U.S. patent application number 10/841925 was filed with the patent office on 2004-10-21 for low water retention antimicrobial whirlpool bathtub.
Invention is credited to Mattson, Roy W. JR., Ogden, Paulette C., Ogden, Philip I..
Application Number | 20040205888 10/841925 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31494294 |
Filed Date | 2004-10-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040205888 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mattson, Roy W. JR. ; et
al. |
October 21, 2004 |
Low water retention antimicrobial whirlpool bathtub
Abstract
A system to sanitize water in a whirlpool bathtub, spa, swimming
pool, and other water vessels comprising incorporating an
antimicrobial agent in some or all segments of the piping of the
closed loop water system and/or the air piping.
Inventors: |
Mattson, Roy W. JR.;
(Longmont, CO) ; Ogden, Paulette C.; (Longmont,
CO) ; Ogden, Philip I.; (Longmont, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Patent Law Offices of Rick Martin, P.C.
416 Coffman Street
Longmont
CO
80501
US
|
Family ID: |
31494294 |
Appl. No.: |
10/841925 |
Filed: |
May 7, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10841925 |
May 7, 2004 |
|
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10211497 |
Aug 2, 2002 |
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6760931 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/541.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 33/6073 20130101;
A61H 2033/0008 20130101; A61H 2201/0176 20130101; A61H 2033/0016
20130101; A61H 2201/0173 20130101; A61H 33/6063 20130101; A61H
2033/0037 20130101; A61H 33/0087 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/541.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 003/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A whirlpool bath, said whirlpool bath having a tub, a closed
loop piping system for water flow, a water pump, at least one
output jet and at least one inlet suction device, the whirlpool
bath comprising: an antimicrobial chemical impregnated in at least
a segment of said closed loop piping system; wherein said
antimicrobial chemical inhibits bacterial growth in said whirlpool
bath; and wherein said whirlpool bathtub is configured to retain
less than 101/2 ounces of water after whirlpool bathtub drain
down.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one output jet
component is impregnated with an antimicrobial chemical to inhibit
bacterial growth in said bath.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one inlet
suction device component is impregnated with an antimicrobial
chemical to inhibit bacterial growth in said bath.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising at least one air
control component, wherein said at least one air control component
is impregnated with an antimicrobial chemical to inhibit bacterial
growth in said bath.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said pump is impregnated with
an antimicrobial chemical to inhibit bacterial growth in said
bath.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said antimicrobial chemical
reduces bacteria in said bath between usages after said bath is
drained of water.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said whirlpool bath provides
for enabling an ion exchange.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein all the water contacting
surfaces of a bath component are impregnated with an antimicrobial
chemical to inhibit bacterial growth in said bath.
9. A whirlpool bath, said whirlpool bath having a tub component, a
closed loop piping system for water flow, a water pump component,
at least one output jet component and at least one inlet suction
device component, the whirlpool bath comprising: an antimicrobial
chemical impregnated in at least a segment of said closed loop
piping system; wherein said antimicrobial chemical inhibits
bacterial growth in said whirlpool bath; and wherein said whirlpool
bathtub is configured to retain less than 61/2 ounces of water
after a whirlpool bathtub drain down.
10. A whirlpool bath, said whirlpool bath having a tub component, a
closed looping piping system having at least one water closed loop
piping system component having water flow, and at least one air
piping system component, a water pump component, at least one
output jet component and at least one inlet suction device
component, the whirlpool bath comprising: an antimicrobial chemical
impregnated in at least a segment of the one air piping system
component; an antimicrobial chemical impregnated in said at least
one water closed loop piping system component; wherein said
whirlpool bathtub is configured to retain less than 61/2 ounces of
water after a whirlpool bathtub drain down; and wherein said
antimicrobial chemical inhibits bacterial growth in said whirlpool
bath between usages after said bath is drained.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This non-provisional utility application is a divisional of
parent application Ser. No. 10/211,497 filed Aug. 2, 2002 entitled
"Non-Electric Sanitation Water Vessel System."
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to combining a replaceable
filter and a suction device in a closed loop home or hotel
whirlpool bath, hydrotherapeutic baths, and other bathing
receptacles. The present invention also relates to a safety
oriented pop off faceplate and an antimicrobial liquid dispenser.
In addition, antimicrobial additives may be placed in one or more
components of the water vessel system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Whirlpool-type baths have been employed to treat discomfort
resulting from strained muscles, joint ailments and the like. More
recently, such baths have been used increasingly as means of
relaxing from the daily stresses of modern life. A therapeutic
effect is derived from bubbling water and swirling jet streams that
create an invigorating hydro massage of the user's body.
[0004] To create the desired whirlpool motion and hydro massage
effect, a motorized water pump draws water through a suction
fitting in a receptacle, such as a bathtub. The user first fills
the bathtub. Then the user activates the closed loop whirlpool
system. The water travels through a piping system and back out jet
fittings. Jet fittings are typically employed to inject water at a
high velocity into a bathtub. Usually the jet fittings are adapted
to aspirate air so that the water discharged into the receptacle is
aerated to achieve the desired bubbling effect. (See for instance,
U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,039 to Hibbard et al., incorporated herein by
reference from U.S. Pat. No. 6,395,167 to Mattson, Jr. et al.
("Mattson") which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0005] Generally, whirlpool baths are designed as with a normal
bathtub to be drained after each use. However, debris in the form
of dead skin, soap, hair and other foreign material circulates
throughout the piping and pump system. This debris does not
completely drain and over time, accumulates in the piping system
and may cause a health risk. Therefore, a filtration system
designed for whirlpool baths was desirable. Mattson provides for a
filtration system which filters debris in the water with respect to
whirlpool baths. The present invention improves upon the Mattson
filtration system for whirlpool baths. Before Mattson, filtration
systems were found only in indoor and outdoor pools.
[0006] For some time, whirlpool bath manufacturers have tried to
devise a way to incorporate a filtration system on a closed loop
whirlpool bath. Although many problems exist, compliance with the
plumbing codes is the major obstacle faced in using a filtration
system for a whirlpool bath. Until Mattson, there was no filtration
system that specifically designed for a drain down whirlpool bath
that allows a whirlpool bath to pass requirements set forth by the
current plumbing code.
[0007] Whirlpool baths must meet stringent drain down code
requirements set up by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME). The code that governs whirlpool baths is entitled
"Whirlpool Bath Appliances" (ASME A112.19.7M 1995). Section 5 of
this code covers water retention and provides: "whirlpool bath
appliances shall be of such design as to prevent retention of water
in excess of 44 ml. (11/2 fl oz) for each jet and suction
filter."
[0008] The average whirlpool bath has a six-jet system and has one
suction fitting. In order to meet code, a six-jet/one suction
system configuration may only retain 101/2 ounces of water in the
complete whirlpool bath system after draining. Most quality
whirlpool baths, however, retain less than 4 ounces of water in the
whirlpool bath system after draining. The filter part of the system
cannot retain over 61/2 ounces of water, because the total water
retention would then exceed 101/2 ounces. Mattson is currently the
only known filtration system designed for whirlpool baths that
retains less than 61/2 ounces of water. The complete filtration
system of the present invention, however, retains less than 4
ounces of water and as little as 2 ounces of water; so most
whirlpool bath companies could use it on their whirlpool bath
models and pass the drain down codes for whirlpool baths.
