U.S. patent application number 10/831949 was filed with the patent office on 2004-10-07 for hydrotherapy jet system having fluid line quick connector adapted for multiple sizes of jet fixture bodies and other plumbing fittings.
This patent application is currently assigned to Precision Design Concepts, LLC. Invention is credited to Pinciaro, John.
Application Number | 20040194203 10/831949 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31494665 |
Filed Date | 2004-10-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040194203 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pinciaro, John |
October 7, 2004 |
Hydrotherapy jet system having fluid line quick connector adapted
for multiple sizes of jet fixture bodies and other plumbing
fittings
Abstract
A hydrotherapy jet system includes a fixture body, an air line
connector coupled to the fixture body, and a water line connector
coupled to the air line connector. The air line connector is
provided with structure adapted to couple about the outside of
relatively small fixture bodies and about the inside of relatively
large fixture bodies. As such, the air line connector is universal
for multiple sizes of fixture bodies. The water line connector is
coupled to the rear of the air line connector. The air and water
line connectors may be rotated relative to the element to which
each is coupled to facilitate assembly and plumbing. Other plumbing
components and fittings may be coupled in manner which provides a
fluidtight seal and permits the components and fitting to
thereafter be rotated relative to each other.
Inventors: |
Pinciaro, John; (Woodbridge,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DAVID S. JACOBSON, ESQ.
Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.
75 Woods End Road
Stamford
CT
06905-2701
US
|
Assignee: |
Precision Design Concepts,
LLC
|
Family ID: |
31494665 |
Appl. No.: |
10/831949 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10831949 |
Apr 26, 2004 |
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10214514 |
Aug 8, 2002 |
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6745413 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/541.6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 285/921 20130101;
A61H 33/027 20130101; A61H 33/6063 20130101; F16L 41/03
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/541.6 |
International
Class: |
A61H 033/04 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A hydrotherapy spa jet system installable in a hole in a tub
wall, said spa jet system comprising: a) a first fluid line
connector including a first fluid inlet, a second fluid inlet, and
a fluid outlet portion, said fluid outlet portion having an inner
surface and an outer surface, said inner surface defining one of a
first groove and a first bead, and said outer surface defining one
of a second groove and a second bead; and b) a fixture body
including a front portion and a rear portion, said front portion
defining a nozzle opening, and said rear portion defining a tubular
surface having one of an inner groove, an inner bead, an outer
groove and an outer bead, said rear portion of said fixture body
adapted to be longitudinally coupled to said fluid outlet portion
of said first fluid line connector such that said one of an inner
groove, an inner bead, an outer groove and an outer bead of said
fixture body is engaged with one of said first groove, said first
bead, said second groove, and said second bead of said first fluid
line connector.
2. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said outer surface defining the other of a second groove and a
second bead.
3. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said outlet portion of said first fluid line connector is sized to
extend over said rear portion of said fixture body.
4. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 3, further
comprising: an o-ring, wherein said rear portion of said fixture
body defines a circumferential channel in which said o-ring sits,
said o-ring adapted to be compressed between said outlet portion
and said rear portion when said outlet portion is extended over
said rear portion.
5. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said outlet portion of said first fluid line connector is sized to
extend into said rear portion of said fixture body.
6. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 5, further
comprising: an o-ring, wherein said tubular surface of said rear
portion of said fixture body is an outer surface of said rear
portion, said outer surface defines a channel, and said o-ring is
provided in said channel, said o-ring adapted to be compressed
between said outlet portion and said rear portion when said outlet
portion is positioned in said rear portion.
7. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said fluid outlet portion of said first fluid line connector and
said-rear portion of said fixture body are each a non-flanged
tubular portion.
8. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, further
comprising: c) a hydrotherapy nozzle assembly provided in said
nozzle opening of said front portion of said fixture body.
9. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, further
comprising: c) means for securing said fixture body in the hole in
the tub wall.
10. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said first fluid connector and said fixture body are adapted to
rotate relative to each other when said first fluid connector is
longitudinally coupled to said fixture body.
11. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 1, wherein:
said second fluid inlet of said fluid line connector has either an
inner surface or an outer surface that is provided with one of a
circumferential third groove and a third bead.
12. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 11, further
comprising: c) a second fluid connector including a first portion
having a fluid inlet, a second portion having a fluid outlet, said
fluid outlet having an end, an inner surface, and an outer surface,
at least one of said inner surface and said outer surface defining
one of a fourth bead and a fourth groove, wherein said one of said
circumferential third groove and said third bead of said second
fluid inlet of said fluid line connector is adapted to engage with
said one of said fourth bead and said fourth groove of said fluid
outlet of said second fluid connector.
13. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 12, wherein:
said outer surface of said fluid outlet of said second fluid line
connector defines a fourth bead.
14. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 12, wherein:
said first fluid connector and said second fluid connector are
adapted to rotate relative to each other when said second fluid
connector is engaged with said first fluid connector.
15. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 12, further
comprising: an o-ring, wherein said fluid outlet of said second
fluid connector defines a channel and said o-ring is seated in said
channel, said o-ring adapted to be compressed when said second
fluid connector is engaged with said first fluid connector.
16. A hydrotherapy spa jet system according to claim 12, wherein:
said fluid outlet of said second portion of said second fluid line
connector defines a non-flanged tubular portion.
17. A fluid line connector, comprising: a tubular construct having
a first fluid port and a second fluid port in fluid communication
with said first fluid port, said first fluid port having an end
having a tapered or rounded edge, an inner surface defining a
circumferential groove, and an outer surface defining a bead spaced
apart from said end.
18. A fluid line connector according to claim 17, further
comprising: an o-ring, wherein said outer surface of said first
fluid port defines a channel in which said o-ring is received.
19. A fluid line connector according to claim 18, wherein: said
channel is located between said bead and said end.
20. A fluid line connector according to claim 17, wherein: said
second fluid port includes a barbed portion.
21. A kit for a hydrotherapy spa jet system, comprising: a) a first
fluid line connector including a first fluid inlet and a fluid
outlet portion, said fluid outlet portion having an tubular portion
defining an inner surface and an outer surface, said inner surface
defining one of a first groove and a first bead and said outer
surface defining one of a second groove and a second bead; b) a
fixture body including a rear tubular portion having an outer
surface, and inner surface, and a front portion having an nozzle
opening, one of said outer surface and said inner surface of said
rear portion including either a third bead or a third groove, and
said fluid outlet portion of said first fluid line connector sized
either to receive said rear tubular body or to be received within
said rear tubular body such that said one of said first, second,
and third beads is engageable in one of said first, second, and
third grooves; c) a hydrotherapy nozzle assembly adapted to be
received in said nozzle opening of said fixture body; and d) means
for disassembling said first fluid line connector from said fixture
body.
22. A kit according to claim 21, further comprising: e) a second
fluid line connector including a first portion having a fluid inlet
and a second portion having a fluid outlet, wherein said first
fluid line connector includes a second fluid inlet, said second
fluid outlet of said second fluid line being adapted to couple with
said second fluid inlet of said first fluid line connector, and
wherein said means for disassembling is further adapted to
disassemble said second fluid line connector from said first fluid
line connector.
23. A kit according to claim 21, wherein: said means for
disassembling includes a rod portion having a plurality of sections
of successively decreasing diameter, a handle portion, and a lip
between the rod and handle portions.
24. A plumbing fitting assembly, comprising: a) a first plumbing
component having an first opening including an end, an outer
surface defining an outer diameter and having an at least partially
circumferential bead spaced apart from said one end, and a channel
defined in said outer surface between said bead and said one end,
b) an o-ring provided in said channel; and c) a second plumbing
component having a second opening including an end, and an inner
surface defining an inner diameter and having a circumferential
groove, said inner diameter corresponding in size with said outer
diameter of said first plumbing component, wherein said end of said
first plumbing component is inserted into said end of said second
plumbing component such that said bead resides in said groove and
said o-ring is compressed within said channel by said inner surface
of second plumbing component, said o-ring providing a fluid-tight
seal between said first and second plumbing components, and said
first and second plumbing components, as assembled, capable of
being rotated relative to each other.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates broadly to hydrotherapy spas, tubs
and pools. More particularly, this invention relates to plumbing
components of hydrotherapy spa jet systems that are adapted to be
easily and quickly installed in a tub or pool.
[0003] 2. State of the Art
[0004] Hot tubs and spas are generally relatively deep tubs formed
by rotational molding, blow-molding or vacuum-forming. The tubs are
provided with a number of fixtures including water jet assemblies.
The appeal of hot tubs and spas is primarily due to the
hydrotherapy provided by pressurized water jet assemblies recessed
into the tub wall which provide a massaging action.
[0005] In particular, each hydrotherapy jet assembly is connected
typically via flexible conduits to water and air manifolds which
supply pressurized water and air to each jet assembly of the spa
tub. The pressurized water flows through a hydrotherapy jet
assembly having an expanded throat, i.e., a venturi. As the water
flows through the expanded throat, the water at the center of the
throat moves more rapidly than the water along the sides of the
nozzle. As a result, a low pressure area is created at the center
of the throat. Air is drawn from an inlet into the low pressure
area and mixes with the water. The mixture of pressurized water and
air thereby provide an aerated therapeutic jet of water.
