Patent Publication Number: US-9849064-B2

Title: System for jet hydrotherapy

Description:
STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent application claims priority on and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/008,859 having a filing date of 6 Jun. 2014. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Technical Field 
     The present invention is directed generally to a system for jet hydrotherapy and more specifically to the components of the system configured to produce high air content/high velocity aerated fluid jets. The present invention also is directed to the components of a system for jet hydrotherapy configured as a tactile interface which a system user can mechanically engage to supplement the jet hydrotherapy. 
     Prior Art 
     Artificial water structures, such as conventional spas, hot tubs, whirlpool baths, swimming pools and the like, hereinafter referred to and defined as hydrotherapy tubs, comprise various components and features, such as jets. In the most common embodiments, jets for hydrotherapy tubs inject water together with air, if desired, against the bodies of users usually partially immersed therein. Such jets allow the users to control the water or aerated water input to the hydrotherapy tub. 
     By way of example, typical hydrotherapy tubs with jets mounted thereon or therethrough are constructed as a molded shell to form a water containment or fluid enclosure having a footwell or floor and an upstanding sidewall. Molded within the enclosure is at least one therapy station which may include a seat or platform for reclining. The shell typically is constructed of fiberglass, plastic, or a similar material, or a composite of such materials, forming a tub. One or more pumps usually are placed under the shell (the dry-side) to draw water from the hydrotherapy tub and discharge it, usually with air, into the hydrotherapy tub (the wet-side) through a plurality of jets of various types, including venturi-type jets such as water jet aerators. The jets usually are mounted through the shell in either or both of the floor and sidewall. Typically, jets mounted through the sidewall are located below the water line of the hydrotherapy tub. Moreover, jets usually are positioned on or about the therapy stations such that a user may readily engage with the jets. 
     Water jet aerators can be used in these hydrotherapy tubs to provide jets of aerated water to provide a massaging and therapeutic action. The massaging and therapeutic action usually is provided by water jet aerators that are recessed into the walls of the hydrotherapy tub. Several water jet aerators are usually spaced about the perimeter of the hydrotherapy tub. In some water jet aerators, the nozzles may be rotated to achieve a desired flow. The nozzle is often a swivel type nozzle, which allows the direction of the flow to be adjusted by the user of the hydrotherapy tub for maximum massaging or therapeutic action. The user often can adjust how the water jet aerators operate, for example, by selecting if the jets of aerated water discharge in a steady stream, in a pulsating manner, in combinations of a steady stream and pulsating manner, or in some type of alternating combination of steady stream and pulsating manner. 
     As already mentioned, one type of water jet aerator that is in common use in hydrotherapy tubs uses the venturi process. The venturi process involves mixing a stream of pressurized water with ambient air. This venturi type action occurs in an aeration chamber, with the air being drawn into a low pressure chamber from a passageway that is connected to the ambient atmosphere. The low pressure is created by the flow of water through the low-pressure chamber, across or by an opening for introducing the air. The mixture of pressurized water and air thereby provides an aerated jet of water, which then is discharged through a nozzle into the water contained in the hydrotherapy tub. 
     These venturi-type water jet aerators often are somewhat adjustable and may include a flow control system for manually adjusting the flow of air or water, or a combination of the air and water. For example, a first type of control system for a water jet aerator operates by manipulating the water flow and maintaining a steady, constant air flow through the aerator. A second type of control system adjusts both the air flow and the water flow simultaneously and proportionally. A third type of flow control system allows for independent adjustment of both the airflow and the water flow. 
     For the most part, water jet aerators are manufactured with a sealed single part body into which different nozzles can be inserted. The single part body is mounted on the spa in an orientation selected by the installer, or at random if the installer has no desired or instructed orientation. Also, many of the current water jet aerators generally produce aerated water that is about 80% water and 20% air which can be quite uncomfortable and/or painful when directed towards sensitive tissue areas like the wrists, neck, spine, hands, feet, behind the knee, facia tissue that connects muscle to bone, etc. Moreover, as already mentioned, the water jet aerators are typically recessed, which leave a user only engaging with the discharged aerated jet of water for massage or therapeutic treatment. 
