CN116529443A

CN116529443A - Water treatment unit and dispensing unit for a washing device

Info

Publication number: CN116529443A
Application number: CN202180078302.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: V·佩兰; N·甘索夫范德梅尔什; E·莫克; M·施拉普赫; C·杰克森; T·加贝拉
Original assignee: Gjosa SA
Current assignee: Gjosa SA
Priority date: 2020-11-20
Filing date: 2021-11-19
Publication date: 2023-08-01
Also published as: US20240003126A1; JP2023549932A; WO2022106600A3; IL302934A; EP4248025A2; WO2022106600A2

Abstract

A water treatment unit (2) for a cleaning device (10), the water treatment unit (2) being configured to provide different flows of water having different spray characteristics and with a plurality of additives mixed therein. The water treatment unit (2) comprises an inflow joint (11) for attaching the water treatment unit to a water source, an outflow joint (32) for attaching the water treatment unit to a dispensing unit (3), and one, two or more docking adapters (76) configured for attaching one, two or more additive containers (25). A plurality of hydraulic elements formed in a hydraulic assembly (50) for directing and controlling the flow of water between the inflow joint (11) and the outflow joint (32), the hydraulic assembly comprising a header (57) comprising internal passages which direct the flow of water and carry the plurality of hydraulic elements and a plurality of hydraulic elements.

Description

Water treatment unit and dispensing unit for a washing device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of devices for treating the human body, in particular to a water treatment unit and a dispensing unit for a washing device according to the preamble of the respective independent claims.

Background

Devices and methods for delivering additives to a spray head for application to the human body are known, for example, from EP2543779A2 or WO2007/062536 A1.

US2019/352889A1 discloses a washing facility with multiple outlets for dispensing water or water mixed with consumables. It can be controlled to operate in different modes of operation which may differ in pressure, flow, temperature and whether or not the consumable is to be mixed with water.

WO2012055272A1 shows a soap dispensing device having a liquid suction chamber. Wherein the supply of soap is driven by the hydraulic pressure of the supplied water.

KR20030008504a shows a showerhead with control buttons for controlling the delivery of additives by controlling the mixing box. The additive is provided by a set of additive containers.

Known systems are generally intended for use in connection with fixtures associated with bathtubs or showers or faucets and are limited in the manner in which they can do. There is a need for a water treatment unit that is versatile and at the same time easy to operate. More generally, there is a need for improvements over existing systems.

Disclosure of Invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to devise a water treatment unit and a dispensing unit of the initially mentioned type which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks.

These objects are achieved by a water treatment unit and a dispensing unit according to the claims.

A water treatment unit for a cleaning device, the water treatment unit configured to controllably provide different flows of water having different spray characteristics and with a plurality of additives mixed therein by a user, the water treatment unit comprising:

an inflow connector for attaching the water treatment unit to a water source, in particular, wherein the inflow connector is configured for attachment to a water supply hose;

an outflow fitting for attaching the water treatment unit to a dispensing unit, in particular wherein the outflow fitting is configured for attaching a hose to a shower head;

one, two or more docking adapters configured for attaching one, two or more additive containers.

In an embodiment, the water treatment unit is configured to provide the at least one additive without mixing it with water.

In embodiments, one or more or all of the docking adapters are designed to accommodate additive cartridges or capsules. The additive cartridge or capsule may contain the additive in solid form or in highly viscous form. The additive cartridge or capsule may contain the amount of additive required for a single treatment cycle. I.e. a processing cycle set by a user at a time. The docking adapter may be configured to direct water through the additive cartridge, thereby ablating the additive and carrying it out of the additive cartridge. The docking adapter may include a slot into which the additive cartridge or capsule is inserted and then mechanically opened by the docking adapter.

As an alternative to a butt joint, other additive sources may be present. For example, there may be a refillable additive container forming part of the dispensing unit in place of one or more or all of the docking adapter.

In an embodiment, a plurality of hydraulic elements are implemented in a hydraulic assembly for guiding and controlling the flow of water between the inflow joint and the outflow joint, the hydraulic assembly comprising a total header comprising internal channels guiding the flow of water and carrying the plurality of hydraulic elements, and a plurality of hydraulic elements, in particular sensors and actuators controlling the flow of water.

In an embodiment, the header serves as a support structure for holding and supporting the plurality of hydraulic components.

This makes the water treatment unit easy to assemble and allows for a compact arrangement of the hydraulic components. The header may also hold and support electronic components, such as a controller. The header and its supported elements can be transported and handled as a single self-supporting unit. The header thus fulfils the technical function of the washing device and can be assembled and tested independently of the housing in which it is used, thus forming a base unit. As long as the housing provides a space for accommodating the header, variations in the housing can be achieved without affecting the header design.

In an embodiment, the internal channels are arranged inside the header to guide water between the plurality of hydraulic elements and also to guide additives as the case may be.

In an embodiment, the header comprises a first plate and a second plate attached to each other, wherein a plurality of channels guiding water flow are arranged between the two plates and defined by a hollow space between the two plates.

In an embodiment, a gasket is arranged between the two plates, thereby ensuring the water tightness of the channel. In an embodiment, the two plates are joined by one of ultrasonic welding, laser welding (at least one plate is transparent to the laser used for welding).

In an embodiment, for one or more of the plurality of hydraulic elements, the header is shaped to form a functional portion of the hydraulic element.

