Shower assembly with radial mode changer

A shower assembly having a plurality of spray modes for expelling water includes a housing having a water inflow and a water outflow. The shower assembly provides a manifold defining a cavity having a sidewall. One or more mode apertures formed in the sidewall of the cavity are in fluid communication with the water outflow. A radial mode changer provided in the shower assembly defines a hollow passageway in fluid communication with the water inflow, and further defines a plurality of recessed ports in fluid communication with the hollow passageway. The radial mode changer is rotatably received in the cavity of the manifold and may be rotated relative to the manifold to align at least one of the recessed ports with at least one of the mode apertures for providing flow from the water inflow into the water outflow via the radial mode changer.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technology disclosed herein relates to shower assemblies having several different spray modes.

BACKGROUND

Multi-function shower heads have a plurality of spray modes, including various standard sprays and pulsed sprays. Typically, the spray mode is selected using a control ring positioned around the circumference of the shower head, and moveable with respect to the shower head. The ring is rotated around the shower head to select the desired spray mode. Several problems result from such shower heads. For example, adjusting the control ring structure often requires the user to handle the control ring across the face of the shower head, thereby interfering with the flow from the shower head and producing undesired splashing. Using the control ring may also cause the orientation of the spray head to be adjusted inadvertently. Additionally, such shower heads require that the shape of the shower head be substantially round, and limit the amount of surface area available on the shower head for spray nozzles

Accordingly, a multi-function shower head having a convenient mechanism for selecting spray modes may be provided to address these deficiencies. In addition, a multi-function shower head may allow for flexibility in styling and/or shaping of the shower head. Further, a multi-function shower head may provide an increased surface area available for spray nozzles relative to other shower heads having the same or similar diameter or surface area.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment, a shower assembly for expelling water is configured with a plurality of spray modes. The shower assembly includes a housing having a water inflow and a water outflow. The shower assembly also includes a manifold defining a cavity having a sidewall. One or more mode apertures are formed or disposed in the sidewall of the cavity, correspond to one of a plurality of spray modes and are in fluid communication with the water outflow. The shower assembly further includes a radial mode changer defining a hollow passageway in fluid communication with the inlet flow path, and further defining a plurality of recessed ports in fluid communication with the hollow passageway. The radial mode changer is rotatably received in the cavity of the manifold such that the radial mode changer may be rotated relative to the manifold to align at least one of the recessed ports with at least one of the mode apertures such that water may flow from the water inflow to the water outflow via the radial mode changer. Thus, different spray modes of the shower assembly may be selected via rotation of the radial mode changer, which receives and directs water flow from a position behind spray passageways from which the water flows out of the shower assembly.

In another embodiment, a radial mode engine is provided for expelling water using a plurality of spray modes. The radial mode engine includes a front channel plate having a manifold formed by an annular wall with a number of mode apertures defined in the annular wall. A number of partitions extend from an exterior of the annular wall and define at least two channels, which each correspond to one of the plurality of spray modes. The mode apertures provide fluid communication between the manifold and the at least two channels, and the channels provide a water outflow of the corresponding spray mode. A rear channel plate couples to the front channel plate and encloses the at least two channels to form at least two chambers. A radial mode changer is received in the annular wall and is formed as cylindrical body, which defines a hollow passageway in fluid communication with a water inflow and defines one or more recessed ports in fluid communication with the hollow passageway. When the radial mode changer is rotated relative to the manifold to align one of the recessed ports with one of the mode apertures, water from the water inflow flows through the radial mode changer into one of the chambers to provide water outflow of the corresponding mode. When the radial mode changer is again rotated relative to the manifold, the one or more of the recessed ports aligns with two of the mode apertures such that water from the water inflow flows through the radial mode changer into two of the chambers to provide water outflow of the two corresponding modes.

In yet another embodiment, a radial mode changer is provided for receiving water inflow and directing water to a spray mode chamber of a showerhead having a plurality of spray mode chambers. The radial mode changer includes a cylindrical body formed of a first cylinder and a second cylinder, which is integrally formed with and concentrically arranged around the first cylinder. The second cylinder is sized with a height that is less than a height of the first cylinder. The first cylinder forms a top recessed portion relative to the second cylinder and the first cylinder forms a hollow passageway for receiving water inflow from the top. The second cylinder includes a first and a second annular recessed port extending radially into the cylindrical body from a side of the second cylinder transverse to the top recessed portion. The first and second recessed ports are fluidly connected to the hollow passageway to form a fluid passageway.