[0009] Another important consideration in developing a filtration
system for whirlpool baths is the ease of replacing the filter. To
eliminate access panels on the underside of the whirlpool bath
which are used to access the filter, the filtration system was
designed so the filter could be replaced from inside the bath.
Therefore, the most logical choice for a filter location is in the
suction fitting. However, placing the filter in the suction fitting
presents a different range of design concerns. For example, placing
a filter in the suction fitting may cause undue stress on the pump
motor.
[0010] The suction filter must pass the codes set up by ASME for
suctions which include a variety of load and structural tests. The
code for suctions from ASME is titled Suction Fittings For Use in
Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Whirlpool Bathtub Appliances
(ASME/IAMPO reaffirm 1996). Presently there is only one patented
whirlpool bathtub suction filter that passes ASME code to be placed
on a whirlpool bathtub. See Mattson incorporated herein. The
present invention provides a cavity that houses a filter that could
be installed in such a way that the filter is replaced from the
inside of a whirlpool bath.
[0011] The filter was designed to be small to meet the drain down
requirements. Because of its small size, however, it also had to be
very efficient. Therefore, the present invention has a specially
designed filter core. The core is engineered with varying spaced
and sized holes along the length of the core. This design allows
water to be drawn through the entire filter. Without this design,
the filter would only pull water through about 20% of the filter
near the outlet.
[0012] Other problems in whirlpool bathtub and spa use are
encountered when a user's hair is twisted and entrapped in the
whirlpool bath pump impeller. Hair entrapment occur when a bather's
hair becomes entangled in a suction fitting drain cover as the
water and hair are drawn powerfully through the drain. The Consumer
Product Safety Commission has issued a safety alert article
entitled "Children Drown and More Are Injured From Hair Entrapment
In Drain Covers For Spas, Hot Tubs, And Whirlpool Bathtubs" (CPSC
Document #5067). The safety alert urges consumers to ask their spa,
hot tub, and whirlpool bathtub dealers for drain covers that meet
voluntary standard ASME/ANSI A112.19.8M 1987) to help reduce hair
entrapment. The present invention meets the voluntary ASME/ANSI
standard.
[0013] The present invention also provides a new faceplate cover
which is easily removable. The faceplate also has to pass the heavy
load, impact and hair entrapment tests set out by ASME/IAMPO. One
cover embodiment has a radius and back ribbing on it and a
removable insert support to pass the strength tests. An embodiment
of the faceplate is flat with structural fins on its back side,
thus eliminating the removable insert. Each cover has a sufficient
number of sized holes to pass the prescribed hair entrapment tests.
The result is the fluid suction filter device that is especially
made just for whirlpool baths.
[0014] In the safety alert CPSC Document #5067, the Consumer
Product Safety Commission suggests that consumers shut down the spa
until the drain cover is replaced in the event that the consumer
discovers the drain cover missing or broken. The present invention
allows the water system to shut itself down if the faceplate drain
cover is missing or broken by means of a non-electric cavitation
mechanism. The water system is also shut down if a clog occurs.
[0015] It is found that even after debris is filtered from a
whirlpool bathtub, trace amounts of bacteria still can grow in a
whirlpool bathtub. In fact, even if normal tap water where to be
run through the closed looped system of a whirlpool bathtub, trace
amounts of bacteria can form in the whirlpool bathtub's closed
looped piping system. To eliminate these trace bacteria, a special
filter core with an antimicrobial chamber was developed.
[0016] This antimicrobial chamber emits antimicrobial agents to
kill the trace bacteria that may grow in the whirlpool bathtub's
closed looped piping system, upon initial whirlpool bathtub
activation and between usages. However, most of the antimicrobial
agents would dissipate as soon as they enter the inside of the
bathtub where people bathe. In other words, due to breakdown and
dissipation, the antimicrobial agents do not build up in the bath
water as the whirlpool operates. Therefore, the user may activate
the antimicrobial dispenser mechanism to distribute antimicrobial
agents at will or on a timed basis. The antimicrobial dispenser is
a top filled design not known in the prior art. Another embodiment
teaches the use of multiple chambers wherein each chamber is used
for additional additives desired by the user.
[0017] Only a very small amount of antimicrobial agent is necessary
to kill the bacteria in the closed looped piping system since the
filter helps to trap hair, soap and other debris which provides
food for bacterial growth. Without the filter a greater amount of
antimicrobial agent would need to be introduced into the system to
kill the bacteria and this excessive amount could irritate the skin
of sensitive bathers.
[0018] Another integral part of creating a total water vessel
sanitation system is to include antimicrobial additives in each
component of the water vessel. With respect to whirlpool bathtubs
and spas, this would include at least the system's water and air
pipes, pump, and pump impellor. The surfaces of whirlpool bathtubs
and spas are comprised primarily of a thermo-formed acrylic or
plastic sheet or gelcoat paint. Therefore, in a total water
sanitation system, the acrylic or plastic sheet or the gelcoat
paint would require antimicrobial additives. The fiberglass and
resin reinforcement backing of the whirlpool bathtub and spa are
impregnated with antimicrobial additives as are the whirlpool
bathtub jets and suctions. While the technology exists to add
antimicrobial additives to a whirlpool bathtub and spa component,
there is no prior art that suggests that antimicrobial additives be
placed in one or more component or in combination with all
components to provide for optimum protection from bacteria.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 6,395,167 (2002) to Mattson, Jr. et al.
discloses a whirlpool bath with combination suction fixture and
disposable filter. The housing of the suction filter is one to two
feet long. A correspondingly sized replaceable filter is mounted
into the filter housing lengthwise.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 6,283,308 (2001) to Patil et al. discloses a
bacteriostatic filter cartridge having elements impregnated with an
anti-microbial agent.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 (1998) to Perry et al. discloses a
suction device for a spa or jetted tub with a turbulence reduction
design to reduce the possibility of entangling a user's hair in the
faceplate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The main aspect of the present invention is to provide a
total water vessel sanitation system which includes antimicrobial
additives in each component of the water vessel system.
[0023] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a low
water retention fill and drain whirlpool bathtub having one or more
components impregnated with an antimicrobial chemical to inhibit
bacteria growth.
[0024] Another aspect of the present invention is to reduce
bacteria or microbes in a closed loop system of a whirlpool
bathtub.
[0025] Another aspect of the current invention is to provide a dual
closed loop piping system impregnated with an antimicrobial for a
fill and drain whirlpool bathtub.
[0026] Another aspect of the current invention is to provide a
method to manufacture an antimicrobial whirlpool bathtub.
[0027] Other aspects of this invention will appear from the
following description and appended claims, reference being made to
the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification
wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in
the several views.
