U.S. patent application number 17/046675 was filed with the patent office on 2021-11-25 for device for diffusing a aromatic product in a water stream and associated diffuser body.
The applicant listed for this patent is CIRRUS SHOWER LIMITED. Invention is credited to Philippe DECONINCK, Pierre REGNAULT.
Application Number | 20210363735 17/046675 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005823033 |
Filed Date | 2021-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210363735 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
REGNAULT; Pierre ; et
al. |
November 25, 2021 |
DEVICE FOR DIFFUSING A AROMATIC PRODUCT IN A WATER STREAM AND
ASSOCIATED DIFFUSER BODY
Abstract
The present invention relates to a device for diffusing a
fragrant product in a water stream. The device includes a main body
with an inlet and an outlet for the water stream, interconnected by
a channel for the passage of the stream. The main body is
configured to be mounted on a water circuit with the inlet and the
outlet arranged between an outlet of the water stream distribution
system and a shower pipe inlet, respectively, so as to allow the
water stream to circulate through the passage channel of the
distribution system towards the shower pipe. The main body includes
a receptacle configured to receive and position a diffuser body in
the passage channel for the fragrant product to be diffused. The
diffuser body blocking, at least partially, the passage channel
such that, in the open position, the water stream from the outlet
of the distribution system flows through the diffuser body when
passing through the channel, causing the fragrant product to be
diffused in the water stream and hence allowing a perfumed water
stream to reach the shower pipe.
Inventors: |
REGNAULT; Pierre; (Lille,
FR) ; DECONINCK; Philippe; (Villeneuve d'Ascq,
FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CIRRUS SHOWER LIMITED |
Central |
|
HK |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005823033 |
Appl. No.: |
17/046675 |
Filed: |
March 14, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
March 14, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/FR2019/050558 |
371 Date: |
October 9, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03C 2201/40 20130101;
E03C 1/0408 20130101; E03C 1/046 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E03C 1/046 20060101
E03C001/046; E03C 1/04 20060101 E03C001/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 16, 2018 |
FR |
1853286 |
Claims
1. A diffuser body for a diffusion device for diffusing an aromatic
product in a water flow, the diffusion device being intended to be
mounted on a water circuit between an outlet of a distribution
system of said water flow and an inlet of a shower duct to allow
said water flow to circulate from said distribution system to the
shower duct, the diffuser body comprising: a first hollow tube and
a second hollow tube dimensioned relative to each other to fit into
each other and form a receptacle for receiving the aromatic product
to be diffused in the water flow, wherein said first hollow tube
and second hollow tube cooperate together to have two positions
including a first closed position wherein the receptacle is sealed
in order to avoid any contact of the aromatic product with the
water flow, and a second open position wherein said receptacle is
open to allow the water flow to circulate therethrough and come
into contact with the aromatic product.
2. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the first hollow
tube comprises a top cover and the second hollow tube comprises a
bottom, or vice versa.
3. The diffuser body according to claim 2, wherein the first hollow
tube and the second hollow tube are configured relative to each
other so that switching from the closed position to the open
position is activated by exerting a pressure on the top cover
towards the bottom, or vice versa.
4. The diffuser body according to claim 1, further comprising
position holding means configured to hold in position the first and
second hollow tubes in either the closed and/or open position.
5. The diffuser body according to claim 4, wherein the position
holding means comprises: a groove extending at least partially
around the periphery of the upper portion of one of the first or
second tubes, and a bead extending at least partially around the
periphery of the upper portion of the other tube, said groove being
dimensioned to receive said bead, the reception of said bead in
said groove ensuring the sealing of the receptacle.
6. The diffuser body according to claim 5, wherein said first and
second tubes are at least partially made of an elastically
deformable material so that the pressure exerted on the top cover
causes a deformation of the first and second tubes disengaging the
bead from said groove to allow switching from the closed position
to the open position of the receptacle.
7. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the first tube
and the second tube comprise, on their respective peripheral wall,
a plurality of through windows.
