Abstract:
The present invention provides a water saving showerhead that allows a bather to switch among at least three different water delivery functions. In the first function, the showerhead delivers a concentrated fluttering spray. In the second function, the showerhead delivers a combined spray pattern, wherein the fluttering spray and a radially dispersed precision spray are simultaneously delivered to the bather. In the third function, the showerhead delivers the precision spray pattern. The combination spray pattern is effected without compromising either the desirable massaging and cleaning effect of water delivery or the inherent water conservation benefits. In addition, the showerhead of the present invention provides an automatic return feature for return of the showerhead to the first function when water pressure to the showerhead falls below a predetermined bottom threshold.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/791,747, filed Apr. 13, 2006. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention is directed to a multifunctional showerhead assembly that accommodates at least two water flow patterns to achieve optimal water conservation. More particularly, the present invention is a dual flow showerhead incorporating an impeller for delivery of discrete water droplets in a radial pattern such that an inner pattern delivers a concentrated spray at a first predetermined flow rate and an outer pattern delivers a radiating spray at a second, higher predetermined flow rate. Both sprays may be employed such that the combined flow rate delivered by the showerhead does not exceed the second predetermined flow rate, thereby achieving tactilely desirable flow without excessive water consumption. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Individuals have long recognized the therapeutic benefits of massage for treatment of numerous physical and psychological maladies and also for attainment of general wellness. Massage in its numerous forms is a well-accepted means of reducing stress and aiding relaxation, relieving muscle tension and stiffness, enhancing athletic performance, alleviating depression and anxiety, reducing exacerbated respiratory and pulmonary rates, lowering blood pressure, alleviating musculoskeletal pain, increasing blood circulation and lymph flow, improving range of motion, enhancing health and nourishment of the skin and increasing endorphins (source: American Massage Therapy Association, www.amtamassage.org). As people all over the world engage in increasingly hectic schedules, there is an escalating need and desire for pampering and treatment from readily accessible sources found in the home and workplace. 
     Sanitary manufacturers increasingly recognize consumers&#39; desire to derive the benefits of massage during daily activities such as bathing and showering. Delivery of water to the skin is inherently pleasant and provides the potential for enhanced pampering, rather than mere cleansing, in the bathroom. Such manufacturers have developed numerous sanitary products, such as showerheads and handsprays, which generate various massage effects (i.e., shiatsu, acupressure, deep tissue, etc.) and deliver such effects in combination with a plurality of water delivery options (i.e., hard and soft pulsing sprays, widely dispersed sprays, concentrated sprays, etc.). 
     See, for instance, U.S. Pat. No. 3,485,451 to Gore et al. (“Gore”) that discloses a shower head for simultaneous discharge of water in two different patterns. An outer spray stream is discharged in a pulsating linear direction so as to assume a conical hollow shape, and an inner stream is discharged in a rotating helix. Gore achieves this dual stream delivery via employment of a rotatable rotor that is actuated via fluid force of water passing through the showerhead. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,801,019 and 3,958,756, both to Trenary et al., disclose a shower head that delivers three types of sprays upon selection of the user. In a first operating mode, the disclosed shower head provides an all-continuous spray in which all water from the shower head is discharged in continuous uninterrupted streams. In a second operating mode, the shower head delivers an all-pulsating spray wherein all water is discharged in pulsating or cyclically interrupted streams. In a third operating mode, the user can select a combination spray, wherein a portion of the water is delivered in continuous streams while the remaining portion is discharged as a pulsating spray. A rotating impeller is employed to effect pulsating water delivery in the second and third operating modes, wherein the rate of impeller rotation may be altered to achieve corresponding fluctuation in pulsation, as desired by the user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,079,891 to Kwan discloses a spray nozzle for a showerhead wherein a rotating turbine provides a pulsating spray in combination with structure that provides a continuous spray. The spray nozzle is controlled by a user to deliver one of the continuous spray, the pulsating spray or a variable combination of both spray types. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,294,054 to Benedict et al. discloses an adjustable showerhead assembly that is operable in a push-pull manner to obtain one of several spray characteristics. A first operation mode delivers a whirling massage action wherein fluid discharge nozzles are rotatably carried by a rotating outer housing, and a second operation mode wherein the outer housing remains fixed to provide a conventional shower spray pattern. An impeller disposed in the outer housing effects rotation thereof via delivery of water through the showerhead assembly. The turbine member can assume one of several embodiments, including but not limited to blades or turbine wheels, arcuate conduits and molded fluid conveying channels. The showerhead assembly may be modified by incorporating a pressure regulator that restricts, but does not terminate, water flow upon experiencing an increase in water pressure. The showerhead assembly thereby achieves both operational modes while conserving water resources. 