     Accordingly, there is always a need for an improved system for jet hydrotherapy. For example, there is always a need for a water jet aerator that can produce a discharged aerated jet of water at a sufficient velocity/pressure for massage or therapeutic treatment that does not produce discomfort and/or pain in sensitive tissue areas. Additionally, there is always a need for a jet hydrotherapy system that can provide supplemental massage and/or therapeutic treatment besides the discharged aerated jet of water. It is to these needs, among others, that the present invention is directed. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Briefly, the present invention is a system for jet hydrotherapy. In one illustrative embodiment, a system for jet hydrotherapy comprises a water jet housing with an aeration chamber for producing the aerated jet. The aeration chamber comprises a fluid inlet orifice, a gas inlet orifice, and an aerated fluid outlet channel. The fluid inlet orifice is configured to provide a fluid flow experiencing an increased velocity and a decreased pressure as it passes through a constriction. The gas inlet orifice is positioned proximal to the fluid inlet orifice and is configured to provide a gas flow. The aerated fluid outlet channel is configured to channel an aerated fluid outflow to the jet nozzle, which produces the aerated water jet into the hydrotherapy tub. 
     The aeration chamber has an internal geometry such that a gas flow is provided through the gas inlet orifice based, at least in part, on a fluid flow provided by the fluid inlet orifice and so as to result in an aerated fluid outflow through the aerated fluid outlet channel. The aeration may be a direct result of the venturi process; however, the internal geometry and combination of features in the aeration chamber leads to improved results, in terms of flow velocities and flow air content percentages, when compared to the prior art. 
     The internal geometry of the aeration chamber is also such that the gas flow and the fluid flow merge to form a vortical flow directed towards the aerated fluid outlet channel. The vortical flow, which draws in higher quantities of gas per quantity of fluid, when compared to the prior art, results in a greater aeration producing an aerated fluid flow with a higher percentage of air to water than the prior art. The internal geometry of the aeration chamber is also such that the velocity of the aerated fluid flow, as received by the aerated fluid outlet channel, is equal to or greater than the velocity of the fluid flow as received by the fluid inlet orifice. 
     The system for jet hydrotherapy additionally can comprise a fluid inlet zone and a gas inlet zone. The gas inlet zone is angled relative to the fluid inlet zone such that the gas from the gas inlet zone is more readily forced into the aeration chamber by, at least in part, the venturi process. The fluid inlet zone can have a progressively narrowing diameter towards the junction between the fluid inlet zone and the fluid inlet orifice such that the fluid flow into the aeration chamber is of higher velocity and lower pressure, which facilitates, at least in part, the venturi process. 
     The system for jet hydrotherapy also can comprise an aeration chamber in fluid communication with the aerated fluid outlet channel. The aeration chamber or a component of the aeration chamber can be configured to receive the fluid flow from the fluid inlet orifice and the gas flow from the gas inlet orifice. The aeration chamber also is configured to merge the gas flow and the fluid flow to form a vortical flow directed towards the aerated fluid outlet channel. The aeration chamber specifically has a progressively enlarging diameter away from the junction between the fluid inlet orifice, the gas inlet orifice, and the aeration chamber. 
     The system for jet hydrotherapy further can comprise an aerated fluid nozzle engaged with the aeration chamber at the largest diameter end of the aeration chamber. The aerated fluid nozzle comprises a preferably conical internal projection configured to extend into the aeration chamber such that a gap between the internal projection and the aeration chamber define the aerated fluid outlet channel of the aeration chamber. 
     The system for jet hydrotherapy additionally can comprise a therapy ring or face guard surrounding the aerated fluid nozzle. The therapy ring has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is engaged with the jet housing while the distal end extends from the proximal end into or in the direction of the hydrotherapy tub such that the aerated fluid nozzle is recessed within the circumference of the therapy ring. The therapy ring is ergonomically configured to engage with a user&#39;s tissue. 
     These features, and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art when the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments is read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which like reference numerals represent like components throughout the several views. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system for jet hydrotherapy. 
         FIG. 1B  is a side view of the embodiment of the system for jet hydrotherapy of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 1C  is a top view of the embodiment of the system for jet hydrotherapy of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the system for jet hydrotherapy of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a jet housing of the system for jet hydrotherapy of  FIG. 1  including a face fan. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the jet housing of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle of the jet housing of  FIG. 4 , specifically, a two port nozzle. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle of the jet housing of  FIG. 4 , specifically, a multi-port nozzle. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle of the jet housing of  FIG. 4 , specifically, a three port nozzle. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the jet housing of  FIG. 3  in conjunction with a wall fitting for securing the jet housing on a tub shell. 
         FIG. 9  is a side sectional side view of an exploded embodiment of the jet housing and wall fitting of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a front sectional view of an exploded embodiment of the jet housing and wall fitting of  FIG. 8 , rotated 90° from  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a side sectional view of the jet housing and face fan of  FIG. 3  along line  11 ′- 11 ′ of  FIG. 1C . 
         FIG. 12  is a front sectional view of the jet housing and face fan of  FIG. 3 , rotated 90° from  FIG. 11  and along line  12 ′- 12 ′ of  FIG. 1C . 