These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described illustrative implementations, including best modes contemplated. As it will be realized, modifications in various obvious aspects may be made, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A spray controller for providing several different spray modes of standard sprays and pulsed sprays, alone or in combination, to a shower assembly, e.g., a showerhead, a shower bracket for a hand shower, a diverter valve, a shower arm, or other shower combinations, is provided. Various aspects of this technology are described below with reference to the accompanying figures.

FIG. 1depicts an isometric cross-sectional view of a shower assembly100that includes radial mode changer101for providing spray control. Shower assembly100, in addition to radial mode changer101, includes housing120with water inflow130for receiving water from a water source, water outflow140, front channel plate150, rear channel plate160, and chambers170defined by the interior wall of front and rear channel plates150,160.

According to certain embodiments, radial mode changer101may be an arrangement of two concentric cylinders with an inner cylinder defining an opening at a top, which is connected to the water inlet for receiving water from a water source via water inflow130. Two seals of different sizes defining recessed ports may be funnel shaped and widen from the opening defined in the cylinder and terminate at a side of the cylinder. The fluid passageway defined through the top and side of the concentric cylinders results in water received in the inner cylinder being redirected transverse from the direction the water was received. The water stream entering radial mode changer101may optionally be split into two or more paths via the seals, which deliver the stream or streams of water to water outflow140, where the water exits the shower assembly via one or more spray modes determined by the configuration of interior chamber170and the mode selected by a user operating radial mode changer101.

Housing120is configured to enclose radial mode changer101, and may include an exterior with top surface122and bottom surface124. According to certain implementations, mode changer knob126may extend from the external bottom surface124of housing120and couple to radial mode changer101, such that rotation of knob126slaves and effects rotation of radial mode changer101, and causes radial mode changer101to move among and between one or more spray modes. Operating radial mode changer101may thus be simplified because, for example, rotation of changer knob126coupled to a radial mode changer101is used to effect mode change as opposed to rotation of a component surrounding the entire circumference of the showerhead.

Water inflow130, for delivering water to radial mode changer101, may be configured as handle131with a hollow tubular interior formed by housing120. Handle131may be coupled to a water source (not shown) by a threaded engagement via threading132at receiving end133of handle131. Water inflow130may terminate proximate inflow passageway134, e.g., at or in inflow passageway134, defined by a cylindrical wall sized and shaped to complement or couple to a top portion of radial mode changer101. According to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 1, inflow passageway134extends axially relative to radial mode changer101, and inflow passageway134is configured as a tubular member that may be sealingly coupled around the exterior walls of radial mode changer101. The cylindrical walls of inflow passageway134may at least partially, and closely, receive a top portion of radial mode changer101. Configurations of water inflow130other than a handle may include conduits leading to inflow passageways formed by showerheads, shower brackets for hand showers, diverter valves, and other showerhead combinations, which may complement or may be configured to feed into the radial mode changer101.

Water outflow140is an arrangement of a series of spray nozzles from which water exits the shower assembly100. As water exits radial mode changer101and passes through front channel plate150and rear channel plate160, the water is delivered from shower assembly100via water outflow140. Water outflow140may include nozzles141and apertures142extending below bottom surface124of housing120. According to certain implementations, nozzles141and apertures142may be associated with or integral to front channel plate150.

According toFIG. 1, front channel plate150may be configured with manifold151arranged between water inflow130and water outflow140, so that manifold151is arranged behind an area from which water exits the shower assembly100. That is, manifold151is positioned at a first end of front channel plate150, while the channels defined by partitions156extend or radiate from an outer wall of manifold151towards a second end of the front channel plate150. Manifold151is cylindrically sized and shaped such that cylindrical radial mode changer101may be at least partially seated in an interior or a cavity of manifold151. Manifold151may include an annular wall extending from a top surface of the front channel plate150arranged axially relative to radial mode changer101. A tubular cavity defined by the annular wall of manifold151includes mode apertures152,153, and154(seeFIGS. 3A,3F,5A-5C, and6A-6H) defined by vertically-oriented, annular-shaped walls forming openings arranged in the annular wall of manifold151. Water exiting radial mode changer101passes through one or more mode apertures152,153, and154(each corresponding to an independent spray mode), into channels defined by sidewalls or partitions156in order to deliver water to the water outflow140.

