Description:CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/564,194, filed March 12, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to shower systems and, more particularly, to water recirculating shower systems.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Existing shower systems and other similar water distribution mechanisms may be installed in private or domestic locations, such as homes, apartments, etc. and/or public locations, such as gyms, hotels, rest stops, etc. Shower systems may consume a significant amount of water during use. It may be desirable in certain circumstances to reduce the amount of fresh water consumed and the amount of waste produced from each use. Such reduction may advantageously contribute to enhanced water conservation and reduce water pollution.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:
[0005] FIG. 1 is an example of a recirculating shower system.
[0006] FIG. 2 is an example of a recirculating shower system, including a plumbing system thereof.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a cross-section of an overhead arm of an example slide bar showing an internal conduit.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a cross-section of an example three port manifold with a vacuum breaker positioned therein.
[0009] FIG. 5 is an example of a shower base including access points for draining water.
[0010] FIG. 6 is an example of a portion of a shower base with a top cover removed to reveal a depression in the shower base.
[0011] FIG. 7 is an example of a portion of a shower base with a top cover removed to reveal a depression in the shower base and a sump cover removed to reveal a sump in the depression.
[0012] FIG. 8 is a top view of an example of a sump.
[0013] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of an example of a sump.
[0014] FIG. 10 is an example of a recirculation skid showing internal components thereof.
[0015] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an example of a recirculating shower system.
[0016] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a rinsing operating mode.
[0017] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a pump priming operating mode.
[0018] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a water recirculation operating mode.
[0019] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a water recirculation operating mode.
[0020] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a shut down operation.
[0021] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a cleaning operating mode.
[0022] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system showing flow paths in one example of a cleaning operating mode.
[0023] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an example of a recirculating shower system.
[0024] Like reference numerals used throughout the drawings indicate like parts.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] The present disclosure relates to recirculating shower systems that can recycle or otherwise recirculate water dispensed within the system for continued or reuse, which may reduce pollution and wasteful consumption of clean, fresh water. The recirculating shower system may include spray heads configured to dispense water into a shower space and a sump configured to collect the water being dispensed into the shower space. Accumulated water in the sump can be recirculated to a recirculation skid that controls supply of the recirculated water through the recirculating shower system. A flow control valve may receive fresh water and control supply of the fresh water to the recirculation skid and at least one of the spray heads. The fresh water supplied to the recirculation skid via the flow control valve can be used to recover the recirculated water, producing a recirculated-fresh water mixture that can improve the conditions of using the recirculated water according to user comfort and preferences. The recirculation skid may include and/or cooperate with a recirculation pump that moves the recirculated-fresh water mixture towards at least one of the spray heads. The recirculation pump may in some examples operate in conjunction with a sump pump that moves the recirculated water towards the recirculation skid. Additional features and advantages are provided by the present disclosure, which can be realized by the following detailed description.
[0026] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate exemplary systems involving recirculating shower systems, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0027] FIG. 1 depicts an example of a recirculating shower system 100. The recirculating shower system 100 may include one or more water spray outputs or spray heads 102, 104 configured to output or dispense water into a shower space 106. The shower space 106 may also be referred to as a shower enclosure. The spray heads may include an overhead spray head 102, a hand spray head 104, or a combination thereof to output, at least in part, water into the shower space 106. In some examples, one or more overhead spray heads 102, one or more hand spray heads 104, or a combination of one or more of each thereof may be included. The overhead spray head 102 and the hand spray head 104 are provided by way of example, and the shower system 100 may include additional or alternative water spray outputs in any combination such as body sprays, rain panels, or the like. The spray heads described herein may also be referred to as showerheads. The spray heads 102, 104 may also be referred to interchangeably as first and second spray heads. As used throughout the description, the terms “first” and “second” are used for convenience, can be interchangeably used between the components being referenced, and do not limit the inclusion of only two of such components being referenced.
[0028] Each spray head 102, 104 may be configured to output fresh or “clean” water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated water and fresh water. The overhead spray head 102 may be configured to output fresh water and/or recirculated water independent of the hand spray head 104. For example, the overhead spray head 102 may output recirculated water, or a combination of the recirculated water and fresh water, while the hand spray head 104 outputs fresh water, and vice versa.
[0029] The overhead spray head 102 may be mounted to a support structure adjacent the shower space 106 via a slide bar 108. For example, the slide bar 108 may mount the overhead spray head 102 to a side wall, a ceiling, or another support structure. An overhead arm 110 may be connected between the slide bar 108 and the overhead spray head 102. The overhead arm 110 may be integrated with the slide bar 108 or coupled to the slide bar. The overhead arm 110 may position the overhead spray head 102 a distance, e.g., a lateral and/or vertical distance, away from the slide bar 108. The overhead spray head 102 may additionally or alternatively be mounted directly to the support structure, e.g., directly to a side wall or the ceiling. A position of the overhead spray head 102 relative to the support structure may be adjustable in some examples. For example, the overhead spray head 102 may be raised and/or lowered to adjust a vertical height or position of the overhead spray head. Additionally, or alternatively, the overhead spray head 102 may be rotated or otherwise moved to adjust an angular orientation of the overhead spray head relative to the support structure.
[0030] The hand spray head 104 may be mounted to the slide bar 108 via a bracket 112. A flexible hose 114 may also be connected between the hand spray head 104 and the slide bar 108. The bracket 112 may be vertically moveable or slidable along the slide bar 108 to adjust a height of the hand spray head 104. Additionally or alternatively, the bracket 112 may be rotatable relative to the slide bar 108 to adjust an angular orientation of the hand spray head 104 relative to the slide bar. The hand spray head 104 may be removable or detachable from the bracket 112 to allow a user to hold the hand spray head and manually direct the water being output from the hand spray head. The flexible hose 114 may provide slack between the hand spray head 104 and the slide bar 108 to allow a wide range of movement of the hand spray head within the shower space 106 while outputting water.
[0031] The shower system 100 may include a user interface 116 mounted on a support structure adjacent to the shower space 106. For example, the user interface 116 may be mounted on a side wall. The user interface 116 may include user input devices 118 for receiving user inputs associated with the output of the spray heads 102, 104. The user input devices 118 may include manual input devices such as control buttons, knobs, dials, switches, triggers, or any other type of manual input device. Additionally or alternatively, the user input devices 118 may include a touchscreen display, such as an LED or LCD display, configured to receive user inputs. The user input devices 118 may allow the user to control flow rate, pressure, temperature, and/or another condition of water being output via the spray heads 102, 104. Additionally or alternatively, the user input devices 118 may allow the user to control whether water is output via the overhead spray head 102, the hand spray head 104, or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the user input devices 118 may allow the user to control whether fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination thereof is output via the overhead spray head 102 and/or the hand spray head 104. In various examples, user interface 116 may be controllable to allow the user to control water temperature, water flow, type of water spray, transitioning between fresh water or recirculated water output, etc. The user interface 116 may additionally or alternatively allow the user to initiate, transition between, terminate, or cycle through different operating modes of the shower system 100 including those described herein. The user input devices 118 may be dedicated to a particular control feature. For example, one or more of the user input devices 118 may be dedicated to controlling water temperature, water flow rate, water pressure, type of water spray, dispensing fresh water, dispensing recirculated water, dispensing a combination of fresh water and recirculated water, the operating mode of the shower system, etc. The controls enabled by the user interface 116 described herein are provided by way of example and are not an exhaustive list of functions. The user interface 116 may be operable to control any desired functions of the shower system 100 including those described elsewhere herein.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 2, the shower system 100 may include a plumbing system 120 configured to control supply of water to the spray heads 102, 104. The plumbing system 120 may be substantially or entirely located behind a wall or partition and isolated from the shower space 106. One or more lines or conduits of the plumbing system 120 may fluidly connect through the wall or partition with the spray heads 102, 104. The plumbing system 120 may be controlled via the user interface 116. For example, the user interface 116 may allow the user to control the plumbing system 120 to supply fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated water and fresh water to the spray heads 102, 104. The plumbing system 120 may also supply fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated water and fresh water to the spray heads 102, 104 independent of one another. For example, the plumbing system 120 may supply recirculated water, or a combination of the recirculated water and fresh water, to the overhead spray head 102 while supplying fresh water to the hand spray head 104, and vice versa. The recirculated water supplied via the plumbing system 120 may be collected below a shower base 122 within the shower space 106.