         FIG. 13  is a top sectional view of the jet housing of  FIG. 3  along line  13 ′- 13 ′ of  FIG. 1B . 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom sectional view of the jet housing of  FIG. 3  along line  14 ′- 14 ′ of  FIG. 1B . 
         FIG. 15  is a side sectional view of the system for jet hydrotherapy of  FIG. 1  along line  11 ′- 11 ′ of  FIG. 1C . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a smooth therapy ring suitable for use with the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a scalloped therapy ring suitable for use with the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle. 
         FIG. 20  is a side sectional view of the jet housing similar to  FIG. 11 , but with the alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 21  is a side sectional view of the jet housing similar to  FIG. 11 , but with the alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle of  FIG. 19 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure provide a system for jet hydrotherapy configured to create a unique therapy experience compared to what is presently available in the field. Unlike the prior art systems, the system of the present disclosure is configured to produce a fluid jet from an aerated fluid flow at sufficiently high velocities/pressures and with certain air to water aeration ratios for massage or therapeutic treatment. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by a jet housing having a unique internal geometry that places, at least, fluid and gas orifices, chambers, and nozzles in an optimum location and configuration to create high fluid flow velocities of highly aerated fluid throughout the system. The unique internal geometry helps to form fluid and gas flow patterns that reduce turbulence, which increases fluid and gas flow velocities. Moreover, these high fluid flow velocities produce, at least in part, lower than normal pressures within the system, which induce a higher quantity of gas per quantity of fluid into the system through the venturi effect. 
     Furthermore, and directly related to the above, the system of the present invention also is configured to produce a fluid jet with sufficiently high gas content such that a user experiences less discomfort and/or pain when the fluid jet is applied to sensitive tissue areas. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by a specific positioning, alignment, orientation and/or shaping of fluid and gas orifices, chambers, and nozzles to facilitate gas dispersion within the fluid. Although the fluid jet has a high velocity (as described above), the high gas content decreases the momentum of the fluid jet and enables a more pleasant hydrotherapy experience when directed towards a sensitive tissue area. 
     Additionally, the system of the present invention also is configured to provide a tactile interface which a system user can mechanically engage to supplement the jet hydrotherapy. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by a therapy ring that, instead of being recessed, extends out towards a user and/or comprises a shaped external ring topography such that the user can rub/massage a tissue segment while also receiving jet hydrotherapy. For example, this is especially useful for supplemental reflexology type therapies. 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating the various embodiments of the present disclosure only and not for purposes of limiting the same,  FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system for jet hydrotherapy  10 ,  FIG. 1B  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1A , and  FIG. 1C  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1A . The system for jet hydrotherapy  10  is depicted as separate from any hydrotherapy tubs or other systems upon which it may be integrated or combined. 
     It is envisioned that the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  may be one contiguous discrete piece that is injection molded or 3D printed. It is also envisioned that that the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  may be a composite of multiple discrete and/or non-discrete component pieces that are permanently and/or detachably engaged with one another. A person having ordinary skill in the art recognizes that the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  may be made of any material(s); however, generally, the system is comprised of, or superficially lined by, plastic and or a corrosive resistant material(s). This is especially true for any region of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  that will be in contact with a fluid or gas. 
     It is also envisioned that the dimensions of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  are not limited by what is depicted in  FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C . A person having ordinary skill in the art understands that the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  can be scaled in size for any application or use. The system for jet hydrotherapy  10  may be entirely or partial modular with the modules entirely fungible. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C , the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  comprises a jet housing  30  having a fluid inlet zone  32  and a gas inlet zone  34 . Preferably, water is introduced into the jet housing  30  through the fluid inlet zone  32  and air is introduced into the jet housing through the gas inlet zone  34 . Upon mixing of the fluid and gas within the jet housing  30  as disclosed herein, the aerated fluid is ejected out of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  through the aerated fluid nozzle  14 , which can be of various selected configurations depending on the desired pattern of aerated fluid jet desired, with  FIG. 1A  illustrating a three port face fan  14 B for the nozzle  14  and  FIG. 1C  illustrating a multi-port face fan  14 C for the nozzle  14 . A therapy ring  12 , or face guard, is located at the exit end of the jet housing  30  and surrounds the nozzle  14 , which therapy ring  12  can also serve to add a mechanical therapy or stimulus to the user of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10 , with  FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C  illustrating a smooth therapy ring  12 A. 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  of  FIG. 1  exploded so as to show the structural relationship of primary component pieces. Any component pieces not illustrated are omitted simply to not obscure the figure and should not be considered a limitation of the present disclosure. A preferred embodiment of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  comprises a therapy ring  12 , an aerated fluid nozzle  14 , a flange  16 , a wall fitting  18 , a gasket  20 , and a body  22 . When the aerated fluid nozzle  14 , the flange  16 , the wall fitting  18 , the gasket  20 , and the body  22  are assembled, the resulting component piece of the system for jet hydrotherapy  10  is one embodiment of a jet housing  30 . 
