U.S. patent application number 10/223272 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-16 for method and apparatus for automatically disinfecting plumbing fixtures.
Invention is credited to Cary Gloodt.
Application Number | 20060053546 10/223272 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25306220 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060053546 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gloodt; Cary |
March 16, 2006 |
Method and apparatus for automatically disinfecting plumbing
fixtures
Abstract
The present invention relates to a system for automatically
purging residual water from the whirlpool plumbing of a whirlpool
bath. The system includes a bathtub, a primary water inlet in
hydraulic communication with the bathtub, a primary water outlet in
hydraulic communication with the bathtub, a plunger actuatable to
engage the primary water outlet to prevent water flow through the
primary water outlet, an auxiliary water outlet in hydraulic
communication with the bathtub and positioned to define a maximum
water level, a hydraulic pump having a water outlet port and a
water inlet port, an air pump having an air inlet port and an air
outlet port, at least one suction fitting formed in the bathtub, at
least one hydraulic suction conduit extending between the at least
one suction fitting to the water inlet port and connecting the at
least one suction fitting in hydraulic communication to the water
inlet port, at least one jet nozzle formed in the bathtub, a water
manifold substantially positioned above the maximum water level, a
water manifold conduit extending between the water outlet port and
the water manifold and connecting the water outlet port to the
water manifold in hydraulic communication therewith, at least one
water delivery conduit extending between the water manifold and the
at least one jet nozzle and connecting the water manifold to the at
least one jet nozzle in hydraulic communication therewith, an air
manifold positioned above the water manifold, an air pump delivery
conduit extending between the air pump outlet and the air manifold
and connecting the air pump outlet in pneumatic communication with
the air manifold, and at least one air nozzle conduit extending
between the air manifold and the at least one jet nozzle and
connecting the air manifold in pneumatic communication to the at
least one jet nozzle, at least one air suction conduit extending
between the air manifold and the at least one suction fitting and
connecting the air manifold in pneumatic communication to the at
least one suction fitting. When the bathtub is filled with water
the plunger is automatically disengaged for a predetermined length
of time to flush the water manifold, the water manifold conduit,
the at least one water delivery conduit and the at least one jet
nozzle. Also, when the bathtub is substantially drained, the air
pump may be actuated to introduce air into the at least one jet
nozzle, the at least one suction fitting, the water manifold, the
at least one water delivery conduit, and the at least one hydraulic
suction conduit to purge residual water therefrom.
Inventors: |
Gloodt; Cary; (Indianapolis,
IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
C.John Brannon;Bingham McHale LLP
2700 Market Tower
10 West Market Street
Indianapolis
IN
46204
US
|
Family ID: |
25306220 |
Appl. No.: |
10/223272 |
Filed: |
August 19, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09960446 |
Sep 21, 2001 |
6523192 |
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10223272 |
Aug 19, 2002 |
|
|
|
09849659 |
May 4, 2001 |
6357060 |
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09960446 |
Sep 21, 2001 |
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09544157 |
Apr 6, 2000 |
6279177 |
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09849659 |
May 4, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/541.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 33/60 20130101;
A61H 33/0087 20130101; A61H 33/6068 20130101; A61H 2033/023
20130101; A61H 33/6073 20130101; A61H 2033/002 20130101; A61H 33/02
20130101; A47K 3/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/541.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 3/10 20060101
A47K003/10; A47K 3/00 20060101 A47K003/00 |
Claims
1. A system for automatically purging residual water from the
whirlpool plumbing of a whirlpool bath, comprising: a bathtub; a
primary water inlet in hydraulic communication with the bathtub; a
primary water outlet in hydraulic communication with the bathtub; a
plunger actuatable to engage the primary water outlet to prevent
water flow through the primary water outlet; an auxiliary water
outlet in hydraulic communication with the bathtub and positioned
to define a maximum water level; a hydraulic pump having a water
outlet port and a water inlet port; an air pump having an air inlet
port and an air outlet port; at least one suction fitting formed in
the bathtub; at least one hydraulic suction conduit extending
between the at least one suction fitting to the water inlet port
and connecting the at least one suction fitting in hydraulic
communication to the water inlet port; at least one jet nozzle
formed in the bathtub; a water manifold substantially positioned
above the maximum water level; a water manifold conduit extending
between the water outlet port and the water manifold and connecting
the water outlet port to the water manifold in hydraulic
communication therewith; at least one water delivery conduit
extending between the water manifold and the at least one jet
nozzle and connecting the water manifold to the at least one jet
nozzle in hydraulic communication therewith; an air manifold
positioned above the water manifold; an air pump delivery conduit
extending between the air pump outlet and the air manifold and
connecting the air pump outlet in pneumatic communication with the
air manifold; at least one air nozzle conduit extending between the
air manifold and the at least one jet nozzle and connecting the air
manifold in pneumatic communication to the at least one jet nozzle;
at least one air suction conduit extending between the air manifold
and the at least one suction fitting and connecting the air
manifold in pneumatic communication to the at least one suction
fitting; wherein when the bathtub is filled with water the plunger
is automatically disengaged for a predetermined length of time to
flush the water manifold, the water manifold conduit, the at least
one water delivery conduit and the at least one jet nozzle; and
wherein when the bathtub is substantially drained, the air pump may
be actuated to introduce air into the at least one jet nozzle, the
at least one suction fitting, the water manifold, the at least one
water delivery conduit, and the at least one hydraulic suction
conduit to purge residual water therefrom.