[0033] The plumbing system 120 may include a flow control valve 124 configured as a mixing valve. The flow control valve 124 includes two inlet fittings 126, 128 that can respectively connect with a hot water source and a cold water source. The hot water and cold water sources may be part of a building or structure in which the shower system 100 is installed. Additionally or alternatively, the shower system 100 may have dedicated hot and/or cold water sources. The inlet fittings 126, 128 may also be referred to as inlets. The flow control valve 124 may receive hot and cold water via inlets defined by the inlet fittings 126, 128. The hot and cold water may mix within a valve chamber of the flow control valve 124 and the mixture can exit the flow control valve via outlet fittings 130, 132. The outlet fittings 130, 132 may also be referred to as outlets. The flow control valve 124 may include metering devices, such as metering orifices or metering valves, that can control the flow of hot and/or cold water into the valve chamber. The metering devices may control the temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate of the water exiting the flow control valve 124 via the outlet fittings 130, 132. The temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate of the water exiting the flow control valve 124 via at least one of the outlet fittings 130, 132 can be set by the user via the user interface 116. In some examples, the temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate of the water exiting the flow control valve 124 via at least one of the outlet fittings 130, 132 can be set according to predefined set point(s). For example, the water exiting one of the outlet fittings 130, 132 may have a predefined temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate when used to mix with recirculated water in the plumbing system 120.
[0034] The flow control valve 124 may also be configured as a diverter valve such that water can exit the flow control valve via one or both outlet fittings 130, 132. For example, the flow control valve 124 may be configured to divert substantially all the water exiting the flow control valve to the outlet fitting 130 or the outlet fitting 132. Additionally or alternatively, the flow control valve 124 may be configured to divert a portion of the water exiting the flow control valve to each outlet fitting 130, 132. In examples where the water exits the flow control valve 124 via both outlet fittings 130, 132, the water may have similar conditions, e.g., similar temperatures, pressures, and/or flow rates, at both outlets. In some examples, the flow control valve 124 may be operable to divert water having different conditions, e.g., different temperatures, pressures, and/or flow rates, between the outlet fittings 130, 132. For example, water exiting the outlet fitting 130 may have a higher or lower temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate than the water exiting the outlet fitting 132. Here again, operation of the flow control valve 124 may be controlled via the user interface 116 to allow the user to control the outlet fitting(s) 130, 132 through which the water exits and, in some examples, the conditions of the water exiting the outlet fitting(s). The outlet fitting 130 may be referred to as a first outlet fitting and the outlet fitting may be referred to as a second outlet fitting 132.
[0035] In some examples, the water entering the flow control valve 124 via the inlet fittings 124, 126 and exiting via the outlet fittings 130, 132 may include fresh water. The flow control valve 124 may thereby be operable to provide fresh water at desired conditions, e.g., desired temperatures, pressures, and/or flow rates, to the plumbing system 120 and the spray heads 102, 104 connected to the plumbing system.
[0036] The plumbing system 120 may include a hand spray head line 134 connected to the first outlet fitting 130. The hand spray head line 134 may be in fluid connection with the flexible hose 114 such that water exiting the flow control valve 124 via the first outlet fitting is channeled to the hand spray head 104.
[0037] The plumbing system 120 may include a fresh water line 136 connected to the second outlet fitting 132. The fresh water line 136 may fluidly connect the second outlet fitting 132 with a recirculation skid 138. The hand spray head line 134 and the fresh water line 136 may be interchangeably referred to as first and second fresh water lines. The recirculation skid 138 may also be referred to as a recirculation controller. The recirculation skid 138 may be fluidly connected with a recirculated water line 140. The recirculated water line 140 may supply recirculated water from below the shower base 122 to the recirculation skid 138. An overhead spray head line 142 may fluidly connect the recirculation skid 138 with the overhead spray head 102. The recirculated water line 140 and the overhead spray head line 142 may be interchangeably referred to as first and second recirculated water lines.
[0038] The fresh water recirculation line 136 may supply fresh water exiting the flow control valve 124 to the recirculation skid 138. The recirculation water line 140 may supply recirculated water to the recirculation skid 138. Recirculated water may mix with the fresh water in the recirculation skid 138 and a mixture of fresh and recirculated water can be supplied to the overhead spray head 102 via the line 142. In some examples, the recirculation skid 138 may also be operable to supply fresh water only to the overhead spray head 102 via the line 142. In some examples, the recirculation skid 138 may be operable to supply fresh water to below the shower base 122 via the line 140.
[0039] The user interface 116 may be in electrical communication with each of the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation skid 138 to facilitate control and operation of the plumbing system 120. For example, the user interface 116 may enable the user to control the plumbing system 120 to supply fresh water to the hand spray head 104 via the flow control valve 124. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 may enable the user to control the plumbing system 120 to supply fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination thereof to the overhead spray head 102 via the recirculation skid 138. Electrical communication between the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, and the recirculation skid 138 may be established via a wired connection and/or a wireless connection such as via Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or another wireless interface. In some examples, the plumbing system 120 may include one or more controllers operable to control the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation skid 138 in response to data or signals received from the user interface 116. The controllers can be centralized and/or decentralized. In some examples, a dedicated controller may be included for the flow control valve 124 and/or the recirculation skid 138.
[0040] The shower system 100 may include at least one power supply 144 for powering the components of the plumbing system 120, such as the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, and/or the recirculation skid 138, including any motors, metering devices, sensors, pumps, controllers, and other electrically powered components thereof. The power supply(ies) 144 may include, for example, direct current (DC) power supplies. In some examples, a dedicated power supply 144 may be included for the flow control valve 124 and/or a dedicated power supply 144 may be included for the recirculation skid 138. In some examples, the user interface 116 may be powered via at least one power supply 144 dedicated to the flow control valve 124 or the recirculation skid 138. In some examples, a dedicated power supply may be provided for the user interface 116.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 3, fluid connection between the overhead spray head line 142 and the overhead spray head 102 may be established via the overhead arm 110 connected to the slide bar 108. An internal conduit 146 may be positioned in the overhead arm 110 and is fluidly connected to an inlet fitting 148 and an outlet fitting 150 of the overhead arm 110. The inlet fitting 148 may be positioned at a first or lower end of the overhead arm 110 adjacent to the slide bar 108. The overhead spray head line 142 may be connected to the inlet fitting 148 of the overhead arm 110 such that water flowing through the line 142 enters the internal conduit 146. The outlet fitting 150 may be positioned at a second or upper end of the overhead arm 110 opposite the slide bar 108. The water flowing through the internal conduit 146 via the overhead spray head line 142 may exit the overhead arm 110 via the outlet fitting 150 and may be dispensed or output via the overhead spray head 102.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 4, the water flowing from both outlets 130, 132 of the flow control valve 124, respectively via the lines 134, 136, may enter a three port manifold 152 mounted on the slide bar 108. The hand spray head line 134 may be fluidly connected to a first port fitting 154 of the manifold 152. The first port fitting 154 may fluidly connect the hand spray head line 134 with a slide bar insert 156 extending through a vacuum breaker housing 158 of the manifold 152 and into the slide bar 108. The first port fitting 154 and the slide bar insert 156 may direct the water flowing from the first outlet 130 of the flow control valve 124 through the hand spray head line 134 towards the flexible hose 114 and the hand spray head 104. The flexible hose 114 may be connected to an outlet of the slide bar insert 156.
[0043] A first portion of the fresh water line 136 extending from the flow control valve 124 may be fluidly connected to a second port fitting 160 of the manifold 152. The second port fitting 160 may fluidly connect the fresh water line 136 with a vacuum breaker insert 162 extending through the vacuum breaker housing 158. A vacuum breaker 164, or another backflow prevention or anti-siphon device, may be positioned in the vacuum breaker insert 162. A third port fitting 166 may be connected to the vacuum breaker insert 162 and provides an outlet for the water flowing through the vacuum breaker insert and the vacuum breaker 164. A second portion of the fresh water line 136 extending towards the recirculation skid 138 may be fluidly connected to the third port fitting 166 and may receive the water exiting the vacuum breaker insert 162. Water exiting the second outlet 132 of the flow control valve 124 may flow through the first portion of the fresh water line 136, into the vacuum breaker insert 162 and through the vacuum breaker 164, and into the second portion of the fresh water line 136 towards the recirculation skid 138. The vacuum breaker 164 or another suitable device may operate to prevent backflow or backsiphonage of the water from the recirculation skid 138 to the flow control valve 124. The vacuum breaker 164 may be referred to as an anti-backflow and/or anti-backsiphonage device.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 5, the shower base 122 may collect the water that is dispensed or output into the shower space 106 via the spray heads 102, 104. The shower base 122 may include a floor that is sloped, angled, slanted, or tilted such that a natural flow of water may funnel or flow directionally towards one or more access points 168. The access points 168 may be located at or proximate to an end or periphery of the shower base 122 that defines the lowermost or bottommost portion of the shower base 122. The access points 168 may be integrated into or otherwise defined in the shower base 122. In some examples, the access points 168 may include continuous slots or lateral openings extending a width of the shower base 122. In some examples, the access points 168 may include discretely positioned openings, apertures, holes, and the like.
