means.
[0080] In alternate embodiments, the diverter may be a toggle switch, a knob, or other similarly functional device.
[0081] In another alternate embodiment, the diverter may of a push type mechanism or a rotary type mechanism, which facilitates diversion of water from the facia to the overhead shower.
[0082] In yet another embodiment, servo motors and capacitive touch may be implemented instead of mode diverters.
[0083] In yet another embodiment, voice commands may also be included for switching modes.
[0084] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the while the function of the diverter remains the same, the mode of implementations may be varied. The implementation means is not a limitation to the scope of the invention and that to a person skilled in the art it will be apparent that the diversion of water is the effect to be achieved.
[0085] The water delivery system will be described herein, which supplies water across all the modes, depending on the actuation of the switching means.
[0086] In the present invention, the shoulder shower module [200] includes a water delivery system to supply water across the three delivery modes. Typically, the water delivery system receives water through a main supply and through an inlet to supply water across the facia unit [204] and the overhead shower [102].
[0087] In an embodiment, wherein all the switching means are located on the front face [204c] of the facia [204], the water delivery system is configured in a manner which enables simultaneous water delivery across all the outlets, in the event all the three modes are activated by a user. The water delivery system associated with this embodiment is described hereinbelow.
[0088] As visualized in Figures 4 and 9, the facia water supply member [212] may include a plate cover portion [214] and at least one pipe portion [216], wherein each of the at least one pipe portion [216] may be adapted to receive water from each of the at least one inlet [206]. The plate cover portion [214] may include a plurality of nozzle connectors (not shown) and at least one cascade slit connector (not shown). The plurality of nozzle connectors may be adapted to fluidly connect the plate cover portion [214] of the facia water supply member [212] to the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia plate member [210]. The at least one cascade slit connector may be adapted to fluidly connect the plate cover portion [214] of the facia water supply member [212] to the cascade slit [210b] of the facia plate member [210].
[0089] Referring to Figures 3 to 10, the at least one inlet [206] may include a first inlet [218] and a second inlet [220]. Further, referring to Figure 9, the at least one pipe portion [216] may include a first pipe portion [216a] and a second pipe portion [216b]. The first pipe portion [216a] may be fluidly connected to the plurality of nozzle connectors of the facia water supply member [212]. The second pipe portion [216b] may be fluidly connected to the at least one cascade slit connector. The first pipe portion [216a] and second pipe portion [216b] may integrally form a single pipe member with a separator wall at the center, such that water from the first pipe portion [216a] does not flow through the second pipe portion [216b], and vice versa.
[0090] The first inlet [218] may be fluidly connected to the first pipe portion [216a] in the facia unit [204], to be further fluidly connected to the plurality of nozzles [210a] in the facia unit [204]. The second inlet [220] may be fluidly connected to the second pipe portion [216b] in the facia unit [204], to be further fluidly connected to the cascade slit [210b] in the facia unit [204].
[0091] The inlets (i.e., the first inlet [218] and the second inlet [220]) and the outlet [222] may be arranged substantially parallel to each other in the casing member [202], on a rear side of facia unit [204], as seen in Figure 3. A common inlet pipe [224] may be fluidly connected to the main water supply pipe, and each of the of the first inlet [218], the second inlet [220], and the outlet [222], to deliver water from the main water supply pipe to each of the first inlet [218], the second inlet [220], and the outlet [222].
[0092] The first inlet [218] may activate and deactivate the rain mode in the shoulder shower module [200], while the second inlet [220] may activate and deactivate the cascade mode in the shoulder shower module [200], and the outlet [222] may activate and deactivate the head shower mode in the shoulder shower module [200].
[0093] In the shoulder shower module [200], positioning of each of the first inlet [218], the second inlet [220], and the outlet [222], may be different from that shown in the accompanying figures, may be envisioned. Accordingly, the modes associated thereto may also vary based on the corresponding position of the respective inlets and outlet [206, 222]. For ease of reference and understanding, a structure and arrangement of each of the first inlet [218] and the second inlet [220] will be described hereinafter in detail. However, as seen in the accompanying figures, the structure and arrangement of the first inlet [218] is substantially identical and laterally inverted to that of the second inlet [220].
[0094] The first inlet [218] includes a first supply pipe [218a] having a substantially L-shaped structure, a first flow control valve [218b], and a first outlet pipe [218c]. The first flow control valve [218b] may be positioned within the first supply pipe [218a], for enabling/disrupting a flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] thereto. The first outlet pipe [218c] of the first inlet [218] may be fluidly connected to the first pipe portion [216a] of the facia water supply member [212] of the facia unit [204]. The first outlet pipe [218c] may at least partially receive the first pipe portion [216a] therein, such that the first pipe portion [216a] of the facia unit [204] may be rotatably and fluidly connected to the first outlet pipe [218c] of the first inlet [218].