     Although the aforementioned devices successfully deliver desirable massage effects to the user, none of the disclosed devices addresses the increasing need for water conservation. The excessive consumption of potable water remains a dilemma for water agencies, commercial building owners, homeowners, residents, members of the hospitality industry and sanitaryware manufacturers. An increasing global population has negatively affected the amount and quality of suitable water. Effluents in water supplies and increasing air pollutants have drastically altered fresh water supplies. The propensity for drought in previously fertile geographies has reinforced global concern over responsible water consumption. The drive for optimum water conservation strategies, however, typically yields to the overriding need to sustain a healthy population through the enactment and enforcement of plumbing codes and the installation of sanitary plumbing fixtures that are compliant therewith. 
     In an effort to execute water conservation strategies, many sanitaryware manufacturers have introduced a variety of low water fittings such as showerheads, faucets, bath fillers and the like (collectively, “sanitary fittings”). It is well understood that bath shower valves deliver water to showerheads in excessive amounts that must be restricted or otherwise controlled at the showerhead output. In a common household, wherein two-thirds of all indoor water use is attributable to bathing and toilet flushing, installation of water conservation devices comprises an important step toward water efficiency. Showerheads that conserve water are particularly desirable, since such showerheads typically use 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) or less at 80 PSI (as compared with 50 to 80 gallons consumed during an average bath) (see ANSI Standard A112.18.1-2003 which establishes the maximum flow rate for showerheads). Many such designs still use an inordinate amount of water, especially in consideration of contemporary water conservation efforts. 
     Multiple efforts have been made to provide sufficient water delivery for bathing without compromising water conservation objectives. U.S. Pat. No. 4,190,207 to Feinhold et al., for example, discloses a pulsating spray nozzle for a shower head that employs a forced-vortex turbine. The turbine has a plurality of blades that are driven by water impinging thereon such that the rate of rotation is dependent upon the water flow rate. The spray nozzle operates in continuous, pulsating and combination spray modes via operation of a control ring in communication with a shutter plate that selectively obstructs fluid flow corresponding to actuation of the control ring. A regulator is provided that limits the water flow rate to a predetermined maximum (disclosed at about 1.8 GPM) upon an increase in water pressure beyond a selected level. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,303,201 to Elkins et al. (“Elkins”) discloses a showering system that delivers steam in combination with a continuous, pulsating or combination spray pattern. A control plate allows the user to select the desired spray pattern, speed of pulsation (i.e. fast and slow) and degree of pulse perception (i.e., hard and soft) to achieve a desired massage effect. In a preferred embodiment, the Elkins shower system delivers approximately 3.7 GPM in a hard pulse mode and 2.0 GPM in a soft pulse mode (although Elkins does not address whether separate spray streams can be limited to a maximum flow rate so as to limit the overall flow rate of the showerhead to a predetermined maximum). 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,346,844 to Harmony discloses an aerated pulsating shower head wherein a stream of water is split into two paths and the proportional water flow in each path is selectively variable. The first water path is discharged in the form of a cone-shaped spray, and the second water path is delivered to a chamber having a rotor disposed therein for pulsating water delivery. At an upstream location of the split in the water path, an introduction of air reduces the quantity of water flow without an apparent ware flow reduction felt by the user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,588,130 to Trenary et al. discloses a showerhead having multiple operational modes to selectively deliver continuous, pulsating and combination sprays. Pulses may be selectively delivered in fast and slow modes such that, in the fast mode, the showerhead delivers about 1.9 GPM. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,215,258 to Jurisch discloses a showerhead having selective operational modes effected by employment of a turbine member. A spray pattern head orbits a central location in the showerhead upon rotation of a spray selection dial to distribute water over a user&#39;s body without exceeding a showerhead delivery rate of 2.5 GPM. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,577,664, 5,938,123 and 6,126,091 to Heitzman disclose a showerhead having variable flow rates, pulsation and spray patterns available for selection by a user. U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,664 discloses a showerhead having a selective automatic cycling feature wherein the flow rates cycles between high and low flow rates to realize water savings up to 25% over prior art showerheads and simultaneously provide different spray sensations to the user. The cycling flow rate is used in combination with a water pulsation function that fluctuates between high and low pulsation rates (although full pulsation mat be selected without cycling) and/or concentrated and wide spray patterns. 