Rear channel plate160, according toFIG. 1, includes a first surface161for affixing to housing120of shower assembly100, and a second surface162configured with a number of vertically arranged sidewalls or partitions166sized and shaped to couple with sidewalls or partitions156from front channel plate150to form continuous chamber walls.

Accordingly, one or more chambers170may be formed by coupling sidewalls or partitions156,166of front channel plate150and rear channel plate160. Chambers170may be sealed with respect to one another and receive water flow from radial mode changer101. As water flows into one or more sealed chambers170, the water is forced through the flow paths formed by the chambers, and exits the output apertures and nozzles configured for a desired spray mode. It will be understood that chambers170may be formed by walls of the front and/or rear channel plate150,160and may include sealing structures, for example O-rings, polymeric seals, portions of the channel plate that mate with another channel plate or other structure that include complementary protruding and recessed structures, or recessed structures configured to receive O-rings or polymeric seals, so as to provide a seal between multiple chambers170and between the chambers170and other portions of shower assembly100.

FIGS. 2A-2Fprovide an isometric view, a bottom plan view, a first side elevation view, a second side elevation view, a vertical cross-section view (taken along line2E-2E inFIG. 2D) and a horizontal cross-section view (taken along line2F-2F inFIG. 2D), respectively, of the radial mode changer101, according to certain embodiments.

According toFIGS. 2A-2F, radial mode changer101is configured as a generally cylindrical structure of two concentric cylinders, and includes top recessed portion102and bottom recessed portion104together forming an inner cylinder, which is separated by body portion106forming an outer cylinder. First open end108defines an entrance to first hollow passageway110through the top recessed portion102of the inner cylinder and second open end111defines an entrance to second hollow passageway112(FIG. 2B) through the bottom recessed portion104, a first recessed port113and second recessed port114(FIG. 2F) defined in the body portion106and fluidly coupled to first hollow passageway110, cut-out115defined in the body portion106, and slot116defined in the bottom recessed portion104.

The top recessed portion102, bottom recessed portion104, and body portion106of radial mode changer101may be configured so that each portion may sit in or receive a component of shower assembly100. According to certain implementations, the body portion106is assembled in manifold151. Such an arrangement provides for the outer wall of body portion106to sealingly engage with the inner wall of manifold151. In this arrangement, at least a portion of top recessed portion102extends beyond the annular walls of manifold151for receiving inflow passageway134. Bottom recessed portion104may be sized and shaped to extend through and out of front channel plate150at an opening1511(seeFIG. 3E) defined by manifold151for receiving a control knob126. It will be understood that one or more portions of radial mode changer101in addition to body portion106may also sealingly engage with the various components of the shower assembly100.

First open end108at top recessed portion102may also extend above manifold151. In this configuration, top recessed portion102, at or near first open end108, may include one or more sections that are recessed radially such that one or more annular ridges117(seeFIG. 2D) extend circumferentially about the top recessed portion102. The annular ridges117may be configured to accommodate an O-ring200(seeFIG. 2J) or a lip seal201with V-shaped annular groove202(seeFIG. 2E) between annular ridges117. This allows the top recessed portion102to sealingly couple to inflow passageway134.

First hollow passageway110arranged at first open end108is formed in an inner cylinder of the two concentric cylinders and extends axially into the body portion106. First hollow passageway110is configured to receive water from inflow passageway134and to be fluidly coupled to recessed ports113,114defined in the body portion106. The interconnection between first hollow passageway110and recessed ports113,114fluidly couples water inflow130to water outflow140.

Second open end111defines an entrance to second hollow passageway112, which extends axially into bottom recessed portion104, but terminates before meeting first hollow passageway110. The second open end111extends out of the front channel plate150via the opening1511defined by manifold151. By way of slot116, the second open end111may engagingly couple with a mode changer knob126(seeFIGS. 1 and 5D) extending from the external bottom surface124of the housing120. Accordingly, rotation of the knob126effects rotation of the radial mode changer101and causes the radial mode changer101move among and between one or more spray modes. In order to provide a sealing engagement between bottom recessed portion and the opening1511, a lip seal204(seeFIG. 2J) may be provided around a circumference of the bottom recessed portion104where manifold151receives the bottom recessed portion104. The arrangement of lip seal204adjacent to the second open end may prevent water from entering the shower assembly from the area of the knob126.