     When attached to a hydrotherapy tub (not shown in its entirety), namely, on a tub wall  60  or shell, the jet housing  30  is located on the outside (dry side) of the tub wall  60  proximal to a hole made through the tub wall  60  for accommodating the system  10 . The internal wall of the jet housing  30  can comprise, at least in part, a threaded portion  62  for cooperating with a threaded portion  64  on at least a portion of the external wall of the wall fitting  18 . A gasket  20  is placed either over the threaded portion  64  of the wall fitting  18  or about the hole through the tub wall  60  on the inside (wet side) of the tub wall  60  whereby the wall fitting  18  is inserted through the gasket  20  and the hole through the tub wall  60  and then is screwed into the jet housing  30 , sandwiching the tub wall  60  between the gasket  20  and the jet housing  30 , thereby securing the jet housing  30  and wall fitting  18  to the tub wall  60 . Alternatively, a friction fit can be used between the wall fitting  18  and the jet housing  30 , or other fits or connection mechanisms known in the art. The flange  16  then is secured to the wall fitting  18 , and the selected aerated fluid nozzle  14  secured to the flange  16 . A therapy ring  12 , if desired, then is secured to the flange  16 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an embodiment of the jet housing  30  having a fluid inlet zone  32 , a barbed gas inlet zone  34  (for easy attachment of a gas line, as is understood by one having ordinary skill in the art), an aeration chamber  40  (not visible from this view) and an aerated fluid outlet channel  36 . The therapy ring  12  is not show so as to provide a better view of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  and the flange  16  in a preferred attachment configuration to the wall fitting  18 . Although the fluid inlet zone  32  and the gas inlet zone  34  are depicted as being part of the jet housing  30 , the jet housing  30  is not limited to this architecture. The same is applicable to the aerated fluid outlet channel  36 , which is depicted as being part of the junction between the aerated fluid nozzle  14 , the flange  16 , and the wall fitting  18 . The jet housing  30  may be engaged with any hydrotherapy tubs or other systems via any means known to one having ordinary skill in the art. This may include flexible hoses, pipes, clips, adhesives, fasteners, weldings, vessels, channels, etc. 
       FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the system  10  as shown in  FIG. 3 , wherein the aerated fluid nozzle  14  is disengaged from the flange  16 . An embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  comprises male snap components  24  for engaging with female snap components  26  on flange  16  whereby aerated fluid nozzle  14  can be releasably secured to flange  16 . Although the male snap components  24  are shown in the nozzle  14  and the female snap components  26  are shown on the flange  16 , these can be reversed. Also, although four snap components  24 ,  26  are shown, this is not a required number. Further, alternative methods of connecting the nozzle  14  to the flange  16  can be used, such as pins, clips, threads, twist-locks, and other attachment means known in the art. In this particular embodiment of the jet housing  30 , an aeration chamber  40  is visible. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that the aeration chamber  40  is not necessarily associated with any of the described, or not described, components, modules, and/or regions of the jet housing  30 . 
       FIGS. 5, 6, and 7  are perspective views of three different illustrative embodiments of the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . More specifically,  FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a binetic nozzle  14  or two port face fan  14 A,  FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a polynetic nozzle  14  or multi-port face fan  14 C, and  FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a trinetic nozzle  14  or three port face fan  14 B. It is understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that the aerated fluid nozzle  14  may take many different shapes and configurations to produce different variations of hydrotherapy jet shapes and patterns. The aerated fluid nozzle  14 , therefore, is configured to produce a fluid jet with a velocity equal to or greater than the velocity of the aerated fluid flow as received from the aeration chamber  40 . Moreover, the aerated fluid nozzle  14  is also configured to work effectively with high air content aerated fluid flows as disclosed herein. The male snap components  24  on nozzles  14  allow a user to remove and replace the nozzle  14  as desired. 