2. The system of claim 1 further comprising an ozone supply in
pneumatic communication with the air pump.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the plunger is substantially
weighted and further comprising a sleeve assembly operationally
connected to the plunger, wherein upon actuation of the plunger the
sleeve assembly delays engagement of the plunger with the primary
water outlet for a predetermined length of time.
4. The system of claim 1 further comprising a servo operationally
connected to the plunger and adapted to selectively engage and
disengage the plunger with the primary water outlet; and a sensor
positioned to detect when the bathtub is being filled; and an
electronic controller operationally connected to the sensor and to
the servo; wherein the electronic controller is adapted to actuate
the servo to disengage the plunger from the primary water outlet to
allow water to flow therethrough for a predetermined period of time
upon receiving the signal from the sensor and wherein the
electronic controller is adapted to actuate the servo to engage the
plunger to the primary water outlet to block further flow of water
therethrough after the predetermined period of time has
elapsed.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the predetermined period of time
is sixty seconds.
6. A whirlpool system, comprising; a water pump for circulating
water in a whirlpool tub; a hydraulic plumbing system in hydraulic
communication with the water pump, the hydraulic plumbing system
comprising: a water inlet hydraulically connected to the whirlpool
tub; a water inlet valve adapted to selectively allow water through
the water inlet; at least one jet outlet nozzle; at least one
suction inlet fitting; a water drain; a water drain cap selectively
engagable to prevent water flow through the water drain; a first
hydraulic plumbing subsystem connecting the at least one suction
inlet fitting to the water pump; and a second hydraulic subsystem
connecting the water pump to the at least one jet outlet nozzle; an
air manifold positioned adjacent the hydraulic plumbing system; an
air pump adapted to provide positive air pressure to the hydraulic
plumbing system connected in fluid communication with the hydraulic
plumbing system; and at least one air suction conduit extending
from the air manifold and connecting between the at least one
suction inlet fitting and the water pump to connect the air
manifold in pneumatic communication to the at least one suction
inlet fitting; and wherein when the bathtub is filled the water
drain cap is automatically disengaged for a predetermined length of
time to flush the hydraulic plumbing system; and wherein the water
drain cap is automatically engaged to prevent the flow of water
through the water drain after the predetermined length of time has
elapsed.
7. The whirlpool system of claim 6 further including a water drain
cap servo operationally connected to the water drain cap and
adapted to selectively engage and disengage the water drain cap
with the water drain; a water inlet valve servo operationally
connected to the water inlet valve; and an electronic controller
operationally connected to the water inlet valve servo and to the
water drain cap servo; wherein the electronic controller is adapted
to actuate the water inlet valve servo to fill the tub; and wherein
the electronic controller is further adapted to actuate the water
drain cap servo to temporarily disengage the water drain cap from
the water drain for a predetermined period of time and then actuate
the water drain cap servo to engage the water drain cap to the
water drain after the predetermined period of time has elapsed when
the water inlet valve is opened.
8. A whirlpool system, comprising; a water pump for circulating
water in a whirlpool tub; a hydraulic plumbing system in hydraulic
communication with the water pump, the hydraulic plumbing system
comprising: a water inlet selectively actuatable to fill the
whirlpool tub with water; a water drain system selectively
actuatable to empty the whirlpool tub of water; at least one jet
outlet nozzle; at least one suction inlet fitting; a first
hydraulic plumbing subsystem connecting the at least one suction
inlet fitting to the water pump; and a second hydraulic subsystem
connecting the water pump to the at least one jet outlet nozzle;
wherein actuation of the water inlet automatically actuates the
water drain system for a predetermined period of time.
9. A sanitary plumbing system comprising: a water reservoir; a
plumbing fixture having an inner surface adapted to be periodically
wetted; a water pipe hydraulically connected between the water
reservoir and the plumbing fixture; an ozone source operationally
connected to the water pipe and adapted to introduce ozone
thereinto.
10. The plumbing system of claim 9 wherein the plumbing fixture is
a toilet and the inner surface defines a toilet bowl.
11. The plumbing system of claim 9 wherein the plumbing fixture is
a urinal.
12. The plumbing system of claim 9 wherein the ozone source is
selectively actuatable to introduce ozone into the water pipe only
when water is flowing therethrough.
13. The plumbing system of claim 9 further comprising a flush
system hydraulically connected to the water pipe, wherein the flush
system further comprises a power source, a motion sensor connected
to the power source, a valve assembly positioned in the water pipe
and adapted to selectively allow water to pass therethrough, and a
solenoid operationally connected to the valve assembly and to the
sensor, wherein the ozonator is operationally connected to the
sensor and the power source, and wherein a signal from the sensor
simultaneously actuates the ozonator and the solenoid to pass
ozonated water through the water pipe.