In an embodiment, the header is shaped to form at least one valve seat for a hydraulic element performing a valve function.

In an embodiment, the header is shaped to form at least one restrictor for restricting flow through one of the plurality of internal passages of the header.

In an embodiment, the hydraulic assembly has an elongated shape with a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the inflow joint and the outflow joint each being arranged to the first end.

This allows the inlet and outlet hoses to be connected to the water treatment unit adjacent to one another, which is practical in use, while minimizing or eliminating the need for additional piping into and out of the hydraulic assembly.

In an embodiment, the high flow water channel controlled by the high flow valve constitutes a shortest flow path for water to flow from the inflow joint to the outflow joint inside the hydraulic assembly, compared to other flow paths formed in the hydraulic assembly from the inflow joint to the outflow joint.

In an embodiment, the flow through the high flow water channel does not pass through any element designed to reduce or restrict the flow other than the high flow water channel.

In an embodiment, inside the hydraulic assembly, an initial spray flow path leads from the inflow joint to a split point, where the initial spray flow path is divided into a water spray channel and a mixing channel,

the water spray channel is controlled by a common water valve and leads to a joint, which in turn leads to the outflow joint,

the mixing channel is controlled by a mixing valve and opens into the second end and from there into a mixing section of the mixing channel which opens back into the joint in the direction of the first end.

This allows the mixing section to extend along the length of the elongated hydraulic assembly, which in turn allows the additive containers and associated additive pumps to be arranged adjacent to each other in a space-saving manner. In an embodiment, the header includes two stages of parallel channels. In an embodiment, it includes three or more levels.

In an embodiment, the pressure reducer is arranged to limit the pressure at the split point into the water spray channel and the mixing channel, in particular to a pressure of less than 3 bar, in particular to a pressure of 2 bar.

In an embodiment, the pressure reducer is one of a plurality of hydraulic components carried by the header.

In an embodiment, a restrictor is arranged to further restrict the flow in the water jet channel, in particular between one and two litres per minute.

In an embodiment, the total header further comprises a mixing header arranged to or part of the second plate, the mixing header comprising a mixing channel arranged to direct a flow of water from the second end to the first end, the mixing channel having an additive inlet optionally comprising an additive check valve, the additive inlet being arranged along the mixing channel for mixing additive to the flow of water.

The additive check valve may be a duckbill valve.

In an embodiment, the volume of the mixing channel from the first additive inlet to the joint is less than 30 milliliters, in particular less than 20 milliliters, in particular less than 10 milliliters, seen in the flow direction.

This relatively small volume allows for a short delay time between the moment the additive is delivered to the mixing channel and the moment it is delivered to the joint and subsequently to the showerhead. Instead, it also makes the delay time between the moment of stopping the delivery and the time of the additive rushing out from the mixing channel shorter.

In an embodiment, the water treatment unit comprises two or more peristaltic pumps arranged in a row with their axes of rotation at least approximately at right angles to the direction of the mixing channel, wherein the two outermost peristaltic pumps of the row are arranged to rotate in opposite directions.

In an embodiment, all hydraulic elements guiding and controlling the water flow between the inflow joint and the outflow joint are arranged inside a compact base unit.

In an embodiment, the base unit is configured for inserting and connecting the one, two or more additive containers in a vertical direction, in particular in a downward direction, to the respective docking adapter.

In an embodiment, the base unit is configured for three or more additive containers arranged to be inserted and connected in rows in a vertical direction, in particular a downward direction, to respective docking adaptors.

In an embodiment, the base unit comprises a user interface element comprising an additive selection element, in particular one selector button for each of the docking adaptors or additive sources, and an additive concentration controller for setting the amount of additive delivered from one or more selected docking adaptors or additive sources when the water treatment unit is in additive dispensing mode, and optionally comprising a dispensing mode selection element, in particular an indicator light ring, for indicating one or more selected docking adaptors or additive sources.

In an embodiment, a mode indicating element is present for indicating that one or more selected docking adaptors or additive sources are in a continuous mixing, pulsed additive mixing mode or pulsed water mixing mode. Such a pattern may be indicated, for example, by a color or brightness change pattern of the optical indicator.

In an embodiment, the user interface is configured to allow selection of more than one docking adapter or additive source, and wherein for a particular setting of the additive concentration controller, the controller is configured to

If a single docking adapter or additive source is selected, controlling the amount of additive delivered by the single docking adapter or additive source to be equal to a reference amount corresponding to the particular setting of the additive concentration controller; and is also provided with

If two or more docking adapters or additive sources are selected, controlling the total amount of additive delivered by the two or more docking adapters or additive sources to be equal to the same reference amount corresponding to that particular setting of the additive concentration controller.

A corresponding method for operating a water treatment unit comprises the steps of:

selecting a single docking adapter or additive source, or selecting two or more docking adapters or additive sources, based on user input;

and for a specific setting of the additive concentration controller,

If two or more docking adapters or additive sources are selected, controlling the total amount of additive delivered by the two or more docking adapters or additive sources to be equal to the same reference amount corresponding to the particular setting of the additive concentration controller.