[0045] The shower base 122 may include at least one top cover 170. The top cover 170 may be removably coupled or removably mounted relative to a main portion 172 of the shower base 122. The main portion 172 of the shower base 122 may define the floor that is sloped, angled, slanted, or tilted towards the top cover 170. The top cover 170 may define, at least in part, the one or more access points 168. The top cover 170, when coupled or mounted relative to the main portion 172, may be parallel or lie flush with the main portion of the shower base 122. The top cover 170 may continue the slope or angle of the main portion 172. In some examples, the top cover 170 may lie substantially flat relative to the main portion 172.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 6, the top cover 170 of FIG. 5 may be removed to allow access to a recess or depression 174 in the shower base 122. The depression 174 may define a surface that is recessed or sunk relative to the main portion 172. The depression 174 may be at least partially covered by the top cover 170 when the top cover is installed. Water may collect or accumulate in the depression 174 via the access openings 168 of FIG. 5. A sump access hole 178 may be defined in the recessed surface of the depression 174. The sump access hole 178 may allow water that accumulates in the depression 174 to flow into a sump 180. The sump access hole 178 may be defined by a removable sump cover 182 positioned within and mounted on the recessed surface of the depression 174.
[0047] The sump cover 182 may include a removable filter screen 183 configured to catch debris, particles, or other potential contaminants that may flow with the water into the depression 174. The filter screen 183 may be positionable over the sump access hole 178. The filter screen 183 may prevent flow of the debris, particles, or other contaminants into the sump 180. In examples, the filter screen 183 may be removably coupled relative to the sump access hole 178. The filter screen 183 being removable may enable easier cleaning or replacement of the filter screen 183. Removal of the filter screen 183 may provide an initial access into sump 180. In examples, the sump cover 182 may be coupled and mounted relative to the recessed surface of the depression 174. In examples, a top of the sump cover 182 may be parallel or lie flush with the recessed surface of the depression 174.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 7, the sump cover 182 may be removed to more fully expose the sump 180. Greater access to the sump 180 may be enabled when the sump cover 182 is removed relative to the access through the sump access hole 178. The sump 180 may include, for example and not limited to, a collection sump and/or an overflow sump. In some examples, more than one sump may be included. Water may flow into the sumps collectively or individually.
[0049] The sump 180 may include a drain 184 that can open to allow water to drain from the sump. In some example, water exiting via the drain 184 may not be recirculated. The drain 184 may be closed to allow water flowing into the sump 180 to accumulate within the sump. The sump 180 may include one or more recirculation components 186 positioned above the drain 184. The recirculation components 186 may cooperate to recirculate water accumulating in the sump 180 back into the plumbing system 120 of FIG. 2 via a sump recirculation line 188.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 8, the sump recirculation line 188 may be fluidly connected with the recirculated water line 140 of the plumbing system 120. The recirculation components 186 may cooperate to move the water from the sump 180 towards the recirculation skid 138 via the recirculated water line 140. The recirculation components 186 may include a primary pump 190, or sump pump, operable to provide the motive force for moving the water in the sump 180 into the sump recirculation line 188 and the recirculated water line 140. The recirculation components 186 may also include one or more water level sensors 192 operable to detect a level of accumulated water in the sump 180 when the drain 184 is closed. The drain 184 may be equipped with an overflow outlet 194. In some examples, the overflow outlet 194 may be in the form of a raised wall with an open top. The overflow outlet 194 may allow the water to drain from the sump 180 irrespective of an open or closed position of the drain 184. The overflow outlet 194 may have a suitable height to allow water to accumulate in the sump 180 and to drain from the sump at a certain level to prevent flooding or overflow of the sump.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 9, the sump 180 is sunk relative to the depression 174 such that water accumulating in the depression can naturally flow into the sump. A first, or upper, portion P1 of the sump 180 may be raised relative to a rough floor level to maintain needed recirculating water volume in the sump. In examples, a second, or lower, portion P2 of the sump 180 may depend into and at least partially below the rough floor level 196. The second portion P2 may be located below the first portion P1 of the sump 180. The drain 184 may be position in the second portion P2 of the sump 180. The overflow outlet 194 may extend into the first portion P1 of the sump 180.
[0052] The first portion P1 may be larger in dimension, such as volume, than the second portion P2. The relatively smaller second portion P2 that depends below the rough ground level 196 may minimize potential interference with any structural or support components such as floor joists. The second portion P2 of the sump 180 may be positioned relative to the depression 174 and the first portion P1 of the sump 180 to allow water to accumulate therein. The accumulated water in the second portion P2 of the sump 180 may be picked up by the sump pump 190. In examples, one or more of the water level sensors 192 may be operable to monitor the level of water within the first portion P1 and/or the second portion P2 of the sump 180.
[0053] The drain 184 when closed may prevent water within the second portion P2 from exiting the sump 180. In other words, when the drain 184 is closed, water may only exit the sump 180 when the water has accumulated to a level above the top of the overflow outlet 194 in the first portion P1. The drain 184 may be opened to provide a drain outlet for the water in the second portion P2 of the sump 180. The drain outlet provided by the open drain 184 may be at or proximate a bottommost or lowermost of the sump 180 in the second portion P2. In some examples, opening and closing the drain 184 may be controlled by a user, such as via the user interface 116 of FIG. 2. The drain 184 may include a drain motor operable to open and close the drain.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 10, the recirculation skid 138 may include a recirculation housing 200. The recirculation housing 200 may enclose components that may facilitate water output and distribution of water such as fresh water, recirculated water, ozonated water, etc. through the recirculating shower system 100 of FIG. 1 and the plumbing system 120 of FIG. 2. The recirculation housing 200 may include a first inlet fitting 202 that receives water from the fresh water line 136. For example, fresh water exiting the vacuum breaker housing 158 of the manifold 152 of FIG. 4 may flow through the fresh water line 136 and into the recirculation housing 200 via the first inlet fitting 202. The recirculation housing 200 may include a second inlet fitting 204 that receives water from the recirculated water line 140. For example, recirculated water exiting the sump 180 via the sump recirculation line 188 of FIG. 8 may flow through the recirculated water line 140 and into the recirculation housing 200 via the second inlet fitting 204. The inlet fittings 202, 204 may also be referred to as inlets of the recirculation housing 200. Water entering the recirculation housing 200 via the inlet fittings 202, 204 may mix within the housing and the mixture may exit the housing via an outlet fitting 206. The outlet fitting 206 may also be referred to as an outlet of the recirculation housing 200. The outlet fitting 206 may be coupled to the overhead spray head line 142 such that the water mixture exiting the recirculation housing 200 may flow towards the overhead spray head 102 of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0055] The recirculation skid 138 may include at least one recirculation pump 208 positioned in the recirculation housing 200. The recirculation pump 208 may receive the water entering the recirculation housing 200 via inlets 202, 204 and may be operable to move the water mixture through the outlet 206 and into the overhead spray head line 142. In some examples, the recirculation pump 208 may receive and move fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination thereof through the recirculation housing 200 and out through the outlet 206 towards the overhead spray head line 142. For example, the recirculation pump 208 may receive fresh water via the first inlet 202 and recirculated water via the inlet 204, and may move a mixture of the fresh water and the recirculated water through the outlet 206 and into the overhead spray head line 142.
[0056] The recirculation pump 208 may be operable in a first mode in which the pump moves the water towards the outlet 206. The pump 208 may also be operable in a second or bypass mode in which the pump is off and water can flow through or around the pump towards one or both inlets 202, 204. In this way, water can flow into the recirculation housing 200 via the outlet 206 and/or via one or both inlets 202, 204, and water can exit the recirculation housing 200 via the inlets 202, 204 and/or via the outlet 206. A flow direction of the water through the recirculation housing 200 may be controlled by the operation mode of the pump 208.
[0057] The recirculation skid 138 may include a flow meter 210 positioned in the recirculation housing 200. The flow meter 210 may be located adjacent or proximate the recirculation pump 208. In some examples, the flow meter 210 may be integrated with the recirculation pump 208. The flow meter 210 may be operable to detect a flow rate of the water being moved by the pump 208. For example, the flow meter 210 may be operable to detect a flow rate of the water upstream and/or downstream from the pump 208. In some examples, one or more flow meters may be included in the recirculation housing 200. For example, one or more flow meters may detect a flow rate of fresh water and/or recirculated water upstream from the pump 208 and/or a mixture of fresh water and recirculated water downstream from the pump 208. A flow meter may be positioned adjacent or proximate any one or more of the inlets 202, 204 and/or the outlet 206 of the recirculation housing 200.