14. A sanitary plumbing system comprising: a plumbing fixture
having an inner surface adapted to be wetted; an ozone source; a
pneumatic conduit connected between the ozone source and the inner
surface; wherein the pneumatic conduit is adapted to direct ozone
to substantially contact the inner surface.
15. The plumbing system of claim 14 further comprising a moisture
sensor operationally connected to the inner surface and
operationally connected to the ozone source and wherein the ozone
source is adapted to produce ozone in response to a signal from the
sensor.
16. The plumbing system of claim 14 wherein the plumbing fixture is
a toilet and wherein the inner surface defines a toilet bowl.
17. The plumbing system of claim 14 wherein the plumbing fixture is
a urinal.
18. The plumbing system of claim 17 wherein the urinal is adapted
to automatically flush after each use and wherein the ozone source
is adapted to provide ozone through the pneumatic conduit to the
inner surface after each flush.
19. The plumbing system of claim 14 wherein the pneumatic conduit
is perforated to allow a substantially even film of ozone to be
distributed over the inner surface.
20. A plumbing system comprising: a plumbing fixture having a
wetable interior surface; an ozonator; and a conduit extending
between the ozonator and the plumbing fixture and adapted to convey
ozone to the wetable interior surface.
21. The plumbing fixture of claim 20 wherein the plumbing fixture
is a urinal and wherein the ozonator is adapted to supply ozonated
air onto the wetable interior surface.
22. The plumbing fixture of claim 20 wherein the plumbing fixture
is a urinal and wherein the ozonator is adapted to supply ozone to
water flowing onto the wetable interior surface.
23. The plumbing fixture of claim 20 wherein the fixture is a sink
and wherein the interior surface defines a basin.
24. The plumbing fixture of claim 20 wherein the fixture is a
toilet and wherein the interior surface defines a toilet bowl.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/849,659, filed May 4, 2001, which is a
continuation-in-part U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/544,157,
filed Apr. 6, 2000.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to plumbing
fixtures, and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for
automatically disinfecting water in the water lines, fixtures, and
jet manifolds during filling and/or draining of the bathtubs, spa
vessels, toilets, and/or urinals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A whirlpool bath or spa typically includes a tub in which
the water is circulated around the bather to provide a relaxing and
therapeutic environment. Whirlpool baths generally accomplish this
through the use of a hydraulic pump to circulate water from the
interior of the bathtub through plumbing located on the exterior of
the bathtub and back into the tub through a plurality of nozzles.
Whirlpool baths can be commonly found in homes, health clubs,
hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.
[0004] One concern currently receiving some attention regarding the
safety of whirlpool baths relates to sanitation. Specifically,
there is a concern that it is difficult to completely drain all of
the water from the whirlpool circulation plumbing, resulting in an
environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi. Since
the plumbing is principally located outside of the bathtub (and is
usually covered), the plumbing is generally inaccessible without
undertaking the major effort of disassembling and removing the tub
itself. The inaccessibility of the plumbing makes it nearly
impossible to prevent standing water from being left therein after
each use of the whirlpool bath. This is a problem because the
standing water typically includes residual soap scum, scale
deposits, sloughed off skin cells, body oils and other fluids,
fecal matter, and other bathing residue. The plumbing therefore
provides a dark, warm, and moist environment in which bacteria and
fungi may thrive.
[0005] One recent study conducted by Dr. Rita Moyes of the Texas
A&M University Department of Biology indicates that in addition
to fungi, enteric organisms (Enterobacteriaceae), Pseudomonas sp.,
Legionella sp. (the causative agent of Legionnaire's disease and
Pontiac fever) and Staphylococcus aureus may be found in such
systems. "Microbial Loads in Whirlpool Bathtubs: An Emerging Health
Risk", Moyes, unpublished report. According to Dr. Moyes, these
bacteria cause 30-35% of all septicemias, more than 70% of all
urinary tract infections, impetigo, folliculitis, and carbuncles
and have been implicated in infections of the respiratory tract,
burn wounds, ears, eyes, and intestines. Id. S. Aureus is an
etiological agent for bacteremia, endocarditis, pneumonia, empyema,
osteomyletis, and septic arthritis and also releases a toxin
responsible for scalded skin syndrome, toxic shock syndrome, and
food poisoning. Id.
[0006] In a more general sense, other plumbing fixtures, such as
standard bathtubs, toilets, urinals, wash basins and sinks all
inherently include surfaces which periodically become wet during
use and are concurrently exposed to bodily fluids and/or residues
that generally include bacteria and other like hazards. Generally,
these fixtures are not cleaned after each and every use and may
provide environments where the above-mentioned bacteria may grow
and thrive. The situation worsens in the case of publicly used
fixtures, which are more frequently exposed to a much wider variety
of pathogens and may be cleaned only infrequently.