In some embodiments, recessed ports113,114may be formed in the body portion106as a cut-out or concave portion defined by walls the body portion106and may be radially recessed up to the first hollow passageway110. Recessed ports113,114may extend axially along all or a portion of the length of the main body portion106, and may extend longitudinally around a portion of the circumference of the main body portion106. In certain implementations, first recessed port113may extend around the circumference of the body portion106a distance greater or less than the distance in which second recessed port114extends around the body portion106. As illustrated inFIG. 2F, first recessed port113extends around the circumference of body portion106a greater distance than second recessed port114. In another embodiment, first and second recessed ports113,114may extend circumferentially about the body portion106about the same distance. Referring toFIG. 2C, first and second recessed ports113,114may be elliptical. First and second recessed ports113,114may be configured with a shape for facilitating delivery of water to chambers170. For example, the fluid path between first hollow passageway110and first and second recessed ports113,114may expand as it travels radially outward such that the path is generally funnel-shaped. This funnel shape may facilitate directing the water to the apertures in manifold151. In certain implementations, a number of recessed ports, such as three or more recessed ports, may be defined in body portion106. According to further embodiments, and as described in the embodiments below, recessed ports may include sealing components to form one or more tightly fitted fluid connections between the radial mode changer and the manifold151.

FIGS. 2G-Idepict several isometric views of another embodiment of a radial mode changer1001, which provide sealing features between the radial mode changer1001and the shower assembly. According toFIGS. 2G-I, radial mode changer1001includes a first seal cup1020and a second seal cup1030received, respectively, in a first concave recessed port1002and a second concave recessed port1003of radial mode changer1001. In some embodiments, the first and second seal cups1020,1030may have sides and rear faces sized and shaped to be sealingly accommodated in first recessed port1002and second recessed port1003surrounding annular openings1013,1014formed in hollow passageway1010for providing a fluid connection to the seal cups1020,1030from hollow passageway1010. A front face may be sized and shaped to sealingly fit in manifold151when radial mode changer1001is arranged in a shower assembly.

Seal cups1020,1030may include an exit aperture configured to serve as a water conduit between the body of radial mode changer1001and one manifold mode aperture, e.g., mode aperture152,153, or154(SeeFIGS. 3A-3FandFIGS. 6A-6H). Accordingly, the seal cups1020,1030may be sized and shaped to complement the size and shape of the mode aperture. For example, inFIGS. 2G-I, seal cup1030defines exit aperture1031, which serves to deliver water from the radial mode changer1001to one mode aperture, and is sized and shaped to feed directly to a single mode aperture. Where the seal cup is configured to serve as a conduit between the body of radial mode changer1001and one or more mode apertures, e.g., mode aperture152,153, or154, or mode apertures152and153, or152and154, or153and154, or152,153and154, the seal cup exit aperture may define an elongate opening and be supported by a rib so that the aperture feeds to one or multiple mode apertures. Thus, for example, as shown inFIGS. 2G-I, seal cup1020defines exit aperture1021separated by a vertical rib1023to provide support to the seal cup1020. Exit apertures1021,1031may generally funnel-shaped for facilitating directing water to the apertures in manifold151.

In certain implementations, apertures may be arranged about the perimeter of radial mode changer1001at the same height, while in other implementations, apertures may be staggered vertically around the perimeter of radial mode changer1001. In addition, one, two, three, four or more exit apertures1021,1031may be defined in the outer surfaces of the first and second seal cups1020,1030. As will be discussed in greater detail below, exit aperture1021and/or exit aperture1031are fluidly connected to hollow passageway1010and may be utilized simultaneously or individually to deliver water to the water outflow140.

In addition, first and second seal cups1020,1030may be used to form a water-tight seal between the radial mode changer1001and an inner wall of the manifold151such that water may be expelled from radial mode changer1001when one or more mode apertures152,153,154is at least partially aligned with one or more exit apertures1021,1031. Generally, seal cups1020,1030may be formed from a pliable, non-porous material, such as for example, rubber or plastic.