8. The diffuser body according to claim 7, wherein the through
windows respectively of the first tube and of the second tubes are
positioned relative to each other such that: in the closed
position, the through windows are offset from one another
preventing the passage of the water flow inside the receptacle; and
in the open position, the through windows face each other allowing
the passage of the water flow inside the receptacle.
9. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
aromatic salts.
10. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a felt soaked in said aromatic product to be diffused.
11. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a sponge soaked in the aromatic product to be diffused.
12. The diffuser body according to claim 1, wherein the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a porous stone comprising said aromatic product to be diffused.
13. A device for diffusing an aromatic product in a water flow,
said device comprising: a main body having a water flow inlet and
outlet interconnected by a passage channel of said flow, said main
body being intended to be mounted on a water circuit according to
said inlet and said outlet respectively between an outlet of a
distribution system of said water flow and an inlet of a shower
duct to allow said water flow to circulate through said passage
channel from said distribution system to the shower duct, said main
body comprising: a receiving case configured to receive and
position in the passage channel; and a removable diffuser body
having a receptacle containing said aromatic product to be
diffused, said diffuser body at least partially obstructing said
passage channel and being configured to have two positions
including a first closed position wherein the receptacle is sealed
in order to avoid any contact of the aromatic product with the
water flow and a second open position wherein said receptacle is
open so that said water flow from the outlet of said distribution
system passes through said receptacle as it passes through said
channel so that said aromatic product diffuses in the water flow
thus allowing a flow of aromatised water to enter said shower
duct.
14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the receiving case is
substantially cylindrical in shape and the device further comprises
a toroidal-shaped purifying filter capable of conforming to a
peripheral wall of the receiving case and a central part of which
is dimensioned to receive the diffuser body.
15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the purifying filter
has an inner peripheral wall and an outer peripheral wall, said
inner and outer peripheral walls defining therebetween a volume
where mineral balls are positioned.
16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the mineral balls are
at least partially made of ceramic.
17. The device according to claim 15, wherein the inner peripheral
wall of the purifying filter comprises a plurality of through
perforations arranged together to allow said water flow to
circulate through said filter.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the perforations each
have a triangular configuration and are entangled relative to each
other.
19. The device according to claim 17, wherein the perforations are
substantially oblong and are slightly inclined to promote the
emulsion of the water when the water flow passes through the
filter.
20. The device according to claim 18, wherein the perforations are
disposed in two rows head to tail.
21. The device according to claim 13, further comprising a
removable and sealed protective cover covering the receiving case
and configured to hermetically close the receiving case when said
diffuser body is inserted into said case.
22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the protective cover
has on the front a substantially flat upper portion intended to be
visible and having a marking area for marking information relating
to the aromatic product associated with said diffuser body.
23. The device according to claim 13, wherein the inlet and the
outlet of said main body respectively comprise first and second
assembly means configured to cooperate respectively with the outlet
of the distribution system of said water flow and the inlet of said
shower duct for integrally assembling the main body with said
distribution system and said shower duct.
24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the first and second
assembly means are configured for assembling said main body with
said distribution system and said shower duct by screwing.
25. The device according to claim 21, further comprising seals
respectively between the inlet of said main body and the outlet of
the distribution system and between the outlet of said main body
and the inlet of said shower duct.
26. An assembly comprising: a diffusion device according to claim
13; and at least one diffuser body according to claim 1 comprising
an aromatic product to be diffused in a water flow.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of
aromatherapy.
[0002] The present invention relates more particularly to a device
for diffusing an aromatic product in a flow of sanitary water such
as, for example, bath water, shower water or the like.
[0003] The term "shower" in the context of the present invention
mainly covers showers as such, equipped with a showerhead, a hand
shower and/or nozzles hydro-massaging the body. This term "shower"
however also covers bathtubs which are equipped with hand showers
or nozzles hydro-massaging the body, or even any other sanitary
installation in the bathroom, kitchen or the like which may be
equipped with a device diffusing an aromatic product.
[0004] Here, aromatherapy can be interpreted broadly as the
diffusion in a flow of sanitary water of a product having
beneficial properties for the skin and/or health. The principle of
aromatherapy is, for example, to provide benefits/care through
aromatic molecules by air. It is not a question of treating, but
for example of using the benefits of the essential oil contained in
the perfumes to provide a well-being.