[0007] One method known in the art of sanitizing plumbing fixtures
is to completely drain and clean the circulation plumbing. However,
complete draining of conventional plumbing fixtures can only be
accomplished through their disassembly. Alternately, in the case of
such fixtures as whirlpool bathtubs and toilets, sanitation of the
plumbing has been attempted through the circulation of cleaning
fluids therethrough, but this technique is largely ineffective
without the use of expensive specialized equipment to heat, convey
and concentrate special cleaning solutions therethrough. The simple
surface application of disinfectants or cleaning solutions to
fixture is very effective in sanitizing the so-treated surface, but
is less effective in the sanitization of the interior plumbing and
must be performed each time the fixture is used to be most
effective.
[0008] Obviously, it would be desirable to routinely eliminate
bacteria and other potentially dangerous pathogens from the
plumbing fixtures as a matter of course each time the fixture is
used. The present invention is directed toward achieving this
goal.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for
purifying and removing standing water from the plumbing in a
whirlpool bath. One form of the present invention is a whirlpool
bathtub having a water pump for circulating water in the whirlpool
tub and a hydraulic plumbing system in hydraulic communication with
the water pump. The hydraulic plumbing system includes a water
inlet selectively actuatable to fill the whirlpool tub with water,
a water drain system selectively actuatable to empty the whirlpool
tub of water, at least one jet outlet nozzle, at least one suction
inlet fitting, a first hydraulic plumbing subsystem connecting the
at least one suction inlet fitting to the water pump, and a second
hydraulic subsystem connecting the water pump to the at least one
jet outlet nozzle. Actuation of the water inlet automatically
actuates the water drain system for a predetermined period of
time.
[0010] One object of the present invention is to provide an
improved whirlpool bath system. Related objects and advantages of
the present invention will be apparent from the following
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
whirlpool bathtub fitted with a residual water purging system of
the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion
of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
whirlpool bathtub fitted with a residual water purging and
purifying system of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 5A is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion
of the embodiment of FIG. 4 with the ozone generator connected to
the air pump inlet.
[0016] FIG. 5B is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion
of the embodiment of FIG. 4 with the ozone generator connected
between the air manifold and the air pump.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 4.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective cut-away view of a third embodiment
of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 8A is a perspective cut-away view of a fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 8B is a side partial sectional view of the embodiment
of FIG. 8A.
[0021] FIG. 9A is a perspective cut-away view of a fifth embodiment
of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 9B is a side partial sectional view of the embodiment
of FIG. 9A.
[0023] FIG. 10A is an exploded schematic view of a sixth embodiment
of the present invention, a whirlpool bathtub having an
automatically actuatable fill-flush system.
[0024] FIG. 10B is an enlarged partial cut-away view of the
embodiment of FIG. 10A.
[0025] FIG. 10C is a schematic diagrammatic view of the embodiment
of FIG. 10A including an electronic control system.
[0026] FIG. 11A is an exploded schematic view of a seventh
embodiment of the present invention, a plumbing fixture having an
ozone source operationally connected thereto and adapted to ozonate
water entering the fixture.
[0027] FIG. 11B is a partial cut-away schematic view of the ozone
source of FIG. 11A.
[0028] FIG. 12A is a side elevational view of the embodiment of
FIG. 11A wherein the fixture is a toilet.
[0029] FIG. 12B is a side elevational view of the embodiment of
FIG. 11A wherein the fixture is a urinal.
[0030] FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of an eighth embodiment
of the present invention, a plumbing fixture having an ozone source
operationally connected thereto and adapted to directly ozonate the
fixture.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0031] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended, and alterations and modifications in the illustrated
device, and further applications of the principles of the invention
as illustrated therein are herein contemplated as would normally
occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
[0032] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate one embodiment of the present
invention, a system 10 for purging residual water from the
whirlpool plumbing of a whirlpool bathtub. The water purging system
10 is adapted to use air pressure to blow residual or standing
water from the water circulation plumbing used to generate the
"whirlpool" effect in a whirlpool bathtub 20. The whirlpool bathtub
20 typically includes a water inlet 22 and a water outlet or drain
24 connected to a central plumbing system. The whirlpool bathtub 20
preferably includes an auxiliary water outlet/drain 26 positioned
substantially above the water drain 24. (As used herein, "above"
means positioned farther away in a direction opposite the pull of
gravity; a first object positioned "above" a second object of
identical mass would have more gravitational potential energy and
would have farther to fall before reaching a common gravitational
source.) The auxiliary drain 26 functions to prevent an overflow of
the bathtub 20, and effectively defines a maximum water level.
However, the bathtub 20 may alternately include a single water
drain 24 without an auxiliary drain 26.
[0033] A typical whirlpool bathtub 20 also includes a water pump 30
having a water pump inlet 32 and a water pump outlet 34. The water
pump outlet 34 is connected in hydraulic communication with a
whirlpool hydraulic system of plumbing 36 and is adapted to pump
water therethrough when actuated while the bathtub 20 is filled
with water.
