Patent Abstract:
Apparatus and method for providing tempered water to an emergency wash system. Various embodiments include simple, reliable, low-cost flow regulators to reliably provide adequate emergency wash flows. Yet other embodiments include one or more features that consider the special needs of a person temporarily blinded, and include those persons having disabilities.

Full Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/611,517, filed Mar. 15, 2012; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/670,157, filed Jul. 11, 2012; and 61/767,045, filed Feb. 20, 2013, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Various embodiments of the present invention pertain to methods and apparatus for emergency washing, and in particular to eyewash and bodywash apparatus that are adjustable, modular, wheelchair accessible, or transportable. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Emergency eyewashes and showers provide a rapid washing to a person contaminated with a dangerous chemical whether the exposure is in a research laboratory, a farm, or in the exhaust of a nitromethane burning AA fuel funny car. However, the systems provide no benefit, and further are a detriment for creating false hope if the equipment does not work. 
         [0004]    Various existing emergency eyewash basins and showers utilize complex flow systems that require professional installation and adjustment. Therefore, if an emergency wash site does not work, the employer is required to “lock out” and “tag out” that site until it is repaired. Often, it takes days to schedule the professional to service the site, and further time delays are encountered to simply order the parts, which by their complexity are too expensive to be maintained in inventory at the worksite. 
         [0005]    Yet other problems arise when it is difficult to check and adjust the operation of the emergency wash site. If it is not easy to determine that the equipment is working properly, then the employers may not apply appropriate resources to routinely check the equipment. Under such circumstances, the wash site may not provide sufficient flow, or may provide flow that is too hot, and any user of the wash site may suffer as a result. 
         [0006]    Yet other eyewash basins are generally round in shape, or otherwise lacking in any geometric feature that can be felt by the hands of a user during an emergency. In such emergency conditions, the user may be temporarily blinded, and thus have difficulty aligning him/herself with the eyewash nozzles. Since time is important in washing contaminants from the eye, the additional seconds required for the person to align his/her eyes with the nozzle spray pattern could result in increased injury. Many such basins are generally featureless in terms of letting the user tacitly (by hand) locate themselves with their eyes shut. 
         [0007]    Still further, many transportable emergency wash systems suffer from inadequate protection from damage to the wash site as it is being transported. The act of transport can include multiple types of single occurrence shocks to the equipment, such as during loading and unloading. Further, wash sites can be located near sources of vibration, such as a Hemi® running open headers. This can be a problem if parts of the wash system include electronic apparatus. 
         [0008]    Further, it is becoming increasingly important for water to be conserved, and this is even more important in those situations in which the water at the wash site comes from a limited reservoir, or is otherwise limited by a failure in a thermostatically-controlled valve. During such valve failures, the amount of flow available is often less than about two gallons per minute. Some existing wash sites are not capable of providing an adequate wash to a contaminated user with such low flows. 
         [0009]    Various embodiments of the present invention address some or all of these aspects, and still other aspects, in novel and unobvious ways. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0010]    One aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system adapted and configured to be transportable. 
         [0011]    Another aspect of some embodiments pertains to a basin for an emergency eyewash that is adapted and configured to provide a tactile indication to a user as to how the user should position him/herself when using the emergency eyewash recognizing that the user may be temporarily blinded. In some embodiments this tactile features are the corners of a diamond-shaped basin. In yet other embodiments the tactile features are handles placed on opposing sides, and in still other embodiments the tactile features are recesses molded into the basin to receive the fingertips of the person. 
         [0012]    Yet other aspects of some embodiments include the placement of a shut-off lever above the nozzles, and further in some embodiments located centrally relative of the nozzles, and in still further embodiments located immediately behind the nozzles. This location further recognizes the person using the eyewash may have difficulty seeing, and thereby places the eyewash actuation lever at a location where it is most easily seen. 
         [0013]    Still further embodiments pertain to an emergency eyewash having an eyewash nozzle assembly that can be quickly and easily connected or disconnected from the eyewash system. By the use of quick-connect features, a person that is not a plumber can readily remove a suspect valve and replace it with a known good valve. By allowing such easy maintenance, it is not necessary to “lock out” and “tag out” the eyewash system for long periods of time, or for that matter in some circumstances for any time at all. Since an unskilled person can quickly provide replacement of a faulty valve, there may be no reason to lock out and tag out the system while waiting on a plumber. 
         [0014]    Yet other embodiments pertain to an emergency eyewash system that is adapted and configured for a person in a wheelchair. The basin of the eyewash extends outwardly from a vertical support a sufficient distance to be accessed by the person in a wheelchair. Further, the system incorporates a tactile locating feature on each side of the basin, and a centrally located eyewash actuation lever to make the system easy to use for the disabled person. 
         [0015]    Yet another aspect of some embodiments is an eyewash nozzle assembly that is replaceable as a unit. The assembly is provided with a flow regulator that provides a substantially constant flow of water as inlet conditions change, a filter, and in some embodiments a chemical agent for lessening the effects of chemicals in the water, or bacteria (which agent in some embodiments includes activated charcoal). Preferably, the replaceable unit is contained within a single housing. 
         [0016]    Yet another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system including an electric water heater. The system further includes a shutoff valve that can be used to purge air from the heater prior to usage, and which can thereafter be placed in a position to shutoff the purged channel such that the electric water heater remains primed with water and little or no air. In this way, the electric water heater does not include any trapped pockets of air which could lead to an overheating condition. 
         [0017]    One aspect of the present embodiment pertains to an emergency eyewash system including a thermostatically controlled valve. Other embodiments include a flow regulator having a variable orifice characteristic, the variable orifice becoming more restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the regulator inlet increases and becoming less restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the regulator inlet decreases. Preferably, the regulator outlet providing an outlet flow within a predetermined range of flows. Yet other embodiments include an eyewash nozzle for directing the regulated flow generally upwards. 
         [0018]    Another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system including a first quick connect fitting and an eyewash nozzle assembly having an inlet and a second quick connect fitting mateable to the first quick connect fitting at the inlet. In some embodiment, the quick connect fitting as one example include the Sharkbite® fitting by Cash-Acme, part no. 22182. In yet other embodiments the quick connect apparatus is a Sharkbite® fitting of the type U140. 
         [0019]    Yet other embodiments include an eyewash nozzle assembly having a first indexing feature. Still other embodiments include a basin for collecting water expelled from the nozzle, the basin having a drain that collects water expelled from the nozzle, the basin including a second indexing feature, the second indexing feature establishes the location of the first indexing feature when the nozzle assembly is connected to the water outlet. 
         [0020]    Yet another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system including an eyewash nozzle assembly, and a basin attached to the stand and extending horizontally forward from the stand and below the nozzle assembly. The basin is substantially symmetric laterally, the lateral sides of the basin including mirror images of a feature that tactilely identifies the location of the nozzle assembly to the user. 
         [0021]    Yet other embodiments include a water shutoff valve for manual control of flow of water to the nozzle, the valve including a lever, the level being located above the nozzle assembly, and generally centered relative to the nozzle assembly. 
         [0022]    Still another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system that is vertically supported relative to the floor. It further includes an eyewash nozzle assembly adapted and configured for the upward flow of water generally symmetric about a vertical plane, and a basin extending horizontally forward from any obstruction by a distance suitable for use by a person in a wheelchair. The basin has opposing sides that each include a feature that tactilely identifies and orients the person relative to the nozzle assembly. 
         [0023]    Yet another aspect of the present invention pertains to an apparatus for an emergency eyewash. Some embodiments include an eyewash nozzle assembly having a quick connect fitting at the inlet, a nozzle outlet for providing a flow of water for the eyewash, and a flow regulator providing fluid communication between the inlet and nozzle outlet. The flow regulator is adapted and configured to provide a predetermined flow of water from inlet to nozzle outlet as inlet pressure varies. Still other embodiments include a filter adapted and configured to provide filtered water to the nozzle outlet, and a housing internally supporting the filter and the regulator. 
         [0024]    Still further aspects of the present invention pertain to a transportable emergency eyewash system including a cart with wheels and an electrical water heater mounted to the cart. Yet other embodiments include a shutoff valve having an inlet for receiving water from the heater, the valve having an outlet, and a movable valve member actuatable over a range of positions for directing water from the inlet to the outlet, the member having a first position to permit flow from the inlet to the outlet and to a drain, and a second position to prevent flow from the outlet. The eyewash system can be actuated to provide flow from the eyewash outlets when the shut off valve is in the second position. 
         [0025]    Yet other embodiments of the present invention include a basin for collecting water expelled from the nozzle and providing the collected water to a drain, and from the drain to a collection reservoir on the cart. The collection reservoir is useful in those situations where the user is washing off a contaminant that is dangerous even when diluted. The reservoir captures the washed off contaminant for later disposal. 
         [0026]    Still further embodiments of the present invention pertain to a thermostatically controlled valve in which the check valves are adapted and configured to be identical in operation, have identical top and bottom interfaces, and further in which the housing of the valve has identical interfaces. 
         [0027]    It will be appreciated that the various apparatus and methods described in this summary section, as well as elsewhere in this application, can be expressed as a large number of different combinations and subcombinations. All such useful, novel, and inventive combinations and subcombinations are contemplated herein, it being recognized that the explicit expression of each of these combinations is unnecessary. 
     