[0028] The suction filter is comprised of the filter core, the
filter, and the filter housing. The filter core has a plurality of
water draw holes having increasing diameters extending away from
the water outlet. These holes provide for water draw along the
entire length of the filter, instead of just making use of the
filter at the outlet and of the filter. These increasing and
decreasing holes provide for optimum water draw through the filter
that surrounds the core. The filter core has a 2" inside diameter
(I.D.) to assure over 200 GPM water flow draw rates. Without this
I.D., you would not be able to get 200 GPM to run through the
filter core allowing a combination filter suction an overall 200
GPM rating. No other manufacturer makes a filter for whirlpool
bathtubs or even a filter that fits into a housing outlet with a 2"
I.D. The core is made from injected plastic but could be machined
from metal or a variety of other materials.
[0029] The filter core has an antimicrobial chamber that houses
antimicrobial additives. The antimicrobial chamber measures
approximately 1" to 8" in length and 1/2 to 2" in diameter. The
antimicrobial additives used in the antimicrobial chamber could be
slow dissolving chlorine, bromine, or a variety of other
antimicrobial additives. The cover to the antimicrobial chamber has
an adjusting hole opening which can be increased or decreased by
turning the main body of the antimicrobial chamber in one direction
or another. The more the antimicrobial chamber is screwed on, the
smaller the hole opening becomes. The antimicrobial chamber has one
hole but could have multiple holes or slots. The filter core's
plastic is injected with antimicrobial additives during the
injected molding process and inhibits any germ growth on the core
between uses.
[0030] Multiple chambers may be added on the filter core along with
the antimicrobial chamber for the addition of other additives. For
example, the filter core may have a built in ion exchange chamber
allowing for a built in water softener that softens the bathwater.
It may also have a fragrance chamber that emits fragrances into the
bathwater. Both of these items are not known in prior art for a
suction filter core for a whirlpool bathtub or spa.
[0031] Water flows past the antimicrobial chamber creating a vacuum
which pulls a small quantity of antimicrobial additive from the
chamber, thereby mixing it with the water. The amount of
antimicrobial additives mixed into the water is in sufficient
quantities to kill the trace bacteria that may grow between
whirlpool bath usages in a filtered whirlpool bathtub system. The
antimicrobial additives dissipate by the time the antimicrobial
additives mix and enter the larger volume of water in the bathing
area.
[0032] A filter which is generally treated with antimicrobial
additives either slips over the filter core or is bonded onto the
core making a one-piece filter core combination. Although the
filter could be pleated or non-pleated, an embodiment has a two
staged pleat filter media. The first pleat has larger holes which
allow larger sized particles and debris to pass through the
antimicrobial treated filter pleat. The second pleat has smaller
openings allowing only microscopic debris particles to pass through
the treated filter pleat. Although microscopic debris may
accumulate in the space between the inner and outer pleats, both
filter media are impregnated with antimicrobial agents, which kill
bacteria which would accumulate on the pleats. Together, the inner
and outer pleat create a halo effect killing of the bacteria which
accumulates between the inner and outer filter media. This layered
filter design is important in decreasing the build up of debris on
the outer layer of the filter which nearest to the bather.
[0033] The filter media is preferably made out of polypropylene or
other media that will accept antimicrobial agents. In the spa
industry, polyester media is used. Polypropylene media can be
treated in the manufacturing process with antibacterial agents,
whereas polyester media cannot. In the whirlpool industry, however,
filters were not used on whirlpool baths until an approved
filtration system for whirlpool baths under the Mattson '167
patent.
[0034] One embodiment of the filter is designed to retain less than
3 ounces of water.
[0035] The housing of the suction filter is generally cylindrical
having a diameter of four inches to two feet. The filter housing is
tapered from front to back to allow water to drain back into the
tub after shutdown. An embodiment of the housing is the only known
housing that has tapered sides of the inner wall to allow water to
drain back into the whirlpool bathtub when the whirlpool bathtub
system is deactivated whether the unit is installed facing left or
right. The filter housing has a sharp radius end opposite the
outlet end, thus allowing the housing to be fitted into the side
wall of a tub through a standard size opening cut.
[0036] The filter housing is mounted to the inner tub wall by using
a screw nut between the housing mounting flange and the inner tub
wall. A gasket or silicone can be used between the outer tub wall
and the screw nut to prevent leaks.
[0037] The filter core now fits into the filter housing in axial
alignment with the filter housing's inlet opening. In other words,
the filter is now perpendicular from that of U.S. Pat. No.
6,395,167. The filter core has two slots cut into the end that fits
into the outlet of the filter housing. The filter housing has two
male ridges which make the filter core the only filter core that
fits that particular housing. As set forth above, the filter core
is designed with varying sized holes and slots. The holes furthest
from the outlet port are larger than the holes near the outlet
port. This allows water to pull through the entire filter.
[0038] The filter housing has a safety cavitation port located at
the inside wall of the housing. Placing a cavitation port at the
inside wall of a suction fitting is not known in prior art.
[0039] The faceplate cover described below has a cavitation port
fin which covers the non-electric cavitation port when the
faceplate cover is attached to the filter housing. The cavitation
port fin is one of four available cavitation port fins designed to
fit into a receiving bracket adjacent to the cavitation port hole.
If the filter were removed or if a person tried to operate the unit
without the filter core covering this hole, air from the tube would
be drawn into the pump and the pump would cavitate (draw more air
than water). Since people have drowned by getting their hair caught
in a suction cover while their head is below the tub waterline,
this is an important feature. No user could run the unit without
the filter in place. This feature also reduces the chance of
drawing contaminants into the whirlpool bath system. Once
contaminants such as hair are entrapped in the pump's impeller, the
entire whirlpool bath system becomes contaminated until someone
physically opens the whirlpool bath pump (a long and time consuming
process usually requiring a professional), frees the entrapped
hair, and sanitizes the complete system.
[0040] The filter core has a gasket that slides over the
non-electric safety cavitation port. Without this gasket, the
replaceable filter core could rub against the filter housing outlet
and cause wear over the years to the filter housing outlet.
[0041] The suction filter has been downsized to fit more whirlpool
bathtubs. The downsized version attaches to the whirlpool bathtub
with a nut which eliminates the attachment screws of U.S. Pat. No.
6,395,167. With the smaller filter design, however, filter
replacement is likely to occur more often.
[0042] The present invention has two lights that are placed in a
visible position on the whirlpool bathtub. The lights are hooked up
to the whirlpool bathtub pump with a vacuum switch. If the
combination suction filter, filter media (removable filter)
accumulates enough debris, this blockage on the filter triggers a
vacuum switch, which senses the blockage, and a preferably red
indicator light comes on that indicates to the bather that it is
time to remove and clean the removable filter or simply replace it.
Otherwise a preferably green indicator light stays on indicating to
the bather that the filter is not ready for replacement.
[0043] The present invention also provides another means to
indicate when to replace the filter. The end cap of the filter is
treated with a special chemical in the manufacturing process which
creates a color reaction when the end cap is introduced to water.