In embodiments, selecting two or more of the docking adapters to operate in a mixed state (which may be continuous, pulsed additive or pulsed water mixing) may result in the mixing of two or more additives that undergo a chemical reaction upon mixing. The mixing of these additives may be performed in the same proportions, i.e. each docking delivers the same amount of product per unit time or the same proportion of the total amount. The device may be configured to control the amount of each additive delivered for these chemical reactions. The device may be configured to generate a user prompt signal indicating that a given total amount of additive has been dispensed.

The dispensing unit is particularly for use in combination with a water treatment unit according to the preceding claim. It comprises a spray header with a spray outlet and a high flow outlet,

the spray outlet is configured to generate a spray of droplets at a spray flow rate, in particular by generating two or more impinging water jets,

The high flow outlet is configured to produce a jet of water at a high flow rate,

the high flow rate is at least twice, in particular three times, the spray flow rate.

In an embodiment, the dispensing unit comprises an additive button for setting an operation mode of the mixing valve and the ordinary water valve of the water treatment unit to deliver water through the water spray channel or water mixed with an additive through the mixing channel.

In an embodiment, the dispensing unit comprises a flow selector for selecting the operation modes of the high flow valve and the mixing valve or the normal water valve for the water treatment unit according to circumstances,

delivering water through the high flow water channel when the flow selector is in a high flow position, or

Delivering water through the water spray channel or the mixing channel as the case may be when the flow selector is in a spray position.

In an embodiment, the flow selector is configured to operate a diverter to direct the flow of water from the hose:

when the flow selector is in a high flow position, flow to the high flow outlet, or

Flow to the spray outlet when the flow selector is in a spray position.

Further preferred embodiments are evident from the dependent claims.

Drawings

The subject matter of the invention will be explained in more detail hereinafter with reference to a preferred exemplary embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, which schematically show:

FIG. 1 illustrates a flow path through a cleaning device;

FIGS. 2-5 illustrate various views of a water treatment unit;

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a water treatment unit;

FIG. 7 shows details of the showerhead; and

fig. 8 shows a base unit with an additive container and a user interface.

The reference numerals used in the figures and their meanings are listed in summary form in the list of reference numerals. In principle, like parts in the drawings have like reference numerals.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a flow path configuration through a cleaning device 10. Water from a water source, such as a tap water source, supplied via the tap 1 enters the cleaning device 10 through the inflow joint 11. The water passes through the filter 12. Optionally, the water is split into a main water path and a high flow water channel 24, either upstream (as shown) or downstream of the filter 12, with alternative paths for the high flow water channel being indicated by dashed lines. The flow in the high flow water passage 24 is controlled by the high flow valve 21. On the main water path, the water passes through an optional inlet check valve 13. A booster pump, such as a gear pump 14, may be connected in parallel to the inlet check valve 13 or replace the inlet check valve 13. Such a booster pump may be present if the cleaning apparatus 10 is intended to be used in situations where the tap water source pressure is too low. In other cases, the booster pump may be omitted. In the usual case, this pump is not present. The water then passes through the flow meter 16 or alternatively through a parallel arrangement of the flow meter 16 with an internal bypass 17 indicated by a dashed line. If an internal bypass 17 is present, most of the water passes through the bypass so that the flow meter 16 has little effect on flow. The flow then optionally passes through a pressure reducer at location 18' and splits at a split point 223 into separate branches, namely a mixing channel 22 and a water spray channel 23 and a high flow water channel 24 as in the illustrated embodiment. The optional pressure reducer at location 18' can act as a restrictor so that the flow through the subsequent element is independent of tap water pressure in the absence of a booster pump. The flow into each of these channels is controlled by the associated valves, namely mixing valve 19, normal water valve 20 and high flow valve 21.

The normal water valve 20 may be controlled to produce water pulses, for example at a frequency between 0.5Hz and 10Hz, in particular between 1Hz and 15Hz, in particular between 3Hz and 10Hz, by repeatedly switching the normal water valve 20 at regular intervals. Such pulsed water delivery may be used to achieve a pulsed water mixing mode, as described further below.

The conventional water valve 20 may be a proportional valve. This means that it can be controlled to remain in an open state in which it is opened to less than the maximum opening. In its open state, it may be opened to an opening of between ten percent or twenty to one hundred percent of the maximum opening.

The flow path comprising the combination of the following elements will be referred to as the initial spray flow path 222: inlet check valve 13 and gear pump 14, pressure sensor 15, temperature sensor 31 and flow meter 16. One or more of these elements may be omitted from the initial spray flow path 222.

In the mixing channel 22, the flow through the restrictor or reducer 221 enters the mixing section where it merges with one or more additive streams. The flow restrictor or reducer 221 reduces the flow or further reduces the flow if a reducer is present at location 18'. Each additive flow is delivered into the mixing channel 22 by an associated peristaltic pump 26 pumping from an associated additive container 25 through an associated additive check valve 27. The additive check valve 27 may be a duckbill valve. In some embodiments, the additive check valve 27 may be absent. Downstream of the mixing section, the flow (which may now optionally include one or more additives depending on the operation of peristaltic pump 26) passes through a mixture check valve 29, which may be a duckbill valve, into junction 30. At junction 30, the mixing channel 22 merges with the water spray channel 23 and the high flow water channel 24 to form a converging flow.