[0006] Hydrotherapy jet fixtures are generally installed in a hole
in the tub wall, with the fixture outlet directed into the interior
of the tub. The rear of the fixture includes an air inlet and a
water inlet connected to plumbing which separately provides air and
water supplies. The connections of the jet fixture to the plumbing
is typically a serpentine collection of flexible conduits which
each must be coupled between a manifold and the respective jet
fixtures at the time of spa plumbing installation. The conventional
method of installation is undesirable for several reasons. First,
all connections between plumbing fixtures (air manifold, water
manifold, and spa jet fixtures) are made at the time of
installation. This requires a large number of connections to be
made at the installation site in typically cramped working
conditions. Moreover, it may be difficult to reach and accomplish
the connection due to the location of a particular jet fixture.
Second, each plumbing connection (at manifold side and water and
air inlets) must be glued or clamped in position by a skilled
worker. If the connection is glued, several steps must be
performed: opening the glue container, using an applicator to
remove glue from the container, applying the glue to the outside of
an end of a conduit, closing the glue container, inserting the end
of the conduit into a respective slip fitting in a plumbing
fixture, and holding the conduit relative to the plumbing fixture
until the glue sets to secure the connection. This process must be
repeated for each glued connection and can be time consuming and
exhausting, particularly at hard-to-reach connections. Also, gluing
requires good ventilation and a respirator should be used to avoid
inhaling the glue fumes. If the connection is clamped, special
tools are required and it may be difficult to utilize the tools for
tightening the clamp about the conduit in the space available.
Third, with respect to both gluing and clamping, the conduit and
plumbing fixture are rotatably fixed after coupling. Therefore, if
it is afterward desirable to direct the conduit at a different
angle from the plumbing fixture, e.g., due to apparent stress being
provided to the conduit, it is not possible to redirect the conduit
to remove the stress without disassembling the connection and
adding additional plumbing fittings, e.g., 45.degree. or 90.degree.
elbows, or a combination thereof, to direct the conduit toward the
desired location.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,141,804 to Pinciaro discloses an improved
system which facilitates the rapid and easy connection of the
fixtures to plumbing for air and water supplies. The system
includes a fluid line connector having a plurality of flanges which
are adapted to snap-fit onto the back of a spa jet fixture body and
provide a fluid-tight seal with the fixture body without any tools.
The system offers a marked improvement over the conventional
practice of gluing and clamping. Nevertheless, there are several
aspects for which improvement is sought. First, multiple sizes of
spa jet fixture bodies are often used in a single spa tub
hydrotherapy system. Depending on the size of the spa jet fixture
body, a fluid line connector dedicated to that size of spa jet
fixture must be used. This requires that multiple sizes of the
fluid line connector be on hand for an installation, as well as
increased costs for the tooling of each size connector. Second, if
disassembly of the system is required, it cannot be performed
without breaking several of the flanges of a component, thereby
rendering that component unusable. Third, if one or more of the
flanges inadvertently breaks, the integrity of the coupling will be
lost.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy jet system having a hydrotherapy fixture which can be
quickly and easily connected to air and water plumbing.
[0009] It is another object of the invention to provide a single
size fluid connector which may be coupled to multiple sizes of spa
jet fixture bodies.
[0010] It is also an object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy jet system which requires no tools for installation in
the factory or at the job site.
[0011] It is an additional object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy jet system which permits radial adjustment of a
conduit relative to an inlet on the spa fixture.
[0012] It is yet a further object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy jet system in which the components form a fluid tight
seal and are not subject to breakage.
[0013] It is still another object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy spa jet system in which the plumbing components can
easily be disassembled from the spa fixture without damaging any of
the components.
[0014] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy spa jet system in which the plumbing components can be
disassembled from the spa fixture for repair without necessitating
draining water from the spa tub.
[0015] It is yet an additional object of the invention to provide a
hydrotherapy jet system having a plumbing fittings which quickly
and easily connect to each other in a fluid-tight manner, are
glueless, and which can then be rotated 360.degree. relative to
each other.
[0016] In accord with these objects which will be discussed in
detail below, a hydrotherapy jet system is provided which generally
includes a fixture body, a jet nozzle within the fixture body, and
an air line connector coupled to the fixture body, and a water line
connector coupled to the air line connector. In accord with one
aspect of the invention, the air line connector is provided with
structure adapted to couple about the outside of relatively small
fixture bodies and about the inside of relatively large fixture
bodies. As such, the air line connector is universal for multiple
sizes of fixture bodies. The water line connector preferably
couples to the rear of the air line connector. Preferably, the air
and water line connectors may be rotated relative to the element to
which each is coupled to facilitate assembly and plumbing.