[0005] The present invention will thus find many advantageous
applications in the field of balneotherapy, both for individuals
and in the hotel industry (spa, etc.).
[0006] Document WO 2011107221 is known in the prior art, which
discloses a device for diffusing a product of shower gel, shampoo,
essential oil type or the like packaged in the form of disposable
capsules.
[0007] In this document, provision is made of a case intended to
receive such a capsule.
[0008] A hatch or a twist-off cap is provided on this case allowing
the opening of the latter and the insertion of a capsule inside the
case. This case also includes means for piercing the capsule when
the case is closed.
[0009] A suction pump or system is then provided to allow the
expulsion of the product contained in the capsule and the mixing
thereof with a water flow passing through the device.
[0010] The Applicant submits that the operations are relatively
complex to implement in order to correctly position the capsule and
insert it into the case.
[0011] The proposed system moreover requires capsules intended to
be pierced: they are not refillable.
[0012] Document WO 2014174191 is also known in the prior art, which
also proposes a device for diffusing a product to be diffused in a
water flow using the principle of a capsule intended to be
pierced.
[0013] This document WO 2014174191 discloses more specifically a
diffusion device intended to receive on the front a capsule with a
peripheral flange containing a product to be diffused in a water
flow.
[0014] The flanged capsule is fixed on a support surface carried by
the main body of the device and forming a case surface configured
to receive the flange and comprising a thumbwheel having a helical
portion for screwing the capsule onto said surface.
[0015] Such a device allows to save space during installation: it
does not require a case opening hatch as in document WO 2011107221,
the capsule being inserted directly on the front of the device
through an opening of the case and a simple rotation of the
thumbwheel sufficient to close the device.
[0016] In this document, the opening of the case allows simple and
rapid insertion of the capsule into the case.
[0017] The solution proposed in this document mainly seeks to
provide a device allowing a simple use wherein the user has only a
limited number of operations to be performed in order to contact
the product contained in a capsule with a water flow passing
through the device.
[0018] The Applicant nevertheless submits that the principle of
diffusion of an encapsulated product in a water flow is not
satisfactory.
[0019] The positioning of the capsule proposed in this document
provides a user experience limited in time.
[0020] It is indeed necessary to replace the capsule with a new
capsule after only a few showers.
[0021] The Applicant further observes that the diffusion of the
product in the water flow is not optimal.
[0022] The use of a diffusion device such as that proposed in
document WO 2011107221 is unsightly and is not suitable for
aromatherapy which requires, for example, the use of aromatic
compounds of the salt type or else of the essential oil type which
have a relatively high viscosity rate.
[0023] The Applicant submits that the solutions proposed so far in
the prior art are not satisfactory for the user and are not
suitable for aromatherapy.
OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0024] The object of the present invention aims at improving the
situation described above.
[0025] One of the purposes of the present invention is to overcome
the various disadvantages mentioned above by jointly proposing:
[0026] a diffuser body having a new configuration, ensuring good
infusion and good diffusion of the aromatic product into a water
flow, and [0027] a diffusion device capable of receiving such a
diffuser body which is simple to use, is easily integrated into a
water circuit and which allows to diffuse the aromatic product for
a sufficiently long period to allow users to take several showers
without having to replace the system.
[0028] To this end, the object of the present invention relates
according to a first aspect to a diffuser body for a device for
diffusing an aromatic product in a water flow.
[0029] According to the present invention, the diffusion device is
intended to be mounted on a water circuit between an outlet of a
water flow distribution system and an inlet of a shower duct to
allow the water flow to circulate from the distribution system to
the shower duct.
[0030] Advantageously, the diffuser body comprises a first and a
second hollow tubes dimensioned relative to each other to fit into
each other and form a receptacle for receiving the aromatic
product.
[0031] Advantageously, the first and second tubes are able to
cooperate together to have at least two positions, including:
[0032] a first position called closed position wherein the
receptacle is sealed in order to avoid any contact of the aromatic
product with the water flow, and [0033] a second position called
open position wherein the receptacle is open to allow the water
flow to circulate therethrough and come into contact with the
aromatic product.