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0028]    Some of the figures shown herein may include dimensions. Further, some of the figures shown herein may have been created from scaled drawings or from photographs that are scalable. It is understood that such dimensions, or the relative scaling within a figure, are by way of example, and not to be construed as limiting. 
           [0029]      FIG. 1-1  is a right side, top perspective view of an emergency eye wash according to 1 embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 1-2  is a front elevational view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-2   
           [0031]      FIG. 1-3  is a side elevational view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-1   
           [0032]      FIG. 1-4  is a top plan view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-1 . 
           [0033]      FIG. 1-5  is a right side perspective view of a portion of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-1 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 1-6  is a right side cross-sectional view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-5 , shown in solid. 
           [0035]      FIG. 1-7  is a right side cross sectional view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-5 , shown in shaded illustration view. 
           [0036]      FIG. 1-8  is a right, top, perspective cutaway of the apparatus of  FIG. 1-7 . 
           [0037]      FIG. 1-nine  is a top, perspective view of an eyepiece according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 2-1  shows various orthogonally arranged external views of a thermostatic control valve according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 2-2  shows 3 cutaway views of the valve of  FIG. 2-1 , with the left view showing a bottom outlet, the center view showing a top outlet, and the right view showing bottom inlets. 
           [0040]      FIG. 2-3  is a cutaway view of a thermostatically controlled valve according to another embodiment of the present invention, with the left side of the valve showing a top-facing inlet, in the right side of the valve showing a bottom-facing inlet. 
           [0041]      FIG. 2-4  is an enlargement of a portion of  FIG. 2-4 . 
           [0042]      FIG. 3-1A  is a front, top, perspective photographic representation of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 3-1B  is a symbolic schematic representation of the flow system of the apparatus of  FIG. 3-1A . 
           [0044]      FIG. 3-1C  is a cutaway side view of a accumulator (diffuser) according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0045]      FIG. 3-2  is a top and side perspective photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 3-1A . 
           [0046]      FIG. 3-3  is a left side, top perspective photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 3-1A . 
           [0047]      FIG. 3-4  is a photographic representation of a thermostatic control valve from the apparatus of  FIG. 3-1A . 
           [0048]      FIG. 3-5  is a photograph of the front and back halves of the eye/face wash block (outlet valve) of  FIG. 3-1A . 
           [0049]      FIG. 3-6A  is a backside photographic representation of a showerhead assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 3-6B  is a front side photographic representation of the showerhead of  FIG. 3-6A . 
           [0051]      FIG. 3-7  is an exploded, side by side photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 3-6B . 
           [0052]      FIG. 3-8  is a close up photographic representation of the dispersing member of  FIG. 3-7 . 
           [0053]      FIG. 4-9  is a photographic representation of a transportable eyewash according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0054]      FIG. 4-10  is a schematic flowchart of the eyewash system of  FIG. 9 . 
           [0055]      FIG. 4-11A  is a photographic representation of the valve body of the system of  FIG. 9 , with the inner valve removed and positioned to be fully opened. 
           [0056]      FIG. 4-11B  is a photographic representation of the block (valve body) of the system of  FIG. 9 , with the inner diverter pin (valve) removed and positioned to be closed, and emphasizing a nonclosable flow area. 
           [0057]      FIG. 5-1  is a top photographic representation of an eyewash valve assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0058]      FIG. 5-2  is a bottom photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-1 . 
           [0059]      FIG. 5-3  is a perspective photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-1 . 
           [0060]      FIG. 5-4  is a perspective photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-1 . 
           [0061]      FIG. 5-5  is a photographic top side view of various components of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-1 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 5-6  is a photographic bottom side view of various components of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-1 , with the exception that the apparatus at the top is a side photographic representation. 
           [0063]      FIG. 5-7  is a top photographic representation of a basin according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0064]      FIG. 5-8  is a photographic representation of the bottom of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-7 . 
           [0065]      FIG. 5-9  is a close-up photograph of a portion of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-7 . 
           [0066]      FIG. 5-10  is a photographic representation of a portion of the apparatus of  FIG. 5-8 . 
           [0067]      FIG. 5-11  is a side photographic representation of a portion of an eyewash assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0068]      FIG. 5-12  is a schematic cutaway representation of an expulsion valve according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0069]      FIG. 5-13  is a hydraulic schematic representation of a system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0070]      FIG. 5-14  is a hydraulic schematic representation of a system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0071]      FIG. 6-1  is a perspective photographic representation of a transportable eyewash system according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0072]      FIG. 6-2  is a front photographic representation of the apparatus of  FIG. 6-1 . 
           [0073]      FIG. 6-3  is a side and frontal perspective photographic representation of the bottom of the apparatus of  FIG. 6-1 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 6-4  is a hydraulic schematic representation of a transportable system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0075]      FIG. 6-5  is a hydraulic schematic representation of a transportable system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0076]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 Element Numbers 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 10 
                 System 
               
               
                   
                 11 
                 cart 
               
               
                   
                 12 
                 deck 
               
               
                   
                 13 
                 legs 
               
               
                   
                 14 
                 wheels 
               
               
                   
                 15 
                 lid 
               
               
                   
                 20 
                 eye wash system 
               
               
                   
                 21 
                 dispensing caps 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 apertures 
               
               
                   
                 22 
                 water tank 
               
               
                   
                 23 
                 quick connect fitting 
               
               
                   
                 24 
                 hot source 
               
               
                   
                 25 
                 support arm 
               
               
                   
                 26 
                 stand 
               
               
                   
                 28 
                 drain 
               
               
                   
                 29 
                 catch basin 
               
               
                   
                 30 
                 thermostatically controlled valve 
               
               
                   
                 31 
                 cold inlet 
               
               
                   
                 32 
                 tempered fluid outlet 
               
               
                   
                 33 
                 hot inlet 
               
               
                   
                 34 
                 body 
               
               
                   
                 36 
                 cartridge 
               
               
                   
                 37 
                 mixing outlets 
               
               
                   
                 38 
                 metering section/flow restrictor 
               
               
                   
                 40 
                 diffusing heat exchanger 
               
               
                   
                 41 
                 inlet 
               
               
                   
                 42 
                 outlet 
               
               
                   
                 43 
                 serpentine passage 
               
               
                   
                 44 
                 apertures 
               
               
                   
                 50 
                 shut-off valve 
               
               
                   
                 51 
                 quick connect 
               
               
                   
                 52 
                 paddle shut-off 
               
               
                   
                 53 
                 purge line 
               
               
                   