[0034] The whirlpool hydraulic system 36 typically includes at
least one suction fitting 38 formed through the bathtub 20. A
suction conduit 40 extends from the suction fitting 38 to the water
pump inlet 32, connecting the suction fitting 38 (and therethrough
the bathtub 20) in hydraulic communication to the water pump 30. A
plurality of water inlet or water jet nozzles 44 are also typically
formed in the bathtub 20. A water manifold 46 is typically
positioned around the bathtub 20 and is preferably positioned above
the water level defined by the auxiliary drain 26. The water
manifold 46 is connected in hydraulic communication to the
plurality of waterjet nozzles 44 by a plurality of water delivery
conduits 48, each adapted to convey water from the water manifold
46 through the respective water jets 44 and into the bathtub 20.
The water manifold 46 is also connected to the water pump outlet 34
by a water manifold conduit 49 extending therebetween in hydraulic
communication. When actuated, the water pump 30 is adapted to
receive water from the bathtub 20 through the suction fitting 38
and suction conduit 40 and return water under pressure into the
bathtub 20 through the jet nozzles 44 by way of the water manifold
46.
[0035] The water purging system 10 of the present invention
includes an air pump 50 having an air pump inlet 51 and an air pump
outlet 52. The air pump outlet 52 is connected in pneumatic
communication to an air manifold 54 through an air delivery conduit
56 extending therebetween. The air manifold 54 preferably extends
around the bathtub 20 and is more preferably positioned above the
water manifold 46. A plurality of air nozzle conduits 58 extend
from the air manifold 54 to each respective water jet nozzle 44,
connecting the air manifold 54 thereto in pneumatic communication.
Preferably, an air suction fitting conduit 60 extends from the air
manifold 54 to the suction fitting 38, connecting the air manifold
54 in pneumatic communication to the suction fitting 38. More
preferably, an air suction conduit conduit 62, and air water
manifold conduit 64 and an air water pump outlet conduit 66 extend
between the air manifold 54 and the suction conduit 40, the water
manifold 46, and the water pump outlet 34, respectively, connecting
the air manifold 54 in pneumatic communication thereto. Still more
preferably, the air manifold 54 is connected to the hydraulic
plumbing system 36 through valves 70 (preferably check valves)
adapted to allow air to flow into the hydraulic plumbing system 36
and to prevent water from flowing from the hydraulic plumbing
system 36 into the air manifold 54. However, the air pump 50 may be
coupled to the hydraulic plumbing system 36 in any convenient
configuration that provides air pressure to the hydraulic plumbing
system 36 sufficient to blow any standing water left in the
hydraulic plumbing system 36 into the whirlpool bathtub 20 where it
can be drained.
[0036] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the whirlpool water purging
system 10 of the present invention in greater detail. The air pump
50 is connected to the air manifold 54 through the air delivery
conduit 56. The air manifold 54 is connected to one or more of the
various components of the whirlpool hydraulic plumbing circuit 36
(including the suction fitting(s) 38, the suction conduit 40, the
water jet nozzles 44, the water manifold 46, and/or the water
manifold conduit 49) through one or more air conduits 58, 60, 62,
64 and 66. An electronic controller 75 may be operationally coupled
to the air pump 50 to facilitate automatic or manual actuation
thereof. For example, a sensor 77 may be positioned in the bathtub
20 and adapted to send a signal to the electronic controller when
the bathtub 20 is drained or when the water temperature passes a
predetermined threshold. Upon receipt of the signal, the electronic
controller 75 activates the air pump 50 for a predetermined length
of time. Alternately, a sensor 77 may be positioned in whirlpool
hydraulic plumbing circuit 36 and adapted to send a signal to the
electronic controller 75 in the presence of a predetermined amount
of moisture. Upon receipt and for the duration of the signal, the
electronic controller 75 actuates the air pump 50 to supply a
stream of pressurized air flowing through the whirlpool hydraulic
plumbing system 36.
[0037] The electronic controller 75 may also be operationally
connected to a heater 80. The heater 80 is preferably positioned so
as to be operationally coupled to the air pump 50, and is adapted
to provide sufficient heat output to substantially heat the air
flowing through the air pump 50 and through the air manifold 54,
such that warm, dry air is provided to the whirlpool hydraulic
plumbing system 36. The heater 80 may be slaved to the air pump 50
such that the heater 80 heats the air flowing through the air pump
50 whenever the air pump 50 is running. Alternately, the heater 80
may be independently controlled.