     A pair of rotary valve members is provided, each having a turbine wheel driven by waster flow through the showerhead. The disclosed showerhead can cycle between a low flow rate such as 2.25 GPM and a high flow rate such as 3.0 GPM during the cycle. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,123 to Heitzman discloses a showerhead having continuous or cycling flow rates either alone or in combination with fast or slow pulsations and/or variable spray patterns. A pulsating turbine is provided as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,664 of Heitzman such that rotation of a control ring effects the desired spray effect at the desired rates of pulsation and flow. At low pulsation speeds, the water cycle produces a flow rate of between about 3.5 GPM and 1.5 GPM, resulting in a desired average of 2.5 GPM for the duration of the cycle. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,091 to Heitzman discloses a showerhead with variable pulsation and flow rates incorporating the turbine member of U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,664. The showerhead includes a housing and a valve body having axial and diametrical ports extending therethrough. 
     The valve member is eccentrically positioned such that the water flow rate between a high flow rate such as 3.5 GPM and a low flow rate such as 1.5 GPM when housing ports and valve body ports are in alignment (during the lowest water flow rate, the flow rate will vary, for example, between 2.5 GPM and 1.0 GPM to provide an average flow rate of 1.75 GPM). When a user desires to bypass the variable flow rate function, a continuous flow of 2.5 GPM may be selected. The variable flow rates provide different shower sensations of differing intensity without exceeding the generally accepted water delivery limits of 2.5 GPM during cycling. 
     The above cited devices and their conventional counterparts achieve their water conservation objectives without sacrificing the option to combine showerhead functions (i.e., selection of continuous, pulsating and combination sprays at variable flow rates and arrays). These water conservation showerheads, however, require the bather to select between a concentrated spray pattern (which is desirable to target specific regions on the body) and a radial or “normal” spray pattern (typically desired for total body coverage) regardless of desired flow rate. The disclosed flow rates of these devices are obtained by taking an average along all spray modes, thereby continuing the undesirable overconsumption of potable water. 
     In addition, none of these devices incorporates an automatic return function wherein the showerhead, at the conclusion of a shower event, automatically returns to a water conservation mode. In this mode, the shower disperses the lowest flow volume to realize optimal water conservation benefits. A showerhead that automatically returns to this mode will, at the initiation of subsequent shower events, immediately operate in the water saver mode. A showerhead can be adapted to operate in this mode at the start of each shower event and simultaneously provide desired water massaging effects while in this mode. 
     It is therefore desirable to provide a showerhead that substantially reduces consumption of potable water without comprising showerhead performance. It is further desirable to provide a showerhead that automatically returns to a water conservation mode yet generates pleasing massage effects while in that mode. Such a showerhead uses minimal water amounts to achieve multiple effective spray patterns and thereby maintain optimal functionality. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an advantage of the present invention to provide a showerhead assembly that realizes optimum water conservation. 
     It is another advantage of the present invention to provide such a showerhead assembly with multiple shower spray modes without sacrificing the assembly&#39;s advantageous conservation features. 
     It is a further advantage of the present invention to provide a showerhead assembly to achieve dual water flow capability in combination with the multiple water spray modes. 
     It is still a further advantage of the present invention to provide a showerhead assembly that automatically assumes a water conservation mode upon initiation of showerhead operation. 
     In the achievement of these and other advantages, the present invention provides a showerhead wherein a dial, lever, button or other actuation member allows a bather to switch among at least three different water delivery functions. The first function comprises sole delivery of a concentrated fluttering spray by a turbine at a first predetermined lower water flow rate not to exceed 1.5 GPM. The second function comprises delivery of a combined spray pattern, wherein the fluttering spray and a radially dispersed precision spray are simultaneously delivered to the bather at a second predetermined water flow rate not to exceed 2.5 GPM for the combined water flow. The third function comprises delivery of the radially dispersed precision spray through corresponding spray apertures at a third predetermined water flow rate not to exceed 2.5 GPM. The combination spray pattern is effected without compromising either the desirable massaging and cleaning effect of water delivery or the inherent water conservation benefits. 
     In addition, the showerhead of the present invention provides an automatic return feature wherein the showerhead instantly returns to its first optimal water saving mode upon completion of a shower event. The showerhead of the present invention is initially set to the first water saver mode to provide a desirable massaging spray to the user. In selecting among the three spray modes, the user receives tactile feedback that ensures proper selection of the desired mode and thereby prohibits undesirable water usage. The user also receives visual confirmation via alignment of an actuation member and at least one index corresponding to at least one of the spray modes. When water delivery to the showerhead is discontinued, or alternatively when water pressure falls below a predetermined bottom threshold, the showerhead automatically returns to its initial position in the water saving mode to eliminate the waste of potable water during consecutive shower events. Such conservation measures are achieved without detriment to the pleasing sensations delivered in each of the three spray modes. 