                 56 
                 filter 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 groove 
               
               
                   
                 58 
                 expulsion valve 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 inlet 
               
               
                   
                 b 
                 outlet 
               
               
                   
                 c 
                 flapper 
               
               
                   
                 60 
                 outlet valve 
               
               
                   
                 61 
                 body 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 indexing 
               
               
                   
                 62 
                 internal chamber 
               
               
                   
                 63 
                 water inlet 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 secondary outlet 
               
               
                   
                 64 
                 eyewash outlets 
               
               
                   
                 65 
                 internal connection 
               
               
                   
                 66 
                 variable orifice valve 
               
               
                   
                 a 
                 fixed member 
               
               
                   
                 b 
                 flexible member 
               
               
                   
                 67 
                 interface 
               
               
                   
                 68 
                 outlet 
               
               
                   
                 70 
                 return wash basin 
               
               
                   
                 71 
                 indexing feature 
               
               
                   
                 72 
                 Drain, variable drain, fixed 
               
               
                   
                 73 
                 attachment feature 
               
               
                   
                 74 
                 tactile features 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 lip 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                 shower head assembly 
               
               
                   
                 81 
                 inlet 
               
               
                   
                 82 
                 bowl 
               
               
                   
                 83 
                 depressions 
               
               
                   
                 84 
                 dispersing member 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 stand offs 
               
               
                   
                 86 
                 central deflector 
               
               
                   
                 87 
                 apertures 
               
               
                   
                 88 
                 ridges 
               
               
                   
                 90 
                 heater 
               
               
                   
                 91 
                 source of electricity 
               
               
                   
                 92 
                 shock mounts 
               
               
                   
                 94 
                 heat exchanger 
               
               
                   
                 96 
                 thermal switch 
               
               
                   
                 V20 
                 thermostatically controlled valve 
               
               
                   
                 V22 
                 tower casing 
               
               
                   
                 V24 
                 thermostat assembly 
               
               
                   
                 V30 
                 base casing 
               
               
                   
                 V32 
                 metering section 
               
               
                   
                 V34 
                 check valve housings 
               
               
                   
                 V36 
                 threaded interface 
               
               
                   
                 V40 
                 check valve assembly 
               
               
                   
                 V42 
                 bonnet 
               
               
                   
                 V43 
                 spring support 
               
               
                   
                 V44 
                 outlet seal 
               
               
                   
                 V45 
                 chamber 
               
               
                   
                 V46 
                 spring 
               
               
                   
                 V47a 
                 disk 
               
               
                   
                 V47b 
                 gasket 
               
               
                   
                 V48 
                 screw 
               
               
                   
                 V49 
                 acorn nut 
               
               
                   