[0095] As disclosed above, the first inlet [218] may activate and deactivate the rain mode in the shoulder shower module [200]. The first flow control valve [218b] may be connected to the rain mode activation button [210d], such that the first flow control valve [218b] may be actuated and deactivated, upon engagement and disengagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], respectively.
[0096] With such an arrangement, upon engagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], the rain mode of the shoulder shower module [200] may be activated. Upon engagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], the first flow control valve [218b] may be actuated, thereby enabling the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the first supply pipe [218a]. Thereafter, the first supply pipe [218a] may deliver water to the first outlet pipe [218c], thereby to the first pipe portion [216a] of the facia water supply member [212], to further be delivered to the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia plate member [210], through the plurality of nozzle connectors of the facia water supply member [212], to finally be sprayed on to the user, from each of the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia plate member [210].
[0097] Upon disengagement of the rain mode activation button [210d], the first flow control valve [218b] may be deactivated, thereby disrupting the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the first supply pipe [218a], to deactivate the rain mode of the shoulder shower module [200].
[0098] Similar to the first inlet [218], the second inlet [220] includes a second supply pipe [220a], a second flow control valve [220b], and a second outlet pipe [220c]. The second flow control valve [220b] may be positioned within the second supply pipe [220a], for enabling/disrupting a flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] thereto. The second outlet pipe [220c] of the second inlet [220] may be fluidly connected to the second pipe portion [216b] of the facia water supply member [212] of the facia unit [204]. The second outlet pipe [220c] may at least partially receive the second pipe portion [216b] therein, such that the second pipe portion [216b] of the facia unit [204] may be rotatably and fluidly connected to the second outlet pipe [220c] of the first inlet [218].
[0099] As disclosed above, the second inlet [220] may activate and deactivate the cascade mode in the shoulder shower module [200]. The second flow control valve [220b] may be connected to the cascade mode activation button [210e], such that the second flow control valve [220b] may be actuated and deactivated, upon engagement and disengagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], respectively.
[00100] Upon engagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], the cascade mode of the shoulder shower module [200] may be activated. More particularly, upon engagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], the second flow control valve [220b] may be actuated, thereby enabling the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the second supply pipe [220a]. Thereafter, the second supply pipe [220a] may deliver water to the second outlet pipe [220c], thereby to the second pipe portion [216b] of the facia water supply member [212], to further be delivered to the cascade slit [210b] of the facia plate member [210], through the at least one cascade slit connector of the facia water supply member [212], to finally be cascaded on to the user from the cascade slit [210b] of the facia plate member [210].
[00101] Upon disengagement of the cascade mode activation button [210e], the second flow control valve [220b] may be deactivated, thereby disrupting the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the second supply pipe [220a], to deactivate the cascade mode of the shoulder shower module [200].
[00102] As disclosed above, each of the first and second outlet pipes [218c, 220c] of the first and second inlets [218, 220], respectively, may at least partially receive the first and second pipe portion [216a, 216b] of the facia unit [204] therein, respectively, such that the facia unit [204] may be pivotally adjustable with respect to the first and second outlet pipes [218c, 220c] of the first and second inlet [218, 220]. In addition to the above, a sealing provision may be provided on an edge of each of the first pipe portion [216a] and the second pipe portion [216b] of the facia water supply member [212], to provide safeguard against leakage therethrough and provide friction for temporary locking of the facia unit [204] with respect to the first and second pipe portions [216a, 216b] of the first and second inlets [218, 220], respectively.
[00103] The outlet [222] includes a third supply pipe [222a] and a third flow control valve [222b]. The third flow control valve [222b] may be positioned within the third supply pipe [222a], for enabling/disrupting the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the third supply pipe [222a]. Further, the third supply pipe [222a] may be fluidly connected to the head shower module [102], by means of the shower connecting water supply pipe.
[00104] As disclosed, the outlet [222] may activate and deactivate the head shower mode in the shoulder shower module [200]. In particular, the third flow control valve [222b] may be connected to the diverter [210f], such that the third flow control valve [222b] may be actuated and deactivated, upon engagement and disengagement of the diverter [210f], respectively.