     The present invention showerhead can assume the aesthetic appearance and size of conventional showerheads so that the invention is readily installed in existing commercial or residential bathrooms, hotels, hospitality venues, locker rooms and the like. The present invention can therefore also coexist alongside conventional showerheads or completely replace such showerheads without changing the number of showerheads or the structural integrity of the water delivery system in fluid communication therewith. 
     Various other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a multifunction showerhead according to the present invention. 
         FIGS. 2 and 3  show sectional and front sectional views, respectively, of the multifunction showerhead of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  shows an exploded half-sectional view of the multifunction showerhead of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of a cartridge housing and reverse ring assembly used in the multifunction showerhead of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  shows an enlarged schematic view of a cartridge assembly and cartridge disc used in the multifunction showerhead of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  shows an enlarged partial sectional view of a clutch pin and detent feature used with the multifunction showerhead of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  shows a top view of a cartridge disc with detent recesses used in the multifunction showerhead of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Now referring to the figures, wherein like numerals identify like elements,  FIG. 1  shows a showerhead  10  of the present invention having a housing  12  pivotably secured to a ball joint  14 . Housing  12  includes a shell nut  16  that may be integral with or detachably fastened to one or both of an intermediate main shell portion  18  and an outer face plate  20 , all of which cooperate to accommodate the operative elements of showerhead  10 . Although housing  12  is shown in a generally frustoconical configuration, it is understood that housing  12  or any portion thereof can assume any geometry or aesthetic effect that facilitates successful operation of the present invention. 
     Outer face plate  20  forming part of the showerhead housing is provided at a distal extent  18   b  of main shell  18  and has a rotatable actuation member  22  operative thereadjacent. Actuation member  22  is provided in freely rotatable registry with outer face plate  20  and includes at least one grasping portion  24  that accommodates placement of one or more digits thereon and effects rotation of the actuation member relative to the outer face plate. Actuation member  22  may also include at least one optional indicator  26  that provides visual confirmation of the selection of shower mode. Indicator  26  may be provided in combination with corresponding indices  28 ,  28   a  and  28   b  provided on outer face plate  20  (see  FIG. 1 , wherein index  28  refers to a first pulse only mode, index  28   a  refers to a combination spray/pulse mode and index  28   b  refers to a third spray only mode, as further described hereinbelow). The indices are not limited to the number and configuration shown in  FIG. 1  and may employ any combination of colors, pictures, tactile elements or the like to ensure alignment between at least one indicator  26  and a selected index (thereby ensuring corresponding selection of the desired spray mode). 
     Operation of actuation member  22  effects selection of the desired flow rates for showerhead  10  as further described hereinbelow. Ball joint  14  includes a filter  30  disposed therein and a nozzle  32  defined therethrough. Ball joint  14  has a proximal extent  14   a  fixed to a fluid delivery conduit (i.e., a cantilever-type arm, not shown) that establishes fluid communication between a water delivery source and ball joint  14 . Water entering ball joint  14  in the direction shown in  FIG. 3  traverses filter  30 , whereupon the filter removes undesirable effluents from water passing therethrough. Water exits ball joint  14  at nozzle  32  that is disposed at ball joint distal extent  14   b  for consistent and predictable delivery to showerhead  10 , regardless of the orientation of housing  12  relative to the ball joint. An interfering sealing means such as O-ring  29  is desirably disposed adjacent ball joint distal extent  14   b  to impede showerhead rotation upon operation of actuation member  22 . 
     Shell nut  16  has a proximal extent  16   a  adjacent ball joint  14  and an opposed bottom extent  16   b  adjacent main shell  18 . Proximal shell nut extent  16   a  and distal shell nut extent  16   b  have a coextensive wall  16   c  of predetermined height defined by an outer peripheral surface  16   c ′ and an inner peripheral surface  16   c ″. An annular rim  16   d  provided at proximal shell nut extent  16   a  engages ball joint  14  such that ball joint  14  is pivotably received in a receiving region  16   e  defined by inner peripheral surface  16   c ″. Orientation of showerhead  10  is effected by manual pivoting of the showerhead relative to the fixed ball joint (although electronic positioning means may be employed as is known in the art). 
     If shell nut  16  and main shell  18  are not constructed as an integral unit, inner peripheral surface  16   c ″ may also include means for engagement of the shell nut and the main shell. As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , inner peripheral surface  16   c ″ has an annular shoulder  16   f  that engages a corresponding annular extension  18   e  on main shell  18  (as further described hereinbelow) with a sealing member such as O-ring  29  disposed adjacent such engagement to obstruct flow of water thereat. Such configuration ensures engagement of shell nut  16  with main shell  18  and may be further secured with selective application of an adhesive or epoxy. Additional engagement means is shown in the form of a plurality of threads  31  provided along inner peripheral surface  16   c ″ for engagement with corresponding threads  33  on annular extension  18   e . Engagement of shell nut  16  and main shell  18  is not limited to the aforementioned and described securement methods, and any known engagement means may be employed that accommodates successful operation of the present invention. 