       FIG. 8  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the jet housing  30 , gasket  20 , and wall fitting  18  secured together on a tub wall  60 , but without the aerated fluid nozzle  14 , the flange  16 , or the therapy ring  12  so as to provide more detail. In this particular embodiment of the jet housing  30 , an aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  located within the interior of the jet housing  30  is visible. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  is not necessarily associated with any of the described or not described components, modules, and/or regions of the jet housing  30 . As can be seen, when wall fitting  18  is attached to jet housing  30 , tub wall  60  is sandwiched between gasket  20  and an upper flange  42  of jet housing  30  so as to secure the system  10  on the tub wall  60 . Chairs  28  are located on an upper surface  44  of wall fitting  18  to support flange  16  at a desired distance above the upper surface  44  of wall fitting  18 . 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  are a side sectional view and a front sectional view of an exploded embodiment of the jet housing  30  and wall fitting  18  of  FIG. 8 , but without the aerated fluid nozzle  14 , the flange  16 , the therapy ring  12 , or the gasket  20  so as to provide more detail, and wherein the wall fitting  18  is disengaged from the jet housing  30 . In these views, the threaded portion  62  of jet housing  30  and the threaded portion  64  of wall fitting  18  are shown in greater detail. Wall fitting  18  further can comprise a threaded or ridged attachment section  66  for cooperating with the flange  16  whereby the flange  16  can be releasably secured to the wall fitting  18 . 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  also illustrate the internal configuration of preferred embodiments of the jet housing  30  and the wall fitting  18 . Starting from the inlet end  46  of the jet housing  30 , fluid inlet zone  32  and gas inlet zone  34  allow fluid and gas, respectively, to be introduced to the generally hollow interior  52  of the jet housing  30 . Fluid inlet zone  32  comprises a fluid manifold  48  into which the fluid is first introduced to the jet housing  30  at a first flow rate and pressure. The fluid next travels through a funnel-shaped constricting zone  54 , which increases the flow rate and lowers the pressure of the fluid flow. The fluid next travels through a fluid inlet orifice  33  into a funnel-shaped aeration chamber  40  having an increasing diameter opposite the decreasing diameter of the constricting zone  54 , which decreases the flow rate and increases the pressure of the fluid flow, creating a venturi effect at the gas inlet orifice  35 . 
     Gas inlet zone  34  comprises a gas manifold  68  into which the gas is first introduced to the jet housing  30 . The gas may be provided at a set flow rate and pressure, or may simply be made available in the manifold  68  at a gas inlet orifice  35 . If the gas is provided at a positive flow rate and pressure, the gas next travels through the gas inlet orifice  35  into the aeration chamber  40 . However, as the fluid is traveling through the aeration chamber  40  at a positive flow rate and pressure, the venturi effect created as the fluid passes by the gas inlet orifice  35  can cause a negative pressure across the gas inlet orifice  35 , thus causing the gas to be pulled into the aeration chamber  40 . Within the aeration chamber  40 , the gas and the fluid mix, resulting in an aerated fluid. As discussed in more detail herein, the aerated fluid then travels into to the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  of the wall fitting  18 . 
     A preferred embodiment of the wall fitting  18  comprises an aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  having a conical geometry, shape, or configuration. Therefore, one having ordinary skill in the art understands that the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  of the jet housing  30  may, in certain embodiments, be part of various described, or not described, components, modules, and/or regions of the wall fitting  18  or of the jet housing  30 . It is, however, also understood that the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  may, in certain embodiments, be part of a single discrete component, module, and/or region of the wall fitting  18  or of the jet housing  30 . In the illustrative embodiments shown herein, the wall fitting  18  component comprises at least a portion of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 , which cooperates with the aeration chamber  40  located within the jet body  30 . 
       FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15  are sectional views of an illustrative embodiment of the system  10  with the wall fitting  18  combined with the jet housing  30  in a typical configuration suitable for use.  FIGS. 11 and 12  do not show a therapy ring  12  and  FIG. 15  shows a therapy ring  12 . As can be understood through these figures, a gas flow is introduced to the aeration chamber  40  through the gas inlet zone  34  concurrently as a fluid flow is introduced to the aeration chamber  40  through the fluid inlet zone  32 . The aeration chamber  40  comprises a fluid inlet orifice  33  and a gas inlet orifice  35  each, respectively, in fluid communication with the fluid inlet zone  32  and the gas inlet zone  34 . It is envisioned that the fluid inlet orifice  33  and the gas inlet orifice  35  may have any shape, size and/or configuration necessary to provide for a desired or necessary fluid flow or a gas flow, respectively. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the fluid inlet zone  32  has a narrowing diameter through the fluid manifold  48  and the constricting zone  52  towards the fluid inlet orifice  33 . One having ordinary skill in the art understands that, therefore, the fluid inlet orifice  33  is configured to receive a fluid flow experiencing an increased velocity and a decreased pressure as it passes through the constriction zone  54  of the jet housing  30 . It is envisioned that the decreased pressure of the fluid flow upon entering the aeration chamber  40  facilitates, at least in part, the venturi effect, which forces the gas flow into the aeration chamber  40 . Additionally, the constriction zone  54  and the decreased diameter fluid inlet orifice  33  create a higher flow rate through the system  10  and therefore out of the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . 