[0058] The recirculation skid 138 may include a control board 212 positioned in the recirculation housing 200. The control board 212 may include electronics and circuitry which may be configured to control operations of the recirculation skid 138. For example, the control board 212 may control water flow, temperature, pressure, freshwater output, recirculation, drainage, ozonation distribution, disinfection, shutdown, etc. The control board 212 may be operable to control the pump 208, including an operating mode of the pump that controls the flow direction of water through the recirculation housing 200. Additionally or alternatively, the control board 212 may be in communication with sensor(s) in the recirculation housing 200, such as the flow meter 210. The control board 212 may be in communication with the user interface 116 of FIG. 2. The control board 212 may be configured to process incoming communications from the user interface 116 and execute control functions in response. The flow control valve 124 of FIG. 2 may include a same or similar control board. Additionally or alternatively, the control board 212 may be in communication with the flow control valve 124 and may execute control functions for controlling operating of the flow control valve.
[0059] The control board 212 may be in communication with the recirculation components 186 of the sump 180 of FIG. 8. The control board 212 may execute control functions for controlling operating of the recirculation components 186. The recirculation housing 200 may include a communication interface 214 for establishing a wired connection with the recirculation components 186. For example, cables or other wires can connect between the recirculation housing 200 at the communication interface 214 and the recirculation components 186. The communication interface 214 may enable mechanical and/or electrical communication between the recirculation skid 138 and remote components of the recirculation shower system 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the recirculation skid 138 may be in mechanical and/or electrical communication with various components of the plumbing system 120 of FIG. 2, such as one or more of the recirculation components 186 of the sump 180, a drain motor operably coupled to the drain 184 within the sump 180, the flow control valve 124, among others. The recirculation skid 138 may thereby be operable to assist in control and operation of the recirculating shower system 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0060] The recirculation skid 138 may include a manifold 216 that may be operable as a temperature recovery manifold and/or an in-line mixer. The manifold 216 may be positioned in the recirculation housing 200. The manifold 216 may be positioned between and in fluid communication with the inlets 202, 204 and the pump 208. The manifold 216 may mix or combine the water entering via the inlets 202, 204 upstream from the pump 208. For example, the manifold 216 may combine fresh water entering the first inlet 202 via the line 136 and recirculated water entering the second inlet 204 via the line 140 upstream from the pump 208. The first inlet 202 may be connected to the manifold 216 via a first passage 218 and the second inlet 204 may be connected to the manifold 216 via a second passage 220. The manifold 216 may combine the recirculated water with the fresh water to recover, e.g., raise, a temperature of the recirculated water to a comfortable or desired temperature.
[0061] The first and second passages 218, 220 may be interconnected via a crossover line 222. A control valve 224, such as a solenoid valve, may be positioned at or adjacent the crossover line 222. The control valve 224 may be operable or positionable to allow or restrict flow of water through the crossover line 222. The control valve 224 may be controllable via the control board 212.
[0062] The control valve 224 may enable the water to flow through the recirculation housing 200 along various flow paths. For example, when the control valve 224 is closed, water may flow through the passages 218, 220 via the respective inlets 202, 204 and towards the outlet 206 via operation of the pump 208. When the control valve 224 is open, the pump 208 may be off and water may flow through the first passage 218 via the first inlet 202, into the second passage 220 via the crossover line 222, and out through the second inlet 204 towards the recirculated water line 140. When the control valve 224 is closed and the pump 208 is operated in a bypass mode or off, the water may flow around or through the pump 208 via the outlet 206, through the second passage 220 and out through the second inlet 204 towards the recirculated water line 140 while being restricted from flowing through the first passage 218.
[0063] The recirculation skid 138 may also include an ozone generator 226 operable to generate ozone which may clean and/or disinfect water flowing through the recirculation housing 200. Additionally or alternatively, the ozone generator 226 may generate ozone that can be carried in the water stream throughout the plumbing system 120 of FIG. 2 for cleaning one or more lines of the recirculated shower system 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The ozone generator 226 may be positioned in, adjacent, or proximate the second passage 220. Additionally or alternatively, the ozone generator 226 may be positioned in, adjacent, or proximate the first passage 218 and/or the crossover line 222. In some examples, fresh water from the fresh water line 136 may flow into the first passage 218 via the first inlet 202, through the open control valve 224 and the crossover line 222 into the second passage 220, and past the ozone generator 226 for picking up generated ozone. The ozonated water may then flow out of the recirculation housing 200 via the second inlet 204 and towards the sump 180 of FIG. 8 via the line 140. The ozonated water may accumulate in the sump 180. The accumulated, ozonated water in the sump 180 may be drawn back through the recirculation housing 200 via the pump 208 and directed towards the overhead spray head 102 of FIGS. 1 and 2 via the line 142. In this way, the recirculation skid 138 including the ozone generator 226 may be operable to sanitize, disinfect, flush out, rinse, or otherwise clean the recirculating shower system 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0064] The ozone generator 226 is one example of an inline cleaning, sanitization, and/or disinfectant device that can be included in the recirculation housing 200. Other types of inline clean, sanitization, and/or devices may additionally or alternatively be included. For example, the recirculation skid 138, and/or the plumbing system 120 of FIG. 2, may include ozone generator(s), enhanced filtration device(s), ultraviolet filtration and/or disinfection devices such as UV, UV-C, UVGI, among other ultraviolet devices, and the like, and any combination thereof. In some examples, one or more inline cleaning, sanitization, and/or disinfectant devices may be included at or proximate the sump 180 or another location in addition to or in the alternative to the recirculation housing 200. As used herein, an “inline cleaning device” may encompass devices that are operable to clean, sanitize, disinfectant, or otherwise remove contaminants from a flow of water and/or lines carrying the flow of water.
[0065] The recirculation skid 138 may include one or more sensor(s) 228 in addition to or in the alternative to the flow meter 210. The sensor(s) 228 of the recirculation skid 138 may be at any suitable location, such as at or proximate the first inlet 202, the second inlet 204, the outlet 206, the pump 208, the first passage 218, the second passage 220, and/or the crossover line 222. The sensor(s) 228 may be operable to monitor one or more characteristics or conditions of the water flowing through the recirculation housing 200. The sensor(s) 228 may be in communication with the control board 212, which may use data or signals from the sensors to execute control functions such as those described herein. The sensor(s) 228 may include one or more thermistors or temperature sensors. For example, one or more thermistors 228 may be positioned at or proximate the outlet 206 for monitoring a temperature of water exiting and/or entering the recirculation housing 200 via the outlet 206. One or more thermistors or temperature sensors may be included at various locations within the recirculation housing 200. For example, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors may monitor a temperature of water flowing into, through, and/or out of the recirculation housing 200 via the first inlet 202, the second inlet 204, the outlet 206, the pump 208, the first passage 218, the second passage 220, and/or the crossover line 222.
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 11, the recirculating shower system 100 is shown schematically. The flow control valve 124 and the recirculation skid 138 may cooperate to supply fresh water and/or recirculated water to one or both spray heads 102, 104. The user interface 116 may be in communication with the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation skid 138 and allows the user to select whether fresh water and/or recirculated water is dispensed at the spray heads 102, 104. The recirculation skid 138, and in some examples the flow control valve 124, may be controlled via the control board 212 or controller in response to inputs receives at the user interface 116 and/or according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. Advantageously, in a recirculation mode, the recirculation skid 138 may be operable to draw “used” water that can accumulate in the sump 180 and be moved towards the recirculation skid 138 via the sump pump 190. This can greatly reduce water consumption and/or pollution and may be particularly advantageous in areas where fresh water supply is scarce and/or high water usage is problematic.
[0067] The removable filter screen 183 can serve as an initial barrier for debris, particles, or other potential contaminants from entering or becoming entrained in the recirculated water flow. The sump pump 190 may also be equipped with and/or positioned downstream from a secondary screen 198 that can limit or prevent debris, particles, or other potential contaminants that have entered the sump 180 from entering or becoming entrained in the recirculated water flow. The recirculation skid 138 may also include the recirculation pump 208 that is operable to move the recirculated water through at least a portion of the plumbing system 120. The dual pump configuration of the recirculation shower system 100, which may include at least the pumps 190, 208, can enable greater versatility and functionality in moving, treating, or otherwise handling the recirculated water flow through the plumbing system 120. The inline cleaning device(s) 226, such as an ozone generator, may be intermittently or periodically operable to clean the recirculated water and/or lines of the plumbing system 120 carrying the recirculated water to ensure that the shower system 100 remains clean, sanitized, disinfected, or otherwise suitable for safe use.