The water spray channel 23 is separate from the mixing channel 22 in order to allow a fast switching between water with and without additives. Another reason is that the flow rates in the two channels and the flow rate for distributing shower water or water with additives can be set to be different. For this purpose, if no pressure reducer is present at the location 18', there is a water jet restrictor or pressure reducer 18 in the water jet channel in addition to the restrictor 221 in the mixing channel 22. Alternatively, if a pressure reducer is present at location 18', the water jet restrictor or pressure reducer 18 in the water jet channel may be omitted and the flow difference determined by the restrictor or pressure reducer 221 in the mixing channel 22. Furthermore, if a pressure reducer is present at location 18', the high flow water passage 24 should branch off from the initial spray flow path 222 upstream of the pressure reducer.

The converging flow optionally reaches the outflow nipple 32 along an outflow temperature sensor (not shown, placed at position 31'). Flow is from the outflow fitting 32 through the optional outlet filter 28 and directed by a hose 33 to the showerhead 34.

The volume of the mixing channel 22 is relatively small so that the delay time between starting and stopping the additive pump and delivering the additive through the showerhead 34 is kept short. In particular, the time for flushing the additive from the mixing channel 22 after stopping the respective pump is kept short. For example, the volume of the mixing channel 22 is less than 30 ml, in particular less than 20 ml, in particular less than 10 ml.

Conversely, the volume of the water jet channel 23 may be between thirty and sixty milliliters, in particular between forty and fifty milliliters. The volume of the high-flow water channel 24 may be between 10 and 30 ml, in particular between 15 and 25 ml.

The elements between the inflow connection 11 and the outflow connection 32 constitute a water treatment unit 2. The hose 33 and the shower head 34 form the dispensing unit 3.

The water treatment unit 2 comprises a controller 100, which controller 100 is arranged to read sensor values, read status from user input elements (described below), control actuators such as valves and pumps in accordance with such sensors or user inputs, and display information to a user. The controller 100 may also be configured to communicate with an external computer system. The communication may include sending operational data to the external computer system and receiving operational parameters from the external system, including user and customer preferences. The operational data may include measurements made by sensors of the device, information about user actions, use of additives, device status data, error messages, and the like. Such data may be used to improve operation of the cleaning device itself or a group of devices, to indicate replacement of additive containers, to schedule maintenance, etc. The external computer may be operated by the manufacturer and/or supplier of the additive, or by the user. In the latter case, the external computer may be a handheld computing device and may be implemented as a user interface or control panel that displays information from the cleaning device 10 and allows control of the cleaning device 10.

The sensor shown in the embodiment of fig. 1 allows monitoring the operation of the cleaning device 10. In a simplified embodiment, there are no one or more sensors, in particular pressure sensor 15, flow meter 16 and temperature sensor 31.

In an embodiment, the water flow into the water treatment unit 2 is controlled by the tap 1. In particular, the temperature of the flow may be controlled by a faucet that is a mixing faucet. In this manner, the cleaning device 10 may be integrated with existing hair care facilities, thereby replacing existing showerheads. The user operating the cleaning device 10 can keep their habit of controlling the temperature through the tap 1. With respect to water flow, the faucet may be fully open, with flow controlled by mixing valve 19, normal water valve 20, and high flow valve 21.

Fig. 2 to 5 show views of the water treatment unit 2, in particular of the hydraulic assembly 50. As described above, hydraulic assembly 50 includes a manifold that is implemented as a conduit or channel between various hydraulic components that affect flow on the one hand. The hydraulic elements are sensors and actuators, in particular valves or pumps. On the other hand, the header serves as a carrier for the hydraulic components, i.e. the components are carried and held in place by the header.

The hydraulic assembly 50 may be made from one or more components by injection molding or additive manufacturing.

In the embodiment presented herein, hydraulic assembly 50 includes a total header 57, which total header 57 in turn includes a base header 55 connected to a mixing header 56. The base header 55 in turn includes a first plate 51 and a second plate 52. In one of the plates, the channels 54 are formed by grooves in the plates. The channels 54 extend parallel to a plane referred to as the channel plane. The gasket 53 may be arranged to ensure water tightness between the two plates in the area of the channel 54. The channels in the base header 55 are realized as the channels of the water spray channel 23 and the channels leading to the water spray channel 23, and the channels of the high flow rate water channel 24. In the embodiment presented here, the high-flow water channel 24 branches from the initial spray flow path 222 upstream of the measuring element, as shown by the broken line of the tap 1.

The mixing channel 22 is implemented in a mixing header 56. The mixing header 56 implements a second stage internal passage in a plane parallel to the passages 54 in the base header 55.

Fig. 2 shows an overview of the hydraulic assembly 50 from the side where most of the hydraulic components are attached to the base header 55. Fig. 3 shows the same side, but with the first plate 51 removed, leaving the gasket 53 on the second plate 52, showing the position of the passage 54 relative to the hydraulic element. Fig. 3 shows on the left only the gasket 53 on the second plate 52, while on the right the first plate 51 is shown inverted to show the channel 54. Fig. 5 shows a different view of the opposite side, showing the arrangement of the mixing header 56 including the mixing channels 22: perspective view, wire frame illustration of the mixing manifold 56, and cross-sectional view.

The space-saving arrangement of the hydraulic components can be achieved by a header 57 having an elongated shape, the header 57 extending from a first end 61 in a first half section 63 of the header 57 to a second end 62 in a second half section 64, and the hydraulic components being arranged in the following manner:

positioning the inflow joint 11 and the outflow joint 32 adjacent to each other at the first end 61. This allows the respective inlet hose and hose 33 to be connected adjacent to each other.