[00105] Upon engagement of the diverter [210f], the head shower mode of the shoulder shower module [200] may be activated. Upon engagement of the diverter [210f], the third flow control valve [222b] may be actuated, thereby enabling the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the third supply pipe [222a]. Thereafter, the third supply pipe [222a] may deliver water to the head shower module [102], through the shower connecting water supply pipe, to finally be sprayed on to the user from the overhead shower module [102].
[00106] Upon disengagement of the diverter [210f], the third flow control valve [222b] may be deactivated, thereby disrupting the flow of water from the common inlet pipe [224] to the third supply pipe [222a], to deactivate the overhead shower module [102] of the shoulder shower module [200].
[00107] In operation, one or more of the rain mode activation buttons may be simultaneously engaged or disengaged, thereby offering multiple showering modes, as per the user’s preference. Depending on the engagement or disengagement of the activation buttons, water flow may be supplied or disrupted from one or more of the plurality of nozzles [210a] of the facia unit [204], the cascade slit [210b] of the facia unit [204], and the overhead shower module [102], respectively.
[00108] In an alternate embodiment, only one switching means is located on the front face [204c] of the facia [204], which is configured to provide only one showering mode at a given time. In this embodiment, the diverter [210h] is a separate knob located on the casing [202], which diverts water to the overhead shower. The water delivery system associated with this embodiment is described hereinbelow.
[00109] Referring to Figure 13B, the rear side [204b] of the facia [204] comprises the casing [202] which encases the water delivery system [230] having an inlet [230a] and the outlet [230b] means.
[00110] Referring to Figure 14A, water enters the diverter assembly [228] from the input connector [230a] when the water supply is turned on. At this state, the diverter knob [210h] is disengaged. By default, water flows directly to the facia [204] through the water way [230c] and identified by the water delivery line [230d] for shoulder-level showering. Users can switch between Rain Mode and Cascade Mode using the mode change switch [210g] on the facia [204]. This switch [210g] diverts the water to either the nozzles (Rain Mode) [210a] or the cascade slit (Cascade Mode) [210b].
[00111] Referring to Figure 14B, it discloses an engaged position of the diverter knob [210h]. Water can be diverted from the facia unit [204] to overhead shower module [102] by pulling the diverter knob [210h]. The water delivery to the overhead shower module [102] is identified by the water line [230e]. The diverter knob [210h] holds the pull position under water pressure and when the water supply is switched off, the knob [210h] returns to its original position leading to the water delivery from facia [204] every time when the water supply is switched ON.
[00112] Also, the diverter knob [210h] comprises a locking mechanism to enable the knob to hold the pull position, until required by the user, which will lead to water delivery from overhead shower module [102] only. When the water supply is switched off, the knob [210h] returns to its original position, defaulting the water flow back to the facia [204].
[00113] Referring to Figures 15A and 15B, it discloses the water delivery system [230] across the facia [204] and the overhead shower [102].
[00114] The diverter assembly [228] in the shower module [200] is a mechanism that allows the user to switch the water flow between different outlets, such as the overhead shower module [102] and the facia [204]. It includes a diverter knob [210h] and is connected to a hose [232] with a lock pin [232b], ensuring a secure connection, and is equipped with O-rings [232c] to prevent water leakage. The assembly [228] also integrates with a flow regulator [234] to control the water flow rate.
[00115] The flow regulator [234] controls the water flow rate, ensuring a consistent and desired water pressure. The flow regulator [234] is placed between the diverter assembly [228] and the hose assembly [232] that leads to the facia [204]. It regulates the amount of water that passes through, thereby controlling the flow rate of water coming out of the facia [204]. This mechanism ensures that the water flow is consistent and can be tailored to individual preferences, enhancing the overall functionality of the shoulder shower module.
[00116] The flow regulator [234] can have multiple specifications to control different flow rates, allowing customization based on user preferences or requirements.
[00117] As visualized in Figures 15A and 15B, the hose [232] in the shoulder shower module [200] is a part of the water delivery mechanism [230]. It connects the diverter assembly [228] to the facia [204], allowing water to flow from the input connector [230a] to the facia [204] when the water supply is switched on. The hose [232] ensures that water can be diverted to the overhead shower module [102] when the diverter knob [210h] is pulled and engaged.
[00118] The hose [232] is connected to the diverter assembly [228] with a lock pin [310b], which helps secure the hose [232] in place. O-rings [232c] are used at both ends of the hose [232] to prevent water leakage. Additionally, the hose can rotate about a pivot point [232d], allowing for facia rotational adjustment. This is facilitated by the rotational joint [250] and brake pads, which provide friction and help the facia stop at any desired location. This design ensures flexibility and ease of use while maintaining a secure and leak-proof connection.