The first color would indicate the filter is not ready for
replacement. The second color would indicate the filter should be
replaced. For example, the end cap is white before water
submersion. Once water is introduced to it, the reaction begins and
the end cap will slowly turn to black over a predetermined period
of time. During whirlpool bathtub operation but before the
predetermined period of filter life time, the end cap color will
range from white to varying shades of grey until it becomes totally
black. Once it turns totally black, the bather knows it is time to
replace the filter. This reaction may be have a time release factor
and can last from 1 to 360 days depending upon the amount of
chemicals used in the end cap manufacturing.
[0044] Another inlet orifice may be added to the filter housing of
the present invention. This orifice can be hooked up in tandem to a
skimmer filter in a spa in order to filter water which may bypass a
filtration system. Currently spas, like whirlpool bathtubs, have
one or multiple suction fittings that draw water into a pump and
back out through jets. Although spas also have skimmers filters
that draw surface water through the filters into a pump and back
through the jets, the majority of the water passing through other
suction points bypasses the filters in the skimmer causing
contaminated water to circulate through the system. Most of the
other suction points do not have filters. By replacing standard spa
suction fittings with the present invention suction filter and
hooking the outlet of the spa skimmer to one of the present
invention suction filters, all water in a spa is filtered.
[0045] The faceplate shown in FIGS. 4A through 4D slides into the
housing to cover the suction filter assembly. The faceplate has a
radius shape to prevent a limb from being sucked up against it
which could entrap a body part. ASME hair entrapment standards are
met using a plurality of slots or holes. Impact and load tests are
met.
[0046] In the embodiment of the faceplate shown in FIGS. 4B, 4C,
support ribs (also known as support bars) are built into the
faceplate and fit into receiving slots in the faceplate housing.
This creates a solid part and allows it to pass impact and load
tests called out by ASME code. This is the only suction faceplate
for whirlpool bathtubs and spas that is designed with the
structured supports in the faceplate. This allows a filter to be
installed in the suction housing or replaced and still pass these
test. All other known suctions have the main structured support as
part of the body (housing) and these supports cannot be removed.
See U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry et al. which represents all
other known suctions. FIG. 5 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 shows a
face view of the support. FIG. 3 shows how FIG. 5 screws in
permanently into body 20 of FIG. 3. These supports (26b, 28b called
a guide) cannot be removed once the suction is installed.
[0047] The faceplate is larger than standard faceplates because of
the size of the removable filter. Mattson teaches the combination
of a filter and a suction in a single device. The faceplate has
slots to allow a larger volume of water to pass through it. Because
of the increased size of the faceplate the slots have to be
designed and engineered in a radiating pattern. This is very
important for the plastic injected molding process.
[0048] With the present design over a horizontal (see Perry '339
patent) or vertical design, the pressure of the injected plastic
from the injection point of the mold (usually the injection point
of a mold is located in the center of the mold) hits the small end
of the slots instead of the wide end of the slots. The shorter end
of the slot can withstand a great deal more pressure over time
before failure than if the pressure were subjected to the wide side
of the slots. This allows for much longer mold life and a more
pleasing finished product. The radiating pattern of slots gives a
straight-line flow to the outer edge of the faceplate part. U.S.
Pat. No. 5,799,339 FIG. 4 shows a standard slot opening arrangement
that represents the arrangement of slots used by manufacturers of
slotted face faceplates. U.S. Pat. No. 6,038,712 to Chalberg et al.
FIG. 2 shows circular hole openings which represent how other
faceplates are made. Slots are preferable over circular holes to
increase flow.
[0049] One embodiment of the faceplate housing eliminates the drain
down slots of the original design because water now evacuates
through the bottom slots of the faceplate.
[0050] To prevent people's hair or body parts from getting trapped
in the exposed hole where the faceplate cover is removed during
whirlpool bath operation, current ASME plumbing code requires that
all suction faceplate covers be engineered so the faceplate cannot
be removed without the use of a tool. Most suction covers attach
the faceplate to the housing with a screw and a screwdriver is
needed to remove the screw. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,038,712 FIG. 2
which shows screw hole openings and U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 FIG. 3
number 22 which shows the screw. There are some suction
manufacturers that have a non-electric cavitation device in the
faceplate of the suction, see Chalberg U.S. Pat. No. 6,038,712. If
the face of the suction is restricted significantly, the unit
cavitates and the suction against the faceplate decreases. However,
these designs are still dangerous. Hair can still become twisted in
the faceplate before the unit shuts down. It is thought that if
hair enters the Chalberg '712 cover and the cover is blocked to
cease suction action, the hair can be easily removed. However, when
hair enters a suction cover a vortex may form behind the cover
causing the hair to twist and tangle, thereby preventing removal.
Once the hair is trapped, you need a tool like a screwdriver by
code to take the faceplate off. The entrapped hair can trap the
head of the user under the tub's waterline. Therefore, people still
can drown with these devices.
[0051] As stated above, the code requirement for a tool to remove
the faceplate is to prevent body parts or hair from getting trapped
in the exposed housing support cross members (which are an integral
nonremovable part of the suction body in the event that the
faceplate of current suctions is removed. But because one
embodiment of the suction filter will not operate without the
filter in place, there is no need for the screw. The faceplate
preferably attaches to the faceplate housing with magnets. The
magnet hole openings of the housing are recessed for flush
mounting. They also are flat recessed.
[0052] With the design of the present invention, there is no danger
of limb entrapment because the system would simply not operate. If
someone did get his or her hair caught in the faceplate while the
filter was in place, the whole faceplate pops off easily as the
faceplate is held in place by magnets. As soon as the faceplate
pops off, the cavitation fin which normally covers the safety
cavitation port would move out of place. Once the non-electric
cavitation port is uncovered, the pump cavitates, thereby
immediately preventing body limbs or hair from becoming entrapped
in the exposed suction opening. The suction cover has a pull-tab on
the cover to allow the bather to easily remove the cover when the
whirlpool bath pump is in operation if desired. Depending on the
alignment of the faceplate with the faceplate housing, the pull tab
could be at any of four locations, i.e., bottom, top, left, or
right.
[0053] If the unit were to run without the faceplate cover, and
hair is caught in the exposed filter, the filter itself also pops
out easily. Therefore, there is no chance of getting entrapped if
the filter is removed, because the unit will also cavitate under
these circumstances.
[0054] With the present invention, we plan to have ASME revise
their codes for suction covers to allow them to be removable
without a tool such as a screwdriver.
[0055] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/417,156 SORENSEN, EDWIN
C. shows a break away drain cover for a spa. Sorensen operates a
magnetically actuated switch transmitting an electrical signal. It
does not have a safe non-electrical safety cavitation port like the
present invention. People are concerned when any electrical signal
is transmitted in a water vessel. U.S. patent application Ser. No.
2001/0013373 WRIGHT, JAMES R. shows a drain cover which is similar
to the drain cover of Sorensen.
[0056] Both these inventions are drain covers and not suction
fittings because they do not conform to ASME suction fitting codes.