                 V50 
                 outlet 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0077]    For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. At least one embodiment of the present invention will be described and shown, and this application may show and/or describe other embodiments of the present invention. It is understood that any reference to “the invention” is a reference to an embodiment of a family of inventions, with no single embodiment including an apparatus, process, or composition that should be included in all embodiments, unless otherwise stated. Further, although there may be discussion with regards to “advantages” provided by some embodiments of the present invention, it is understood that yet other embodiments may not include those same advantages, or may include yet different advantages. Any advantages described herein are not to be construed as limiting to any of the claims. The usage of words indicating preference, such as “preferably,” refers to features and aspects that are present in at least one embodiment, but which are optional for some embodiments. 
         [0078]    The use of an N-series prefix for an element number (NXX.XX) refers to an element that is the same as the non-prefixed element (XX.XX), except as shown and described. As an example, an element  1020 . 1  would be the same as element  20 . 1 , except for those different features of element  1020 . 1  shown and described. Further, common elements and common features of related elements may be drawn in the same manner in different figures, and/or use the same symbology in different figures. As such, it is not necessary to describe the features of  1020 . 1  and  20 . 1  that are the same, since these common features are apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the related field of technology. Further, it is understood that the features  1020 . 1  and  20 . 1  may be backward compatible, such that a feature (NXX.XX) may include features compatible with other various embodiments (MXX.XX), as would be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. This description convention also applies to the use of prime (′), double prime (″), and triple prime (′″) suffixed element numbers. Therefore, it is not necessary to describe the features of  20 . 1 ,  20 . 1 ′,  20 . 1 ″, and  20 . 1 ′″ that are the same, since these common features are apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the related field of technology. 
         [0079]    Although various specific quantities (spatial dimensions, temperatures, pressures, times, force, resistance, current, voltage, concentrations, wavelengths, frequencies, heat transfer coefficients, dimensionless parameters, etc.) may be stated herein, such specific quantities are presented as examples only, and further, unless otherwise explicitly noted, are approximate values, and should be considered as if the word “about” prefaced each quantity. Further, with discussion pertaining to a specific composition of matter, that description is by example only, and does not limit the applicability of other species of that composition, nor does it limit the applicability of other compositions unrelated to the cited composition. 
         [0080]    Various references may be made to one or more processes, algorithms, operational methods, or logic, accompanied by a diagram showing such organized in a particular sequence. It is understood that the order of such a sequence is by example only, and is not intended to be limiting on any embodiment of the invention. 
         [0081]    Reference will be made to an eyewash system and various components of the system. It is understood that the system and various components are further compatible with face wash and body wash systems and components. 
         [0082]    The figures herein prefaced with the number “1” pertain to an emergency eye wash  120  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Further, all element numbers in the 100 series pertain to various components and features of eyewash  120 . The figures herein prefaced with the number “2” pertain to a thermostatically controlled valve  220  according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0083]    Eyewash  120  includes and valve block  160  provided with water from an inlet  122 , and providing a spray of water through a pair of eyepieces  121  to a person needing an emergency eyewash. Apparatus  120  can be attached to a wall by a support bracket  126 , which can be coupled to a attachment plate  124  attached to the wall. Water flowing out of block  160  is captured in a bowl  170  that provides the water to and outlet drain  124 . 
         [0084]    Eyewash  120  includes a shutoff valve  160  that must be actuated by the user before water will exit from eyepieces  121 . As best seen in  FIGS. 1-3 , shutoff valve  160  is placed in the central inlet line  122 , and in some embodiments is a ball-type valve. The ball can be rotated so as to begin the flow of water by the user pushing forward on centrally located paddle  152 . Panel  135  is connected by an arm of  136  to the axis of ball valve  150 . Preferably, panel  135  is centrally located relative to eyepieces  121 , so that persons that are left-handed can use eyewash  120  as easily as persons that are right-handed. 
         [0085]    It has been found that other emergency eyewash is typically have a mechanism on the right side of the eyewash that must be operated in order to achieve the washing flow. With such eyewash is, a person that is left-handed is largely put at a disadvantage, and may waste time trying to locate the right-handed mechanism. Further, panel  152  is up right and prominent, making it easy to see. In some embodiments, panel  152  includes a large, substantially flat surface upon which warning labels and instructional labels can be applied. 
         [0086]    Referring to  FIG. 1-4 , head block  160  connects to shutoff valve  160  by way of a 2 and quick-release seal  169 . In some embodiments, seal  169  includes a plurality of “shark teeth” that can provide a quickly-made seal between the inlet pipe of head block  160  and the outlet of shutoff valve  130 . 
         [0087]    In some embodiments head block  160  includes right and left hinged panels by which the user can quickly disconnect head block  160  from eyewash  120 . The person can place their fingers on the panels, and rotate the paddles such that the distal ends of the paddles press against the face of seal  160 . In so doing, the user can easily remove head block  160  by simply pulling it toward them while the seals are compressed. Preferably, head block  160  is not mechanically linked to the drain of bowl  170 , such that the connection between the inlet pipe of the head block and the outlet of the shutoff valve is the only connection that needs to be made. 
         [0088]      FIGS. 1-5 ,  1 - 6 ,  1 - 7 , and  1 - 8  show various details of head block  160  and shutoff valve  150 . It can be seen that head block  160  includes an inlet passage  162  that provides water from shutoff valve  130  to a central manifold  164 . Manifold  164  extends both right and left toward eyepieces  150 , and further extends downward toward a cavity  168 . 
         [0089]    In some embodiments, cavity  168  includes material for conditioning the water that is sprayed out of eyepieces  121 . This material can be a filter material, activated charcoal, and astringent, or other apparatus useful to protect and wash eyes that have been exposed to a damaging chemical. Further, this protective material can be easily removed from head block  160 , which is useful for those protective materials that lose their beneficial qualities after a period of time. 
         [0090]      FIG. 1-9  shows a close-up of an eyepiece  121 . Eyepiece  150  includes a plurality of spray holes, some of which are located in and outermost ring  152 , others of which are located in a metal ring  154 , and yet others that are centrally located. Eyepiece  150  further includes a sealing lip  156  that provides for easy installation and removal of eyepiece  150 . Preferably, eyepiece  150  is fabricated from a flexible material that a person can easily manipulate to break off scale deposits. 
         [0091]      FIGS. 2-1  to  2 - 4  show various embodiments of a thermostatically controlled valve V 20  according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is understood that the prefix “V” to an element number refers only to the examples of  FIGS. 2-1  through  2 - 4 , although it is understood that such a thermostatically controlled as valve V 20  can be used with any of the emergency wash systems shown herein. 
         [0092]      FIG. 2-1  shows external orthogonal views of a valve V 20  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Valve V 20  is a thermostatically controlled valve, having a tower casing V 22  coupled to a valve casing or housing V 30 . Housing V 30  includes right and left ports for the inlet of water, and further includes a housing extension having an outlet V 50  to provide a flow of tempered water. 
         [0093]      FIG. 2-2  shows various cross sectional views of V 20  as taken along section B-B of the central drawings within  FIG. 2-1 . It can be seen that valve V 20  includes a thermostat assembly V 24  housed within an internal cavity V 45  of casing V 22 . Thermostat assembly V 24  operates a metering section V 32  housed within casing V 30 . As is well known, thermostat V 24  and metering section V 32  coact to mix hot and cold water and produce a flow of water at a predetermined temperature. 
         [0094]      FIG. 2-3  is a cross sectional view of the apparatus of  FIG. 2-1  as taken through section A-A of the top image of  FIG. 2-1 . Casing V 30  includes right and left supports V 34  that are adapted and configured to provide fluid communication between their corresponding water flows and the centrally located metering assembly V 32 . 
         [0095]      FIG. 2-4  is a close-up of the base housing V 30 . It can be seen that each casing inlet V 34  includes within it identical check valve assemblies V 40 . Each valve V 40  includes a bonnet or cap that closes one end of an inlet V 34 . Bonnet V 42  is threadably received within a threaded interface V 36  of inlet V 34 . An inlet seat V 44  has an identical set of threads, and is threadably received within an identical threaded interface V 36  at the other end of the inlet V 34 . The check valve assembly V 40  on the left side of  FIG. 2-4  is shown oriented with inlet seat V 44  at the top, and therefore able to accept water from the top. The right side inlet V 34  shows a check valve V 40  in the opposite orientation, with bonnet V 42  located at the top, and the inlet seat V 44  screwed into the bottom female threaded interface V 36 . 
         [0096]    Each check valve includes a spring V 48  that is captured between a spring support V 44  of bonnet V 42  and a disk V 47   a . Disk V 47   a  is captured by a screw to an acorn nut V 49 , with a gasket V 47   b  sandwiched inbetween. The right side check valve V 40  of  FIG. 2-4  is shown in the closed position, with adjusting screw V 41  tightened down so as to force a shutoff between gasket V 47   b  and a sealing lip of seat V 44 . It is appreciated that adjustment screw V 41  can be placed in an operational condition, such as that shown on the left side check valve V 40 , where screw V 41  has been adjusted to a position providing nominal spring force to compress left side gasket V 47   b  against the sealing lip of left side seat V 44 . 