[0017] According to another preferred aspect of the invention,
couplings between the components; i.e., between the water line and
air line connectors and between the air line connector and the
fixture body, include several particular structural features.
First, one component includes a small circumferential bead and the
other component includes a small circumferential groove sized to
receive the bead. The insertion of one component into the other
causes a snap-fit interlocking of the bead in the groove and thus
longitudinally locks the components together. While the components
are longitudinally locked together, they may nevertheless be
rotated relative to each other. Second, one component includes a
circumferential channel, and an o-ring is provided in the channel.
The o-ring is compressed when the components are longitudinally
locked together to thereby ensure a fluid tight seal between the
components.
[0018] According to yet another preferred aspect of the invention,
the coupling portions of the components are complete tubular
portions and do not include flanges. The materials from which the
components are comprised have sufficient natural ability to deform
to permit the bead on one component to move along the inner surface
of another component and `snap` into a corresponding groove.
Moreover, the components may be disassembled from each other
without damage to the components with the use of a disassembly
tool. Furthermore, the disassembly tool operates in conjunction
with the fixture body to create a seal that permits, if necessary,
repair of the plumbing of the hydrotherapy jet system while the tub
is filled with water. This saves substantial time (draining water
from the tub and refilling the tub with water), and reduces service
charges associated with the repair.
[0019] With the system of the invention, the ease and expediency
with which a spa fixture body may be coupled to the appropriate
plumbing at the installation site is improved. It will be
appreciated that manifolds for water and air supply may be
pre-assembled off-installation site, i.e., in the factory. The
required number of appropriate diameter and length flexible
conduits for the installation plumbing connections are assembled.
The flexible conduits for the water manifold are secured to the
second ends (those adapted for secure coupling to a flexible
plumbing conduit) of water line connectors. Likewise, the flexible
conduits for the air manifold are secured to second ends of air
line connectors. With this project preferably completed at the
factory, the invention permits installation at the assembly site to
be greatly facilitated. The on-site installation process is
substantially reduced in time and simplified, and no tools are
required for the plumbing connections. Moreover, due to the
universal nature of the air line connector, a fewer number of
different components are required to be tooled for production and
stored at the factory.
[0020] Additional objects and advantages of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the
detailed description taken in conjunction with the provided
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is an exploded longitudinal section view of
components of a hydrotherapy jet system according to a first
embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a
hydrotherapy jet system according to the first embodiment of the
invention;
[0023] FIG. 3 is an exploded longitudinal section view of
components of a hydrotherapy jet system according to a second
embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a
hydrotherapy jet system according to the second embodiment of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section view of a venturi element
according to the second embodiment of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a section view of a bushing element according to
the second embodiment of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a section view of a rim element according to the
second embodiment of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a rear end view of a spin/pulse nozzle element
according to the second embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the spin/pulse nozzle
element according to the second embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a front end view of the spin/pulse nozzle element
according to the second embodiment of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is another embodiment of a fixture body according to
the invention;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a side elevation of a disassembly tool according
to the invention;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an assembly of plumbing
components and fittings of a hydrotherapy jet system according to
another embodiment of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a longitudinal section view of the assembly of
FIG. 13;
[0035] FIG. 15 is an exploded side elevation view of the assembly
of FIG. 13; and
[0036] FIG. 16 is a longitudinal section view of the exploded
assembly of FIG. 15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] Turning now to FIG. 1, a first preferred embodiment of a
hydrotherapy jet system 10 generally includes a fixture body 20, a
universal air line connector 22, a water line connector 24, and two
o-rings 26, 28. The fixture body 20, air line connector 22, and
water line connector 24 are all preferably made from schedule 8 #40
or #80 PVC, although other materials having similar stiffness and
resilience could be utilized for one or more of these elements.
[0038] The fixture body 20 is a tubular construct generally
including a front portion 34 and a rear portion 36. The front
portion 34 includes an opening 38 surrounded by a peripheral lip
40, and an outer surface 42 having a rear taper 44. The rear
portion 36 defines an air inlet 46 leading to a throat 48, an outer
surface 50 provided with a circumferential channel 52 in which
o-ring 26 is provided, a circumferential bead 54, and a outer lip
56. According to the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the air
inlet 46 is preferably radially-oriented, and the rear portion 36
preferably also defines a venturi 58 rear of the air inlet 46.
Alternatively, referring to FIG. 2, an axial inlet 46a may be
provided to the rear portion 36, and a separate venturi component
58a may be provided and adapted to be positioned at the rear end of
the fixture body 20.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air line connector 22
includes three tubular sections in a preferably T-shaped
configuration: a tubular air inlet 66, a water line connector
coupling portion 68, and an outlet portion 70 preferably axially
aligned with the water line coupling portion 68. The air inlet 66
has a plurality of barbs 72 for glued or clamped connection to a
flexible air conduit 74, a stop 75 for the flexible air conduit 74,
as well as a circumferential channel 76 for receiving an o-ring 78
that ensures a fluid tight seal with the flexible air conduit 74.