According to certain embodiments, radial mode changer101/1001may include a first open end defining an entrance to first hollow passageway110/1010for enabling water to flow from water inflow130into sealed chambers170via the mode changer101/1001. In this regard, in certain embodiments, water may flow into the radial mode changer101/1001in a direction that is transverse to the direction in which water is expelled from radial mode changer101/1001. For example, as shown inFIG. 1, water may flow into radial mode changer101axially, e.g., vertically, and may flow out of radial mode changer101radially, e.g., horizontally, relative to the rotational axis of the radial mode changer. Additionally, in some implementations, water may be expelled from radial mode changer101/1001in a direction that is transverse to the direction in which water is expelled from the shower assembly100water outflow140. For example, as shown inFIG. 1, water may be expelled from the mode changer101substantially horizontally, and may exit the shower assembly100vertically. Alternatively, the direction water is expelled from the radial mode changer101may be at a desired angle relative to the direction in which water is expelled from the shower assembly100.

Radial mode changer101/1001may be fabricated using any suitable manufacturing methods including: molding, over-molding, injection molding, reaction injection molding, machining, pressing and punching. Additionally, radial mode changer101/1001may be constructed of materials including metal, plastic, rubber, or combinations and variations thereof.

FIGS. 3A-3Eprovide isometric, top, side, bottom and horizontal cross-sectional (along line3E-3E inFIG. 3D) views, respectively, of front channel plate150, according to some embodiments, with radial mode changer101having been removed from the manifold151. Front channel plate150may have an elliptical outer profile such as illustrated inFIGS. 3A-3D. Alternatively, front channel plate150may be configured with a circular, rectangular, polygonal, or other suitable shape. Manifold151includes port holes configured as mode apertures152(see FIG.),153and154. According to some implementations, mode apertures may be aligned horizontally or may be staggered vertically around manifold151. In addition, although mode apertures are depicted as annular openings, mode apertures may be formed into a variety of shapes, e.g., oval shaped, a narrow band, a grouping of openings associated with one channel, and each aperture may be of a different type or shape from the other.FIG. 3Fillustrates horizontal ribs155extending across each mode aperture for providing support to cup seals1020,1030as the radial mode changer1001rotates through the modes in order to prevent cross mode leakage.

Returning toFIGS. 3A-3B, the top surface of the front channel plate150may form a plurality of channels formed by partitions156to direct water received from three mode apertures152,153and154, via radial mode changer101, to the appropriate spray mode apertures as selected by a user. Channels157,158and159may be defined by walls or partitions156extending from the top side of the front channel plate150. As will be described below, complementary walls extending from the bottom side of rear channel plate160may sealingly mate with the walls of front channel plate150to form chambers170.

According to certain embodiments, a first, innermost channel157may be circular in shape and define a portion of the pulsating spray chamber. A second, middle channel158may concentrically surround a majority of first channel157and at least partially define a hard spray chamber. A plurality of hard spray apertures may be formed in second channel158, each hard spray aperture having a similar diameter. Flow from radial mode changer101may be expelled into the second channel158to actuate the hard spray mode. A third, outermost channel159may concentrically surround a majority of second channel158and at least partially define an outer spray chamber. A plurality of outer spray apertures may be formed in third channel159, each outer spray aperture having a similar diameter. Flow from radial mode changer101may be expelled into third channel158to actuate the outer spray mode.

While the present disclosure describes three concentrically arranged channels having a number of outlet apertures formed therein, it should be appreciated that a number of channels having various orientations and numbers of outlet apertures may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A-4Eprovide isometric, top plan, side elevation, bottom plan and vertical cross-sectional (taken along line4E-4E inFIG. 4D) views, respectively, of rear channel plate160, according to certain embodiments. Rear channel plate160may have a shape that is generally complementary to the shape of the front channel plate150, i.e., the front channel plate150and the rear channel plate160have the same or similar circumferential shape. On a top surface161of the rear channel plate160, a plurality of spaced attachment protrusions167may extend in the direction of the housing120, when assembled. Attachment protrusions167may mate with complementary members of the housing120to stabilize the assembly of the front channel plate150and rear channel plate160within the interior of the shower assembly100. In addition, one or more snaps163(seeFIG. 4F) may be provided at a recessed portion169of a ramped region168to provide a flexible snap connection for mating rear channel plate160with the shower assembly housing120, for example.