Neither pass the ASME code requirements set out in Section 4 for
"Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and
Whirlpool Bathtub Appliances" (ASME/ANSI A112.19M-1987 reaffirm
1996) and Section 7 ASME A112.19.7M-1995, the hair entrapment test.
Sorensen uses a "snap fit" to attach the faceplate to a drain wall
fitting that may present a wear problem over the years as the cover
is repeatedly put on and taken off. The present invention uses
earth magnets that will last the lifetime of the spa or bath it is
placed on.
[0057] Further, the Sorensen invention does not claim, when used in
conjunction with a whirlpool bath instead of a spa, that it will
allow the whirlpool bath to meet the drain down requirements of
ASME A112.19.7M-1995, "Whirlpool Bathtub Appliances." The present
invention does so claim. Another advantage of the present invention
over Sorensen is that the non-electric cavitation safety feature
(combination port hole, air tube, faceplate, cavitation fin) costs
a fraction of what a signal-transmitting device would cost to
manufacture. Therefore, while there is prior art for
electronics-based breakaway covers in a variety of inventions,
there is no prior art for a breakaway cover that utilizes a cost
saving non-electrical cavitation port. Being non-electrical makes
the present invention very safe for whirlpool bath, spa and
swimming pool applications.
[0058] The faceplate back support ribbing is designed in an X
pattern, which offers outstanding structural integrity. The
circular ribbing adds tremendous strength to the center impact
point of the faceplate.
[0059] The faceplate is designed to protrude less than 1/2" into
the tub when attached to the faceplate housing. This streamlined
design protrudes much less than most current suctions adding more
room to the bathing area of the whirlpool bathtub.
[0060] The slotted holes on the top, sides and bottom of the
faceplate extend outward keeping in line with the radiating design
pattern on the face of the faceplate. This makes it an easier part
to inject with plastic.
[0061] Because the center faceplate is an area that would have a
high fluid intake flow, the center of the faceplate is solid. This
solid center section evens out the water flow across the rest of
the faceplate so that there are no areas of high flow that would
create unwanted areas of high suction force.
[0062] Support bars (or ribs) are integrally formed on the backside
of the faceplate. The support bars are at right angles to each
other and extend between opposite sidewalls of the faceplate. The
support bars do not obstruct any of the faceplate slots formed in
the face and sidewalls of faceplate. This configuration
advantageously prevents hair from entering a faceplate slot and
becoming entangled by wrapping around both sides of a support
bar.
[0063] The faceplate housing has a flange that provides a resting
area for the peripheral ledge of the faceplate when the faceplate
is attached to the housing. This resting area allows for weaker
magnets to be used to keep the faceplate attached to the faceplate
housing.
[0064] An important feature of the present invention suction filter
is the use of an antimicrobial system that is air actuated by
depressing a button located on the inside wall or rim of a
whirlpool bathtub. When the button is depressed, antimicrobial
additives are injected via a tube into the outlet opening of the
suction filter. This allows the bather the opportunity to inject a
larger amount of antimicrobial additives into the whirlpool bathtub
prior to entering the bathtub to give an added safeguard that all
bacteria is killed in a whirlpool bath that has not been in
operation for an extended period of time. Depressing the button not
only injects antimicrobial additives into the outlet of the
housing, it disperses the additives. When the tub is filled with
water, the injected additives travel first to the pump housing in a
high concentration (the pump housing is found to be the place where
bacteria growth is the highest) and then throughout the rest of the
closed looped piping system, all the while killing bacteria. The
greater the period between uses, the more likely a larger amount of
bacteria can form in the whirlpool bathtub's piping system. This
safeguard ensures that when activated, the whirlpool bathtub will
be bacteria-free even if months have passed since the whirlpool
bathtub system was operated.
[0065] The present suction filter device could be designed in other
configurations than its current square-shaped form. The unit could
also be designed in a round form or any other shape or size. The
filter and filter core could also be made shorter, longer, larger
or smaller. The filter could be made smaller for less money to be
disposable after each whirlpool bath use. The filter could even be
designed in such a way to be incorporated into existing suctions
with modification of those suctions. The filter media that filters
the water could be pleated or wrapped without pleating around a
filter core.
[0066] The housing could be designed to incorporate multiple
filters. The ridges and slots at the end of the filter core could
be made in a variety of shapes or locations to ensure the use of
only one filter.
[0067] The main body housing could be vacuum formed and become an
integral part of the whirlpool bathtub.
[0068] The magnets holding the faceplate to the housing could be
larger or smaller and arranged in various other locations on each
part. The amount of magnets used could be increased or decreased.
The faceplate could also be attached using various snap-on
configurations. An installation-sealing gasket could be used. The
slope in the sidewalls of the housing could be increased or
decreased. The overall size of the suction filter could be
increased or decreased.
[0069] The housing body, faceplate or filter core could be made
from other material than injected plastic; it could be stamped or
machined out of metal or other material.
[0070] The radiating slotted design of the faceplate could have a
radiating round hole design.
[0071] The safety cavitation hole could be placed anywhere rearward
on the outlet of the housing and be various sizes or have multiple
openings.
[0072] The filter could have various sanitizing materials in its
core such as slow dissolving chlorine tablets or other sanitizing
material incorporated into the filter core.
[0073] The screw nut that attaches the housing to the sidewall of
the whirlpool bathtub could have a washer or use locking nuts and
have varying sizes and be made out of a variety of materials,
including plastic and nylon or some space age material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0074] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a whirlpool bath having
an alternate embodiment of the suction filter and antimicrobial
system installed therein.
[0075] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the faceplate
and housing design for a suction filter apparatus and an embodiment
of the suction filter apparatus.
[0076] FIGS. 3A, 3B are right side perspective views of the
faceplate housing shown in FIG. 2.
[0077] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D present different perspective views of
a faceplate embodiment having a pull tab to facilitate the
faceplate removal if desired.
[0078] FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the
suction filter core.
[0079] FIG. 5B is a view from the opposite perspective view of the
FIG. 5A suction filter core.
[0080] FIG. 5C is a top perspective view of another embodiment of
the suction filter core depicting multiple chambers therein.
[0081] FIG. 6A is a cutaway plan view of the suction filter core
housing shown in FIG. 2.
[0082] FIG. 6B is a rear plan view of the suction filter core
housing showing a non-electric cavitation porthole.
[0083] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the faceplate of the suction filter
as viewed from the inside of the whirlpool bath shown in FIG.
1.
[0084] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a suction filter with
end cap for the suction filter assembly.
[0085] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
suction filter end cap depicting a first color indicator, wherein
the first color indicates the usability of the filter.
[0086] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 8A
depicting a second color indicator, wherein the second color
indicates the replaceability of the filter.
[0087] FIG. 8C is a rear perspective view of the FIG. 8 suction
filter end cap.
[0088] FIG. 8D is a rear plan view of the FIG. 8 suction filter end
cap.
[0089] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the housing and
faceplate design for a suction filter apparatus.
[0090] FIG. 10 is an top perspective exploded view of a user
getting her hair entrapped in an embodiment of the
faceplate/housing design, wherein only the magnets hold the
faceplate to the housing, and an end cap with pull tab design,
thereby enabling a safety oriented pop off faceplate and pull out
filter.