[0034] The design of such a diffuser body allows to have a
receptacle with a dual function (storage and diffusion) in the
shape of a refillable capsule and allowing good diffusion of the
aromatic product in the water flow.
[0035] Such a diffuser body moreover ensures good diffusion of the
aromatic product, improving the user experience.
[0036] Preferably, the first tube comprises a top cover and the
second tube comprises a bottom, or vice versa.
[0037] It is understood here that the presence of the cover and the
bottom defines a closed volume for the receptacle. This provides a
box allowing to receive and store the aromatic product.
[0038] Advantageously, the first and second tubes are configured
relative to each other so that the switching from the closed
position to the open position is activated by exerting a pressure
on the top cover towards the bottom, or vice versa.
[0039] This configuration with a cover makes it easy for the user
to activate the system and achieve the aromatherapy experience
expected. Positioning the capsule in the receiving case does not
necessarily result in the piercing thereof as is the case with the
existing solutions. Here, it is by pressing on the capsule that the
system is activated.
[0040] Advantageously, the diffuser body comprises means for
holding in position configured to hold in position the tubes in the
closed and/or open position.
[0041] In an advantageous variant embodiment, the means for holding
the tubes in position include: [0042] a groove extending at least
partially around the periphery of the upper portion of one of the
tubes, and [0043] a bead extending at least partially around the
periphery of the upper portion of the other tube,
[0044] Preferably, the groove is dimensioned to receive the bead,
the reception of the bead in the groove ensuring the sealing of the
receptacle.
[0045] Advantageously, the tubes are at least partially made of an
elastically deformable material so that the pressure exerted on the
top cover causes a deformation of the tubes disengaging the bead
from said groove to allow switching from the closed position to the
open position.
[0046] It is understood here that by exerting a pressure on the
cover towards the bottom of the receptacle, the walls of the tubes
are deformed to release the bead from the groove ensuring the
switching from the closed position to the open position.
[0047] Advantageously, the first tube and the second tube comprise
on their respective peripheral wall a plurality of through
windows.
[0048] Preferably, the through windows respectively of the first
and of the second tubes are positioned relative to each other such
that: [0049] in the closed position, the through windows are offset
from each other preventing the passage of the water flow inside the
receptacle; and [0050] in the open position, the through windows
face each other allowing the water flow to pass inside the
receptacle.
[0051] It will be understood here that by exerting a pressure on
the cover, the bead emerges from the groove and shifts downwards
thus allowing the windows to be aligned with each other to create
passage openings allowing the passage of the water flow into the
receptacle.
[0052] Preferably, the through windows are oblong in shape.
[0053] Preferably, the aromatic product to be diffused, positioned
inside the receptacle, includes aromatic salts.
[0054] In a first alternative variant embodiment, the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a felt soaked in the aromatic product to be diffused. The use of
such a felt provides good diffusing power which lasts over time,
all without slowing down the passage of the water flow through the
channel.
[0055] In a second alternative variant embodiment, the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a sponge soaked in the aromatic product to be diffused.
[0056] In a third alternative variant embodiment, the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
a porous stone comprising the aromatic product to be diffused.
[0057] In a fourth alternative variant embodiment, the aromatic
product to be diffused, positioned inside the receptacle, includes
an aromatic compound of the essential oil type.
[0058] It will be understood that these different variants could
optionally be combined with each other.
[0059] The object of the present invention relates, according to a
second aspect, to a device for diffusing an aromatic product in a
water flow, said device comprising a main body which has a water
flow inlet and an outlet connected together by a water flow passage
channel.
[0060] According to the present invention, the main body is
intended to be mounted on a water circuit according to their inlet
and outlet respectively between an outlet of a water flow
distribution system and an inlet of a shower duct to allow the
water flow to circulate through the passage channel of the
distribution system to the shower duct.
[0061] Advantageously, the main body comprises a receiving case
configured to receive and position a diffuser body of the aromatic
product to be diffused in the passage channel.