[0068] The flow control valve 124 receiving flow of hot and/or cold fresh water via the inlets 126, 128 may direct fresh water at a desirable temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate toward the recirculation skid 138 via the fresh water line 136. A temperature of the fresh water directed from the flow control valve 124 towards the recirculation skid 138 may be controlled by a user via the user interface 116 or may be a predefined temperature. Additionally or alternatively, a pressure and/or flow rate of the fresh water directed from the flow control valve 124 towards the recirculation skid 138 may be controlled by a user via the user interface 116 or may be a predefined pressure and/or flow rate. The fresh water from the flow control valve 124 can be mixed via the manifold 216 of the recirculation skid 138 with recirculated water received via the recirculated water line 140. The fresh water may recover, e.g., raise, the temperature, pressure, and/or the flow rate of the recirculated water to a desirable or comfortable level. The temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate of the water flowing into, through, and/or out of the recirculation skid 138 may be monitored via the sensor(s) 228. The recirculation skid 138 may direct the fresh water and recirculated water mixture towards the overhead spray head 102 via the line 142. The recirculation skid 138 may additionally or alternatively direct the water mixture towards the hand spray head 104 in some examples.
[0069] A user taking a shower or otherwise using the recirculating shower system 100 may indicate and control which spray head 102, 104 they wish to use via the user interface 116. The user may designate that water is dispensed from one or both spray heads 102, 104. The user interface 116 may include the user input devices 118 of FIG. 1, such as mechanical controls, manual controls, touchscreen displays, or a combination thereof, which may be operable to allow the user to select the spray head 102 and/or the spray head 104 for dispensing water. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 may be operable to allow the user to select the characteristics or conditions of the water being dispensed, such as temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 may be operable to allow the user to initiate, transition between, terminate, or cycle through different operating modes of the shower system 100 including those described herein. The recirculating shower system 100 may supply water in accordance with the selections made by the user and pass the water through the plumbing system 120 to the spray head 102 and/or the spray head 104. The water may exit the designated spray head(s) 102, 104 so that the user may take a shower or rinse. The user may also change the water supply designations, the water conditions, the operating mode, etc. during the shower or during operating of the system 100 whereby the recirculating shower system 100 may react or respond accordingly to meet the request.
[0070] Electrical communication between the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, the recirculation skid 138, and/or the recirculation components 186 can be established via any suitable wired or wireless connection. In some examples, communication harnesses may be included to provide electrical communication between components of the system 100. For example, the flow control valve 124 may communicate with the recirculation skid 138 via a first harness 250. The recirculation skid 138 may communicate with the recirculation components 186 via a second harness 252. The harnesses 250, 252 may enable the controller 212 of the recirculation skid 138 to control operation of and/or send and receive data or signals from the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation components 186. The second harness 252 may additionally or alternatively enable the controller 212 to open or close the drain 184 of the sump 180 via operation of the drain motor.
[0071] FIG. 12 depicts flow of water through the shower system 100 and the plumbing system 120 in a first example operating mode. This operating mode may be an example of an initial rinse shower stage in which fresh water is dispensed from the hand spray head 104. In some examples, fresh water may additionally or alternatively be dispensed from the overhead spray head in the initial rinse shower stage. The user may select to initiate the rinse shower stage via the user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the rinse shower stage may initiate autonomously according to preprogrammed instructions or routines.
[0072] In this operating mode, hot fresh water 302 and cold fresh water 304 may be supplied to and received by the flow control valve 124 via the inlets 126, 128, respectively. The flow control valve 124 may mix the hot fresh water 302 and cold fresh water 304 to produce a fresh water mixture 306 that exits the flow control valve into the line 134. The conditions of the fresh water mixture 306, such as the temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate, can be controlled via the flow control valve 124. For example, the flow control valve 124 may control the conditions of the fresh water mixture 306 in accordance with a desired temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate requested by an user of the shower system 100 via the user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the conditions of the fresh water mixture 306 may be controlled according to a preprogrammed instructions or routines. In examples, the flow control valve 124 may be mechanically or electronically controlled. Control of the conditions of the fresh water, such as temperature, pressure, and/or flow rate, entering and exiting the flow control valve 124 at 302, 304, and 306 are understood by one skilled in the art.
[0073] The fresh water mixture 306 exiting the flow control valve 124 may be flow through the line 134 towards and through the three port manifold 152. The manifold 152 may direct the fresh water mixture 306 into the flexible hose 114 towards the hand spray head 104. The hand spray head 104 may dispense the water mixture 306. The hand spray head 104 may also be moveable relative to and/or detachable from the slide bar 108 to enable the user to manipulate the hand spray head 104 and adjust the spray direction of the water mixture 306.
[0074] Once dispensed and used, the water mixture 308 may enter the sump 180. The used water mixture 308 may flow through the removable filter screen 183 that can catch or otherwise prevent debris from collecting in the sump 180. In this operating mode, the drain 184 of the sump 180 may be open. The used water 308 may exit the sump 180 via the drain 184 and can be drained from the system 100. When the drain 184 is open, the used water 308 may bypass the overflow outlet 194 and is directly drained from the sump 180. As such, the used water 308 may not substantially accumulate in the sump 180 when the drain 184 is open.
[0075] Referring now to FIG. 13, the recirculating shower system 100 may be operable in a second operating mode. The user may select to transition from the first operating mode of FIG. 12 to the second operating mode of FIG. 13 via the user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the recirculating shower system 100 may transition from the first operating mode to the second operating mode according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. More broadly, the example operating modes described herein can be initiated, transitioned between, terminated, or cycled through in any combination in response to user inputs via the user interface 116 and/or according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. Example functions of the recirculating shower system 100 that are executed during the operating modes may be described but are not an exhaustive list of functions. The functions executed by the recirculating shower system 100 may be controlled via the controller 212 and/or another controller or control board of the system.
[0076] The operating mode of FIG. 13 may be an example of a pump priming stage of the recirculating shower system 100. During this stage, the drain 184 may close to allow the used water 308 to accumulate in the sump 180. The overflow outlet 194 may provide a relief for overflow of the accumulated water 308 in the sump 180, whereby water above a certain level can drain out of the sump 180 via the overflow outlet. The fresh water mixture 306 may continue to be dispensed via the hand spray head 104 as described with respect to FIG. 12. The flow control valve 124 may divert a portion of the fresh water mixture, indicated by 402, into the fresh water line 136. The fresh water mixture 402 flowing through the line 136 may flow through the three port manifold 152, wherein the fresh water mixture 402 may pass through an anti-backflow and/or anti-backsiphonage device such as the vacuum breaker 164 of FIG. 4. The line 136 may direct the fresh water mixture 402 from the manifold 152 towards the recirculation skid 138. The anti-backflow and/or anti-backsiphonage device in the three port manifold can prevent the fresh water mixture 402 and/or water moving through the recirculation skid 138 from flowing or being siphoned back through the line 136 towards the flow control valve 124.
[0077] In the pump priming stage, the pump 208 of the recirculation skid 138 may be off and the control valve 224 may be positioned to direct the fresh water mixture 402 into the recirculated water line 140 towards the sump pump 190. The fresh water mixture 402 may be supplied to the recirculation components 186 within the sump 180, e.g., the sump pump 190. The freshwater mixture 402 supplied to the sump 180 may prime the recirculation components 186, e.g., the sump pump 190, for recirculating the used water 308 accumulating in the sump. For example, the fresh water mixture 402 may purge any air from the recirculation components 186 and/or the plumbing between the sump 180 and the recirculation skid 138. Additionally or alternatively, the fresh water mixture 402 may warm the recirculation components 186 and/or the plumbing between the sump 180 and the recirculation skid 138.
[0078] In examples, the fresh water mixture 402 exiting the flow control valve 124 may be at a predefined or preset flow rate. For example, the fresh water mixture 402 may flow towards the recirculation skid 138 at a rate between 0 and 1 gallons per minute (GPM), such as about 0.5 GPM. The flow rate of the fresh water mixture 402 may be held substantially or approximately the same through the various operating modes that utilized the fresh water mixture 402. Alternatively, the flow rate of the fresh water mixture 402 may vary, according to preprogrammed instructions or routines and/or in response to a user input at the user interface 116. The fresh water mixture 402 may be at a desirable temperature to enable warming the recirculation components 186 and/or the recirculation plumbing. The flow control valve 124 may be operable to control the amount of hot fresh water 304 and cold fresh water 302 in the mixture to achieve a predefined or preset temperature of the fresh water mixture 402. Additionally or alternatively, a flow rate and/or a temperature of the fresh water mixture 402 may be controlled in response to a user input at the user interface 116.