     Bottom shell nut extent  16   b  is supported adjacent a top extent  18   a  of main shell  18  and more particularly a top surface  18   a ′ thereof. Top main shell extent  18   a  and an opposed bottom extent  18   b  have a coextensive, generally frustoconical wall  18   c  of predetermined height defined therebetween (although wall  18   c  can assume any known geometry that is amenable to the practice of the present invention). Main shell wall  18   c  has an outer peripheral surface  18   c ′ upon which desired aesthetic effects are provided (including but not limited to finishes, etchings, appliqués and any combination thereof) and an inner peripheral surface  18   c ″ delineating a main housing region  18   d  in which the operational elements of showerhead  10  are lodged (as further described hereinbelow). 
     An annular extension  18   e  protrudes generally normally relative to main shell top surface  18   a ′ and has a lumen  18   e ′ to accommodate water flow therethrough. Main shell top surface  18   a ′ supports bottom shell nut extent  16   b  such that receiving region  16   e  of shell nut  16  accommodates annular extension  18   e  therein, such accommodation being effecting by threaded engagement, snap-fit engagement, epoxy or alternative comparable means as described hereinabove. 
     Top main shell extent  18   a  further includes an opposed bottom surface  18   a ″ from which a depending extension  18   f  protrudes generally normally. Depending extension  18   f  has a receiving aperture  18   g  defined therein that accommodates additional elements of showerhead  10  (as further described below) Annular extension  18   e  and depending extension  18   f  are concentrically arranged such that an unoccluded fluid flow path is provided from ball joint  14  to depending extension  18   f  and more particularly to cartridge assembly  40  adjacent thereto. 
     Cartridge assembly  40  includes a cartridge housing  42  having an elongate cylindrical body  44  that terminates at an annular flange  46  provided at a distal extent  44   b  thereof. A generally cylindrical wall  48  of predetermined length extends from distal extent  44   b  to an opposed proximal extent  44   a  and is coextensive therewith. Cartridge body wall  48  has an outer peripheral surface  48   a  along which a biasing spring  50  is coaxially disposed and in which a guide recess  52  is provided in a generally helical configuration along at least a portion of the length of cartridge body wall  48  (see  FIG. 5 ). 
     Cartridge body wall  48  also has an inner peripheral surface  48   b  that delineates an operating region  54  wherein operable members  55  of cartridge assembly  40  are lodged. A generally annular cartridge holder  56  is provided in operating region  54  at cartridge body proximal extent  44   a  such that an annular wall  56   a  of cartridge holder  56  is coaxially disposed relative to annular extension  18   e  and depending extension  18   f  (see  FIGS. 2 and 3 ). Cartridge holder  56  is removably fastened in receiving aperture  18   g  via insertable or snap tight engagement, threaded engagement (such as threaded screw member  60  shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ), adhesive engagement or by any fastening means that is known in the art for assembling showerhead components. An axial lumen defined through cartridge holder  56  accommodates screw member  60  or a like fastening member thereby. 
     Annular cartridge holder wall  56   a  depends upwardly from an annular flange  56   b  having a top surface  56   b ′ that communicates with depending extension  18   f  and a bottom surface  56   b ″ in communication with an adjacent cartridge disc  62 . As further shown in  FIG. 6 , one or more notches or recesses  64  may be defined along an outer surface of cartridge holder annular wall  56   a  for cooperating engagement with at least one corresponding flange provided in receiving aperture  18   g  for additional securement of cartridge holder  56  in cartridge assembly  40 . In addition, a sealing member such as an O-ring may be placed adjacent annular flange  56   b  or bottom surface  56   b ″ thereof for additional sealing benefits. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , a clutch operating region  70  having a clutch  70   a  is provided that is offset from the axial lumen defined in cartridge holder  56 . The parameters of clutch operating region  70  are delineated by annular wall  56   a  and flange top surface  56   b ′. A clutch pin  72  is provided in clutch operating region  70  having a head portion  72   a  and a depending tail portion  72   b  along which a spring  73  is provided in operable communication with the clutch pin. Clutch pin  72  engages cartridge disc  62  and more particularly at least one recess  63  defined in a top surface  62   a  thereof). Top disc surface  62   a  desirably includes a plurality of recesses  63  that accommodate placement of clutch pin  72  therein and may selectively include at least one groove  69 . Each groove  69  accommodates fluid runoff of top disc surface  62   a  and thereby alleviates undesirable fluid pressure thereat. Although clutch pin tail portion  72   b  is shown as having a generally rounded extent that cooperates with a corresponding recess  63 , it is understood that tail portion  72   b  can assume alternative embodiments (as shown in  FIG. 7 ) for cooperation with the cartridge disc recess. 