[0062] Here, the diffuser body is removable and can therefore be
replaced or recharged for example
[0063] It will be understood that, alternatively, the diffusion
device can be directly integrated into a diffusion showerhead such
as, for example, a showerhead. For example, the device according to
the invention can be installed in a showerhead, the opening of the
case being located on the part opposite to the diffusion head of
the showerhead.
[0064] Preferably, the diffuser body is positioned in the receiving
case so as to at least partially obstruct the passage channel.
[0065] Here, the diffuser body is able to have two positions
including: [0066] a first closed position wherein the receptacle is
sealed in order to avoid any contact of the aromatic product with
the water flow, and [0067] a second open position wherein the
receptacle is open so that the water flow from the outlet of the
distribution system passes through the receptacle as it passes
through the channel.
[0068] As the water flow passes through the diffuser body, the
aromatic product diffuses in the water flow, thus allowing a flow
of aromatised water to enter the shower duct.
[0069] Thanks to the arrangement of these technical means,
characteristic of the present invention, and in particular thanks
to the presence of a diffuser body obstructing the passage channel
of the water flow, a diffusion device simple to be implemented is
provided, offering good diffusion capacity and having a long
lifespan to allow users to take several showers without replacing
the system as is the case in the prior art with the principle of
cartridges.
[0070] Advantageously, the device also has the function of a
purifying filter when the water flow passes therethrough.
[0071] In a particular embodiment, the receiving case is
substantially cylindrical in shape, and the device here comprises a
toroidal-shaped purifying filter capable of conforming to the
peripheral wall of the receiving case and the central part of which
is dimensioned to receive the diffuser body.
[0072] The diffuser body is therefore surrounded by the filter.
[0073] Advantageously, the purifying filter has an inner peripheral
wall and an outer peripheral wall, said inner and outer walls
defining therebetween a volume wherein mineral balls such as for
example balls at least partially made of ceramic are
positioned.
[0074] Preferably, the inner peripheral wall of the purifying
filter comprises a plurality of through perforations arranged
together to allow said water flow to circulate through the
filter.
[0075] In a first variant embodiment, the perforations each have a
triangular configuration and are entangled relative to each
other.
[0076] This configuration of entangled triangles allows good
diffusion of the aromatic product as the water flow passes through
the diffuser body.
[0077] In a second variant embodiment, the perforations are
substantially oblong and are slightly inclined to promote the
emulsion of the water when the water flow passes through the
filter.
[0078] Preferably, the perforations are disposed in two rows,
optionally head to tail.
[0079] The Applicant has found that such a configuration of
perforations disposed head to tail allowed to emulsify the water in
the main body, which promoted the diffusion of the aromatic product
in the water flow.
[0080] Advantageously, the device comprises a removable and sealed
protective cover covering the receiving case and able to
hermetically close the receiving case when the diffuser body is
inserted into the case.
[0081] Advantageously, the protective cover has on the front a
substantially flat upper portion intended to be visible and having
a marking area for marking information relating to the aromatic
product associated with said diffuser body.
[0082] Alternatively, it is possible to provide a transparent upper
portion allowing to view the cover of the diffuser body on which
information relating to the aromatic product is inscribed.
[0083] Advantageously, the inlet and the outlet of the main body
respectively comprise first and second assembly means able to
cooperate respectively with the outlet of the water flow
distribution system and the inlet of the shower duct for integrally
assembling the main body with the distribution system and the
shower duct.
[0084] Preferably, the first and second assembly means are
configured for assembling the main body with the distribution
system and the shower duct by screwing.
[0085] Preferably, the device according to the present invention
includes seals respectively between the inlet of the main body and
the outlet of the distribution system and between the outlet of
said main body and the inlet of the shower duct.
[0086] Finally, the object of the present invention relates,
according to a third aspect, to an assembly comprising: [0087] a
diffusion device such as that described above, and [0088] at least
one diffuser body such as that described above comprising an
aromatic product A to be diffused in a water flow F.