[0038] The electronic controller 75 may also be operationally
coupled to any or all of the check valves 70, such that each of the
check valves 70 may be independently operated. Independent
operation of the check valves 70 allows the output of the air pump
50 to be concentrated as desired in the whirlpool hydraulic system
36. For example, while the bathtub 20 is filled with water, the
check valves 70 connecting the air manifold 54 to the water inlet
jets 44 may be opened and the remaining valves 70 may be closed, to
concentrate the air flow through the water inlet jets 44. When the
bathtub is drained, all of the check valves 70 may be opened to
facilitate the rapid purging of water from the whirlpool hydraulic
plumbing system 36. In one contemplated embodiment, a series of
moisture sensors 77 may be positioned throughout the whirlpool
hydraulic plumbing system 36 and operationally coupled to an
electronic controller 75, such that the check valves 70 may be
opened and closed to concentrate air flow through those portions of
the hydraulic plumbing system 36 still containing moisture. In
other words, the check valves 70 may be manipulated to maximize
drying efficiency.
[0039] In operation, the water purging system 10 of the present
invention supplies air pressure to the whirlpool hydraulic plumbing
system 36 sufficient to purge remaining standing water left in the
whirlpool hydraulic plumbing system 36. If the bathtub 20 is filled
with water, actuation of the air pump 50 supplies pressurized air
that may be used to aerate the water flowing through the water jet
nozzles 44. When the water is substantially drained from the
bathtub 20 and the whirlpool hydraulic plumbing system, actuation
of the air pump 50 supplies pressurized air that may be directed
through the whirlpool hydraulic plumbing system 36 to force
substantially all of the residual water out of the hydraulic
plumbing system 36. The air pump 50 may further be used to air dry
the hydraulic plumbing system 36 by circulating a stream of
pressurized air therethrough until the hydraulic plumbing system 36
is substantially dry. The effectiveness of the air-drying process
may be enhanced by circulating heated air through the whirlpool
hydraulic plumbing system 36.
[0040] The water purging system 10 of the present invention may be
retrofitted to existing whirlpool hydraulic plumbing systems 36, or
may be included therewith as part of a new whirlpool bathtub
20.
[0041] Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated
in FIGS. 4-6. FIGS. 4, 5A and 5B illustrate a water purging system
10A nearly identical to the one described above, with the addition
of an ozone source 100A operationally connected to the air pump
50A. The ozone source 100A is preferably an ozone generator, but
may also be an ozone tank or the like. The ozone generator 100A
supplies ozonated air to the air pump 50A for circulation
throughout the air manifold 54A, the air conduits 56A, 58A, and the
hydraulic system 36A, including the water jet bodies 44A during the
water purge operation. The ozone generator 100A may be
pneumatically connected to the air pump inlet 51A (see FIG. 5A), or
may be pneumatically connected upstream from the air pump 50A (see
FIG. 5B), to provide ozone to all of the air flowing through the
hydraulic plumbing system 36A and the water jet bodies 44A. The
ozone generator 100A may therefore pneumatically communicate ozone
to the air entering the air manifold 54A for redistribution
throughout the rest of the water purging system 10A. Alternately,
individual ozone generators 100A may be connected upstream and
adjacent each water jet body 44A to further purify the air, water,
and/or air/water mixture being expelled therefrom. These may be
added in addition to or in place of the ozone generator 100A
pneumatically connected to the air pump 50A discussed above.
Preferably, the ozone generator 100A is connected to the electronic
controller 75A, such that the ozone generator 100A may be actuated
by the electronic controller 75A upon receipt of a signal from an
operator or from a sensor 77A (for example, a water level sensor
indicating that the tub 20A has been recently drained.) The ozone
generator 100A may thus be actuated for a predetermined period of
time (such as, for example, for the duration of the purging
operation) by the electronic controller 75A.
[0042] Ozone is a well-known oxidant and disinfectant, and is
commercially used in water purification and waste treatment
facilities.
[0043] The presence of ozone in the purging air helps to disinfect
the air and water plumbing during the air purging operation.
Further, the presence of ozone in the purging air also disinfects
the air itself, reducing or eliminating airborne bacteria resulting
from the air purging operation. Moreover, the interior of the tub
may be shaped to direct the flow of ozonated water/air from the
water jet bodies over the surface of the tub, to further disinfect
the tub during/after use. Ozone may be injected into the air
exclusively during the purging cycle, or at all times the air pump
50A is energized, since ozone is relatively harmless to people and
in fact helps purify the water recirculated in the whirlpool
bathtub 20A. Preferably, the ozone is introduced to the water
purging system 10A upstream of the water jet bodies 44A. More
preferably, ozone is introduced into the water purging system 10A
upstream of the hydraulic plumbing system 36A.
[0044] Techniques for the generation of ozone are well known, any
one of which may be utilized for the present ozone generator 100A.
One commonly used technique is to irradiate oxygen molecules with
very short wavelength high-energy ultraviolet (UV) radiation to
cleave the oxygen molecules (O.sub.2), producing lone ionized
oxygen atoms (O), which combine with other O.sub.2molecules to form
ozone molecules (O.sub.3). Another technique for producing ozone is
to expose O.sub.2 molecules to a high-energy electromagnetic field,
such as a brush discharge, to cleave the O.sub.2 molecules for
O.sub.3 production. Heating the air to impart more energy to the
O.sub.2 molecules increases the efficiency of ozone production
independent of the ozone production method chosen. One commercially
available device, the HYDRAZONE.TM. mozone generator, available
from HYDRABATHS.RTM. of 211 S. Fairview Street, Santa Ana, Calif.,
combines the application of high-energy UV radiation with a
high-energy electromagnetic field to efficiently produce ozone.