         [0097]    Referring to the topmost figure of  FIG. 2-2 , there is shown a cross sectional view through section B-B of the central image of  FIG. 2-1 . It can be seen that valve V 20  preferably includes an outlet extension V 50  that includes top and bottom apertures for the outward flow of tempered water. It is understood that housing extension V 50  is preferably machined with pipe threads on both top and bottom of the common bore, and therefore able to accept an outlet connection on either the top or bottom. A pipe cap is threaded into the unused aperture. 
         [0098]      FIGS. 3-1A  and  3 - 2  show various views of an emergency wash  320  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Emergency wash system  320  includes a thermostatically controlled valve  330  that provides tempered water to a pair of eyewash dispensing caps  321 , and in some embodiments, further provides tempered water through a top outlet  332  to a showerhead assembly  380 . 
         [0099]    Control valve  330  (and other portions of wash assembly  320 ) are supported from the floor by a stand  326 . Preferably stand  326  and system  320  are adapted and configured such that dispensing caps  321  are located at a height that is wheelchair accessible. Further, as best seen in  FIGS. 3-2  and  3 - 3 , the return line  328  from basin  370  extends rearward so as to provide a clear volume underneath return line  328  to accommodate the front of the wheelchair. 
         [0100]    Water is provided to control valve  330  from a source  322  of cold fluid and a source  324  of hot fluid. In some embodiments, hot source  324  receives water from the outlet of a water heater (not shown). In some embodiments, water from one or both of the sources  322  and  324  flows through a flow restrictor that provides generally constant flow, such as the variable restrictors sold by Neoperl. 
         [0101]      FIG. 3-1B  shows a simplified schematic representation of symbols representing the flow path of a system  320  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Cold water source  322  and hot water source  324  provide water to hot and cold inlets  331  and  333 , respectively, of thermostatically controlled valve  330 . Referring briefly to  FIG. 3-4 , valve  330  includes a cartridge valve  336  received within a body  334 . Cartridge  336  includes a metering section  338  that controls the flow of hot water to a thermostat (not shown) within cartridge  336 . The mixture of hot and cold water exiting metering section  338  is turbulently mixed by one or more mixing outlets  337 , and then provided to an outlet  332  as tempered water. Mixing outlets  337  are adapted and configured to provide turbulent mixing of hot and cold flows within valves  330 . Further examples of such means for creating turbulence or mixing can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/657,218, filed 22 Oct. 2012, and titled METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CREATING TURBULENCE IN A THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE, incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0102]    As shown in  FIG. 3-4 , body  334  includes a single tempered outlet  332  that provides tempered water to the eyewash dispensing caps  321 . However, yet other embodiments include an additional tempered fluid outlet  332  that provides tempered water to the showerhead assembly  380 , such as by the top mounted outlet  332  best seen in  FIG. 3-1A . 
         [0103]    Referring again to  FIG. 3-1B , the tempered fluid exiting valve  330  from outlet  332  passes through a accumulator (diffuser)  340  in some embodiments. A cross-sectional view of accumulator (diffuser)  340  in one embodiment is shown in  FIG. 3-1C . Diffuser  340  includes an inlet  341  and outlet  342  that are in fluid communication by way of a serpentine passage  343 . Passage  343  includes a plurality of apertures in the sidewalls of the passageway that encourage fluid mixing along the length of the passageway. Further discussion of diffuser  340  can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/213, 811, filed Aug. 19, 2011, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING TEMPERED FLUID, incorporated herein by reference, such discussion of the diffuser being incorporated herein by reference. Diffuser  340  reduces any sharp temperature rise that would otherwise be seen when tempered water first flows out of the outlet  332  valve  330 . It is further understood that a second diffuser  340  can further be installed in the fluid pathway from the outlet of control valve  332  showerhead assembly  380 . 
         [0104]    Tempered fluid exiting accumulator (diffuser)  340  flows to a manually operated, normally closed shutoff valve  350 . In one embodiment, valve  350  is a ball valve. A paddle and handle  352  control the state of shutoff valve  350 . Referring to  FIGS. 3-1A  and  3 - 2 , it can be seen that handle  352  is located generally in the center of return basin  370 , and behind the eyewash dispensing caps  321 . With this central design, paddle  352  is readily accessed by either left-handed or right-handed persons needing an eyewash. To open valve  350 , paddle  352  (and its handle) are pushed backwards, away from dispensing caps  321 . Preferably, the outlet of valve  350  includes a quick disconnect type of fitting, so as to facilitate removal of outlet valve  360 . 
         [0105]    Water exiting shell  350  is provided to dispensing valve  360 . Valve  360  includes three separate flow channels: two eyewash outlets  364  that provide tempered water to dispensing caps  321 , and a variable orifice  366  that provides fluid to drain  372 . In some embodiments valve  360  includes an internal chamber for receiving a filter, such as a charcoal filter. Preferably, valve  360  is coupled to valve  350  by a quick connect coupling that permits easy removal and replacement (or refurbishment) of valve  360 . Preferably valve  360  is adapted and configured such that there are no internal volumes in which water is permitted to sit when system  320  is not in use. Instead, after a user has opened shutoff valve  350  for emergency wash, any water within valve  360  flows out of outlet  368  and into drain  372 . 
         [0106]    Variable orifice  366  includes an internal valve the position of which can be manually adjusted by the user at an interface  367  on one side of valve  360 .  FIG. 3-5  shows front and back halves  361 F and  361 B, respectively, which comprise the body of outlet valve  360 . Tempered water flows into the inlet  363  of valve  360  and flows into internal chambers  362 T and  362 B. The amount of water that flows from the right and left outlets  364 R and  364 L, respectively, can be adjusted by varying the flow resistance of valve  366 . In some embodiments, there is an internal stop that prevents full closure of valve  366 , so that water within valve  360  can always drain out. 
         [0107]    By way of interface  367 , valve  366  can be rotated to a substantially closed position, in which most of the fluid received through inlet  363  flows out of outlets  364 R and  364 R. If the user rotates valve  366  to the fully open position, then some of the water entering through inlet  361 B flows out of outlet  368  into drain  372 . Dispensing valve  360  therefore permits accurate adjustment of the amount of water dispensed through outlets  364 R and  364 L by adjustment of variable orifice valve  366 . 
         [0108]    Water exiting through dispensing caps  321  or valve outlet  368  flow into a return basin  370 . As best seen in  FIG. 3-3 , outlet valve  360  is generally suspended above the drain surface of the basin  370  by shutoff valve  350 . Therefore, wash system  320  is substantially self-draining for all water that exits shutoff valve  350 . 
         [0109]      FIGS. 3-6  thru  3 - 8  present various views of a showerhead apparatus  380  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Showerhead assembly  380  includes a bowl  382  that includes on its rear side an inlet  381  through which tempered water is received. Water flowing through inlet  381  strikes a dispensing member  384  that disperses the flow of water into a plurality of separate streams. 
         [0110]      FIG. 3-7  shows dispensing member  384  removed from its attachment to bowl  382  by a plurality of standoffs  385  each received within a corresponding depression  383  of bowl  382 . In some embodiments, these standoffs are adhered to bowl  382  within the corresponding depressions, although the connection of dispensing member  384  to bowl  382  can be by any method. 
         [0111]    Referring to  FIG. 3-8 , water received from inlet  381  impinges directly upon central deflector  386 , and is thereby directed radially outwardly. The volume trapped between the inner surface of dispensing member  84  and the inner surface of bowl  382  is sized so that water fills this volume under pressure. Water thereafter flows through any of a plurality of apertures  387  located in member  384 . It can be seen that in one embodiment there is a first set of apertures located closest to central deflector  386 . In some embodiments, each of these holes includes a semi-conical, smooth flow channel directed radially inward. Dispensing member  84  in some embodiments further includes an outermost ring of apertures  387  located near the edge of member  384 . In yet other embodiments, there is also an intermediate range of apertures  387  located between the outermost ring and the apertures closest to central deflector  386 . Preferably, these outermost and intermediate rings have apertures with a conical inlet. It can also be seen in  FIG. 3-8  that the outer circumference of deflecting member  384  tapers to a reduced width for the radially outward dispensing of water between member  384  and the inner surface of bowl  382 . In some embodiments this outer circumference includes a plurality of ridges  388  for channeling this circumferential flow of water. 
         [0112]      FIGS. 4-9 ,  4 - 10 , and  4 - 11  depict a transportable eyewash system  410  according to another embodiment of the present invention. System  410  includes an eyewash system  420  located on an easily transportable cart  411 . In one embodiment, cart  411  includes a deck  412  supported by a plurality of legs  413 , and movable over a floor by way of wheels  414 . In some embodiments, cart  410  further includes a lid  415  that can be used to enclose eyewash system  420  when not in use. It is understood that  FIG. 4-9  is a photographic representation of portions of the eyewash system  410 , and not the entire system, which will be now be described. 