[0079] During the pump priming stage of FIG. 13, one or more sensors, such as the level sensor(s) 192, may monitor the level, volume, or other conditions of used water 308 accumulating in the sump 180. In examples, communication from the one or more sensors in the sump 180 may provide readings to the user and/or may be used to automatically or manually open or close the drain 184 such as by activating a drain motor within the sump. The sump pump 180, drain motor, one or more level sensors 192, or other recirculation components 186 may be in electrical communication with the controller of the recirculation skid 138 or another controller.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 14, the recirculation shower system 100 may transition from the pump priming stage of FIG. 13 to a water recirculation stage. The water recirculation stage may initiate when the level of used water 308 has reached a desired or predefined level and the recirculation components 186 and related plumbing are primed. While the recirculation components 186, e.g., the sump pump 190, are being primed or following a completed priming thereof, the hand spray head 104 may continue dispensing the fresh water mixture 306 and the sump 180 may be filled or continues to fill with the used water 308. The one or more level sensors 192 may monitor the level of used water 308 accumulating in the sump 180. The one or more sensors 192 may provide confirmation to the recirculation skid 138, e.g., to the controller 212, when the used water 308 in the sump 180 has reached an adequate level to initiate water recirculation. The adequate level of used water 308 to initiate recirculation may be a predetermined or predefined level of water in the sump 180. Meanwhile, as the hand spray head 104 continues to dispense the fresh water mixture 306, excess used water 308 accumulating in the sump 180 may flow over the top or edges of the overflow outlet 194 and drain from the sump 180. The drainage of excess used water 308 via the overflow outlet 194 may prevent overflow of the used water or additional water being output to overflow above the sump 180. Such overflow may undesirably lead to water accumulating above the top of and within the shower base 122 of FIG. 5. The prevention of the excess water overflow may prevent the user of the recirculating shower system 100 from standing in the accumulated water, which could otherwise cause potential danger, such as the user slipping or falling in the shower.
[0081] When the used water 308 is ready to be circulated, as may be indicated by the level sensor(s) 192, the sump pump 190 and the recirculation skid 138 may be operated to begin supplying recirculated water 502 through the plumbing system 120. The recirculated water 502 entering and being moved via the pump 190 may be substantially free of debris, particles, or other potential contaminants via the filter screen 183 and the secondary screen 198. The sump pump 190 may be operable to move the recirculated water 502 through the recirculated water line 140 towards the recirculation skid 138. Concurrently, the fresh water mixture 402 may continue to flow to the recirculation skid 138. The fresh water mixture 402 and the recirculated water 502 may combine or mix within the manifold of the recirculation skid 138, producing a recirculated-fresh water mixture 504. The recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 may exit the recirculation skid 138 and begin flowing through the line 142 towards the overhead spray head 102.
[0082] During the transition to the water recirculation stage of FIG. 14, the recirculation pump 208 may remain off temporarily until the controller 212 receives an indication that the system 100 is ready for water recirculation. When the recirculation pump 208 is off, the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 may be allowed to move through the recirculation skid 138, through and/or around the pump 208. Once the indication is received by the controller 212 that water recirculation is ready, the recirculation pump 208 may be activated to supplement or assist in moving the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 through the plumbing system 120, such as through the line 142. For example, the sensor(s) 228 of the recirculation skid 138, such as a flowmeter and/or thermistor, may detect that the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 is moving through the recirculation skid 138 via the sump pump 190 which may indicate that water recirculation is ready. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 212 may receive an indication from the level sensor(s) 192 of the sump 180 that water recirculation is ready. Other indications can be detected and received by the controller 212 to control operation of the recirculation pump 208 when water recirculation is ready.
[0083] FIG. 15 depicts an example of a water recirculation mode that may be executed following the transition stage of FIG. 14. Here, the recirculation pump 208 of the recirculation skid 138 may be activated to move the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 through the line 142 when the controller 212 receives the indication that water circulation is ready. The recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 may be dispensed via the overhead spray head 102. At this stage, the flow control valve 124 may be controlled to divert all the fresh water exiting therefrom as the fresh water mixture 402 into the fresh water line 136. The fresh water mixture 402 continues to be mixed or combined with the recirculated water 502 supplied from the sump 180 via the sump pump 190, such that a continuous flow of the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 is produced. Supply of the fresh water mixture 306 may terminate and the hand spray head 104 may not dispense water. Alternatively, the fresh water mixture 306 may continue to be supplied to and dispensed via the hand spray head 104. In some examples, the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 may be supplied to and dispensed by the hand spray head 104 in addition to or in the alternative to the overhead spray head 102.
[0084] One or more sensors 228 of the recirculation skid 138 may monitor the conditions, e.g., temperature, of the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504. A controller, such as the controller 212 of the recirculation skid, may control the flow control valve 124 to adjust or maintain the temperature of the fresh water mixture 402 based on the measurements via sensors 228 and predetermined setpoints or user inputs via the user interface 116. For example, when the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 has a temperature below a given setpoint, the flow control valve 124 may be controlled to increase a temperature of the fresh water mixture 402. When the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 has a temperature above a given setpoint, the flow control valve 124 may be controlled to decrease a temperature of the fresh water mixture 402. Other conditions of the fresh water mixture, such as pressure and/or flow rate, may also be controlled via the recirculation skid 138 and/or the flow control valve 124 to provide desired conditions of the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504. In this way, the recirculation skid 138 and the flow control valve 124 may cooperate to enable using recirculated water without sacrificing comfort or the ability to meet user preferences. Operating in the recirculation mode of FIG. 15 may assist in preserving any unnecessary waste of water, may save unnecessary costs to the user due to excessive use of water, and additional benefits to both the user and the environment.
[0085] The recirculated-fresh water mixture 504 being dispensed via the overhead spray head 102 may accumulate in the sump as used water 506. This may provide a continuous or constant supply of the recirculated water 502 used to produce the recirculated-fresh water mixture 504. Here again, the recirculated water 502 entering and being moved via the pump 190 may be substantially free of debris, particles, or other potential contaminants via the filter screen 183 and the secondary screen 198. Excess used water 506 can drain out of the sump 180 via the overflow outlet 194 to prevent overflow of the sump 180.
[0086] FIG. 16 depicts an example of a shut down operation of the recirculation shower system 100. The user may indicate or select, via the user interface 116, to shut down the recirculating shower system 100. Additionally or alternatively, the shut down operation may initiate autonomously according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. During the shutdown operation, the flow control valve 124 may be controlled to terminate or cease all flow of water therethrough. The sump pump 180 and the recirculation pump 208 may also be turned off. A signal or communication may be sent to the drain motor to open the drain 184. Additionally or alternatively the drain 184 may be manually opened. Residual water 602 in the system 100 may exit via the drain 184. In examples, flow may be unrestricted in the plumbing system 120, including in the recirculation skid 138, such that the flow of the residual water 602 may drain back or down and out through the drain 184. In examples, during the shut down operation, the recirculating shower system 100 may rely on gravity as the motive force for the residual water 602 to drain towards and down through the drain 184 and out of the system. In examples, pumps operating in the system, such as the sump pump 190 and/or the recirculation pump 208, may assist in facilitating the flow of the residual water 602 remaining in the system and with the subsequent drainage. Such water drainage may assist in the backflush of the filter screens of the sump 180, such as the secondary screen 198, and help discharge any debris down the drain.
[0087] FIG. 17 depicts an initiation of an example of a cleaning and/or disinfecting operating mode of the recirculating shower system 100. For brevity, this operating mode is referred to as a cleaning operating mode or cleaning stage, but may be performed to operable to sanitize, disinfect, flush out, rinse, or otherwise clean the recirculating shower system 100. To initiate the cleaning operating mode, the flow control valve 124 may be operable to direct flow of the fresh water mixture 402 towards the recirculation skid 138. The fresh water mixture 402 may enter the recirculation skid 138 and is diverted through the inline cleaning device(s) 226, such as the ozone generator described with respect to FIG. 10. For example, the inline cleaning device(s) 226 may include the ozone generator configured to generate and provide ozone, such as via electrolysis. The ozone can be introduced into the fresh water mixture, producing ozonated water 702. The ozonated water 702 may facilitate disinfecting bacteria, viruses, or other contaminates within the recirculating shower system 100. The ozonated water 702 may also be referred to as a cleaned water mixture or cleaned water. The cleaned water mixture may be prepared, for example, via ozonation, UV filtration, UV disinfection, or another inline cleaning device or mechanism such as enhanced filtration.