[00119] Referring to Figures 16A and 16B, an NRV (non-return valve) [236] is disclosed. It is placed in an output hose [238] prevents backflow, ensuring that water does not flow back into the diverter [210h], thus preventing dripping issues. The NRV [236] used in the shower module [200] is designed to prevent water from flowing back into the facia unit [204] from the overhead shower module [102] pipeline. This means that once water flows through the hose [232] to the facia [204] or diverter assembly [228], the NRV [236] ensures that it does not flow back into the water system. The NRV [236] ensures that water only moves in one direction, thereby enhancing the efficiency and functionality of the shower system.
[00120] In a preferable embodiment, the NRV [236] is made of plastic and incorporates a spring mechanism [236c] that closes the port in the return direction, ensuring one-way water flow. The NRV [236] is a spindle [236a] operated mechanism with components such as a spring [236c], O-ring [236b], encased in an outer casing [236d] which work together to maintain the valve's functionality and prevent backflow.
[00121] Referring to Figure 17D, the mode switching mechanism is disclosed. The mode switching is achieved by the diverter assembly [228], in conjunction with a cam and thrust mechanism [244], allows the user to switch between rain and cascade modes with a single click.
[00122] This mechanism [244] allows the user to change modes easily by adjusting the internal structure of the facia unit [204]. The rocker arm mechanism [242] is used to optimize the force required to operate the cam and thrust mechanism [244], providing a mechanical advantage, and making the switch between modes more efficient. The rocker arm mechanism [242] adjusts the force applied, reducing the effort needed to activate the cam and thrust mechanism [244], thereby enhancing the overall user experience by making the mode-switching process smoother and more efficient.
[00123] In a preferred embodiment, the facia [204] of the shoulder shower module [200] is tiltable and configured to be adjustable, according to the user’s preference. Irrespective of the user’s preference of the showering modes, the facia [204] is tiltable angularly.
[00124] As visualized in Figure 11, the facia unit [204] may be pivotally adjusted with respect to the first and second outlet pipes [218c, 220c] of the first and second inlet arrangement [218, 220], to adjust the water delivery angle based on the user’s requirement. The shoulder shower module [200] provides flexibility, i.e., the facia unit [204] of the shoulder shower module [200] may be selectively and pivotally adjusted based on the user’s preference.
[00125] Referring to Figures 17A -17C, the facia [204] rotation mechanism is disclosed. The facia rotation mechanism [240] in the shoulder shower module [200] allows the facia unit [204] to rotate and be adjusted to different angles. This is achieved through a combination of brake pads, a slider, and a stopper mechanism.
[00126] The facia [204] is attached to the shoulder shower module [200] via a rotational joint [250], which includes brake pads [240a] that are screwed to the facia [204] via a screw [240c] and tightened against a slider [240b]. This setup guides the facia [204] for rotation and provides friction between the brake pads [240a] and the slider [240b], allowing the facia [204] to be stopped or positioned at any desired location. The Brake Pads [240a] provide the necessary friction to hold the facia [204] in place once it is adjusted. In a preferred embodiment, the brake pads [240a] are made of POM (Polyoxymethylene), a material with self-lubricating properties, ensuring smooth movement.
[00127] Referring to Figure 17C, the stopper mechanism is disclosed. It consists of a spring-loaded stopper [240d] located on the body of the shoulder shower module [200] and helps the facia [204] to be positioned at different angles. The stopper [240d] is combined with facia back cover [240e] which consists of grooves at locations. When the facia [204] is rotated, the stopper [240d] engages with the appropriate groove and provides haptic feedback to the user, making the rotation more intuitive and allowing for easy adjustment of the facia angle.
[00128] Additionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, each of the one or more activation buttons [210c] may be coupled to a haptic actuator, to provide haptic feedback to the user, upon activation of the one or more activation button [210c]. The haptic actuator can be selected from a group consisting of a linear resonant actuator (LRA), an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor, and a piezoelectric actuator. It may be understood that those skilled in the art may envision application of other conventionally known haptic actuators not described hereinabove, to generate haptic feedback upon activation of one or more activation button [210c], and the same is within the scope of the present disclosure.
[00129] Referring to Figures 18A – 18C, a filtering mechanism by means of a filter washer [246] is disclosed.
[00130] The filter washer [246] in the shoulder shower module [200] serves as a crucial component for filtering impurities from the water before it flows through the shower system. It is designed to be easily accessible and maintainable, enhancing the user experience and ensuring the longevity of the shower unit.