With respect toFIG. 4D, a bottom view of the rear channel plate160is shown and as previously discussed, second surface162of rear channel plate160may be configured with a number of vertically arranged partitions166sized and shaped to be complementary with partitions156from front channel plate150. Accordingly, partitions166may protrude from the second surface162to define channel walls corresponding to the channel walls provided in front channel plate150. In the assembled shower assembly100, the partitions166of the rear channel plate160sealingly mate with the partitions156of the front channel plate150to form chambers170, which are sealed with respect to one another.

A ramped region168with a recessed portion169may be provided in a portion of the periphery of the rear channel plate160. The ramped region168may correspond with a portion of the front channel plate150adjacent to manifold151in the area of the mode apertures152,153and154. In the assembled shower assembly, the recessed portion169may leave radial mode changer101exposed in order to enable radial mode changer101to form a seal with inflow passageway134.

FIGS. 5A-Bdepict exploded isometric views of a radial mode engine500including a front channel plate150, rear channel plate160, and radial mode changer101. Radial mode engine500provides a compartmentalized assembly enabling shower mode selection in an area behind the water outflow, and may be configured for use in a variety of shower assemblies, in addition to shower assembly100. Radial mode engine may have a variety of configurations. For example, although front channel plate150in radial mode engine500provides manifold151and apertures152,153and154, it will be understood that portions of the manifold may be constructed from rear channel plate160or another structure configured to receive at least a portion of radial mode changer and to engage with the front and or rear channel plate. In addition, manifold151for seating radial mode changer101, may be constructed separately from front and rear channel plate and may sealingly engage with portions of front and/or rear channel plate.

FIG. 5Cprovides an isometric top side view of the radial mode changer101seated in manifold151in a perpendicular fashion relative to the direction of water spray. The manifold151may extend from a top surface of the front channel plate150, be arranged axially relative to the orientation of the radial mode changer101, and define a tubular cavity, which at least partially receives the mode changer101. However, it will be understood that the manifold151and the radial mode changer101may be arranged at a desired angle relative to the direction of water spray, and as a result, the manifold151may extend from the top surface of the front channel plate at a right angle or at a desired angle.

A plurality of mode apertures152,153,154(seeFIGS. 3A-3FandFIGS. 5A-5D) may be formed in a sidewall of the tubular recess of manifold151adjacent channels157,158,159. Depending on the orientation of the mode changer101(i.e., the rotational position a user selects), the mode apertures152,153,154may align with one or more recessed ports113,114or apertures of the mode changer101to actuate different spray modes. As will be described in more detail below, more than one spray mode may be actuated at a time. In one embodiment, manifold151may have a single mode aperture152,153,154, which corresponds to each of the channels157,158,159that form chambers170due to rear channel plate160enclosing the channels to form the three chambers. That is, flow from one of the mode apertures152,153,154supplies flow to one of the three chambers associated with an independent spray mode, e.g., a hard spray, a pulse spray or an outer spray mode. Alternatively, a plurality of mode apertures may correspond to one or more of the chambers.

As depicted inFIG. 5D, top recessed portion102of radial mode changer101may be sized and shaped relative to the inflow passageway134of water inflow130, such that inflow passageway134may receive at least a portion of the top recessed portion102. Thus, according to certain embodiments, a sealed connection may be established between the top recessed portion102and inflow passageway134. In addition or alternatively, to establish a sealed connection between the inflow passageway134and mode changer101, O-ring200may be seated between the annular ridges117such that when the mode changer101is received by the inflow passageway134, at least a portion of the inflow passageway134sealingly abuts the O-ring200. According to alternative implementations, the sealed connection between the inflow passageway134and top recessed portion102may be formed by a lip seal having a V-shaped annular groove formed in a top surface of the lip seal extending circumferentially.

With further reference toFIGS. 5C-D, when the radial mode changer101is assembled in manifold151, an arrangement of three concentric cylinders is provided in which the outer cylinder of radial mode changer101forming body portion106is surrounded by an inner cylinder wall of manifold151at least along a portion of the height of body portion106. Such an arrangement provides for the outer wall of body portion106to sealingly engage with the inner wall of manifold151. In addition inFIG. 5D, radial mode changer further includes seal cup1030, which also provides a sealing engagement between the radial mode changer101and the inner wall of manifold151.