[0091] FIG. 11 is the same view as FIG. 9 with an embodiment of a
faceplate fin shown inserted into a receiving bracket of the
suction filter core housing, thereby enabling a seal over the
non-electric cavitation porthole.
[0092] FIG. 12 is a top perspective exploded view of an embodiment
of the faceplate housing and faceplate design for a suction filter
apparatus.
[0093] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of
the housing for a suction filter apparatus showing a skimmer outlet
and a pump outlet.
[0094] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of a whirlpool bath of
FIG. 1 showing an embodiment of the suction filter and
antimicrobial dispenser installed therein.
[0095] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the FIG. 1 whirlpool bath.
[0096] FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of the present invention, wherein each water vessel component is
impregnated with antimicrobial additives creating a total water
vessel sanitation system.
[0097] FIG. 17 is a plan exploded view of one embodiment of an
injector button assembly for dispensing antimicrobial agents.
[0098] FIG. 18 is a plan exploded view of one embodiment of the
injector sub-assembly shown in FIG. 17.
[0099] FIG. 19 is a longitudinal sectional view of the deck mount
top fill dispenser of FIG. 17 and one embodiment of a antimicrobial
liquid reservoir.
[0100] FIG. 20 is the same view as FIG. 19, wherein the injector
button is depressed and antimicrobial liquid is dispensed into the
water vessel system.
[0101] FIG. 21 is a close up plan view of the liquid pressure
directing assembly of the dispenser for antimicrobial liquids shown
in FIG. 20.
[0102] FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the injector assembly housing
shown in FIG. 17.
[0103] FIG. 22A is a close up sectional view of the inner tube
injector port with the port closed.
[0104] FIG. 22B is a close up sectional view of the inner tube
injector port with the port open, thereby allowing antimicrobial
liquids to enter the water vessel system.
[0105] FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustration of a total water vessel
sanitation system that includes antimicrobial additives in each
component of the water vessel.
[0106] Before explaining the disclosed embodiment of the present
invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is
not limited in its application to the details of the particular
arrangements shown, since the invention is capable of other
embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose
of description and not of limitation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0107] Referring first to FIGS. 1, 14, 15 a whirlpool bath water
vessel 1 has a tub 6 with a standard tub wall 6A and a standard tub
drain 8. During whirlpool use the pump 3 circulates water via
outlet pipe 5, air mixing pipe (not shown) and jets 75. Water is
drawn from the filled tub 6 via pump inlet pipe 4 which is
connected to the suction filter 2, an alternate embodiment, mounted
within the filter housing 31. A switch 12 activates the pump 3.
Filter sensing cavitation line 11 and faceplate sensing cavitation
line 16 extend from suction filter housing 31.
[0108] When filter sensing line 11 detects a missing filter, the
pump 3 cavitates. Likewise, when faceplate sensing line 16 detects
a missing or broken faceplate, pump cavitation occurs.
[0109] Injector button 14 is depressed to activate the
antimicrobial additives dispenser 99 (see FIG. 14) which dispenses
antimicrobial additives to water vessel 1 via antimicrobial line
15. Electric power lines 9A, 10A for green and red indicator lights
9, 10 respectively, connect to switch 12.
[0110] Referring next to FIG. 7, the suction filter 2 is shown as
seen by a bather in the tub of FIG. 1. The only visible portion of
the suction filter 2 is a the faceplate 21 attached to the inner
tub wall 6A.
[0111] Two lights are shown placed near the inside wall 6A of the
whirlpool bathtub near the suction filter 2. However, the lights
may be placed anywhere on the tub wall. If the system detects a
blockage of the filter 200 (see FIG. 8), a red indicator light 10
comes on that indicates to the bather that it is time to remove and
clean the filter 200 or replace it. Otherwise, green indicator
light 9 stays on indicating to the bather that filter 200 is not
ready for replacement.
[0112] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the faceplate
and housing for a suction filter apparatus and the an embodiment of
the suction filter apparatus. The faceplate 21 is preferably
rectangular but could have any shape.
[0113] The faceplate housing 24 is attached to the inside surface
of tub wall 6A by mounting the threaded portion 29A of faceplate
housing 24 through gasket 28, wherein the female fittings 25A, 33B
on faceplate housing 24 receive the male end 25B, 33A on gasket 28.
The housing 24 is secured in placed by nut 29B on the outer surface
(back side) of the tub wall 6A via a standard size opening cut.
Support rib 35 extends from faceplate 21 having slots 23 and
slidably fits into receiving notch 56 (see FIG. 9). Any of four
cavitation port fins 22 slidably fit into receiving bracket 37 to
cover the cavitation port hole 44. Magnets 26 hold faceplate 21 to
the faceplate housing 24. The faceplate is thus mounted inside tub
6. The faceplate 21 is preferably square but could have any
shape.
[0114] Filter core 2 is attached to filter housing 31 by male
ridges 32B which fit into receiving slots 32A on filter core 2 (see
FIGS. 5B, 2). Water passes through filter core 2 and pump outlet
19, whereby the filtered water circulates back into the water
vessel system. The filter housing 31 is attached to the inner tub
wall 6A via screw nut 29B.
[0115] FIGS. 3A, 3B are right side perspective views of the
faceplate housing shown in FIG. 2. Faceplate housing 24 has a
sloped taper 28B (high end) to 28A (low end) to allow water to
drain back into the tub after shutdown as shown in FIG. 3B.
Recessed port 27 receives faceplate sensing cavitation line 16.
FIG. 3A shows faceplate sensing line 16 mounted on faceplate
housing 24.
[0116] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D present different perspective views of
faceplate 21 having a pull tab 45 which facilitates the removal of
the faceplate 21 if desired. The faceplate slots 23 which are
designed and engineered in a radiating pattern allow a larger
volume of water to pass through the faceplate 21, thereby entering
filter housing 31.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 4B, the rear of the faceplate 21 has
support ribs (also known as support bars) 35 to strengthen the
antivortex center support 20 to prevent crushing. Drain slots 34 on
faceplate 21 allow water to drain back into the tub after shutdown
as shown in FIG. 4B. A cavitation port fin 22 is located in at
least four positions on the rear of faceplate 21. Providing
multiple cavitation port fins 22 facilitates the mounting of the
faceplate 21 on the housing 24. Because each cavitation fin 22
slidably fits into receiving slot 56 to cover the cavitation port
hole 44, it would not be necessary to dictate a particular fin or
particular orientation of the faceplate 21 to mount onto the
housing 24. Magnets 26 hold faceplate 21 to the faceplate housing
24.
[0118] FIGS. 5A, 5B illustrate an embodiment of the suction filter
core 2. Filter core 2 is attached to filter housing 31 (see FIG. 2)
by male ridges 32B on housing 31 which fit into receiving slots 32A
on filter core 2. The filter core 2 is preferably an ABS pipe
mountable in filter housing 31. One embodiment of the filter core
plastic is injected with antimicrobial additives during the
injected molding process to inhibit any bacteria growth on the
core.