         [0113]      FIG. 4-10  is a schematic representation of the various elements of eyewash system  420 . In one embodiment, eyewash system  420  receives water from an external tank  412 . As one example, water tank  422  is kept locally to eyewash system  420 , and is substantially at ambient temperature. As another example, tank  422  is a water tank that is attached to a trailer, such as a transporter for automobiles, or in another embodiment a truck that carries emergency equipment, such as fire truck. Tank  422  is coupled to system  420  preferably by quick connect fittings (not shown). Water from tank  422  is provided to the inlet of a water heater  490 . Water heater  490  preferably heats fluid by way of a heat exchanger  494 , such as an electrical resistance heater.  FIG. 4-10  shows heater exchanger  494  receiving electrical power from a source  491  of electricity. In some embodiments, heat exchanger  494  is provided with electricity by way of a thermal switch  496 . Switch  496  permits the flow of current through heat exchanger  494  when water temperature is below a predetermined limit. However, if water temperature exceeds the predetermined limit thermal switch  496  opens the circuit and prevents further heating by heater  490 . 
         [0114]    In some embodiments, heater  490  is mounted to cart  411  by way of one or more vibration isolators or shock mounts  492 . These mounts provide isolation of heater  490  from shock or vibratory inputs that are higher in frequency. Preferably, shock mounts  492  are selected to provide isolation from the types of handling acceleration inputs that are typically encountered when moving system  410  on or off a vehicle, or during collisions with system  410  and other objects, or related dynamic inputs. In some embodiments, the water and electrical hook-ups to heater  490  are selected to be relatively flexible, so that shock or displacement inputs from electrical cabling or water plumbing are attenuated before being received by heater  490 . 
         [0115]    Water exiting heater  490  is elevated in temperature relative to the temperature of water entering heater  490 . This hotter water is provided to a shutoff valve  450 . Valve  450  is preferably a three-way valve, including one inlet and two outlets. Water flows out of valve  450  toward either flow regulator  456  or out of drain  453  based on the position of a handle  452 . Over one range of positions, handle  452  permits the flow of water from heater  490  toward flow regulator  456 . However, in a different range of positions, handle  452  also allows water from heater  490  to exit from purging drain  453 . When purge drain  453  is open, any air that is trapped within heater  490  can be purged out, to help ensure that heat exchanger  494  contains only water and no trapped gas. Handle  452  can be positioned such that both outlets are closed, thereby maintaining the purged conditions of heater  490 . Handle  452  can also be opened to allow flow toward flow regulator  456 , but still maintain drain  450  in a closed position. It is further noted that in some embodiments heater  490  is oriented on cart  411  such that water from tank  422  is provided at a location horizontally below the outlet of heater, so that trapped air tends to rise upward within heater  490  from the heater inlet to the heater outlet, thus encouraging a gas-purged state. 
         [0116]    Water exiting shutoff valve  450  is received by a pressure compensated flow regulator  456 , such as those made by Neoperl. Compensator  456  acts to maintain relatively constant flow conditions over a range of input pressures. As water pressure received at the inlet of compensator  456  increases, a resilient member within compensator  456  (such as O-ring) changes shape or configuration to increase the overall flow resistance (such as by decreasing the valve&#39;s flow number and/or decreasing the cross sectional flow area) of regulator  456 , and thereby reduce the amount of flow that would have occurred as a result of the higher pressure, had there been no flow compensation. 
         [0117]    Flow exiting regulator  456  is received at an outlet valve  460  located on a wash basin  470 . In a manner similar to that described earlier, flow received at the inlet of valve  460  is provided to a pair of eyewash outlets  464 , each of which is preferably covered by a dispensing cap  421 . Outlets  164  and caps  421  are adapted and configured to provide an eyewash to a person bending over and facing toward valve  460 . 
         [0118]    Further, as previously discussed, valve  460  includes a manual flow adjuster  466  that can be used to set up a desired spray pattern from outlets  464 . Preferably, valve  160  further includes a non-closable drain  473  that operates in parallel around drain  472 . Referring to  FIGS. 4-11A  and  4 - 11 B, the adjustable valve  466  is shown removed from the body  461  of valve  460 . In  FIG. 4-11A , valve  466  is shown in the fully opened position, and it can be seen that the flow area of outlet  468  can be maintained substantially opened and unrestricted by valve  466  when valve  466  is in the A, or fully opened position.  FIG. 4-11B  depicts the position of valve  466  when fully closed, showing that even under full closure there is a flow area B of valve  466  that still aligns with a portion of the outlet area of outlet  468 . Therefore, even when fully closed, water can still flow out of outlet  468 . In those embodiments in which valve  460  is not fully closable, the draining of any remaining water within portions of eyewash system  420  is encouraged, thus preventing the accumulation of stagnant water. It is further envisioned some embodiments that outlet  468  will be located lower than the outlet of shutoff valve  450 . 
         [0119]      FIGS. 5-1  through  5 - 14  depict and explain various features pertaining to an eyewash system  520  according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0120]      FIGS. 5-1  through  5 - 4  depict various external views of an eyewash nozzle assembly or outlet valve  560  according to one embodiment of the present invention. It will be appreciated that valve  560  is related and similar to the previously defined outlet valves  160 ,  360 , and  460 , even though there are external differences in shape. It is further understood that the various functions that will now be described for valve  560  apply equally to these other outlet valves disclosed herein. 
         [0121]    Valve assembly  560  includes an inlet  563  for water and a pair of outlets  568  which can be capped with dispensing caps  521 . Preferably, the housing of outlet valve  560  includes a groove  556   a  that is adapted and configured to hold within it a filter disk  556 . In some embodiments, these features are arranged symmetrically about a vertical centerline (VCL) that extends forward toward the user when valve  560  is installed in an eyewash system. 
         [0122]    The inlet  563  includes within it a flow regulator or variable orifice valve  566 , such as those made by Neoperl. These flow regulators provide a substantially constant flow of water therethrough, especially after a threshold pressure has been obtained. As one example, with a flow regulator from Neoperl of the type MR03 US Type, flows can be selected to flow from about one gallon per minute to about two and two-tenths gallons per minute within a tolerance band. Preferably, the flow regulators are press fit into the housing at the inlet  563 . 
         [0123]    Valve assembly  560  includes a central passage  562  that interconnects inlet  563  to an internal connection  565  and outlets  564 . By transitioning from central passage  562  with a relatively small cross section to the larger eyewash outlets  564  (which are capped with dispensing caps  521 ), the velocity of water within valve  560  is reduced greatly and thereby emerges from the apertures  521   a  of cap  521  more gently, yet extends upwardly the required distance of eight inches as noted in Enzi standard Z358-1-2009. Further, it has been found that the velocity of water is not so great as to extend greatly beyond this eight inch limit, thus making the eyewash system more user-friendly, and therefore more likely to be used. In some embodiments, the area ratio (the combined cross sectional area of outlets  564  to the cross sectional area of central passage  562 ) is from about 8 to about 11, with a preferred range being greater than about 9. With this sizing, it has been determined that a wash flow less than about two gallons per minute can be provided. In this manner, the flow valve  560  is less wasteful of water during usage. 
         [0124]    In some embodiments, central passage  562  terminates at a distal-most end  563   a , as best seen in  FIG. 5-3 . Some versions of valve assembly  560  include an aperture at the termination  563   a  of internal chamber  562 . This aperture can be provided with a male or female feature that can be coupled to the inlet  563  of a second valve assembly  560 . This coupling of two valve assemblies provides four eyewash nozzles, and this modular construction thus makes valve  560  suitable for emergency eyewash applications and emergency face wash applications. A corresponding flow schematic can be seen in  FIG. 5-13 , where the additional valve  560  is represented by outlets  564 ′ and dispensing caps  261 ′. Further, the modified, inlet is identified as element  663 ′, and the secondary outlet of the first valve is identified as  563   a.    
         [0125]    Valve  560  further includes an indexing feature  561   a  located centrally on the bottom of the housing  561 . As best seen in  FIGS. 5-2  and  5 - 3 , indexing feature  561   a  includes a pair of downwardly extending arms that define a gap therebetween. Referring briefly to  FIGS. 5-7  and  5 - 9 , it can be seen that this gap is sized to accept therebetween the indexing feature  571  of wash basin  570 . This indexing feature combined with the quick connect fittings on outlet of the shut-off valve  550  and the inlet to the outlet valve  560  combine to make valve  560  modular and easily replaceable by an unskilled person. The quick connect fittings of the shut-off valve and the outlet valve combine to align valve  560  along the length of the vertical axis VCL. The indexing features  561   a  and  771  do not interfere with this fore and aft alignment, since indexing feature  571  can fit easily between the parallel arms of indexing feature  561   a . However, the indexing features  561   a  and  571  combine to laterally locate valve  560  in a lateral direction (i.e., as along the lateral centerline LCL, best seen in  FIG. 5-7 ). Valve  560  is preferably not attached to basin  570 . Therefore, the person replacing valve  560  has only a single quick connection to achieve, and does not have to further connect body  561  to basin  570 . It can be further seen that the shape of feature  561  is generally complementary in shape to indexing feature  571 . 