FIGS. 6A-Hprovide a top cross-sectional view of a portion of the front channel plate150and the radial mode changer1001seated in manifold151. In some embodiments, radial mode changer1001may be positioned within the cavity of the manifold151such that the radial mode changer1001may rotate relative to the manifold151. As shown, mode changer1001may define a plurality of flow paths for diverting flow to a desired spray mode upon rotation of radial mode changer1001for alignment of one or both flow paths1110,1210with one more mode apertures152,153and/or154. Spray modes may be selected because first hollow passageway1010of mode changer1001terminates in flow paths1110,1210, each in fluid communication with at least one of the annular openings1013,1014of the first and second recessed ports1002,1003. In this manner, flow from first hollow passageway1010may be channeled into one or more of the chambers157,158,159.

As shown, a first flow path1110may provide flow through annular opening1014to seal cup1030accommodated in recessed port1003surrounding the annular opening1014. Similarly, a second flow path1210may provide flow to annular opening1013so that water flows through seal cup1020accommodated in the recessed port1002surrounding the annular opening1013. InFIGS. 6A-H, the outer surfaces of the seal cups1020,1030may be contoured to seal against the inner wall of the manifold151such that water is expelled from the radial mode changer1001when one or more of the exit apertures1021,1031are at least partially aligned with one or more of the mode apertures152,153,154.

In an alternative embodiment, shower assembly100may be configured to secure radial mode changer1001against rotation. In this embodiment, for example, rotation of other components of the shower assembly100, such as the housing120and/or manifold151, may be rotatable relative to the radial mode changer1001in order to align mode apertures152,153,154with exit apertures1021,1031.

FIGS. 6B-6Hprovide views similar toFIG. 6A, the radial mode changer1001having been rotated to various positions relative to the manifold151corresponding to seven different spray modes including three independent modes, three combination modes and a pause mode. The orientation of exit apertures1021,1031may be configured such that flow at a given time may be provided to each spray mode individually, or any combination of two spray modes.

Referring toFIG. 6B, the radial mode changer1001has been rotated such that exit aperture1021is at least partially aligned with mode aperture154, corresponding to the hard spray chamber158. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010may be directed to the hard spray chamber158and spray may emerge from the nozzles arranged in the hard spray chamber158.

InFIG. 6C, the radial mode changer1001has been rotated for alignment of exit aperture1031with mode aperture152corresponding to the outer spray chamber159. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010may be directed to the outer spray chamber159and spray may emerge from the nozzles arranged on the outer area of the shower head in fluid connection with the outer spray chamber159.

Referring toFIG. 6D, the radial mode changer1001is rotated for exit aperture1031to align with the mode aperture153corresponding to the pulse spray chamber157. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010may be directed to the pulse spray chamber157and pulsed spray may emerge from the apertures formed in the pulse spray chamber157.

In some embodiments, radial mode changer1001, and specifically, exit apertures1021,1031may be configured such that one mode is always at least partially selected allowing for a reduced amount of flow from a spray chamber. Such a configuration aims to prevent “dead-heading” of water flow in the radial mode changer1001. Referring toFIG. 6E, the radial mode changer1001has been rotated so the shower assembly100is in a pause spray mode. In one embodiment, in the pause spray mode, the exit aperture1021may be partially aligned with mode aperture154. Alternatively, in the pause spray mode, either of the exit apertures1021,1031may be partially aligned with any of the mode apertures152,153and/or154.

In some embodiments, radial mode changer1001may be configured so that flow at a given time may be provided to a combination of two or more spray modes. Referring toFIG. 6F, the radial mode changer1001has been rotated such that exit aperture1021is at least partially aligned with mode aperture152, corresponding to the outer spray chamber159, and exit aperture1031is at least partially aligned with mode aperture154, corresponding to the hard spray chamber158. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010is split via mode changer1001into two paths and is directed to both of the outer spray chamber159and the hard spray chamber158. In use, spray may thus emerge from the nozzles formed in the hard spray and outer spray chambers158,159.

Referring toFIG. 6G, the radial mode changer1001has been rotated for partial alignment of exit aperture1021with mode apertures152and153, respectively, corresponding to the outer spray chamber159and pulse spray chamber157. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010is split via mode apertures153and152as the flow from exit aperture1021is directed to both the pulse spray chamber157and the outer spray chamber159, respectively. Accordingly, in use, spray emerges from the nozzles formed in the pulse spray and outer spray chambers157,159.