[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates still another embodiment of the present
invention, a bathtub 20B having a hydraulic plumbing circuit 36B
for circulating water therein and a pneumatic circuit 90B for
bubbling air through water in the bathtub 20B. Hydraulic plumbing
circuit 36B includes a water pump 30B connected in hydraulic
communication (preferably through a water manifold 46B) with one or
more jet bodies 44B to circulate water in the bathtub 20B. The
water pump is also hydraulically connected to a suction inlet
fitting 38B, such that water is transported from the bathtub 20B
and recirculated thereinto by the water pump 36B through the jet
bodies 44B.
[0046] The pneumatic circuit 90B includes a pneumatic pump or air
blower 50B connected in pneumatic communication (preferably through
an air manifold 54B) with a plurality of air jet bodies 92B
positioned to open into or near the bottom of the bathtub 20B to
bubble air through water contained therein. The air jet bodies 92B
preferably include check valves to retard penetration of water
thereinto. The pneumatic circuit 90B also includes an ozone
generator 100B connected in pneumatic communication with the air
blower 50B. The pneumatic circuit 90B further includes a pneumatic
connection 94B between at least one element of the pneumatic
circuit 90B, such as the air manifold 54B) and an element of the
hydraulic circuit 36B (for instance, the water manifold 46B). The
pneumatic connection 94B preferably includes a check valve to
minimize water incursion into the pneumatic circuit 90B; likewise,
the pneumatic circuit 90B is preferably substantially positioned
above the hydraulic circuit 36B for the same reason).
[0047] When the bathtub 20B contains water, the hydraulic circuit
36B may be selectively activated to circulate water. Likewise, the
pneumatic circuit 90B may be activated to bubble ozonated air
through the water. Alternately, both circuits 46B, 90B may be
simultaneously activated to circulate the water while ozonated air
is bubbled therethrough. The passage of ozonated air through the
pneumatic and hydraulic circuits 90B, 36B, the water in the bathtub
20B and over the surface of the bathtub 20B purifies and disinfects
the air, water, and surfaces with which the ozone comes into
contact.
[0048] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B illustrate yet another embodiment
of the present invention, a bathtub 20C having a pneumatic circuit
90C for bubbling air through water in the bathtub 20C. The
pneumatic circuit 90C includes a pneumatic pump or air blower 50C
connected in pneumatic communication (preferably through an air
manifold 54C) with a plurality of air inlets, such as air jets 92C
(see FIGS. 9A and 9B) or air holes 93C (see FIGS. 8A and 8B)
positioned to open into or near the bottom of the bathtub 20C to
bubble air through water contained therein. The air jets/holes
92C/93C preferably include check valves to retard penetration of
water therethrough and into the air manifold 54C. The pneumatic
circuit 90C also includes an ozone generator 100C connected in
pneumatic communication with the air blower 50C.
[0049] The bathtub 20C also includes a hydraulic circuit 36C for
filling the bathtub 20c with water and circulating water in the
bathtub 20C. In this embodiment, the hydraulic circuit 36C includes
a faucet 96C and a drain 24C. When the bathtub 20C contains water,
the pneumatic circuit 90C may be activated to bubble ozonated air
through the water. The passage of ozonated air through the
pneumatic circuits 90C, through the water in the bathtub 20C and
over the surface of the bathtub 20C purifies and disinfects the
air, water, and surfaces with which the ozone comes into
contact.
[0050] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate still another embodiment of the
present invention, a whirlpool bathtub 20 similar to those
illustrated above, but having a drain system 24D adapted to
automatically open and remain open for a predetermined period each
time the whirlpool bathtub 20D is filled. By remaining open at the
beginning of the fill cycle, the drain system 24D allows any
residual water or other material that may be present in the
hydraulic circuit 36 to be flushed out and drained from the
whirlpool bathtub 20 such that a bather is exposed to only fresh
water.
[0051] The drain system 24D includes a weighted plunger 101D, which
preferably includes an attached plunger weight 103D but may also be
a unitary plunger piece 101D of substantial weight. The weight of
the weighted plunger 101D is preferably between 1 and 2 pounds, but
may be any weight sufficient to urge the weighted plunger 101D into
the drain 24D. A plunger stem 102D extends from the weighted
plunger 101D. A sleeve assembly 104D is positioned below the
weighted plunger 101D to receive the weighted plunger 101D. The
sleeve assembly 104D includes a sleeve set nut 105D covering a
sleeve tension adjuster 106D and attached to a (preferably nylon)
sleeve 108D. The sleeve 108D is received in a hollow bolt 112D, and
the plunger stem 102D extends therethrough. The sleeve assembly
104D is connected to a slotted bath body flange or strainer 114D,
which is in turn seated in a waste body 116D emptying into a drain
pipe 118D. The weighted plunger 101D is seated in the bath body
flange 114D, such that when the weighted plunger is raised, water
may flow into and through the bath body flange 114D but when the
weighted plunger is lowered, water is prevented from flowing
through the bath body flange 114D.