     Also facilitating the venturi effect, at least in part, is the proximity of the gas inlet orifice  35  to the fluid inlet orifice  33  and the angled configuration (element  37 ) of the gas inlet zone  34  relative to the fluid inlet zone  32 . Element  37  represents the angle defined by the gas inlet zone  34  and the fluid inlet zone  32 . It is envisioned that the angle may be between 0.0 degrees and 90 degrees, and preferably between 25 degrees and 60 degrees, with approximately 35 degrees to 45 degrees being desired. Prior art and typical jet housings have fluid inlets and gas inlets that are 90 degrees to the axis of the jet housing. Thus, both the fluid inflow and the gas inflow are at 90 degrees relative to the axis of the jet housing. Other prior art and typical configurations provide for a fluid inflow that is parallel to the axis of the jet housing and a gas inflow that is 90 degrees to the axis of the jet housing, and therefore 90 degrees to the fluid inflow to the jet housing. Such prior art and typical configurations do not create as efficient a venturi effect on the gas inflow, and therefore do not create an aerated fluid having a greater gas content as produced by the present system  10  and as disclosed herein. 
     The aeration chamber  40  is defined by an internal geometry, shape, or configuration that, at least in part, enables the aeration chamber  40  to force a gas flow, through the gas inlet zone  34 , into the aeration chamber  40  when a fluid flow is received by the aeration chamber  40  through the fluid inlet zone  32  and when a fluid flow is expelled out of the aeration chamber  40 . Moreover, the aeration chamber  40  may be similarly enabled to produce gas and fluid flow patterns within the aeration chamber  40  such that turbulence is reduced or increased, an aerated fluid flow is produced and flow velocities, throughout the jet housing  30 , are maximized. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that maximizing the velocities of the flows is directly related, at least in part, to decreased flow pressures in the aeration chamber  40  which, in turn, induces a higher quantity of gas per quantity of fluid into the aeration chamber  40  than the prior art. Moreover, the aeration chamber  40  may be similarly enabled to produce an aerated fluid flow with a gas content between 40.0% and 90.0%, and preferably a gas content of between 70.0% and 90.0%, with a gas content of approximately 80% being desirable. Thus, the prior art jet housings can only produce an aerated fluid flow of high gas content by forcing more gas into the jet, requiring additional pumps and components. The angled configuration of the gas inflow and the fluid inflow of the present invention, coupled with the venturi aeration chamber  40  creates a higher gas content in the resulting aerated fluid flow without such additional components. 
     The aeration chamber  40  and the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  may be structured so as to produce a vortical flow, namely a swirling of the aerated fluid within the aeration chamber  40  and the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 , from the gas and fluid flows, about the conical geometry, shape, or configuration. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that a vortical flow about the conical geometry, shape, or configuration can reduce turbulence and pressure and increase the velocity of the flows within the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . Such a vortical flow also can result in a better mixing of the gas and the fluid, resulting in a more homogenous aerated fluid flow. 
     Once the fluid flow and the gas flow enter the aeration chamber  40 , the fluid undergoes aeration, and the aerated fluid, or the fluid being aerated, is directed by the incoming fluid and gas towards the conical geometry, shape, and configuration of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . This flow ultimately results in additional mixing of the fluid and gas flows to produce the aerated fluid flow, which is then directed towards the aerated fluid nozzle  14  for fluid jet production. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that, therefore, the aeration chamber  40  additionally comprises an aerated fluid outlet channel  38  configured to channel an aerated fluid flow towards the aerated fluid nozzle for ejection out of the system  10 . In this particular embodiment of the aeration chamber  40 , the aerated fluid outlet channel  38  is generally formed within the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . 
     The aerated fluid nozzle comprises an internal projection  39  in the form of a cone extending downward from the aerated fluid nozzle  14  into the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . In a preferred embodiment, the internal projection  39  is a scaled conical shape similar to the conical shape of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 , namely, having a similar slope to the conical sides. Internal projection  39  forces the aerated fluid flow from the aeration chamber  40  to diverge outwardly within aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  whereby the aerated fluid flow will exit the system through the various ports  72  on the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . One result of this divergent flow is that the aerated fluid being ejected from the system  10  is more likely to have a consistent flow velocity, namely, such a divergent flow helps to eliminate a higher inner flow velocity that may result in any of the aerated fluid flow leaving through a central port. One having ordinary skill in the art understands that the internal projection  39  may take various different shapes and configurations, as long as the internal projection  39  cooperates with the inner wall of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . 