The water line connector coupling portion 68 includes an inner
surface 79 provided with a circumferential groove 80, as well as an
internal ring 82 that functions as a stop for the water line
connector 24. The outlet portion 70 includes an outer surface 84
having a slightly rounded or tapered end 85, and an inner surface
86. A circumferential channel 88 and a circumferential bead 90 are
provided on the outer surface 84, and a circumferential groove 92
is provided about the inner surface 86. The channel 88 is
preferably located between the bead 90 and the end 85.
[0040] The water line connector 24 is preferably an L-shaped
tubular construct having an inlet portion 96 and an outlet portion
98. The inlet portion 96 defines a plurality of barbs 100 for glued
or clamped connection to a flexible water conduit 102, a stop 104
for the flexible water conduit 102, as well as a circumferential
channel 106 that receives an o-ring 108 to ensure a fluid tight
seal with the flexible water conduit 102. The outlet portion 98
includes an outer surface 108 having a circumferential bead 110 as
well as a circumferential channel 112 in which o-ring 28 is
positioned. The outlet portion 98 is sized to be received into the
water line connector coupling portion 68 of the air line connector
22, as described in more detail below.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, the hydrotherapy assembly 10 more
completely includes a nozzle 120 and an escutcheon 122. The nozzle
120 is adapted to be received in the opening 38 at the front
portion 34 of the fixture body 20 and secured therein by the
escutcheon 122.
[0042] In addition, the assembly may include a grommet 124 that
facilitates installation of the hydrotherapy assembly 10 in a tub
wall. The grommet 124 includes a body portion 126 having a central
opening 128, an outer surface 130 provided with a rear bevel 134,
and a front lip 132.
[0043] The hydrotherapy assembly 10 is preferably assembled as
follows. Still referring to FIG. 2, a hole 140 is formed in a wall
142 of a spa tub, e.g., by cutting. The grommet 124 is preferably
pushed through the tub wall hole 140 from the inside of the tub and
forced therein until the lip 132 seats against the interior side
142a of the tub wall. The rear bevel 134 provided to the grommet
facilitates insertion of the grommet 124 into the hole 140.
[0044] The jet fixture body 20 is then inserted into the grommet
124 until the lip 40 of the fixture body seats substantially
against the lip 132 of the grommet. Optionally, a small amount a
lubricant, e.g., soapy water, is coated over the inner opening of
the wall grommet to facilitate the insertion. The lubricant is
chosen to be one that will not break down the material of the wall
grommet or the jet fixture body. The outer diameter of the surface
42 of the front portion 34 of the fixture body 20 is sized relative
to the diameter of the opening 128 of the grommet 124 such that
when the fixture body is inserted into the grommet a secure fluid
tight seal results.
[0045] The outlet portion 70 of the air line connector 22,
preferably with flexible air conduit 74 attached, is connected over
the rear portion 36 of the fixture body 20. The rear taper 44 of
the rear portion 36 of the fixture body facilitates coupling the
outlet portion 70 over the rear portion 36. The internal ring 82 of
the air line connector 22 abuts against the outer lip 56 of the
fixture body 20 and defines a stop for the assembly. In addition,
the bead 54 of the fixture body 20 engages in the groove 92 of the
outlet portion 70 of the air line connector, and the inner surface
86 of the outlet portion 70 of the air line connector compresses
the o-ring 26 to effect a longitudinally-locked fluid tight seal
between the air line connector and the fixture body. Nevertheless,
it will be appreciated that the air line connector 22 may be
forcibly moved against the frictional force created by the o-ring
26 to be rotated relative to the fixture body 20.
[0046] The water line connector 24, preferably with flexible water
conduit 102 attached, is coupled within the water line connector
coupling portion 68 of the air line connector 22. The internal ring
82 of the air line connector 22 abuts against the end of the outlet
portion 98 of the water line connector 24, and the bead 110 of the
water line connector 24 engages within the groove 80 on the air
line connector. In addition, o-ring 28 is compressed by the inner
surface 79 of the water line connection coupling portion 68. This
effects a longitudinally-locked fluid tight seal between the water
line connector 24 and the air line connector 22. While
longitudinally locked together, it will be appreciated that the
water and air line connectors 22, 24 may be forcibly moved against
the frictional force created by the o-ring 28 to be rotated
relative to each other.