[0088] The cleaning stage may be activated manually via user input and/or autonomously according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. For example, a user may initiate the cleaning stage and activate the inline cleaning device(s) 226, such as an ozone generator, via the user interface 116. In some example, the cleaning stage once the user decides to terminate or shut down the recirculating shower system 100. In examples, a user may initiate the cleaning stage following completion of the shut down stage of FIG. 16. In examples, the cleaning stage may be autonomously activated via a controller, such as the controller 212 of the recirculation skid 138. For example, the controller 212 may initiate the cleaning stage following termination or conclusion of the shut down stage of FIG. 16. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 212 may initiate the cleaning stage following a predetermined period of time after the user has shut off the recirculating shower system 100. In examples, the recirculating shower system 100 may include a cleaning stage actuator, such as, for example, a button, switch, trigger, touchscreen selection, and the like, via the user interface 116, in which, when actuated, may activate the cleaning stage and/or the inline cleaning device(s) 226.
[0089] During the initiation of the cleaning stage as shown in FIG. 17, the cleaned water 702, e.g., ozonated water, may be directed via the recirculation skid 138 into the line 140 towards the sump 180. The cleaned water 702 may accumulate in the sump 180 while cleaning and/or priming the recirculation components 186. The sump 180 may fill with the cleaned water 702 accumulating therein. The drain 184 may be closed to allow the cleaned water 702 to accumulate in the sump 180. Excess cleaned water 702 can drain from the sump 180 via the overflow outlet 194. The level sensor(s) 192 may monitor a level of the cleaned water 702 accumulating in the sump 180. During the filling process of the cleaned water 702 in the sump 180, air may be purged from the recirculation components 186, such as the sump pump 190, and the recirculation components may be primed with the cleaned water 702. In examples, should a secondary or multiple pumps be utilized, additional pumps may also be purged of air during the initiation of the cleaning stage. For example, the recirculation pump 208 may be purged and primed with the cleaned water 702.
[0090] FIG. 18 depicts an example of the cleaning stage in which the cleaned water 702 can be circulated through the plumbing system 120 when the sump 180 has filled with the cleaned water 702 to a desired or predetermined level and the recirculation components 186 are primed. The sump pump 190 and the recirculation pump 208 may cooperate to move the cleaned water 702, e.g., ozonated water, successively through the line 140, the recirculation skid 138, the line 142, and eventually out of the overhead spray head 102. In some examples, the cleaned water 702 may be moved towards, through, and out of the hand spray head 104. The sump pump 190 may be activated initially to move the cleaned water 702 towards and through the recirculation skid 138. The recirculation pump 208 may be activated when the controller 212 receives indication, e.g., via the sensors 228, that the cleaned water 702 is ready to be circulated. The flow of the cleaned water 702 and operating of the components for circulating the cleaned water through the plumbing system 120 may be similar to recirculation mode described above with respect to FIG. 15. The drain 184 may remain closed such that the cleaned water 702 accumulating in the sump 180 can be recirculated via the sump pump 180 back towards the recirculation skid 138. Excess cleaned water 702 can continue to drain from the sump 180 via the overflow outlet 194.
[0091] The circulation of the cleaned water 702 may operate to sanitize, disinfect, flush out, rinse, or otherwise clean the recirculating shower system 100 and/or clean or washout any remaining old or used water and debris remaining in the system. The cleaning stage, and thus operation of the inline cleaning device(s) 226 such as the ozone generator, may be activated for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc.) or executing in time sequences (e.g., for quick clean or rinse of the recirculating shower system 100). In examples, the cleaning stage and/or the inline cleaning device(s) 226 may cease operation (e.g., shut off) based on a user input. The inline cleaning device(s) 226 may be operably coupled to a control system, such as the controller 212, such that the cleaning stage and the inline cleaning device(s) may be automatically or autonomously activated at predetermined times (e.g., once a day, once a week, once a month, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, user may initiate and/or the system 100 may automatically or autonomously activate a longer, deep clean disinfection stage. For example, the cleaning stage may be executed for a longer period of time than a quick clean, may incorporate additional ozone, may provide a greater water pressure during cleaning, etc. The recirculating shower system 100 may include one or more indicators to indicate activation of the disinfection stage and the inline cleaning device(s) 226 including, but not limited to, a sound effect and/or visual effect, such that the user may be able to detect the indicator and determine or consider whether activation of the disinfection stage and ozone generator may be necessary. In examples, a user and/or a controller may be able adjust the water temperature provided from the flow control valve 124 to adjust the temperature of the cleaned water 702 utilized in the cleaning stage. In examples, the temperature of fresh water mixture 402 provided via the flow control valve 124 during the cleaning stage may be programmed.
[0092] The system 100 may be provided with an inline heater, such as an instantaneous water heater, that can operate the heat water flowing through the plumbing system 120. The inline heater may be incorporated in the recirculation skid 138 and/or may be separate from the recirculation skid. The inline heater may be utilized during the cleaning stage. Additionally or alternatively, the inline heater may be operable to heat water during any operating mode of the system 100, such as during a water recirculation mode.
[0093] When the cleaning stage is at or near completion, the flow control valve 124 may be operable to cease supply of the fresh water mixture 402 to the recirculation skid 138 and/or the inline cleaning device(s) 226 may be turned off. Upon completion of the cleaning stage, a shut down operation may initiate, such as the shut down operation of FIG. 16. Residual cleaned water in the system, as described above with respect to FIG. 16, may naturally and/or via pumping flow down and out of the system via the open drain 184 in the sump 180.
[0094] Referring now to FIG. 19, an alternative example of a recirculating shower system 800 is shown. The alternative example configuration of the recirculating shower system 800 may include the same or similar components, features, and elements of the recirculation shower system 100 as described herein. Similarities between the recirculating shower systems 100, 800 may not be described for brevity and ease of disclosure. Like reference numerals are used in FIG. 18 to indicate the same or similar components, features, and elements between the recirculation shower system 100 and 800. Alternate configurations, components, features, and elements of the shower system 800 can be incorporated in the system 100, and vice versa, in any combination.
[0095] In this example, the recirculating shower system 800 may include a recirculation pump 802. The recirculation pump 802 may be separate from the recirculation skid 138 and may be positioned for recirculating water through the plumbing system 120. For example, the recirculation pump 802 may be positioned downstream from the recirculation skid 138 such as on the overhead spray head line 142. Additionally or alternatively, the recirculation pump 802 may be positioned upstream from the recirculation skid 138 such as on the recirculated water line 140. The recirculation pump 802 may be included in addition or in the alternative to the recirculation pump 208 of the recirculation skid 138 and/or the sump pump 190. The recirculation pump 802 may be a relatively larger or higher capacity pump and may be capable of pumping water through the entire system 800, through all stages as described above. The recirculation pump 802 may eliminate the necessity of additional pumps, which may reduce the number of components within the system and costs.
[0096] Additional or alternative plumbing may be included into variations of the recirculating shower system 800 to facilitate the flow of water to, through, and/or out of the recirculation skid 138 and/or the flow control valve 124 for supplying water to the spray heads 102, 104 and/or additional or alternative spray outputs such as body sprays, rain panels, or the like. Such additional or alternative spray outputs may be in fluid communication with components of a recirculating shower system, as similarly described herein. In examples, operation and control of such additional or alternative spray outputs may be similarly facilitated and controlled by a user and/or controller as described herein.
[0097] Communication between the recirculation components 186 in the sump 180 and the recirculation skid 138 may be established via the second harness 252 as described above. In this example, the recirculation components 186 may also include a valve 804, such as a solenoid valve, at or proximate the sump pump 190. The solenoid valve 804 may be positioned at an inlet of the sump pump 180 and may be operable to isolate the sump pump 190 from the sump 180. Additionally or alternatively, a valve such as a solenoid valve may be positioned at the outlet of the sump pump 190 to isolate the sump pump from the recirculated water line 140. The valve 804 may be closed during an initiation stage of a recirculating operating mode in which the sump 180 is filled and the sump pump 190 is primed. For example, the valve 804 may be closed to allow water from the sump 180 to purge air in the sump pump 190. Additionally or alternatively, the valve 804 may be closed to allow water from the line 140 to purge air in the sump pump 190. The valve 804 may be opened when the sump 180 is filled and the sump pump 190 is primed to allow the water recirculation to begin.
[0098] Communication between the drain 184 and the recirculation skid 138 may be established electrically via the second harness 252 and/or mechanically via a drain cable 806. The drain cable 806 may be actuable via the recirculation skid 138, such as via the controller 212 and/or an actuable cable drive located in the recirculation skid 138. The drain cable 806 may be actuable to selectively open or close the drain 184. For example, actuation of the drain cable 806 may be caused in response to detection of a water level in the sump 180 via the level sensor(s) 192.