Flow is led from the inflow joint 11 to the flow meter 16 and the pressure reducer 18 arranged in the second half section 64 of the main header 57.

The water spray channel 23 is arranged to extend through the first half section 63 back to the outflow nipple 32. In an embodiment, the length of the water jet channel 23 (measured from the inflow joint 11 to the outflow joint 32) is less than 70 cm, in particular less than 60 cm, and the cross-sectional area is 0.2cm ² To 1cm ² Between, in particular at 0.3cm ² To 0.5cm ² Between them.

The high flow water channel 24 comprising the high flow valve 21 is arranged to extend within the first half section 63 closer to the inflow joint 11 and the outflow joint 32 than the other channels and hydraulic elements. Therefore, the flow path of the high-flow water is shortest and can be realized with minimum pressure loss. In an embodiment, the length of the high flow water channel 24 (measured from the inflow joint 11 to the outflow joint 32) is less than 20 cm, in particular less than 15 cm, and is transverse The cross-sectional area is 0.3cm ² And 1cm ² Between, in particular at 0.4cm ² And 0.6cm ² Between them.

The mixing channel 22 is arranged to extend from the second half-section 64, in particular from the second end 62, back to the outflow nipple 32. In an embodiment, the length of the mixing channel 22 (measured from the first additive check valve 27 to the outflow nipple 32) is less than 40 cm, in particular less than 30 cm, and the cross-sectional area is 0.1cm ² And 0.5cm ² Between, in particular at 0.2cm ² And 0.4cm ² Between them.

It should be understood that the terms "first end" and "second end" should be understood to mean the regions at the respective ends. Such areas may include one fifth, one seventh, or one tenth of the length of the hydraulic assembly.

Furthermore, the mixing channel 22 may be arranged in a plane different from the channel plane in which the other channels lie. In the illustrated embodiment, the mixing channels 22 are arranged in a mixing header 56, the mixing header 56 being attached to the second plate 52. A portion of the mixing channel 22 extends substantially parallel to the water spray channel 23 at a distance in a direction orthogonal to the channel plane.

Fig. 5 shows the elements on the side of the hydraulic assembly 50 opposite the side currently shown, with the mixing manifold 56 attached to the second plate 52. Mixing channels 22 bifurcated at a split point 223 (see fig. 4) near the second end 62 pass through the second plate 52 into the mixing manifold 56. It extends along the length of the mixing manifold 56 and is joined one after the other by an outlet, such as a duckbill valve that acts as an additive check valve 27 for the peristaltic pump 26. Each peristaltic pump 26 is supplied from a respective additive container 25 (not shown) through an additive tube 261 leading to the mixing header 56 and an additive line 262 leading to the inlet of the peristaltic pump 26. A portion of the additive conduit 262 is formed by a groove in the side of the mixing manifold 56 facing the second plate 52. Near the first end 61, the mixing channel 22 passes back through the second plate 52 into the junction 30 in the first plate 51 (see fig. 4).

The hydraulic components are attached to the header 57. In more detail: peristaltic pump 26 is attached to mixing manifold 56 while other elements are attached to one side of base manifold 55, such as first plate 51.

In order to achieve a space-saving arrangement of peristaltic pumps 26, in a row of two, three or more pumps, the outermost two peristaltic pumps 26 are arranged to rotate in opposite directions. This allows positioning the respective inlets of the two outermost peristaltic pumps 26 at the periphery or ends of the row of pumps, which in turn allows arranging the respective additive tubes 261 at the periphery of the row of pumps.

In an embodiment, there are two or more pumps, and the respective additive pipes 261 that supply the pumps are arranged at the outer ends of the pumps in the rows, each located outside the inlet of the respective pump. In embodiments where a third pump is present, its respective additive tube 261 may be arranged to be located between the inlet and outlet of the third pump.

Fig. 6 shows a cross section of a total header 57 including a valve 58. The valves themselves, namely valve seat 581 and valve disc 582, are located in base header 55. The valve seat 581 is formed as part of the base header 55. In the example shown, the valve seat 581 is formed as part of the first plate 51, and in other embodiments it may be formed as part of the second plate 52. An actuator 583 for the valve is located outside the base header 55 and attached to the base header 55.

The flow restrictor 221 may be formed as part of the header 57. In an embodiment not shown in detail, the total header 57 is shaped to form at least a part of a filter carrier of a hydraulic element for achieving a filtering function.

Fig. 7 shows details of the dispensing unit 3, in particular of the shower head 34. The showerhead 34 includes two distinct outlets, a spray outlet 37 and a high flow outlet 38. The spray outlet 37 is configured to produce a water spray by producing two or more impinging water jets. Methods and devices for producing such sprays, in particular spray cartridges, are described, for example, in the following documents:

·WO2011/054120A2

·WO2011/054121A2

·WO2019/233958A1

·WO2020/070159A1

the spray outlet 37 thus produces a fine spray of water optionally including additives. This allows relatively less water to be used to apply the additives and to perform effective wetting and rinsing operations.

For the case where a high flow of water is required, the high flow outlet 38 is arranged to dispense water at a much higher flow than the spray outlet 37. The high flow outlet 38 comprises an annular outlet surrounding the outlet of the spray outlet 37.