[0119] The filter core holes and slots (together known as apertures
37) range from small 37A at the outlet end 36B to large 37B at the
closed end opposite the outlet end 36B. The larger perforation
sizes on the end opposite the outlet end 36B distribute the water
flow across the entire length of the filter media 53,54. Without
the enlarging feature of the varying apertures, the water would
only be filtered by a small portion of the filter media 53,54 near
the outlet 36B.
[0120] The filter core 2 has an antimicrobial chamber 38 that
houses antimicrobial additives such as slow dissolving chlorine,
bromine, or a variety of other antimicrobial additives.
Antimicrobial chamber 38 has an adjusting bleeder hole opening 85
from which the additive exits into the water that can be increased
or decreased by turning the main body of the antimicrobial chamber
38 in one direction or another, wherein the more the antimicrobial
chamber is screwed on, the smaller the hole opening 85 becomes.
Although the one embodiment antimicrobial chamber has one hole,
multiple holes or slots can be used. In addition, the
configuration, size, and location of the singular or multiples
bleeder holes or slots may vary.
[0121] FIG. 5C is a top perspective view of another embodiment of
the suction filter core 2 depicting multiple chambers therein.
Alternate chambers 39B, 39C may be added on the filter core 2 along
with antimicrobial chamber 39A for the addition of other additives
such as ion exchange resins for water softening, fragrances, or the
like. Chamber support 40 prevents crushing. The corresponding
additives exit chambers 39A, 39B, 39C into the water from bleeder
holes 61, 62, 63. Additional alternate chambers may be included if
desired.
[0122] As shown, the alternate embodiment antimicrobial chamber 39A
is located furthest from the outlet end 36B. However, it may be
configured at any location within filter core 2. Just as one
embodiment of the antimicrobial chamber 38 may have multiple
bleeder holes or slots of varying configurations, sizes, and
locations, the embodiment having alternate chambers may include
variations from which additives may exit or bleed from.
[0123] Referring next to FIGS. 6A, 6B, the rear portion 400 of
filter housing 31 is curved at the top rear wall 80 and generally
shaped like a half-cylinder when integrated with the bottom rear
81. The front portion of the elbow shaped filter housing 31 can be
connected to a suction drain of a water circulation system that
requires a relatively high rate of intake water flow. Housing 31 is
readily installed into a standard size opening cut or formed into
the tub wall 6A (see FIG. 1). Housing stop 41 prevents the filter
housing 31 from protruding too far past the inner tub wall 6A.
Filter core 2 (see FIG. 5A, 5B, 5C) is attached to filter housing
31 by male ridges 32B on housing 31 which fit into receiving slots
32A on filter core 2. Water passes through filter core 2, bypasses
the antivortex ridges 42 and through pump outlet 19, whereby the
filtered water circulates back into the water vessel system.
[0124] As shown in FIG. 6B, antimicrobial additives enter the water
system via antimicrobial line 15 connected to the additive port 17
through additive hole 43 (see FIG. 6A), which lies adjacent to the
port hole for the filter sensing cavitation line 11. The filter
sensing line 11 is connected to the filter cavitation port 18.
[0125] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a suction filter 200
with end cap 50, preferably rubberized. Pull tab 51 facilitates the
removal of the filter 200.
[0126] The end cap embodiments of FIGS. 8A, 8B illustrate the use
of color as an indicator for filter replacement. The first color
52A would indicate the filter is not ready for replacement. The
second color 52B would indicate the filter should be replaced.
[0127] FIG. 8C is a rear perspective view of the FIG. 8 suction
filter end cap showing an embodiment with a two stage pleat filter
media having outer filter media chamber 53 and inner filter media
chamber 54. Outer pleat 53A of outer chamber 53 has larger pleat
holes which allow larger sized particles and debris to pass through
its antimicrobial treated filter pleat. Inner pleat 54A of inner
chamber 54 has smaller openings which allow only microscopic debris
particles to pass through its treated filter pleat. The inner
chamber's pleat media 54A captures the particles which pass through
the outer chamber pleat media 53A. Preferably the outer and inner
filter media is polypropylene or other media that will accept
antimicrobial agents.
[0128] In FIG. 8D, debris 55 is shown captured in the spaces
between the inner and outer pleats. However, since outer media 53A
and inner media 54A are impregnated with antimicrobial agents, any
accumulation of bacteria in debris 55 would be killed by the
antimicrobial effects.
[0129] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the housing and
faceplate design for a suction filter apparatus. In fact, FIG. 9
shows how the exploded components shown in FIG. 2 are assembled.
The faceplate housing 24 is attached to the inside surface of tub
wall 6A (not shown) wherein the female fittings 25A, 33B on
faceplate housing 24 receive the male end 25B, 33A on gasket 28
(see FIG. 2). The housing 24 is secured in placed by nut 29B on the
outer surface (back side) of the tub wall 6A. The appropriate
cavitation port fin 22 (see FIGS. 10,11) extends from faceplate 21
and slidably fits into receiving notch 56 through receiving bracket
57 to cover the cavitation port hole 44. Magnets 26 hold faceplate
21 to the faceplate housing 24.
[0130] FIG. 11 is the same view as FIG. 9 with a cutaway view of
faceplate 21 exposing cavitation port fin 22. Cavitation port fin
22 is shown inserted into receiving bracket 57 of filter housing
31, thereby enabling a seal over the non-electric cavitation
porthole 44. Faceplate housing 24 has a sloped taper 28B (high end)
to 28A (low end) to allow water to drain back into the tub after
shutdown.
[0131] FIG. 12 is similar to FIG. 9. Where FIG. 9 depicts the front
side of faceplate 21, whereby magnets 26 attach the faceplate 21 to
housing 24, FIG. 12 depicts the rear side of faceplate 21.
[0132] FIG. 10 is an top perspective exploded view of a user U
getting her hair entrapped in an embodiment of the faceplate
21/housing 24 design, wherein only the magnets 26 hold the
faceplate 21 to the housing 24, thereby enabling a safety pop off
design. Pulling the faceplate 21 out will cause the cavitation port
fin 22 to slidably detach from receiving notch 56 and expose
cavitation port hole 44 to air. Once air from the faceplate sensing
cavitation line 16 is drawn into the pump 3, pump 3 would cavitate.
Therefore, pump cavitation is triggered when the faceplate sensing
cavitation line 16 detects a missing or broken faceplate 21.
[0133] Likewise, when filter sensing line 11 detects a missing
filter, pump cavitation occurs. User U can easily remove the filter
assembly by using the end cap pull tab 51 to pull the end cap 50
and filter 200 out, thereby causing pump cavitation. The filter
sensing line 11 is connected to the filter cavitation port 18 (see
FIGS. 6A, 6B).
[0134] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of
the housing for a suction filter apparatus showing skimmer outlet
100 and pump outlet 119. Although spas also have skimmer filters
that draw surface water through the filters into a pump and back
through the jets, the majority of the water passing through other
suction points bypasses the skimmer filters. The alternate
embodiment orifice 131 can be hooked up in tandem to a skimmer
filter in a spa to filter water that bypasses the skimmer filter.