[0047] It is appreciated that the assembly of the fixture body 20,
the air line connector 22 and water line connector 24 may be made
by hand, may be assisted by the use of a rubber mallet or another
impact-absorbing device, or may be accomplished utilizing a device
that automatically draws the elements together, e.g., a hydraulic
or pneumatic compression or clamping device. In addition, the
relatively small size of fixture body 110 and the relative size of
the tub hole through which it is intended to be used permits the
fixture body 20, the air line connector 22 and water line connector
24 to be preassembled off-site of the installation location, and
then brought to the installation location and inserted into the tub
hole.
[0048] Turning now to FIG. 3, a second preferred embodiment of a
hydrotherapy jet system 210 according to the invention is shown.
The system 210 includes a relatively larger fixture body 220 than
that in the first embodiment, but the identical air line connector
22 and water line connector 24.
[0049] The fixture body 220 is a tubular construct generally
including a front portion 234 and a rear portion 236. The front
portion 234 includes a stepped opening 238 and an outer surface
242. The rear portion 236 defines an inlet 246 having a slightly
flared entrance 247, an interior ridge 245 defining a throat 248,
and an inner surface 250 provided with a circumferential groove
252. Comparing FIG. 1 with FIG. 3, it is seen that the rear portion
236 has substantially greater inner and outer diameters than the
rear portion 36 of fixture body 20.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, the fixture body 220 is provided with
several spa jet elements. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an elongate
venturi element 260 is provided in the fixture body 220. The
venturi element 260 includes a front receptacle 262 and a rear
tubular portion 264 having a radially-located water inlet 266, an
air inlet 268, and a venturi 269 therebetween. The venturi element
260 can have a venturi 269 with a diameter appropriate for a
desired jet assembly, e.g., a diameter of 0.1875 inch, 0.25 inch,
0.3125 inch, or 0.375 inch. The venturi 269 is easily molded with a
selected diameter by using a pin of appropriate diameter within the
venturi element mold during manufacture. Referring to FIGS. 4 and
6, a rim element 270 defining a lip 271 is coupled within the step
238a of the fixture body 220, e.g, by gluing or snap fit, and
operates to retain the venturi element 260, as well as provide a
barrier to prevent pushing the fixture body through a grommet
during assembly, as discussed below. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 7
through 10, a spin/pulse bushing 272 is provided in the receptacle
262 of the venturi element 260, and a spin/pulse nozzle 274 is
provided in the bushing 272. The spin/pulse nozzle 274 includes two
channels 276, each having a helically curved surface 278. When
aerated water enters the channels 276 from behind, the nozzle is
caused to spin. Referring to FIG. 4, an escutcheon 280 is provided
over the rim 270 and traps the bushing 272 in the fixture body 220.
A cap 282 is then provided at the center of the escutcheon 280. The
cap 282 includes an axle portion 284 about which the nozzle 274
rotates. When the venturi element 260 is rotated in the fixture
body 220, the water inlet 266 is moved in relation to the inlet
portion 96 of the water line connector 24 to control the water
pressure through the fixture body 220. It is recognized that
various other spa jet elements, and particularly nozzle assemblies,
known in the art can be provided within the fixture body.
[0051] Still referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the second embodiment of
the system is assembled as follows. As described above, a hole 340
is formed in a wall 342 of a spa tub, e.g., by cutting, and sized
to accommodate a grommet 324 for the fixture 220, and a grommet 324
is pushed therethrough. The jet fixture body 20 is inserted into
the grommet 324 until the lip 271 of the rim 270 seats
substantially against the grommet 324. Two o-rings 226 and 28 are
provided to assemble the fixture body 120, air line connector 22
and water line connector 24 in a fluid tight assembly. O-ring 226
is provided in the channel 88 on the outer surface 84 of the outlet
portion 70 of the air line connector 22. The outlet portion 70 is
then pushed into the rear portion 236 of the fixture body 220 until
the outlet portion 70 abuts against the ridge 245 at the interior
of the fixture body 220, the o-ring 226 is compressed against the
interior surface 250 of the rear portion 236, and the bead 90 on
the outer surface 84 of the outlet portion engages within the
groove 252 on the inner surface 250 of the rear portion 236 of the
fixture body 220. This effects a longitudinally-locked fluid tight
seal between the air line connector 22 and the fixture body 220.
The air line connector 22 may be forcibly moved against the
frictional force created by the o-ring 226 to be rotated relative
to the fixture body 220. The channel 88 is preferably located
between the bead 90 and the end 85 of the outlet portion 70 so that
the o-ring 226, provided in the channel 88, minimizes interference
between the bead 90 and the inner surface of the fixture body 220
when the air line connector 22 and large fixture body 220 are
coupled together.
[0052] The water line connector 24 is coupled within the air line
connector 22, as discussed above with respect to the first
embodiment.