[0089] Thus, the object of the present invention, by its various
functional and structural aspects described above, provides users
with a diffusion tool which connects to a water circuit and allows
an aromatic product allowing to take an aromatised sanitary water
shower to be diffused in the shower duct.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE APPENDED FIGURES
[0090] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
emerge from the description below, with reference to the appended
FIGS. 1 to 5A-5B, which illustrate an exemplary embodiment thereof
without any limiting nature and on which:
[0091] FIG. 1 shows a schematic top view of a device for diffusing
an aromatic product in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention;
[0092] FIG. 2 shows a schematic perspective sectional view of a
device for diffusing an aromatic product in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0093] FIG. 3 shows a schematic perspective sectional view of a
purifying filter in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0094] FIGS. 4A and 4B each show a perspective sectional diagram of
a diffuser body, in the closed position, according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0095] FIGS. 5A and 5B each show a perspective sectional diagram of
a diffuser body, in the open position, according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION ACCORDING TO AN ADVANTAGEOUS EMBODIMENT
[0096] A device for diffusing an aromatic product according to an
advantageous exemplary embodiment as well as the diffuser body
which is associated therewith will now be described in what follows
with reference jointly to FIGS. 1 to 5A-5B.
[0097] As a reminder, one of the purposes of the present invention
is to design a diffusion system, which is simple to be installed on
a water circuit, allowing to provide a user with an experience of
aromatherapy or equivalent type which is prolonged over time
without having to replace the cartridge system after only a few
showers, as is the case with existing solutions such as for example
in documents WO 2011107221 and WO 2014174191.
[0098] This is made possible by the exemplary embodiment of the
invention described below:
[0099] In the example described here, a diffusion device 100
intended to be mounted on a water circuit of the shower system type
is provided.
[0100] In the example described here, the diffusion device 100 is
specially designed for diffusing an aromatic product A in a water
flow F.
[0101] Here, the aromatic product A comprises aromatic salts.
[0102] It will be understood here that other aromatic products can
be used in the context of the present invention.
[0103] In this example, the device 100 more particularly comprises
a main body 10 having a water flow inlet 10a and outlet 10b.
[0104] The user, alone without an installer, can himself install
the device 100 on the water circuit.
[0105] In this example, the user fixes the main body 10 on the
circuit by connecting the inlet 10a of the main body 10 to the
outlet of a water flow distribution system (for example to the
outlet of the mixing valve, not shown here) and by connecting the
outlet 10b of the main body 10 to the inlet of a shower duct (not
shown here).
[0106] As illustrated in FIG. 2, provision can be made to this end
of a first 12 and second 13 assembly means arranged respectively at
the inlet 10a and the outlet 10b of the body 10 and able to
cooperate respectively with the outlet of the distribution system
and the inlet of the shower duct for integrally assembling the main
body 10 with the distribution system and the shower duct.
[0107] Preferably, the assembly is done by screwing.
[0108] In this example, the first 12 and second 13 assembly means
each include a helical portion of the threading type allowing an
assembly by screwing.
[0109] Here, it is preferable for the user to position seals (not
shown here) between the inlet 10a of the main body 10 and the
outlet of the distribution system and between the outlet 10b of the
main body 10 and the inlet of the shower duct. Such seals ensure
the sealing of the system.
[0110] In this example, the main body 10 is therefore integrally
mounted on the circuit of the shower system.
[0111] It will be understood that alternatively the diffusion
device 100 as designed in the context of the present invention can
also be directly integrated into a diffusion showerhead such as,
for example, a showerhead.
[0112] In the example described here and as illustrated in FIG. 1,
the inlet 10a and outlet 10b of the device 100 are interconnected
by a passage channel 10c. It is understood here that the passage
channel 10c allows the passage of the water flow F from the inlet
10a to the outlet 10b.
[0113] When the user actuates the distribution system, it is then
possible to circulate the water flow F in the water circuit through
the passage channel 10c of the distribution system to the shower
duct.
[0114] The diffusion device 100 is characteristic of the present
invention and allows to overcome the problems encountered so far
when providing an aromatherapy experience to the user.
[0115] In this example, the device 100 has a main body 10
comprising at its centre a receiving case 11 of substantially
cylindrical shape.
[0116] Such a case 11 is configured to receive and position within
the passage channel 10c a purifying filter 20 as well as a diffuser
body 200.