Referring toFIG. 6H, the radial mode changer1001is rotated to partially align exit aperture1021with mode apertures154,153, corresponding to the pulse spray chamber157and hard spray chamber158, respectively. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway1010emerging from exit aperture1021is split via mode apertures153and154and is directed to both the pulse spray chamber157and hard spray chamber158, respectively, and spray emerges from the nozzles corresponding to the pulse spray and outer spray chambers157,158.

FIG. 7provides a view of an alternative radial mode changer701that may be incorporated into the shower assembly100according to the present disclosure. As illustrated, radial mode changer701is configured similarly to those of previous embodiments. In contrast, however, a recessed port702extends circumferentially around radial mode changer701a greater distance relative to previous embodiments, and has a seal cup720accommodated therein. Seal cup720may be provided with one or multiple exit apertures for providing flow to each of the mode apertures of the manifold. In the embodiment ofFIG. 7, the radial mode changer701may be configured such that in at least one orientation of the mode changer701, flow is provided to each of the pulse spray chamber157, hard spray chamber158, and outer spray chamber159. For example, in one orientation, each of the exit apertures721,722,723may be at least partially aligned with mode apertures152,153,154, corresponding to the hard spray chamber157, pulse spray chamber158, and outer spray chamber159, respectively. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway710may be directed to each the pulse spray chamber157, hard spray chamber158, and outer spray chamber159and spray may emerge from the nozzles formed in the chambers157,158and159. Upon rotation of the radial mode chamber701, two modes may be selected, e.g., outer spray and pulse modes may be engaged when radial mode changer701is rotated counterclockwise, or hard and pulse modes may be engaged when radial mode changer701is rotated clockwise. Alternatively, one mode may be selected upon rotation of radial mode chamber701further in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to align with a single mode aperture so that either hard or outer spray modes may be singly provided.

In some embodiments, rotation of mode changer knob126to effect a change in spray mode is accompanied by tactile indication to a user that a desired spray mode has been achieved. Referring toFIGS. 8A and 8B, the front channel plate800(seeFIG. 8A) may be provided with a plurality of indentations or holes810on annular rim820, while radial mode changer801(seeFIG. 8B) is configured with a passage defined by a protruding annular lip830arranged in a bottom surface of the body portion804. When radial mode changer801is seated on annular rim820in the assembled shower assembly, as the mode changer knob (seeFIG. 1) coupled to radial mode changer801is turned, the annular lip830drops into a hole810providing the user with a tactile indication that the radial mode changer801has changed position. In some embodiments, the indicator arrangement of holes810in annular rim820and annular lip830of radial mode changer801may provide tactile indications that correspond to the exit apertures of the radial mode changer801being aligned with one or more mode apertures. Thus, when one of the holes810receives annular lip830, a predetermined spray mode, such as for example one of the spray modes described inFIGS. 6A-6G, may be established, as indicated by a tactile pause or bump in rotational motion during mode selection.

In use, the various configurations of the radial mode changer, along with the mode changer knob provide advantages that allow a user to select the desired spray mode without having to grasp around the entire perimeter of the shower assembly, which may possibly accidentally adjust the angle or direction the shower assembly is pointing. Additionally, while using a shower assembly configured according to certain embodiments, a user's hand may be less likely to interfere with the spray while adjusting the spray mode via the mode changer knob arranged behind the outflow nozzles, thus avoiding undesired splashing. In addition, because the perimeter of the shower assembly from which water exits need not be rotated to select the spray mode, the configuration of the area from which water outflow is provided is not limited to rotatable designs.

While embodiments are described in the context of a hand-held shower assembly, it will be appreciated that the embodiments may be incorporated into a variety of shower assemblies. For example, a radial mode changer and its associated components may be incorporated into a wall-mount shower head. The wall mount shower head may function similarly to the hand-held shower assembly, except that a wall-protruding water pipe may be coupled to a threaded water inflow assembly.

Shower assemblies, and the components thereof, may be fabricated using any suitable manufacturing methods including, without limitation, molding, injection molding, reaction injection molding, machining, pressing and punching. Additionally, components forming shower assemblies may be constructed of materials such as for example, metal, plastic, rubber, or combinations and variations thereof.

From the above description and drawings, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the particular embodiments shown and described are for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. References to details of particular embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.