       FIG. 15  is a cross sectional side view of the entire system for jet hydrotherapy  10  of the present invention. The various components of the system  10  are connected as disclosed previously herein, with wall fitting  18  being screwed into jet housing  30  thereby sandwiching tub wall  60  between gasket  20  and upper flange  42  of jet housing  30 . The connection between wall fitting  18  and jet housing  30  need not be threaded portions  62 ,  64 , but can be a friction fit, ridges and notches, bumps and grooves, and any of the other known manners for attaching parts together. Flange  16  is removably attached to wall fitting  18 , such as by inserting a cylindrical projection  76  of flange  16  into the attachment section  66  of wall fitting  18  using known attachment means such as threaded portions, friction fit, ridges and notches, bumps and grooves, and any of the other known manners for attaching parts together. 
     An aerated fluid nozzle  14  is selected based on the type of hydrotherapy desired. For example, three illustrative aerated fluid nozzles  14 A,  14 B,  14 C are disclosed herein, each of which can provide a different aerated fluid flow type and/or pattern. The presence of fewer ports  72  on aerated fluid nozzle  14  can provide for a stronger (greater flow rate) stream of aerated fluid; the presence of many smaller ports  72  on aerated fluid nozzle  14  can produce many stronger (greater flow rate) streams of aerated fluid; and the presence of many larger ports  72  or one or two very large ports  72  can produce weaker (lesser flow rate) streams of aerated fluid. The aerated fluid nozzle  14  is attached to the flange  16  using, for example, the male snap components  24  and the female snap components  26 . 
     A therapy ring  12  is selected based on whether and what type of additional mechanical stimulation or therapy is desired. As disclosed herein, a smooth therapy ring  12 A can provide simple massage when the user presses or rubs the chosen body part (wrist, for example) against the distal end  41  of the therapy ring  12 A. A scalloped therapy ring  12 B can provide a more complex massage. Ridged or bumped therapy rings  12 , as well as other patterns, are also contemplated. The therapy ring  12  is engaged to the flange  16  via clip projections  74  located on an inner portion of a proximal end  43  of the therapy ring  12  proximal to both the flange  16  and the tub wall  60 . The distal end  41  of the therapy ring  12  is elevated from the proximal end  43  of therapy ring  12  such that the distal end  41  extends away from the jet housing  10  and the tub wall  60 . Therefore, the aerated fluid nozzle  14  and the flange is recessed within the circumference of the therapy ring  12 , which leaves a space between the plane of the distal end  41  and the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . As discussed in more detail herein, the therapy ring  12  may take any shape, dimension, and/or configuration needed so that the therapy ring  12  functions as a tactile interface upon which a system user can mechanically engage (to supplement the jet hydrotherapy) without interfering with the performance of the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . 
     The aerated fluid nozzle  14  and the therapy ring  12  are attached independently to the flange  16 , and can be removed independently as well. In this configuration, a user can switch aerated fluid nozzles  14  without having to detach the therapy ring  12 , and a user can switch therapy rings  12  without having to detach the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . 
     The combination of the constriction zone  54  and the decreased diameter fluid inlet orifice  33  create a higher flow rate through the system  10  and therefore out of the aerated fluid nozzle  14 . The combination of the placement and angle of the fluid inlet zone  32  and the gas inlet zone  34  with the venturi structure aeration chamber  40  allows a higher gas inflow to the aeration chamber  40 , therefore imparting a higher gas content to the aerated fluid. As a result, the combination of the higher flow rate of the aerated fluid and the higher gas content of the aerated fluid results in a relatively high flow rate aerated fluid flow against the user. When the aerated fluid is described as having a higher gas content, what is meant is that the aerated fluid has a higher gas bubble content, not a higher dissolved gas content (although this also may be the case). 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  are perspective views of different illustrative embodiments of the therapy ring  12 , with  FIG. 16  showing a smooth therapy ring  12 A and  FIG. 17  showing a scalloped therapy ring  12 B. It is understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that the therapy ring  12  may take many different shapes and configurations so that the therapy ring  12  can ergonomically engage with a system user&#39;s tissue. As stated above, because the therapy ring  12  functions as a tactile interface upon which a system user can mechanically engage, a smooth therapy ring  12 A may provide a rounded distal end  41  upon which a system user can rub against to supplement the jet hydrotherapy. Similarly, a scalloped therapy ring  12 B may provide undulations about a rounded distal end  41  that conform to any rounded tissue segments of a system user. Moreover, a scalloped therapy ring  12 B may provide undulations about a rounded distal end  41  that impart points of high and low mechanical pressure when rub up against (to further protect sensitive tissue areas). The rubbing action may promote blood flow and the removal of harmful chemicals that may become built up in the wrist area due to repetitive motion disorders. 