         [0126]      FIGS. 5-5  and  5 - 6  show various components located internally in some embodiments of valve  560 . Filters  556  in one embodiment are preferably porous, centered metal wafers. In one example, housing  561  is a two-piece, molded plastic housing having a groove within wash outlet  564 . During manufacturing, a filter  556  is inserted in the groove of one-half of the housing  561 , and the other half is then mated with the first half, trapping filter  556  in place. A Neoperl regulator  566  is shown in  FIGS. 5-5  (from one side) and  FIG. 5-6  (from the other side). Each regulator includes a static, generally rigid structure  556   b  that cooperates with the rigid members  556   a  that cooperates with a resilient member  566   b , such as an O-ring to produce a variable orifice effect. 
         [0127]      FIGS. 5-5  and  5 - 6  show end and side views, respectively, of an expulsion valve  558 . In some embodiments, valve  558  is press fit into an orifice created at secondary outlet  563   a  of body  561 . 
         [0128]      FIG. 5-12  schematically describes operation of expulsion valve  558 . Flow is received within the valve from inlet  563  as shown in the direction of the arrow. After this flow has reached a sufficient value, its impingement on flapper  558   c  causes the flapper to shut drainage outlet  558   b . The flow is thereby directed upward (with reference to  FIG. 5-12 ) and onto the eyewash chambers  564 . When the inlet flow stops, flapper  558   c  is biased to the open position (as shown schematically by the spring), and thereby releases any trapped water within valve assembly  560  by way of the open flowpath to drainage outlet  558   b  (which releases the water into basin  570 ). It is appreciated that flapper  558   c  can be biased open by spring, by weight, or by any other means. 
         [0129]      FIGS. 5-7  through  5 - 10  depict various features of basin  570 . In one embodiment, basin  570  is of a rounded diamond shape, and symmetrical about a vertical centerline VCL, and further symmetrical about a lateral centerline LCL. A drainage aperture  562  is located at a low point within basin  570  so as to achieve a gravity drain. A lip  575  extends upwardly from the bottom of the basin, and around the edges of the basin. Basin  570  includes an indexing feature such as the rib  571  extending upward from the bottom of the basin, and located proximate to the drainage aperture  572 . As previously discussed, this indexing feature  571  cooperates with an indexing feature of the valve body assembly so as to assist a user in replacing the valve assembly  560 . Preferably, the indexing features provide an indexing and location function in a single direction, and do not limit indexing or location in directions orthogonal to that direction. As seen herein, indexing features  571  and  561   a  provide a locating function along the length of centerline LCL but do not provide any location along the length of vertical centerline VCL, and further does not provide any limitation on the upwards location of the valve assembly. 
         [0130]    Basin  570  further includes an attachment feature  573  located on the bottom of basin  570 , and best seen in  FIGS. 5-10  and  5 - 11 . Locating feature  573  in one embodiment includes a pair of spaced apart members that receive between them a support arm  525 . The members further include an attachment hole that aligns with an attachment hole in the arm  525 . Referring to  FIG. 5-11 , a person installing a basin  570  makes the appropriate plumbing connection from drain  572  to drain  528  and then to the draining feature of stand  526 . Arm  525  is pinned to basin  570  at one end, and further pinned or otherwise fastened to stand  526 . Preferably, support arm  525  is provided in at least one embodiment at a length suitable for spacing basin  570  away from stand  526  such that person in a wheelchair can approach the basin, get their legs under the basin, and use the eyewash. Arm  525  is preferably a tight fit within a machine slot of stand  526 . 
         [0131]    Some embodiments of the present invention use a basin  570  that is adapted and configured to provide a tactile indication to the user of their location relative to the eyewash outlets  564 . It has been observed that some existing emergency eyewash basins have a circular shape, or other shape, that does not give a tactile indication to a person without vision of their relative location, such as for existing eyewash basins that are circular. In such a case, the person with impaired vision would have difficultly aligning their eyes with the spaced apart eyewash outlets. 
         [0132]    Referring to  FIG. 5-7 , it can be seen that basin  570  includes rounded corners at opposing lateral extremes along centerline LCL, and these comprise tactile features  574  that can be gripped or touched by the person using the eyewash basin. The person would be able to feel the rounded corners of the diamond shape in the lateral directions, and therefore intuitively know where to place their head and eyes. In some embodiments, the tactile features are corners (whether rounded or not) of the basin, but further can be handles, finger or thumb grooves located in the lip  575 , inwardly-extending pockets adapted to receive the person&#39;s fingers in the lip, or similar features. It is preferred that the tactile features  574  be located the greatest lateral distance from the centerline between the eyewash outlets. 
         [0133]    Flow schematic  5 - 14  depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention. Various embodiments contemplate one, two, or there flow regulators  656  within valve assembly  560 . As has been previously discussed, a first flow regulator  656 - 1  is selected to provide a total eyewash flow to both eyewash outlets  564 . However, in yet other embodiments this first, central flow regulator is not needed, and the valve assembly can otherwise include a pair of flow regulators each selected for regulation of flow to a single eyewash outlet  564 . 
         [0134]      FIGS. 6-1  to  6 - 5  depict various embodiments of a transportable eyewash according to one embodiment of the present invention. An eyewash system  620  is located on a cart  611  and combines to create a transportable eyewash system  610 . Cart  610  preferably includes a deck  612  that supports within it a basin  670  for capturing was that flows out of outlet valve assembly  660 , and draining out of a drain  672  into a catch basin  629 . Catch basin  629  is adapted and configured to contact not just the flowing out of the valve assembly  660 , but also any contaminant that was washed off of the person using transportable system  610 . Therefore, this contaminant, which may still be dangerous even if diluted, is not released to the ambient, but rather is stored at the bottom cart  611 . 
         [0135]    Cart  611  further supports eyewash system  620  from a plurality of legs  613  that contact the ground or floor by corresponding wheels  614 . When not in use, a lid  615  can be closed around deck  612 , since actuating on-off paddle  652  and valve assembly  560  are sized to fit within the recessed deck portion of cart  611 . Cart  611  further includes underneath it an electrical water heater  690  that is shock mounted to the structure of cart  610 . 
         [0136]    Shock mounts  692  are selected such that they are relatively loose, and permit a static deflection of heater  690  of more than about one-fourth of an inch. The spring constant of the resilient member  692  are selected to reduce the transmission of vibration above a predetermined frequency. Preferably, this predetermined frequency is selected to isolate heater  692  from many of the routine shocks and vibration that occur during handling and operation of system  620 . 
         [0137]      FIG. 6-4  schematically shows a system  610  that includes a flow regulator  656  that establishes a generally constant flow of water when shut-off valve  650  is opened.  FIG. 6-5  schematically depicts the catch basin  529  that is located to collect any drainage from eyewash system  620 . 
         [0138]    Various aspects of different embodiments of the present invention are expressed in paragraphs X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7 as follows: 
         [0139]    X1. One aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a thermostatically controlled valve having an inlet for hot water, an inlet for cold water, and an outlet providing tempered water. The system preferably includes a flow regulator having an inlet, an outlet, and a variable orifice inbetween, said regulator inlet receiving tempered water from said valve, said variable orifice becoming more restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the regulator inlet increases and becoming less restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the regulator inlet decreases, said regulator outlet providing an outlet flow within a predetermined range of flows. The system preferably includes an eyewash nozzle having an inlet for receiving the regulated flow of water and directing the regulated flow generally upwards. 
         [0140]    X2. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a water outlet having a first quick connect fitting. The system preferably includes an eyewash nozzle assembly having an inlet and a second quick connect fitting mateable to said first quick connect fitting at the inlet, said nozzle assembly having a first indexing feature. The system preferably includes a basin for collecting water expelled from said nozzle, said basin having a drain that collects water expelled from said nozzle, said basin including a second indexing feature; wherein said second indexing feature establishes the location of said first indexing feature when said nozzle assembly is connected to said water outlet. 
         [0141]    X3. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a stand vertically supported from the floor. The method preferably includes an eyewash nozzle assembly. The system preferably includes a basin attached to said stand and extending horizontally forward from the stand and below said nozzle assembly, said basin being substantially symmetric laterally, the lateral sides of said basin including mirror images of a feature that tactilely identifies the location of said nozzle assembly. The system preferably includes a water shutoff valve for manual control of flow of water to said nozzle, said valve including a lever, said level being located above said nozzle assembly. 
         [0142]    X4. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to an emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a stand vertically supported from the floor. The system preferably includes an eyewash nozzle assembly adapted and configured for the upward flow of water generally symmetric about a vertical plane. The system preferably includes a basin attached to said stand and extending horizontally forward from the stand by a distance suitable for use by a person in a wheelchair and located below said nozzle assembly, said basin having opposing sides that each include a feature that tactilely identifies orients the person relative to the nozzle assembly. The system preferably includes a water shutoff valve for manual control of flow of water to said nozzle, said valve including a lever located above said nozzle assembly and generally in the vertical plane of said nozzle assembly. 