[0117] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the purifying filter 20 is
toroidal in shape: it is also called a "donut" for its shape.
[0118] Such a filter 20 is therefore positioned in the receiving
case 11 against the peripheral walls 11a thereof (FIG. 2).
[0119] Openings 23 and 24 are provided to ensure the flowing of
water from the inlet 10a of the device to the outlet 10b.
[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the purifying filter 20 has a
double skin, namely here an inner peripheral wall 20a and an outer
peripheral wall 20b, said walls 20a-20b defining therebetween a
volume 20c in the shape of a hollow ring wherein ceramic mineral
balls are positioned.
[0121] These balls (not shown here) have the property of purifying
water.
[0122] The water flow circulating through the passage channel 10c
necessarily passes through the purifying filter 20 so that the
water is filtered at the outlet of the device 100.
[0123] The toroidal shape of the filter 20 allows the positioning
of a diffuser body 200 in the central part 20d thereof (FIG.
2).
[0124] As can be seen in FIG. 3, a plurality of through
perforations 22 ensuring communication between the filter 20 and
the diffuser body 200 are provided on the inner peripheral wall 20b
of the filter 20.
[0125] When the diffuser body 200 is positioned in the central part
20d of the filter 20, it is possible to circulate the water flow F
through both said filter 20 and through the diffuser body 200: the
water flow F passing through the passage channel 10c therefore
passes through the central part 20d of the filter 20 (that is to
say the diffuser body 200 placed in this central part) and the
volume 20c of the filter 20. The water flow therefore passes
through the filter 20 and the diffuser body 200.
[0126] In the example described here and illustrated in FIG. 3, the
perforations 22 are disposed in two rows; they are substantially
oblong and slightly inclined.
[0127] Such a configuration ensures a good flow, good diffusion of
the aromatic product A and furthermore allows an emulsion of water
at the outlet 10b of the body 10.
[0128] On a practical level, the user therefore grasps the diffuser
body 200 and positions it in the central part 20d of the filter 20
which is dedicated thereto.
[0129] The diffuser body 20 is therefore positioned by the user in
the body 10 to at least partially obstruct the passage channel
10c.
[0130] In the example described here, the receiving case has a
diameter which is substantially comprised between approximately 18
to 22 millimetres and a height substantially comprised between
approximately 23 to 27 millimetres. Advantageously, the diffuser
body 200 and the filter 20 are dimensioned to be inserted into the
case 11 and to occupy all or part of the volume defined by the
latter.
[0131] The diffuser body 200 has a particular design allowing it to
have two positions: a closed position P1 and an open position
P2.
[0132] The closed position (4A-4B) and the open position (5A-5B)
can be distinguished in the example described here and illustrated
in FIGS. 4A-4B and 5A-5B.
[0133] The closed position P1 illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B
corresponds to a configuration of the body 200 wherein the latter
is sealed avoiding any contact of the aromatic product with the
water flow. Such a configuration allows a storage of the body 200
and guarantees a good preservation of the aromatic properties of
the product A contained in the receptacle.
[0134] The open position P2 illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B, in turn,
corresponds to a configuration of the body 200 wherein the latter
is open thus allowing the water flow to pass therethrough for
infusion of the aromatic product into the water flow.
[0135] Such a position P2 is advantageous when the body 200 is
positioned in the diffusion device 100.
[0136] Ensuring the proper operation of the system in active
configuration and preserving the aromatic properties of the product
A over time is one of the purposes of the present invention.
[0137] Means for holding in position 210, are thus provided,
ensuring that the tubes 201 and 202 are held in position in a
position P1/P2 or in the other.
[0138] In this example, the diffuser body 200 therefore has first
201 and a second 202 hollow tubes and dimensioned relative to each
other to fit into each other and form a receptacle 203 for
receiving the aromatic product A to be diffused in the water flow
F, here for example bath salts.
[0139] To form a box, a cover 201a and a bottom 202a are also
provided.