[0052] The drain system 24D also includes a waste body camshaft
lever mechanism 120D. An overflow camshaft actuator 122D is
connected to an overflow camshaft 124D and adapted to be manually
turned to rotate the overflow camshaft 124D. A control cable 126D
is connected between the overflow camshaft 124D and a cover lever
128D pivotably connected to the waste body 116D, such that pivoting
or turning of the overflow camshaft 124D pulls on the control cable
126D which pivots the cover lever 128D and raises the weighted
plunger 101D. Unless held in a pivoted position, the overflow
camshaft 124D is free to return to its unpivoted position, and is
preferably biased to return to its unpivoted position. More
preferably, the overflow cam shaft 124D may be operationally
connected to the fill system such that turning the overflow
camshaft 124D also actuates the filling of the bathtub 20.
[0053] Once raised, the weighted plunger 101D is urged to return to
its lowered position seated in the bath body flange 114D by a
combination of gravity and water pressure. The speed at which the
weighted plunger 101D returns to its lowered, seated position is a
primarily function of the weight of the weighted plunger 101D
(which is generally considered to be a constant) and the tightness
of the nylon sleeve 108D through which the plunger stem 102D must
travel. The tightness of the nylon sleeve 108D may be adjusted by
the sleeve tension adjuster 106D, and is preferably preset to a
tension corresponding to a predetermined desired period during
which the weighted plunger 101D is raised above the bath body
flange 114D, allowing water to drain therethrough. Preferably, the
sleeve tension adjuster 106D is preset to impart a tension on the
nylon sleeve 108D such that the predetermined lowering time of the
weighted plunger 101D is 60 seconds. In other words, once the
weighted plunger 101D is raised, the bathtub 20 begins to fill
through the hydraulic system 36 while the drain remains open for 60
seconds (as it automatically closes) to allow any residual material
in the hydraulic system 36 to be flushed out of the bathtub 20.
[0054] In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated schematically in
FIG. 10C, an electric solenoid motor 140D or the like may be used
to lift and lower the weighted plunger 101D in response to an
actuation signal. The solenoid may be connected to an electronic
controller 142D programmed to open the drain system 24D for a
predetermined amount of time (such as, for example, one minute) at
the beginning of each fill cycle (i.e., each time the tub 20 is
filled). The electronic controller 142D is preferably also
operationally connected to the hydraulic system 36 such that the
electronic controller 142D controls the filling, whirlpool, and
draining functions of the tub 20.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B and 12A and 12B, yet another
embodiment of the present invention is disclosed, an automatic
ozonation system 150E for introducing ozonated air to plumbing
fixtures 152E. The plumbing fixtures 152E illustrated in FIGS. 12A
and 12B are a toilet and a urinal, respectively, but may be any
plumbing fixtures. The automated ozonation system includes a water
inlet pipe 154E through which water flows into the plumbing fixture
152E. An ozonator 100E is operationally connected to the water
inlet pipe 154E such that air is pumped through the ozonator 100E,
at least some of the oxygen in the air is converted to ozone, and
the ozone-enriched air is then introduced into the water flowing
through the inlet pipe 154E. Preferably, the oxonator 100E includes
an air tube 158E directing ozonated air from the ozonator 100E into
the inlet pipe 154E. The air tube 158E preferably includes a
plurality of perforations or apertures through which ozonated air
may be introduced into the water flowing throughout a length of the
inlet pipe 154E, but may alternately terminate in a single opening
or may even be closed-ended and made of an air permeable
material.
[0056] Preferably, the automatic ozonation system 150E also
includes an automatic flush system 160E and more preferably
includes a battery pack 162E electrically connected to the ozonator
100E. The automatic flush system also preferably includes a
solenoid 164E operationally connected between an electronic sensor
166E (such as a motion or proximity detector) and a valve assembly
168E. Preferably, the automatic ozonation system is configured to
energize the solenoid 164E and the ozonator 100E simultaneously
upon reception of a signal from the sensor 166E. The ozonator 100E
then pumps ozonated air into the flowing water, enriching the water
with ozone before the water is introduced into the plumbing fixture
152E. However, the ozonator 100E may be powered by any convenient
power source, such as line current. Also, the ozonator 100E may be
configured to ozonate the water in a reservoir or for at
predetermined intervals and/or for predetermined periods of
time.
[0057] In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13, an
ozonator 100E may be adapted to supply ozonated air directly onto
the surface of a plumbing fixture 152E. The air tube 158E is
directed to expel ozonated air directly onto the surface of the
plumbing fixture 152E. Preferably, the air tube 158E is
sufficiently perforated to direct ozonated air evenly over the
entire surface of the plumbing fixture 158E.
[0058] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all changes and modifications that come
within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
* * * * *