     Movement of cartridge disc  62  relative to cartridge holder  56  during operation of showerhead  10  adjusts the position of each recess  63  relative to clutch pin  72 . In each position, the operation of showerhead  10  changes to achieve a desired and predictable shower pattern. The inclusion of a detent feature, which is triggered upon operation of actuation member  22  and enhanced by alignment with indices  28 ,  28   a  and  28   b , provides an audible and tactile feedback to the bather upon selection of the desired shower mode. 
     Cartridge disc  62  with detent recesses  63  defined thereon, is designed such that the protrusion of clutch pin tail portion  72   b  will align with corresponding recesses  63 . The action of cartridge disc  62  is such that as the cartridge disc rotates upon rotation of actuation member  22 , thereby pushing clutch pin  72  inward along spring  73 . As actuation member  22  reaches an indexed location, clutch pin tail portion  72   b  is biased by spring  73  into a detent recess  63 . This results in a physical “snap” action that is felt and heard by the bather, thereby providing sensory confirmation of proper selection of the desired spray mode. 
     Also offset from the axial lumen is at least one, and desirably two, sealing regions  80  provided in cartridge holder  56 . Each sealing region  80  has a resilient cup seal member  82  disposed therein in combination with a spring  83  (see  FIG. 6 ). Each cup seal member  82  comes into alternating registry with at least one corresponding aperture  67  defined through cartridge disc  62  as cartridge disc  62  rotates relative to fixed cartridge holder  56  when showerhead  10  is in operation. In a preferred embodiment shown in detail in  FIG. 8 , three apertures  67  are provided in cartridge disc  62  such that consecutive apertures are separated by a minimum predetermined distance D. Springs  83  disposed along cup seal members  82  eliminate the need for a separate check valve and thereby eliminate the expense and maintenance associated with such check valves to the benefit of the manufacturer, installer and consumer. 
     A cartridge  90  that is also provided in operating region  54  is coaxially disposed relative to cartridge housing  42  and detachably fastened thereto such that rotation of cartridge disc  62  remains unimpeded. Cartridge  90  has an annular flange  92  with a top surface  92   a  in communication with a bottom surface  62   b  of cartridge disc  62  and an opposed bottom flange surface  92   b . Top flange surface  92   a  has an upper annular wall  94  extending upwardly therefrom, and bottom flange surface  92   b  has a lower annular wall  96  extending generally downwardly therefrom. Upper annular wall  94  delineates at least one fluid ingress  98  therein to accommodate fluid flow through a cartridge aperture  67  in alignment therewith. At least one such fluid ingress  98  may selectively have a flow regulator disposed thereat that is selected from one of a plurality of commercially available flow regulators such as those sold under the trademark NEOPERL (NEOPERL is a registered trademark of Neoperl Servisys AG Corporation, Switzerland). 
     Lower annular wall  96  further delineates an engagement region wherein a face plate  100  is detachably secured. Face plate  100  has a distal extent  100   b  at which an annular face portion  102  is provided. Annular face portion  102  includes fluid delivery surface  102   a  having a plurality of fluid delivery ports  104  defined therethrough. Fluid delivery ports  104  accommodate insertion of corresponding nozzles  106  therethrough, which nozzles may be dispersed along an annular nozzle ring  108 . Nozzle ring  108  is disposed adjacent a fluid impingement surface  102   b  opposed to fluid delivery surface  102   a  of annular face portion  102  and may be secured via a water-repellant epoxy or equivalent means. Securement of face plate  100  with cartridge assembly  40  (or more particularly with cartridge housing  12  as shown in  FIG. 3 ) may be effected by threaded engagement as shown or alternatively by any known securement means that is amenable to the practice of the present invention. 
     Face plate  100  further includes a cylindrical extension  110  depending from fluid impingement surface  102   b . Extension  110  has an outer peripheral surface  112  with an annular shoulder  114  defined thereat for engagement with a corresponding annular shoulder  116  defined at a distalmost extent of lower annular cartridge wall  96 . A predefined gap x is provided between face plate extension shoulder  114  and annular shoulder  116  to accommodate elevation of the former relative to the latter during operation of showerhead  10  (see  FIG. 7 ). In the alternative, corresponding threads may be defined along outer peripheral surface  112  and an inside peripheral surface of cartridge wall  96  for mutual threaded engagement. 