[0099] In this examples, the fresh water line 136 downstream from the three port manifold 152 may be tapped into, connected with, or in communication with the recirculated water line 140. The fresh water line 136 may communicate with the recirculated water line 140 between the recirculation skid 138 and/or the recirculation pump 802 and the sump pump 190 and/or the valve 804. One or more thermistors or temperature sensors may be located at, proximate, and/or downstream from the fresh water line 136. In some examples, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors are located downstream from the fresh water line 136 along line 140. In some examples, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors are located at or proximate the recirculation skid 138. In some examples, a manifold or an inline mixer may be coupled between the line 136 and the line 140 to allow mixing or combining of water at the communication junction between the lines 136, 140. In some examples, the line 136 communicating with the line 140 may omit the need for the manifold 216 in the recirculation skid 138.
[0100] In examples, additional or alternative features or iterations may be incorporating among variations of recirculating shower systems, as similarly described herein. For example, iterations of a recirculating shower system may include a level of improved or enhanced filtration. One or more additional filters or improved or enhanced filtration systems or mechanism may be integrated into a recirculating shower system. In examples, Ultraviolet disinfection and/or filtration devices (e.g., UV, UV-C, UVGI, etc.) may be incorporated into a recirculating shower system. In examples, the improved or enhanced filters, Ultraviolet disinfection and/or filtration devices, or a combination thereof may be integrated inline with the plumbing. In examples, coupling or otherwise integrating the improved or enhanced filters, Ultraviolet disinfection and/or filtration devices, or a combination thereof into sump is considered. Coupling said components within the sump may provide easier access and serviceability for the user. The improved or enhanced filters and/or the Ultraviolet disinfection and/or filtration devices may be included in conjunction with or in the alternative to ozone generator(s).
[0101] It should be understood that various aspects disclosed herein may be combined in different combinations than the combinations specifically presented in the description and accompanying drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the example, certain acts or events of any of the processes or methods described herein may be performed in a different sequence, may be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g., all described acts or events may not be necessary to carry out the techniques). In addition, while certain aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by a single module or unit for purposes of clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of this disclosure may be performed by a combination of units or modules associated with, for example, a medical device.
[0102] In one or more examples, the described techniques may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. Computer-readable media may include non-transitory computer-readable media, which corresponds to a tangible medium such as data storage media (e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer).
[0103] Instructions may be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry. Accordingly, the term “processor” as used herein may refer to any of the foregoing structure or any other physical structure suitable for implementation of the described techniques. Also, the techniques could be fully implemented in one or more circuits or logic elements.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A recirculating shower system comprising:
a first spray head and a second spray head, each of the first spray head and the second spray head dispensing water;
a shower base collecting the water being dispensed via the first and second spray heads;
a sump receiving the water from the shower base;
a flow control valve receiving fresh water, the flow control valve being connected to a first fresh water line and a second fresh water line, the first fresh water line delivering the fresh water to the first spray head; and
a recirculation skid receiving recirculated water from the sump via a first recirculated water line, the recirculation skid being connected to a second recirculated water line that delivers the recirculated water from the recirculation skid to the second spray head.
2. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, further comprising:
a sump pump positioned in the sump for moving the recirculated water towards the recirculation skid via the first recirculated water line; and
a recirculation pump for moving the recirculated water towards the second spray head via the second recirculated water line.
3. The recirculating shower system of claim 2, wherein the recirculation pump is positioned in a recirculation housing of the recirculation skid.
4. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, wherein the recirculation skid comprises:
a recirculation housing having a first inlet connected to the second fresh water line, a second inlet connected to the first recirculated water line, and an outlet connected to the second recirculated water line; and
a manifold combining the fresh water from the second fresh water line and the recirculated water from the first recirculated water line into a recirculated-fresh water mixture;
wherein the second recirculated water line delivers the recirculated-fresh water mixture exiting the recirculation housing via the outlet to the second spray head.
5. The recirculating shower system of claim 4, wherein the recirculation skid comprises a recirculation pump positioned downstream from the manifold, the recirculation pump being operable to move the recirculated-fresh water mixture through the second recirculated water line towards the second spray head.
6. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, wherein the flow control valve is operable to divert the fresh water towards one or both the first fresh water line and the second fresh water line.
7. The recirculating shower system of claim 6, further comprising a controller configured to:
control the flow control valve to divert the fresh water towards the first fresh water line while restricting flow of the fresh water towards the second fresh water line in a first operating mode of the recirculating shower system; and
control the flow control valve to divert the fresh water towards the second fresh water line while restricting flow of the fresh water towards the first fresh water line in a second operating mode of the recirculating shower system.
8. The recirculating shower system of claim 7, further comprising a user interface communicating with the controller, wherein the user interface receives inputs that cause the controller to operate the recirculating shower system in the first operating mode or the second operating mode.
9. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, wherein the recirculation skid comprises an inline cleaning device operable to generate cleaned water from the fresh water, and wherein the recirculation skid directs the cleaned water into the first recirculated water line towards the sump and into the second recirculated water line towards the second spray head.
10. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, further comprising an anti-backflow device positioned on the second fresh water line between the flow control valve and the recirculation skid.
11. The recirculating shower system of claim 10, wherein the anti-backflow device includes a vacuum breaker.
12. A plumbing system for a recirculating shower system, the plumbing system comprising:
a flow control valve receiving fresh water, the flow control valve being connected to a first fresh water line and a second fresh water line, the first fresh water line delivering the fresh water to a spray head of the recirculating shower system that dispenses the fresh water into a shower base of the recirculating shower system;
a recirculation skid connected to a first recirculated water line receiving recirculated water from a sump located below the shower base, the recirculated water in the first recirculated water line being combined with the fresh water in the second fresh water line to produce a recirculated-fresh water mixture, the recirculation skid being connected to a second recirculated water line that delivers the recirculated-fresh water mixture to the recirculating shower system; and
a recirculation pump operable to move the recirculated-fresh water mixture through the second recirculated water line.
13. The plumbing system of claim 12, wherein the recirculation skid comprises:
a recirculation housing having a first inlet connected to the second fresh water line, a second inlet connected to the first recirculated water line, and an outlet connected to the second recirculated water line; and
a manifold combining the fresh water from the second fresh water line and the recirculated water from the first recirculated water line into the recirculated-fresh water mixture; and
wherein the recirculation pump is positioned downstream from the manifold.
14. The plumbing system of claim 13, wherein the recirculation pump is positioned in the recirculation housing.
15. The plumbing system of claim 12, further comprising a controller communicating with the flow control valve, the recirculation skid, and the recirculation pump, wherein the controller is configured to:
in a first operating mode, control the flow control valve to direct the fresh water towards the first fresh water line while restricting the fresh water from flowing towards the second fresh water line; and
in a second operating mode, control the flow control valve to direct the fresh water towards the second fresh water line while restricting the fresh water from flowing towards the first fresh water line;
wherein, in the first operating mode, the recirculated water is not received by the recirculation skid and, in the second operating mode, the recirculated water is received by the recirculation skid and is combined with the fresh water in the second fresh water line to produce the recirculated-fresh water mixture.
16. The plumbing system of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to activate the recirculation pump in the second operating mode in response to an indication that the second operating mode has initiated, the indication including a sensed signal of the recirculated-fresh water moving through the recirculation skid into the second recirculated water line.
17. The plumbing system of claim 12, wherein the recirculation skid comprises an inline cleaning device operable to generate cleaned water from the fresh water, and wherein the recirculation skid directs the cleaned water into the first recirculated water line and into the second recirculated water line.
18. A recirculation skid for a recirculating shower system, the recirculation skid comprising:
a recirculation housing having a first inlet receiving fresh water and a second inlet receiving recirculated water from the recirculating shower system;
a manifold positioned in the recirculation housing to combine the fresh water and the recirculated water into a recirculated-fresh water mixture; and
a recirculation pump positioned in the recirculation housing downstream from the manifold, the recirculation pump operable to move the recirculated-fresh water mixture towards an outlet of the recirculation housing.
19. The recirculation skid of claim 18, further comprising an inline cleaning device positioned in the recirculation housing, the inline cleaning device operable to generate cleaned water from the fresh water, and wherein the recirculation skid directs the cleaned water towards the outlet and the second inlet.
20. The recirculation skid of claim 18, further comprising:
a controller configured to control operation of the recirculation pump; and
a sensor communicating with the controller, the sensor detecting the recirculated-fresh water mixture moving through the recirculation skid and the controller activating the recirculation pump in response to the detection.