In an embodiment, the cleaning device 10 is configured to have a flow rate of between 2 and 3 liters per minute, in particular 2.5 liters per minute +/-20%, through the spray outlet 37 in the spray state, without additives. The flow may be controlled by a pressure reducer 18. The flow passes through the water spray channel 23.

In an embodiment, the cleaning device 10 is configured in a mixed state with an additive having a flow rate of between 1 and 2 liters per minute through the spray outlet 37, in particular 1.5 liters per minute +/-20%. The flow may be controlled by a restrictor 221. The flow passes through the mixing channel 22.

The mixing state may be implemented as one of the following sub-states or mixing modes, or the cleaning device 10 may be configured to switch between two or more of the following mixing modes for at least one additive:

continuous mixing: here, the flow of additive and water is continuous;

pulse additive mix: here, the flow of the additive is pulsed. This can be achieved by periodically switching on and off the respective additive pumps. This allows for saving additives and/or accurate metering of additives. This in turn allows the use of highly concentrated additives.

Pulsed water mixing: here, the flow of water is pulsed. This "pulsing" is a preferred mode of application of the additive for coloring or toning, as higher concentrations of additive can be dispensed. This in turn results in a more efficient application of the additive. The pulses of water allow for a reduction in the total water flow dispensed. It still allows a sufficiently high flow to maintain impinging jets in spray outlet 37.

In an embodiment, the cleaning device 10 is configured to have a flow rate of 5 to 9 liters per minute through the high flow outlet 38 in a high flow condition, depending on the water pressure at the inflow nipple 11. In particular, the flow rate may be for the following inlet pressures:

2 bar: 4 to 6 litres per minute, in particular 5 litres per minute +/-20%;

2.5 bar: 5 to 7 litres per minute, in particular 6 litres per minute +/-20%;

3 bar: 5 to 8 litres per minute, in particular 7 litres per minute +/-20%.

Operation of the showerhead 34 is controlled by means of an additive button 35 and a flow selector 36. Both are control elements for setting the operation mode of the water treatment unit 2 through electric signal lines, and are generally arranged to the shower head 34. In other embodiments, one or both are disposed to a pool or treatment chair, base unit 75, or foot pedal.

When the additive button 35 is activated to the "mix" position, the additive button 35 controls the operation of the valve in the water treatment unit 2 to open the mixing valve 19 and close the ordinary water valve 20. The opposite valve position is set in the "clear water" position. Typically, this is the default position where the additive button 35 is not activated.

When the flow selector 36 is activated to the "high flow" position, the flow selector 36 controls the operation of the valves in the water treatment unit 2 to open the high flow valve 21 and close the mixing valve 19 and the ordinary water valve 20. The high flow valve 21 is closed in the "normal flow" or "spray" position. Typically, this is the default position where the flow selector 36 is not activated.

When the valve in the water treatment unit 2 is operated to switch between the high flow water passage 24 and the other two passages, the shower head 34 switches between the spray outlet 37 and the high flow outlet 38. This may be accomplished by mechanically or electrically actuating the flow selector 36 to the diverter 39, the diverter 39 diverting flow from the hose 33 to either the spray outlet 37 or the high flow outlet 38 depending on the state of the flow selector 36.

In an embodiment, the flow selector 36 controls the valve of the water treatment unit 2 by means of a dedicated signal line carrying an electrical signal, for example. In this case, a sensor such as a hall sensor may be provided to detect the position of the flow selector 36. In other embodiments, the flow selector 36 indirectly controls the valve because changes in pressure or flow caused by the flow diverted to the high flow outlet 38 are detected by corresponding sensors in the water treatment unit 2.

In short, the cleaning device 10 may be in the following operating states:

closed state

This state is entered from any other operating state by turning off tap 1.

Spray status:

the state is entered from the closed state by opening the tap 1.

The state is entered from the mixed state by moving the additive button 35 to the "clean water" position.

The state is entered from the high flow state by moving flow selector 36 to the "normal flow" position.

Mixed state, also called shampoo state if the additive is a shampoo:

the state is entered from a spray or high flow state by moving additive button 35 to the "mix" position.

High flow state, also called flush state:

the state is entered from a spray or mix state by moving flow selector 36 to the "high flow" position.

In other embodiments, the high flow water channel 24 does not merge with the flow from the water spray channel 23 and the mixing channel 22, but is directed to the showerhead 34 and the high flow outlet 38 by a second hose extending parallel to the hose 33.

If the hybrid state has more than one hybrid mode, switching between these modes may be accomplished by a corresponding mode selector or hybrid mode selection element operated by the user. For example, a mode selector is arranged to the base unit 75. The corresponding user interaction may include a user selecting a hybrid mode by operating a mode selector. This causes the base unit 75 to perform mixing according to the selected mixing mode when the mixing state is entered, typically by a user operating the additive button 35. In other embodiments, the mode selector is disposed to the showerhead 34 and/or it is combined with the additive button 35. Regardless of the position of the mode selector, the selected mode may be indicated by a corresponding mode indicator element on the base unit 75 or the showerhead 34, such as by a visual or optical indicator.

In an embodiment, the cleaning device 10 is configured to perform a method including multiple stages for dispensing multiple additives at different times as part of a user-selected program. One possible procedure is:

1. a first mixing state in which a defined amount of the first additive is dispensed. The first additive may be a catalyst for hair care, dispensed in a pulsed water mixing mode.