     A lumen  120  defined in face plate extension  110  terminates in a platform  122  having an upper surface  122   a  and a lower surface  122   b . Upper platform surface  122   a  supports a compression plate  126  thereon that biases face plate  100  toward cartridge housing distal extent  44   b  (see  FIGS. 2 and 3 ). Compression plate  126  has an axial aperture  128  defined therethrough that establishes fluid communication with at least one fluid aperture defined through platform  122 . 
     A rotating turbine member  130  is affixed to platform  122  via a rivet  131  or comparable fixation member such that fluid flows through the platform apertures (not shown) and impinges turbine blades  132 , consequently causing rotation of turbine member  130 . Showerhead  10  desirably employs a turbine as taught by U.S. Pat. No. 7,066,407 to Lu (hereinafter referred to as “Lu” and incorporated in its entirety by reference herein). Lu shows a shower head assembly having an outer housing with an inner housing mounted thereon. The inner housing includes a mediate portion characterized by a separation wall having a plurality of ejection holes through which water passes. A catch cap disposed on a first side of the separation wall has an air chamber in communication with the ejection holes and further in communication with a water inlet hole. An impeller is rotatably mounted on a second side of the separation wall and has a plurality of blades selectively aligning with the ejection holes. The impeller is rotatably mounted on a pivot shaft and removably mounted thereon by a fastener such as a retaining pin. In operation, water from a water delivery source travels to a universal connector passage for delivery to the inner housing. Water further traverses the water inlet hole, the air chamber, the ejection holes and the impeller for outward radial ejection from the outer housing and delivery to a bather. As the water flow causes rotation of the impeller, water drops outward along the blades in discrete portions to provide an enjoyable fluttering effect for the bather. This fluttering effect is achieved at a constant flow rate of no more than 2.0 GPM when used as the sole water delivery mechanism (although water delivery is limited to no more than 1.5 GPM when the second combined spray mode is selected, as further described hereinbelow). Thus, introduction of the water flow through the water inlet hole into the air chamber reduces the water flow rate to achieve water conservation benefits. In addition, water is ejected from the ejection holes in an atomized manner to create a pleasing tactile spray for the bather. 
     A reversing mechanism such as reverse ring  134  is disposed along cartridge body wall  48  and supported by annular flange  46  when showerhead  10  is not in operation. Reverse ring  134  is generally an annular member having an outer wall  134   a  and an inner wall  134   b  having an engagement means such as inclined notch  135  integrally defined thereon (see  FIGS. 4 and 5 ). Notch  135  cooperates with a corresponding guide means such as helical guide recess  52  defined on cartridge body wall  48 . In this configuration, actuation of rotatable actuation member  22  compresses biasing spring  50  and thereby effects linear displacement of the reverse ring relative to the cartridge body wall (and consequent rotation of cartridge disc  62  to effect successive alignment of recesses  63  relative to clutch pin  72  and obtain a desired spray mode thereby). 
     A user of showerhead  10  may select from one of three different flow rates for delivery of desired water massage action without compromise of water conservation benefits. Referring to  FIG. 1 , in the first fluttering spray, “optimal water saver” mode (designated by index  28 ), clutch pin  72  is in registry with a detent recess  63  such that a cup seal member  82  is in registry with one cartridge disc aperture  67 . In this first mode, no more than about 2.0 GPM (5.7 L/min) at 80 PSI is delivered to turbine member  130 . In the second combination fluttering and precision spray mode (designated by index  28   a ), rotation of cartridge disc  62  in the direction of arrow A (see  FIG. 6 ) brings clutch pin  72  into registry with a second detent recess  63  that corresponds to placement of two cup seal members in registry with two corresponding cartridge disc apertures  67 . In this second mode, no more than about 1.5 GPM (5.7 L/min) is delivered to turbine member  130  (as provided in the first mode) and no more than about 1.0 GPM (3.8 L/min) is delivered to spray nozzles  106  simultaneously. In the third precision spray mode (designated by index  28   b ), further rotation of cartridge disc  62  in the direction of arrow A causes clutch pin  72  to engage a third detent recess  63  that corresponds to a third “spray only” mode in which water is delivered at no more than about 2.5 GPM (9.5 L/min) to spray nozzles  106 . All of these modes are operated in a normal pressure range of about 20 to 80 psi to ensure that a cumulative water amount of no more than about 2.5 GPM (9.6 L/min) is ever delivered during use of showerhead  10 . Apertures  67  overlap fluid ingress  98  by a predetermined parameter to ensure controlled leakage and thereby alleviate pressure between cartridge disc  62  and cartridge holder  56 . 