Antimicrobial additives enter the water system via the additive
port 117 adjacent to the filter cavitation port 118.
[0135] FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of the present invention, wherein each water vessel component is
impregnated with antimicrobial additives creating a total water
vessel sanitation system. The total water vessel sanitation system
uses components that have been manufactured using antimicrobial
additives including but not limited to the fiberglass/resin vessel
backing 500, acrylic sheet 506, pump 503, jets 575, inlet pipe 504,
outlet pipe 505. Treated filter sensing cavitation line 511 and
treated faceplate sensing cavitation line 516 extend from treated
suction filter housing 531. As even the antimicrobial system
components are treated, injector button 514 is depressed to
activate the antimicrobial additives dispenser 599 that delivers
antimicrobial additives to the water vessel covered by acrylic
sheet 506 via antimicrobial line 515. One embodiment is impregnated
with at least one of the components of a non-leaching antimicrobial
agent selected from the group consisting of
2,4,4-trichloro-2-hydroxy diphenol ether and 5-chloro-2phenol (2,4
dichlorophenoxy) compounds, see U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,916 (2003) to
Patil (assigned to Microban Products Company, Huntersville, N.C.)
at column 3, line 30.
[0136] The antimicrobial agent art is full of examples of agents,
including silver (see Patil '916, column 2, line 58), zinc,
cadmium, mercury, antimony, gold, aluminum, copper, platinum, and
palladium; see U.S. Pat. No. 6,030,632 (2000) to Sawan et al. filed
Sep. 11, 1998 and references cited therein.
[0137] FIG. 23 presents a flow chart illustration of the total
water vessel sanitation system of FIG. 16. Antimicrobial additives
may be added to each component of the water vessel to provide for
optimum bacteria reduction in a water vessel system. The acrylic
sheet or gelcoat surface may be treated at point of manufacture. In
addition, fiberglass reinforced backing, air controls, jet
fittings, suction fittings, pump, motor, piping and other
components may treated with antimicrobial additives to provide for
optimum protection from bacteria.
[0138] FIG. 17 is a plan exploded view of one embodiment of an
injector button assembly for dispensing antimicrobial agents.
Antimicrobial dispenser 99 is a deck mount top fill design.
Injector assembly housing 1004 is fitted into the deck wall 6A of a
tub through a standard size opening cut. Flange nut 1007 having
flange nut threads 1008A is mounted onto antimicrobial reservoir 13
positioned on the underside of the deck of the tub wall 6A. Inner
tube injector assembly threads 1006A secure reservoir 13 under tub
wall 6A by way of reservoir threads 1006B while flange nut threads
1008A secure injector assembly housing 1004 by threading into its
outer assembly housing threads 1008B. Inner tube injector port 1009
is thus located on the underside of the deck of the tub wall 6A.
Sub-assembly 1002 is inserted into the open end of injector
assembly housing 1004 atop the deck of tub wall 6A, wherein the
antimicrobial pick up tube resides within reservoir 13 and
sub-assembly injector port 1003 aligns with inner tube injector
port 1009 by means of aligning line 1050 on the pick up housing
2004 of sub-assembly 1002 with line 1060 on injector assembly
housing flange 1005. Button cover 1000 having button cover threads
1001A is mounted through its center hole over sub-assembly 1002
onto injector assembly housing flange 1005 and tightened by
screwing button cover threads 1001A into assembly housing threads
1001B within inner assembly housing 1004. Button cover 1000 and
injector button 14 are exposed at the deck of tub wall 6A (see FIG.
1).
[0139] FIG. 18 is a plan exploded view of one embodiment of the
injector sub-assembly 1002 shown in FIG. 17. Button retainer 2000
fits over injector button 14. Spring 2002 and check ball 2003
reside within pick up housing 2004 having an open end and a tapered
check ball seat 2005. Sub-assembly injector port 1003 is located on
pick up housing 2004 adjacent to check ball seat 2005.
Antimicrobial pick up tube 2006 fits into the tapered end of pick
up housing 2004 abutting check ball seat 2005. Upon assembly,
sub-assembly 1002 is inserted into the open end of injector
assembly housing 1004 atop the deck of tub wall 6A (see FIG.
17).
[0140] FIG. 19 is a longitudinal sectional view of the deck mount
top fill dispenser 99 of FIG. 17 and one embodiment of a
antimicrobial liquid reservoir 13. FIG. 19 shows that initially
there is no antimicrobial liquid 3001 in antimicrobial line 15
connected to inner tube injector port 1009. As user depresses
injector button 14 in direction F.sub.d (See (FIG. 20), spring 2002
within pick up housing 2004 compresses in direction P.sub.d. FIG.
19 shows that as user releases injector button 14 in direction
F.sub.u, spring 2002 expands unseating check ball 2003 and causing
vacuum V to draw antimicrobial liquid 3001 into antimicrobial pick
up tube 2006. As vacuum V draws antimicrobial liquid 3001 up around
check ball 2003, antimicrobial liquid 3001 within reservoir 13
moves in direction L.sub.d. A second check ball 3003 and spring
3002 reside within inner tube injector port 1009 (see also FIGS.
21, 22, 22A) preventing antimicrobial liquid 3001 from entering
antimicrobial line 15.
[0141] FIG. 20 is the same view as FIG. 19, wherein the injector
button is depressed, thereby causing antimicrobial liquid 3001
entering antimicrobial line 15 to be dispensed into the water
vessel system.
[0142] As user depresses injector button 14 in direction F.sub.d,
spring 2002 within pick up housing 2004 compresses in direction Pd.
Check ball 2003 reseats and holds antimicrobial liquid 3001 in
reservoir 13 and antimicrobial pick up tube 2006 while spring 3002
compresses unseating check ball 3003. Antimicrobial liquid 3001
which was drawn past check ball 2003 as shown in FIG. 19, may now
move past check ball 3003 in direction P.sub.o to enter
antimicrobial line 15 to be dispensed in the water vessel system.
FIG. 21 provides a close up view of the antimicrobial liquid
movement into antimicrobial line 15 as shown in FIG. 20.
[0143] FIGS. 22, 22A, 22B show the inner tube injector port 1009 of
injector assembly housing 1004 to which antimicrobial line 15 is
connected. Check ball 3003 and spring 3002 residing within inner
tube injector port 1009 prevents antimicrobial liquid 3001 from
entering antimicrobial line 15 when the port 1009 is "closed." The
injector port 1009 is closed when check ball 3003 is seated as
shown in FIG. 22A. When the injector port 1009 is "open,"
antimicrobial liquid 3001 may enter antimicrobial line 15. The
injector port 1009 is open when check ball 3003 is unseated as
shown in FIG. 22B.
[0144] Although the present invention has been described with
reference to disclosed embodiments, numerous modifications and
variations can be made and still the result will come within the
scope of the invention. No limitation with respect to the specific
embodiments disclosed herein is intended or should be inferred.
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