2. Wait for a defined period of time, for example 5 to 10 minutes.

3. High flow conditions for flushing.

4. A second mixing state in which a defined amount of the second and third additives are dispensed. The second additive may be an oxidizing agent used in hair care and the third additive may be a colorant used in hair care. The second and third additives are dispensed in a pulsed water mixing mode.

5. Wait for a defined period of time, for example 5 to 20 minutes.

6. High flow conditions for flushing.

7. A third mixing state in which a defined amount of the fourth additive is dispensed. The fourth additive may be a shampoo for hair care.

8. High flow conditions for flushing.

The elements of the water treatment unit 2 are arranged to a single unit, for example to a compact base unit 75, the additive container 25 being coupled to the base unit 75.

Fig. 8 shows such a base unit 75 with an additive container 25 (schematically indicated by a broken line) attached to the top. The elongated and compact configuration of the hydraulic assembly 50 allows the base unit 75 to have an equally compact appearance, with the additive containers 25 having a linear and closely spaced arrangement.

The user interface 70 of the controller 100 for operating the hydraulic assembly 50 includes a selector button 71 and an additive concentration controller 72. Each selector button 71 is associated with one additive container 25. When the additive button 35 of the dispensing unit 3 is operated, the selector button 71 is pressed to select the associated additive container 25 for delivering the additive. When this occurs, the amount of additive delivered by peristaltic pump 26 per unit time is set according to the settings of additive concentration controller 72. The selection of a particular additive container 25 may be indicated by an indicator light located near the coupler of the additive container 25. In particular, the indicator light may be an indicator light ring 73 extending around the base of such a coupler. The selection of the corresponding additive container 25 may be indicated by the illumination of a light. The particular operating conditions may be indicated by flashing the lights and/or changing the color of the lights. Such operating conditions may be, for example, additive being delivered, no additive being selected, or an empty additive container 25. Such operating conditions are each associated with an additive and/or additive container 25.

The presently illustrated embodiment shows three additive containers 25 and a corresponding number of peristaltic pumps 26. In other embodiments, there are one or two additive containers 25, or four or more than four additive containers 25. The hydraulic assembly 50 may be adjusted accordingly.

While the invention has been described in terms of its presently preferred embodiments, it is to be clearly understood that it is not limited thereto but may be otherwise variously embodied and practiced within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A water treatment unit (2) for a washing device (10), the water treatment unit (2) being configured to controllably provide different flows of water having different spray characteristics and with a plurality of additives mixed therein by a user, the water treatment unit (2) comprising:

-an inflow joint (11) for attaching the water treatment unit (2) to a water source, in particular, wherein the inflow joint (11) is configured for attachment to a water supply hose;

-an outflow joint (32) for attaching the water treatment unit (2) to a dispensing unit (3), in particular, wherein the outflow joint (32) is configured for attachment to a hose (33) leading to a shower head (34);

One, two or more docking adapters (76) configured for attaching one, two or more additive containers (25).

2. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of hydraulic elements for guiding and controlling the water flow between the inflow joint (11) and the outflow joint (32) are formed in a hydraulic assembly (50), the hydraulic assembly (50) comprising a total header (57) and a plurality of hydraulic elements, in particular sensors and actuators controlling the water flow, the total header (57) comprising an internal channel guiding the water flow and carrying the plurality of hydraulic elements.

3. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 2, wherein the header (57) serves as a support structure holding and supporting the plurality of hydraulic elements.

4. A water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the internal channels are arranged inside the total header to guide water and also optionally additives between a plurality of the hydraulic elements.

5. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the total header (57) comprises a first plate (51) and a second plate (52) attached to each other, wherein a plurality of channels guiding water flow are arranged between the two plates (51, 52) and defined by a hollow space between the two plates (51, 52).

6. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein for one or more of the plurality of hydraulic elements, the total header (57) is shaped to form a functional part of the hydraulic element.

7. A water treatment unit (2) according to claim 6, wherein the header (57) is shaped to form at least one valve seat for a hydraulic element performing a valve function.

8. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the header (57) is shaped to form at least one restrictor (221) for restricting flow through one of the plurality of internal channels of the header (57).

9. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the hydraulic assembly (50) has an elongated shape with a first end (61) and a second end (62) opposite to the first end (61), the inflow joint (11) and the outflow joint (32) being each arranged to the first end (61).

10. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein a high flow water channel (24) controlled by a high flow valve (21) constitutes the shortest flow path for water to flow from the inflow joint (11) to the outflow joint (32) inside the hydraulic assembly (50) compared to other flow paths formed in the hydraulic assembly (50) from the inflow joint (11) to the outflow joint (32).

11. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein inside the hydraulic assembly (50) an initial spray flow path (222) leads from the inflow joint (11) to a split point (223) where the initial spray flow path is divided into a water spray channel (23) and a mixing channel (22),

the water spray channel (23) is controlled by a common water valve (20) and leads to a junction (30), which junction (30) in turn leads to the outflow connection (32),

-the mixing channel (22) is controlled by a mixing valve (19) and opens into the second end (62), and from the second end (62) into a mixing section (224) of the mixing channel (22), which mixing section (224) is directed back towards the first end (61) and opens into the joint (30).

12. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the pressure reducer (18) is arranged to limit the pressure at the split point (223) separating the water spray channel (23) and the mixing channel (22), in particular to a pressure of less than 3 bar, in particular to a pressure of 2 bar.

13. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein a flow restrictor (221) is arranged to further restrict the flow in the water spray channel (23), in particular between one and two liters per minute.

14. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the total header (57) further comprises a mixing header (56) arranged to or being part of the second plate (52), the mixing header (56) comprising a mixing channel (22) arranged to direct a water flow from the second end (62) to the first end (61), the mixing channel having an additive inlet optionally comprising an additive check valve (27), the additive inlet being arranged along the mixing channel (22) to mix an additive to the water flow.

15. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 14, wherein the volume of the mixing channel (22) from the first additive inlet to the junction (30) is less than 30 milliliters, in particular less than 20 milliliters, in particular less than 10 milliliters, seen in the flow direction.

16. A water treatment unit (2) according to claim 14 or 15, comprising two or more peristaltic pumps (26) arranged in a row with their axes of rotation at least substantially at right angles to the direction of the mixing channel (22), wherein the two outermost peristaltic pumps (26) in the row are arranged to rotate in opposite directions.

17. The water treatment unit (2) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein all hydraulic elements guiding and controlling the water flow between the inflow joint (11) and the outflow joint (32) are arranged inside a compact base unit (75).

18. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 17, wherein the base unit (75) is configured for inserting and connecting the one, two or more additive containers (25) in a vertical direction, in particular in a downward direction, to a respective docking adapter (76).

19. The water treatment unit (2) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the base unit (75) is configured for three or more additive containers (25), the three or more additive containers (25) being arranged to be inserted and connected in a row in a vertical direction, in particular a downward direction, to respective docking adapters (76).

20. The water treatment unit (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base unit (75) comprises a user interface element comprising an additive selection element, in particular one selector button (71) for each docking adapter (76) or additive source, and an additive concentration controller (72) for setting the amount of additive delivered from one or more selected docking adapters (76) or additive sources when the water treatment unit (2) is in an additive dispensing mode, and optionally a mixing mode selection element, in particular an indicator light ring (73) for indicating one or more selected docking adapters (76) or additive sources.

21. The water treatment unit (2) of claim 20, wherein the user interface is configured to allow selection of more than one docking adapter (76) or additive source, and wherein for a particular setting of the additive concentration controller (72), the controller (100) is configured to

-if a single docking adapter (76) or additive source is selected, controlling the amount of additive delivered by the single docking adapter (76) or additive source to be equal to a reference amount corresponding to the specific setting of the additive concentration controller (72); and is also provided with

If two or more docking adapters (76) or additive sources are selected, controlling the total amount of additive delivered by the two or more docking adapters (76) or additive sources to be equal to the same reference amount corresponding to the particular setting of the additive concentration controller (72).

22. The water treatment unit (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to implement one or more of the following mixing modes for at least one additive:

a continuous mixing mode, wherein the flow of additive and water is continuous;

pulsed additive mixing mode, wherein the flow of additive is pulsed;

pulsed water mixing mode, wherein the flow of water is pulsed.

23. A method for operating a water treatment unit (2) according to claim 20 or 21, comprising the steps of:

-selecting a single docking adapter (76) or additive source, or two or more docking adapters (76) or additive sources, depending on user input;

and for a specific setting of the additive concentration controller (72),

if a single docking adapter (76) or additive source is selected, controlling the amount of additive delivered by the single docking adapter (76) or additive source to be equal to a reference amount corresponding to the particular setting of the additive concentration controller (72); and is also provided with

24. A dispensing unit (3) for use in combination with a water treatment unit (2) according to claims 1 to 22, comprising a shower head (34) having a spray outlet (37) and a high flow outlet (38),

the spray outlet (37) is configured to generate a spray of droplets at a spray flow rate,

The high flow outlet (38) is configured to generate a water jet at a high flow rate,

25. Dispensing unit (3) according to claim 24, comprising an additive button (35) for setting the operation modes of the mixing valve (19) and the ordinary water valve (20) of the water treatment unit (2) to deliver water through the water spray channel (23) or water mixed with additive through the mixing channel (22).

26. Dispensing unit (3) according to any of claims 24 to 25, comprising a flow selector (36) for optionally setting the operation modes of the high flow valve (21) and the mixing valve (19) or a normal water valve (20) for the water treatment unit (2),

delivering water through the high flow water channel (24) when the flow selector (36) is in a high flow position, or

-delivering water through the water spray channel (23) or the mixing channel (22) as the case may be, when the flow selector (36) is in a spray position.

27. Dispensing unit (3) according to claim 26, wherein the flow selector (36) is configured to operate a diverter (39) to direct the flow of water from the hose (33):

-when the flow selector (36) is in a high flow position, to the high flow outlet (38), or

-flow to the spray outlet (37) when the flow selector (36) is in a spray position.

28. A dispensing unit (3) comprising a showerhead (34) having a spray outlet (37) and a high flow outlet (38),

the spray outlet (37) is configured to generate a spray of droplets at a spray flow rate by generating two or more impinging water jets,

29. Dispensing unit (3) according to claim 28, comprising a flow selector (36) configured to operate a diverter (39) to direct a flow of water from the hose (33),