[0053] Preferably after the air and water line connectors 22, 24
have been coupled with the fixture body 220, the venturi element
260, rim 270, and escutcheon 280 are coupled to the fixture body to
complete the assembly.
[0054] From the above, it should be appreciated that the air line
connector may be coupled to fixture bodies having different
dimensions. This is because the fixture body, by having an interior
surface with a groove and an exterior surface with a bead and
channel adapted to receive an o-ring, is adapted to be coupled onto
relatively small diameter fixture bodies and to be coupled into
relatively large diameter fixture bodies. In addition, a common
water line connector may also be used with any size fixture body as
the water line connector is connected to the universal air line
connector.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 11, according to an alternate embodiment
of the invention, each of the fluid line connectors can be provided
with two (or more) spaced-apart circumferential channels adapted to
hold o-rings. As such, air line connector 22 includes o-ring
channels 86a and 86b into which o-rings 26a and 26b are
respectively provided. In addition, water line connector 24
includes o-ring channels 112a and 112b into which o-rings 28a and
28b are provided. O-rings 26a and 26b create the fluidtight seal
between the air line connector 22 and the fixture body 220, and
o-rings 112a and 112b create the fluidtight seal between the water
line connector 24 and the air line connector 22. The double o-ring
arrangement at each connection provides the security that should
one o-ring fail, the other o-ring maintains the necessary
fluidtight seal. This is a relatively low cost preventative
solution compared to the repair and clean-up following the
unexpected failure of a lone o-ring. It is understood that more
than two o-rings (e.g., a triple o-ring arrangement) may also be
used. Moreover, this multiple o-ring arrangement may also be used
with the assembly 10 of the first embodiment.
[0056] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, it is
noted that the coupling portions of the components are complete
tubular portions; i.e., the components do not include resilient
engagement flanges, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,141,804.
The materials from which the components are comprised have
sufficient natural ability to deform to permit the bead on one
component to move along the inner surface of another component and
`snap` into a corresponding groove, without necessitating
flanges.
[0057] As now described, the components may be disassembled from
each other without damage to the components. Turning now to FIG.
12, in accord with the invention, a disassembly tool 400 is
provided for disengaging air and water line connectors from a
fixture body and preferably also for providing a watertight seal
with the fixture body during disassembly. The tool shown is
particularly adapted for use with fixture body 220, though a
similar tool can be provided for fixture body 20. The tool 400
includes a handle portion 402, a rod-like portion having several
sections 406, 408, 410 and 412 of progressively decreasing
diameter, and a lip 404 therebetween. Sections 406, 408, 410, 412
together approximate a stretched-out internal profile of the
assembled hydrotherapy spa jet system, including the air and water
line connectors. If it is necessary to remove a line connector 20
from the fixture body 220, the spa jet elements (i.e., the cap, the
escutcheon, the nozzle, the bushing, the rim, and the venturi
element) are first removed from the opening of the fixture body.
The tool 400 is then pushed into the opening 238 at the front
portion 242 of the fixture body. The lip 404 is sized to prevent
its movement through the throat 248 of the body 220 and adapted to
create a watertight seal with the opening 238 when forced
thereagainst. Section 408 has a diameter sized to extend within the
outlet portion of the air line connector. In addition, section 412
has a diameter sized to extend within the outlet section 98 of the
water line connector 24 and a length sufficient to permit it to
contact a rear wall 113 thereof (FIG. 3). When the tool is subject
to sufficient force at the handle end, e.g., upon the strike of a
rubber mallet, the water line connector 24 is moved against the
force of the bead and groove interlock and the frictional force of
the o-ring to cause separation of the water line connector 24 from
the air line connector 22. Once the water line connector 24 is
removed, the tool may be moved further into the fixture body until
section 410 seats against the internal ring 82 of the air line
connector 22. The tool may again be subject to force to disengage
the water line connector from the fixture body. As such, the
fixture body can be relatively easily, quickly, and
non-destructively disassembled from the air and water line
connectors. As the tool can be forced into the fixture relatively
quickly and as the lip 404 is adapted to create a watertight seal
against the opening 238 of the fixture body when the tool is fully
inserted, the disassembly and reassembly can be performed without
draining water from the tub.
[0058] According to another embodiment of the invention, fluid line
connectors are provided which are adapted to form glue-free and
fluid-tight connections with fittings other than a fixture body.
Referring now to FIGS. 13 through 16, in one exemplar embodiment, a
four-port manifold 500 is coupled to a 90.degree. elbow fitting 502
and a two-port terminal manifold 504. A pipe portion 506 is also
shown coupled to the 90.degree. elbow fitting 502.