     In operation, showerhead  10  is initially in the first mode wherein water is initially delivered at no more than about 1.5 GPM to turbine member  130  to derive a concentrated fluttering spray effect therefrom. Pressure incurred by the water flow forces clutch pin  72  down into a first detent recess  63  corresponding to alignment of a first sup seal member  82  with a first cartridge disc aperture  67 . In order to change from the first mode to the second mode, a user operates actuation member  22  so as to rotate actuation member  22  and correspondingly rotate cartridge housing  44 . Consequently, reverse ring  134 , and particularly notch  135  thereof, traverses guide recess  52  to compress biasing spring  50 . Elevation of reverse ring  134  relative to cartridge housing wall  48  is limited by stops  140  defined in main shell housing region  18   d  (see  FIGS. 2 and 3 ). 
     As cartridge housing  44  rotates, so does face plate  100  and cartridge  90  in engagement therewith. Such rotation in turn rotates cartridge disc  62 . As spring  50  compresses, pressure on clutch pin  72  is reduced to accommodate rotation of cartridge disc  62  relative to clutch pin  72  and subsequent engagement of a second detent recess  63  corresponding to the second mode. Upon turning actuation member  22 , a user will tactilely experience such engagement between clutch pin  72  and consecutive detent recesses  63  so as to know when a successful selection of modes has been achieved. If further selection of showerhead modes is desired, the user will again operate actuation member  22  and feel the engagement of clutch pin  72  with a third detent recess  63  as water continues to flow through showerhead  10  and induce pressure on clutch pin  72 . At the conclusion of a shower event and discontinuance of water delivery, there is no such water pressure on clutch pin  72 . Spring  50  thereby biases clutch pin  72  to its initial rest position in the first water saver mode and releases clutch pin  72  from its position in the second or third detent recess  63 . Simultaneously, compression plate  126  biases cartridge assembly  40  toward the assembly&#39;s starting position, thereby relieving compression of spring  50  and guiding reverse ring  134  along guide recess  52  back to its initial starting position supported by annular flange  46 . When water pressure drops below a predetermined bottom threshold (such as upon cessation of the shower), showerhead  10  thereby automatically returns to the first operational mode to ensure water conservation during all subsequent shower events. 
     Showerhead  10 , or any portion thereof, is selectively fabricated from metals, plastics, composites or any combination thereof that is amenable to practice of the present invention. One or more of housing  12  and cartridge assembly  40  may be produced as integral elements, ultrasonically welded or mechanically assembled for ease of manufacturability and assembly. Showerhead  10 , or any portion thereof, may also have one or more treatments applied thereon to enhance the showerhead&#39;s performance. Such treatments may include coatings, glazes and/or additives having one or more of hydrophobic, hydrophilic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, biocidal, odor suppressing, anti-viral and algicidal properties. Such coatings are well known within the industry to promote the cleanliness of sanitary fittings and fixtures and to deter the transmission of undesirable contagions. 
     The present invention showerhead delivers a stark improvement in water conservation efforts by permitting selection of various shower effects without attenuating the device water conservation benefits. No showerhead in the existing art discloses a showerhead that delivers different flow rates for different spray functions such that each spray function has a predetermined maximum water flow rate. Such art further does not show aggregate flow rates for a combination spray that does not exceed a predetermined maximum flow rate for the entire showerhead. The showerhead of the present invention, however, is desirably provided in multiple aesthetic embodiments, all of which accommodate a first concentrated fluttering spray mode at a first water saver flow rate; a second spray mode that combines the first spray pattern with a second radially dispersed precision spray pattern having a second water flow rate that exceeds the first water flow rate, and a third mode that delivers the radially dispersed precision spray pattern at the second water flow rate. The cumulative flow rate of the second mode never exceeds the second, higher water flow rate. In this manner, the present invention provides the bather with a selection of desirably spray functions that are tactilely pleasing, yet restrains the total consumption of water for each shower event. This is achieved in concert with the automatic return feature which further eliminates wasteful consumption of precious water resources. 
     The showerhead of the present invention further obviates any override of the showerhead&#39;s beneficial features. In conventional showerheads, the flow control device can be overridden or rendered ineffective by the installer or user. The flow control devices of the present invention showerhead, however, are disposed deep within the showerhead housing to eliminate tampering thereof. This feature inures to the present invention&#39;s benefit of successfully communicating with a preexisting bath shower control valve upon the fall of water pressure below a predetermined bottom threshold (typically below 20 PSI). 
     Various changes to the foregoing described and shown structures are now evident to those skilled in the art. The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is therefore offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. Accordingly, the particularly disclosed scope of the invention is set forth in the following claims.