[00131] The filter washer [246] is positioned within the inlet connector [230a] of the shower module. It is locked in place by a circlip [246a] that fits into a designated groove within the connector. To access the filter washer [246], the user needs to remove the grub screws [246b] that secures the filter [246]. Thereafter, the circlip [246a] securing the filter washer [246] in the groove must be removed. After the circlip [246a] is removed, the filter washer [246] can be easily taken out for cleaning or replacement.
[00132] Unlike traditional designs where the connector [230a] must be removed from the main supply to access the filter washer [246], this design allows for easy removal and replacement without disconnecting the main supply. The process is straightforward, making it convenient for users to maintain the filter washer regularly, ensuring clean water flow and preventing blockages.
[00133] In order to enhance user experience, the shoulder shower module [200] may also comprise grooves on its surface, to enable a user to hold the same for rotating the facia.
[00134] In an embodiment, as visualized in Figure 2c, the casing member [202] defines a grooved slot [202a], located centrally at the bottom of the front surface of the casing member [202]. The grooved slot [202a] allows the user to pivotally adjust the facia unit [204] housed within the casing member [202].
[00135] In another embodiment, as visualized in Figure 12, the facia unit [204] may include a finger grip provision [226] to provide proper gripped support to the user, while pivotally adjusting the facia unit [204] relative to the casing member [202].
[00136] In yet another embodiment, as visualized in Figure 13B, located at the center, preferably at the bottom of the rear side [204b] is a groove [204a] which provides a user with a grip to enable rotation of the facia [204], in accordance with showering requirements.
[00137] Although, particular embodiments have been disclosed herein in detail, this is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended in any way to limit the intended scope of the invention. Variations and adaptions of the system as described herein do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention and is within the expertise of a person skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM
1. A shoulder shower module [200] for a water distribution system [100], comprising:
A facia [204] configured to provide a shoulder shower with at-least one showering option;
A switching means to toggle the at-least one showering option;
A diverter to configured to divert water to an overhead shower [102];
wherein the facia [204]is rotatable; and
wherein the facia [204] can be adjusted to control the direction and angle of water discharge.
2. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the switching means are located on the front face [204c] of the facia [204].
3. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the diverter may be positioned on the facia [204] either on the front side [204c] or the rear side [204b].
4. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the diverter may be in the form of buttons, knobs or like mechanisms.
5. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the front face [204c] of the facia [204] comprises of a plurality of nozzles [210a] configured to provide a first showering option or rain mode.
6. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the front face [204c] of the facia [204] comprises of a slit [210b] configured to provide a second showering option or cascade mode.
7. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the facia [204] comprises of a casing [202]; and wherein the casing [202] may encase the facia or be positioned at its rear end [204b].
8. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the water delivery system is positioned within the casing [202].
9. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the casing [202] may optionally contain an anti-grip silicon surface [202b].
10. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the module comprises of a diverter assembly [228] to divert water between the facia [204] and the overhead shower [102].
11. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 10, wherein the diverter assembly [228] consists of a flow regulator [234]; and wherein the flow regulator [234] is connected to a hose [232], to facilitate water supply from an inlet [230a] to the facia [204].
12. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 11, wherein a non-return valve [236] is placed in the hose [232]; and wherein the non-return valve [236] is configured to prevent backflow of water.
13. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the facia [204] in the module [200] is rotatable by a rotation mechanism [240], the said rotation mechanism comprising a rotation joint [250].
14. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 13, wherein the said rotation mechanism [240] includes brake pads [240a] that are screwed to the facia [204]; and wherein the facia [204] is tightened against a slider [240b].
15. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 14, wherein the rotation mechanism [240] provides friction between the brake pads [240a] and the slider [240b]; and wherein the rotation mechanism [240] causes the facia [204] to be stopped or positioned at any desired location.
16. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 13, wherein the rotation mechanism [240] further comprises of a stopper mechanism [240d] to cause rotation of the facia [204]; and wherein the stopper [240d] is a spring-loaded stopper.
17. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 16, wherein the stopper mechanism [240d] is coupled with a grooved back face [240e] of the facia [204] to provide haptic feedback.
18. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 11, wherein a filter washer [246] is positioned within the inlet [230a] of the shower module [200]; and wherein the filter washer [246] is locked in place by a circlip [246a].
19. The shoulder shower module [200] of claims 1 and 18, wherein the filter washer [246] is removable by a first removal of grub screws [315b].
20. The shoulder shower module [200] of claim 1, wherein the casing [202] or the rear side of the facia [204] may comprise of a grooved structure, to enable rotation of the facia [204].