[0059] The four-port manifold 500 has first and second ends 510,
512, and four ports 514, 516, 518, 520 located intermediate the
ends. The first end 510 preferably has an internal diameter that
corresponds in size to the outer diameter of the second end 512.
The interior surface of the first end 510 is provided with a groove
522. The exterior of the second end 512 is formed with a bead 524
and a channel 526. An o-ring 528 is provided in the channel
526.
[0060] The elbow fitting 502 includes first and second ends 530,
532. The first end 530 of the elbow fitting 502 has an outer
diameter that corresponds in size to the internal diameter of the
first end 510 of the four-port manifold 500. The outer surface of
the first end 530 includes a bead 534 and a channel 536. An o-ring
538 is provided in the channel 536; The second end 532 of the elbow
fitting 502 preferably includes an internal groove 540.
[0061] The two-port manifold 504 includes an open end 542 having an
internal diameter corresponding to the size of the external
diameter of the second end 512 of the four-port manifold 500, as
well as two ports 544, 546. The open end 542 includes an interior
surface provided with a groove 548.
[0062] The elements are coupled together substantially as discussed
above with respect to the fixture body. That is, the first end 530
of the elbow fitting 502, with o-ring 538 in channel 536, is
inserted into the first end 510 of the four-port manifold 500 until
the bead 534 seats in the groove 522. This provides a glueless
watertight seal that locks the fittings together yet permits
360.degree. rotation of one fitting relative to the other.
Likewise, the second end 512 of the manifold 500, with o-ring 526
provided in channel 528, is inserted into the open end 542 of the
two-port manifold 504 until the bead 524 seats and locks within
groove 548. Pipe portion 506 may be glued within the second end 532
of the elbow fitting 502. Alternatively, as the second end of the
elbow fitting includes a groove 548, any fitting or pipe having a
bead and a channel provided with an o-ring can be gluelessly
coupled thereto in a watertight manner in accord with the
invention. Moreover, numerous other fittings, including, but not
limited to, 45.degree. elbows, side outlet elbows, cross fittings,
tee fittings, slips, plugs, caps, adapters, etc. can be adapted in
this manner.
[0063] There have been described and illustrated herein
hydrotherapy jet assembly systems and methods of installing the
same. While several embodiments of the invention have been
described, it is not intended that the invention be limited
thereto, as it is intended that the invention be as broad in scope
as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise.
Therefore, while an air line connector is described as being
coupled to the fixture body, and a water line connector is
described as being coupled to the air line connector, it is
recognized that a water line connector may be coupled to the
fixture body, and an air line connector may be coupled to the water
line connector. In such an assembly, the water line connector
preferably defines two concentric fluid pathways, one for water and
one for air such that the air may be properly entrained into the
water. Such concentric pathways are shown in a water line connector
described U.S. Pat. No. 6,141,804, which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety. Also, while the components have
been described as being preferably made from schedule #40 or #80
PVC, they may also be made from other appropriate materials, such
as polyethylene, polypropylene, and ABS. In addition, while water
and air connectors are described as radially extending relative to
the axis of the fixture body, it will be appreciated that the water
and air conduit connectors may be provided with different relative
angles. Furthermore, the water and air inlets do not necessarily
have to be barbed, as other means for connecting the water line
connector and air line connector to water and air conduits can be
used, e.g., various standard plumbing connections, other friction
fittings, or glued connections. Moreover, o-rings are not required
at the barbed ends of the water and air conduit connectors. Also,
while particular fixture bodies have been described, it will be
appreciated that the invention may be utilized with other designs
of fixture bodies. For example, T-type fixture bodies which pass
through water and air flow to a linear array of other bodies which
are coupled together, may also be used. In addition, while the
fixture body is shown as being secured in the hole in the tub wall
with a grommet, it will be appreciated that other means may be used
to secure the fixture body therein. For example, the fixture body
may be adapted to threadably mate with a wall fitting such that the
tub wall is sandwiched between the fixture body and the wall
fitting. Furthermore, while beads and grooves are shown on
respective components, it is recognized that wherever a bead is
shown, a groove may alternately be provided, and wherever a groove
is shown, a bead may alternately be provided. Moreover, while the
outlet of the water line connector is shown as having a size
adapted to be fit into the air line connector, it is recognized
that a channel may be provided on the outer surface of the water
line connector coupling portion of the air line connector, and that
the water line connector can be coupled over the air line
connector. Also, while it has been described that the air line
connector is first connected to the fixture body, and the water
line connector is then connected to the air line connector, it is
understood that the water line connector may first be coupled to
the air line connector and the assembly of the air and water line
connectors may then be coupled to the fixture body. It will
therefore be appreciated by those skilled in the art that yet other
modifications could be made to the provided invention without
deviating from its spirit and scope as claimed.
* * * * *