[0140] In the embodiment described here, the user, by exerting a
pressure on the cover 201a in the direction of the bottom 202a,
causes an elastic deformation of the walls of the box which
disengages the bead 212 provided on the outer periphery of the
outer tube of the groove 211 formed on the inner periphery of the
rim of the cover 201a capping the inner tube.
[0141] By releasing the bead 212 from the groove 211 by a simple
pressure on the cover 201a in the direction of the bottom 202a of
the receptacle, the body is switched from the closed position P1
(FIGS. 4A-4B) to the open position P2 (FIGS. 5A-5B).
[0142] Here, it can be noted that the cooperation of the bead 212
engaged in the groove 211 ensures the sealing of the
receptacle.
[0143] It will be noted in the example described here and
illustrated in FIG. 2, that the outer tube has a substantially
flared shape which allows, when pressure is exerted on the cover,
to bear against the upper peripheral crown 20e of the filter 20. By
bearing in this way on this crown, it is easier for the user to
switch from a closed position P1 to an open position P2.
[0144] In the example described here and as illustrated in FIGS.
4A-4B and 5A-5B, a plurality of through windows 204 and 205 is
provided on the peripheral wall 201b and 202b of the tube.
[0145] In this example, the through windows 204 and 205
respectively are positioned relative to each other so that: [0146]
in the closed position P1, the through windows 204 and 205 are
offset from one another preventing the passage of the water flow F
inside the receptacle 203 (see FIGS. 4A-4B); and [0147] in the open
position P2, the through windows 204 and 205 are facing each other
forming a passage opening allowing the passage of the water flow F
inside the receptacle 203 (see FIGS. 5A-5B).
[0148] Thus, by exerting a pressure on the cover 201a, the windows
204 and 205 are offset so as to align them with one another and
form a passage opening allowing the water flow to circulate through
the receptacle.
[0149] Once the diffuser body 200 is correctly positioned in the
receiving case 11, the user closes the protective cover 30 to
hermetically close the receiving case 11.
[0150] It will be noted here that it is considerable to provide
that it is the closing of the protective cover 30 which pushes the
cover 201a causing the switching from the closed position P1 to the
open position P2.
[0151] Finally, it will be noted that, as illustrated in FIG. 2,
the protective cover 30 comprises on the front a substantially flat
upper portion 0a. This portion is visible. Then, a marking area is
provided therein allowing to mark information relating to the
aromatic product A associated with the diffuser body 20.
[0152] Alternatively, a front can be provided comprising a
transparent portion allowing to view the upper portion of the cover
201a of the diffuser body 200.
[0153] The present invention thus provides the user with the
possibility of benefiting at home (or for example at the hotel)
from a daily aromatherapy experience thanks to the presence of a
diffusion device 100 which is easily mounted on a water
distribution circuit which is accessible by the user and which
allows easy use by freeing access to a receiving case intended to
receive a removable and rechargeable diffuser body, containing an
aromatic product to be diffused in the water flow.
[0154] The design of the diffuser body is characteristic of the
present invention in that it is in the shape of a hermetic capsule,
possibly refillable, the operating principle of which lies in a
system having a dual configuration of both storage and
diffusion.
[0155] The first configuration ensuring a storage which is hermetic
and durable over time allowing the aromatic product to be stored
and avoiding any contact with the water flow, and the second
configuration ensuring the contacting of said aromatic product with
the water flow for an infusion and diffusion of the product into
the water flow.
[0156] The design of the diffuser body, thanks to this system of
hollow tubes which are fitted into each other, ensures the
switching from one configuration to another by the simple exertion
of pressure.
[0157] It is therefore sufficient for the user to position his
capsule or diffuser body 200 in the diffusion device 100 and
actuate the switch from one configuration P1 to the other P2 to
obtain this aromatherapy experience.
[0158] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to
a particular exemplary embodiment of the present invention, but
that in no case does this description have any limiting nature of
the object of the invention; on the contrary, its purpose is to
remove any possible imprecision or any misinterpretation of the
following claims.
[0159] It should also be observed that the reference signs placed
in brackets in the following claims are in no way limiting; the
sole purpose of these signs is to improve the intelligibility and
understanding of the following claims as well as the scope of the
protection sought.
* * * * *