         [0143]    X5. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to an apparatus for an emergency eyewash. The apparatus preferably includes an eyewash nozzle assembly having an inlet and a quick connect fitting at the inlet, a nozzle outlet for providing a flow of water for the eyewash, a flow regulator providing fluid communication between the inlet and nozzle outlet, the flow regulator being adapted and configured to provide a substantially constant flow of water from inlet to nozzle outlet as inlet pressure varies within a range of pressures, a filter adapted and configured to provide filtered water to said nozzle outlet, and a housing internally supporting said filter and said regulator, said housing including said inlet and said nozzle outlet. 
         [0144]    X6. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to a transportable emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a cart with wheels. The system preferably includes an electrical water heater mounted to said cart by a resilient member that reduces the transmission of vibration from the cart to said heater, said heater receiving water from a source and providing heated water. The system preferably includes a shutoff valve having an inlet for receiving water from said heater, said valve having an outlet, and a movable valve member actuatable over a range of positions for directing water from the inlet to the outlet, said member having a first position to permit flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a second position to prevent flow from the outlet. The system preferably includes an eyewash nozzle having an inlet for receiving water from the outlet, said nozzle being pointed generally upwards. The system preferably includes a basin for collecting water expelled from said nozzle and providing the collected water to a drain. The system preferably includes a reservoir storing water received from the drain. 
         [0145]    X7. Another aspect of the present invention pertains to a transportable emergency eyewash system. The system preferably includes a cart with wheels. The system preferably includes an electrical water heater mounted to said cart, said heater receiving water from a source and providing heated water. The system preferably includes a shutoff valve having an inlet for receiving water from said heater, said valve having a first outlet, a second outlet, and a movable valve member actuatable over a range of positions for directing water from the inlet to the first outlet or the second outlet, said member having a first position to permit flow from the inlet to the first outlet, a second position to permit flow from the inlet to the second outlet, and a third position to prevent flow to both the first outlet and the second outlet. The system preferably includes an eyewash nozzle having an inlet for receiving water from the first outlet, said nozzle being pointed generally upwards. 
         [0146]    Yet other embodiments pertain to any of the previous statements X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, or X7 which are combined with one or more of the following other aspects: 
         [0147]    Which further comprises a filter receiving the regulated flow of water from said regulator and providing filtered and regulated flow of water to said nozzle. 
         [0148]    Wherein said filter includes porous sintered metal. 
         [0149]    Wherein said variable orifice includes a resilient blocking member and a fixed member, said member changing in at least one of shape or location relative to said fixed member to provide at least one of a smaller flow area or an increased flow resistance as water pressure at the regulator inlet increases. 
         [0150]    Wherein the resilient member is an oring. 
         [0151]    Wherein the variable orifice includes an elastomeric oring. 
         [0152]    Wherein said flow regulator is a first regulator and said nozzle is a first nozzle, and which further comprises a second flow regulator having an inlet, an outlet, and a second variable orifice inbetween, said second regulator inlet receiving tempered water from said valve, said second variable orifice becoming more restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the second regulator inlet increases and becoming less restrictive to flow as the pressure of water at the second regulator inlet decreases, said second regulator outlet providing a second outlet flow within a predetermined range of flows, said second outlet flow being substantially the same as the outlet flow of said first flow regulator; a second eyewash nozzle having an inlet for receiving the regulated flow of water from said second regulator and directing the regulated flow generally upwards. 
         [0153]    Which further comprises a shower nozzle having an inlet receiving tempered water, said shower nozzle being located higher than said eyewash nozzle for directing a flow of water generally downward. 
         [0154]    Wherein said shower nozzle includes a flow deflector oriented centrally in the inlet of the shower nozzle, said deflector changing the direction of substantially all the flow entering said shower nozzle. 
         [0155]    Wherein said flow regulator regulates a flow of less than about two gallons per minute. 
         [0156]    Which further comprises an accumulator receiving a flow of tempered water and having an outlet providing the water to the inlet of said flow regulator. 
         [0157]    Wherein said thermostatically controlled valve includes means for creating turbulence. 
         [0158]    Wherein the first indexing feature has a first shape, and the second indexing feature has a second shape that is complementary to the first shape. 
         [0159]    Wherein said first quick connect fitting and said second quick connect fitting align said nozzle assembly and said basin in a first direction, and the first indexing feature and the second indexing feature align said nozzle assembly and said basin in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. 
         [0160]    Wherein the second indexing feature is located proximate to the drain. 
         [0161]    Wherein said first quick connect fitting and said second quick connect fitting can be connected to each other without the use of a tool. 
         [0162]    Wherein said first quick connect fitting and said second quick connect fitting can be connected in a substantially leak-tight connection. 
         [0163]    Wherein said first quick connect fitting and said second quick connect fitting can be connected to each other by pressing the first fitting and second fitting toward each other. 
         [0164]    Wherein the inlet of the eyewash nozzle assembly has a first area, the total area of the eyewash outlets has a second area, and the ratio of the second area to the first area is greater than about 8 and less than about 11, or wherein the ratio is greater than about 9. 
         [0165]    Wherein said nozzle assembly is not attached to said basin. 
         [0166]    Wherein said nozzle assembly includes a pair of spaced apart flow nozzles each pointed generally upward. 
         [0167]    Wherein each of said flow nozzles includes a plurality of flow apertures. 
         [0168]    Wherein said lever is generally vertical in the shutoff position, and said lever is pushed backward to actuate the flow of water. 
         [0169]    Wherein the lever includes a flat panel. 
         [0170]    Wherein said nozzle assembly has a centerline, and the lever is located along the centerline. 
         [0171]    Wherein the level is attached by a separate bracket pinned. 
         [0172]    Wherein the feature is a rounded corner. 
         [0173]    Wherein said basin is diamond shaped. 
         [0174]    Wherein the lateral feature is a handle. 
         [0175]    Wherein said nozzle assembly includes a pair of upwardly directed, laterally-displaced spray nozzles. 
         [0176]    Wherein said lever is generally vertical in the shutoff position, and said level is pushed backward to actuate the flow of water. 
         [0177]    Wherein the lever includes a flat panel. 
         [0178]    Wherein the feature is a rounded corner. 
         [0179]    Wherein said basin is diamond shaped. 
         [0180]    Wherein the lateral feature is a handle. 
         [0181]    Wherein said nozzle assembly includes a pair of upwardly directed, laterally-displaced spray nozzles. 
         [0182]    Wherein the nozzle assembly inlet includes a central passage having a second outlet, said second outlet being adapted and configured to be received within the inlet of a second eyewash nozzle assembly. 
         [0183]    Which further comprise a repeatedly removal cap having a plurality of apertures, said cap being received by said nozzle outlet. 
         [0184]    Which further comprises a pair of nozzle outlets laterally spaced apart a distance within the range of spacing of adult human eyes. 
         [0185]    Wherein said filter is located downstream of said regulator. 
         [0186]    Wherein the quick connect fitting has one of a male or a female fitting. 
         [0187]    Wherein said flow regulator is a press fit into said housing. 
         [0188]    Which further comprises drainage valve supported internally by said housing, said drainage valve including a movable valve member biased to normally open a drainage passage when water pressure within said assembly inlet is below a predetermined value. 
         [0189]    Which further comprises a plurality of resilient members mounting said heater to said cart, each of said resilient members being spaced apart from each other resilient member. 
         [0190]    Wherein said resilient member is a spring having a spring constant selected to reduce the transmission of vibration above a predetermined frequency. 
         [0191]    Wherein said resilient member is an elastomeric coupling. 
         [0192]    Wherein said resilient member is adapted and configured to deflect from a free state to a compressed state under the weight of said heater. 
         [0193]    Wherein the deflection is more than about one fourth of an inch. 
         [0194]    Wherein the reservoir has an internal volume of more than about ten gallons. 
         [0195]    Wherein said nozzle directs water to a contaminated person using said system, and the basin collects contaminant washed off of the person by the water. 
         [0196]    Wherein said nozzle is a first nozzle oriented to wash water from one eye of a person, and which further comprises a second nozzle oriented to wash water from the other eye of the person. 
         [0197]    Wherein the second outlet drains generally downward for purging of air from said heater. 
         [0198]    Wherein said member is externally actuatable by hand. 
         [0199]    Wherein in the third position said movable member maintains water in said heater. 
         [0200]    Wherein said heater is mounted to said cart by a plurality of shock mounts. 
         [0201]    Wherein said heater heats said water by electrical resistance. 
         [0202]    While the inventions have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only certain embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.

Technology Classification (CPC): 8