       FIG. 18  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  having a non-conical internal projection  39 .  FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  not having an internal projection  39 . If an internal projection  39  is used, the internal projection  39  can be any geometry, and preferably a geometry that cooperates with, and does not impede or overly impede, the fluid flow through the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . Similarly, if an internal projection  39  is used, the internal projection  39  can be any geometry, and preferably a geometry that cooperates with, and does not impede or overly impede, the wall geometry of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . 
       FIG. 20  is a side sectional view of the jet housing  30  similar to  FIG. 11 , but with the alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  of  FIG. 18 , and with a non-conical wall geometry of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 .  FIG. 21  is a side sectional view of the jet housing  30  similar to  FIG. 11 , but with the alternate embodiment of the aerated fluid nozzle  14  of  FIG. 19 , with a conical wall geometry of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . The wall geometry of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  can be any geometry, and preferably a geometry that cooperates with, and does not impede or overly impede, the fluid flow through the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50 . Similarly, if an internal projection  39  is used, the wall geometry of the aerated fluid dispersion chamber  50  can be any geometry, and preferably either a geometry that cooperates with the internal projection  39  or cylindrical. 
     Normal water jets typically are too powerful to be used in this sensitive area, namely, normal water jets provide too strong of a flow rate of fluid. The unique high air content of the aerated fluid flow of the present system  10  provides a soft but effective massage therapy for such sensitive areas when combined with the therapy ring  12 . The therapy ring  12  also can be used in hand and foot locations. The therapy ring  12  can be made in soft foam-like or rubber materials, or rigid materials depending on the type of massage intended. 
     Regardless of the specific architecture of the jet housing  30  and wall fitting  18 , production of an aerated water jet requires at least one input point (inlet end  46 ) in fluid communication with at least one output point (outlet end  70 ). In the case of a jet housing  30  that is configured to produce an aerated fluid jet, the jet housing  30  also may require a second input point and at least one aeration chamber  40 . It is envisioned that the aeration chamber  40  is interposed between the two input points and the output point and that the aeration chamber  40  is configured to, at least, mix a gas (from one input point  35 ) and a fluid (from the other input point  33 ) to form an aerated fluid. 
     Moreover, the jet housing  30  may be in fluid communication, and entirely operable to function according to its described configuration, with any engine, motor, compressor, pump, etc., known to one having ordinary skill in the art for use in water jet systems and applications. It is envisioned that the jet housing  30  may produce fluid flows with pressures and velocities appropriate for hydrotherapy tubs; however, the standard may be any field or category that would benefit from the applications of the present system  10 . The pressures and velocities attainable by the present system  10  may also be sufficient to apply a therapeutic treatment to a system user; the therapeutic treatment providing appropriate combinations of pressures and jet flow momentum to massage sensitive tissue areas. More specifically, sensitive tissue areas include tissue areas affected by physiological conditions, such as carpel tunnel, gout, arthritis, repetitive motion disorder, tendon strains/ruptures, ligament strains/ruptures, etc. 
     The various embodiments are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The described embodiments comprise different features, not all of which are required in all embodiments of the disclosure. Some embodiments of the present disclosure utilize only some of the features or possible combinations of the features. Variations of embodiments of the present disclosure that are described, and embodiments of the present disclosure comprising different combinations of features as noted in the described embodiments, will occur to persons with ordinary skill in the art. It will be appreciated by persons with ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described herein above. Rather the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims. 
     LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 
     
         
           10  system 
           12  therapy ring 
           12 A smooth therapy ring 
           12 B scalloped therapy ring 
           14  aerated fluid nozzle 
           14 A two port face fan 
           14 B three port face fan 
           14 C multi-port face fan 
           16  flange 
           18  wall fitting 
           20  gasket 
           22  body 
           24  male snap components 
           26  female snap components 
           28  chairs 
           30  jet housing 
           32  fluid inlet zone 
           33  fluid inlet orifice 
           34  gas inlet zone 
           35  gas inlet orifice 
           36  fluid outlet channel 
           37  angled configuration element 
           38  aerated fluid outlet channel 
           39  internal projection, conical internal projection 
           40  aeration chamber 
           41  distal end of therapy ring 
           42  upper flange of jet housing 
           44  upper surface of wall fitting 
           46  inlet end of jet housing, inlet end of system 
           48  fluid manifold 
           50  aerated fluid dispersion chamber 
           52  interior of jet housing 
           54  constricting zone of jet housing 
           60  tub wall, shell 
           62  threaded portion of jet housing 
           64  threaded portion of wall fitting 
           66  attachment section of wall fitting 
           68  gas manifold 
           70  outlet end of system 
           72  ports on aerated fluid nozzle 
           74  clip projections of therapy ring 
           76  cylindrical projection of flange