GB2544345A

GB2544345A - Showerhead and washing system

Info

Publication number: GB2544345A
Application number: GB1520115.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Owen Perrett Daniel; William Owens Austin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-11-15
Filing date: 2015-11-15
Publication date: 2017-05-17
Anticipated expiration: 2035-11-15
Also published as: GB2544345B; GB201520115D0

Abstract

The present invention is in the field of cleansing apparatus. Specifically it relates to a showerhead and units operable with showerheads. A showerhead 1000 for spraying a jet of liquids and gases, comprises: head (Fig. 9, 100) fixed proximate an end of a neck (Fig. 9, 200), a plurality of conduits 210, 220 though the neck, a plenum (Fig. 10, 110) in the head 100 having an exit (Fig.10, 125) through a face (Fig. 10, 120) of the head, and a valve 300 operable by a user e.g via a lever, from a neutral state to one of a plurality of other states, such that in the neutral state the valve blocks passage of fluid though all the conduits, and in any the other states the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from the conduits. The valve may be a piston valve.

Description

Showerhead and Washing System

Field of the Invention

The present invention is in the field of cleansing apparatus. Specifically it relates to showerheads and units operable with showerheads.

Background

Common showerheads used and operable with showerheads are inconvenient for washing pets and other delicate items or animals. This is in part due to the fact that pets and other animals tend to get muddy where there are no convenient washing facilities.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is a showerhead for spraying a jet of liquids and gases, comprising: head fixed proximate an end of a neck, a plurality of conduits though the neck, a plenum in the head having an exit through a face of the head, and a valve operable by a user from a neutral state to one of a plurality of other states, such that in the neutral state the valve blocks passage of fluid though all the conduits, and in any the other states the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from the conduits.

Preferably the showerhead comprises a tactile device on the head or neck for operating the valve.

Preferably the valve is located in the head and the neck.

Preferably the number of other states is equal to the number of conduits.

Preferably the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from only a preselected one of the conduits.

Preferably the valve comprises a first piston arranged to slide in a cylindrical space; the cylindrical space being open to the conduits and the plenum.

Preferably the piston is arranged to slide to the neutral position and at least one of the other positions.

Preferably the piston is arranged to slide to a plurality of positions, each one of the positions corresponding to one of the states.

Preferably a first end of the piston extends from a first end of the cylindrical space whereby the first end of the piston is accessible to urge the piston to the neutral state and to a first one of the other states.

Preferably the first end of the first piston protrudes from the head or neck as a tactile device for operating the valve.

Preferably the piston has a second end opposite the first end; the second end extends from a second end of the cylindrical space whereby the second end of the piston is accessible to urge the piston to the neutral state and to at least one of the other states other than the first one.

Preferably the second end of the piston protrudes from the head or neck as a tactile device for operating the valve.

Preferably the showerhead comprises a second piston arranged to slide in the cylinder to a position corresponding to at least one of the states.

Preferably the second piston is arranged to slide independently from the first piston.

Preferably the first piston and the second piston are arranged to on either side of a cavity centrally located in the cylindrical space intermediate the pistons.

Preferably the first piston and the second piston are located evenly about the cavity as the valve is in the neutral state.

Preferably the cavity is open to the plenum in all states.

Preferably the showerhead comprises a first lever connected to the head or neck by a pivot to operate the valve.

Preferably the pivot is locate intermediate a first side of the lever located exterior of the head and neck to operate the valve and a second side of the lever located within the head or neck to engage the first piston.

Preferably the showerhead comprises a second lever connected to the head or neck by a second pivot to operate the valve so as to select a set of the other states exclusive of a first set of the other states selectable by operation of the first lever.

Preferably the first and second levers meet end to end with the valve in the neutral state. Preferably the either lever is movable from the neutral state to a position wherein the valve is in one of the other states whereby movement of the other lever is blocked.

Preferably the first pivot and the second pivot are located on opposite sides of the head or neck.

Preferably the valve comprises a resiliently deformable member to urge the valve to assume the neutral state. Preferably the resiliently deformable member acts directly upon the first piston.

Preferably the first piston comprises a first flange for the resiliently deformable member to act upon.

Preferably the first piston comprises a second flange forming a portion of a wall of the passage to the plenum from the conduits whereby fluidic pressure urges the first piston toward the neutral state. Preferably one flange serves as the first flange and the second flange.

Preferably the resiliently deformable member acts is located in the cavity and acts directly upon both pistons simultaneously.

Preferably at least one of the conduits comprises a one-way gate through which fluid can flow only toward the valve.

Preferably one or more of the conduits is located within another of the conduits. Preferably two liquid hoses are located inside a drying hose. Preferably the conduits are arranged concentrically.

Preferably the plenum has a wall formed by a sleeve with a wall thickness preselect to withstand fluid pressure supplied though the passage from the conduits. Preferably the sleeve is formed of brass or stainless steel. Preferably the sleeve is substantially orthogonal to the neck and to the face.

Preferably the exit of the plenum is slit shaped for forming a blade of liquid ejected from the exit.

Preferably the head comprises a connection means connecting a brush to the face, wherein the brush is suitable for cleaning a surface. Preferably the brush comprises an opening to lie in register with the exit upon connection to the face. Preferably the connection means is a twist and lock type.

Preferably the neck comprises a separable part for assembling the valve within the showerhead.

According to another aspect of the invention there is a portable cleansing apparatus, comprising: a showerhead, a first tank connectable by a first pipe to one of the conduits and a second tank connectable by a second pipe to another of the conduits.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises: a first pump at a junction in the first pipe, and a second pump at a junction in the second pipe.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a first pressure activated switch at a junction in the first pipe, where the junction is downstream of the first pump; the switch suitable for activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe above a preselected upper level.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a compressor connectable by a third pipe to one of the conduits other than a conduit in fluid communication with a pump.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a pressure vessel and a compressor to pressurize the pressure vessel; wherein the pressure vessel contains the first tank and the second tank.

According to another aspect of the invention there is a portable cleansing apparatus, comprising: a showerhead, a first tank connected by a first pipe at a first junction to a third pipe which is connectable to one of the conduits, and a second tank connected by a second pipe a second junction to a fourth pipe which is connectable to another of the conduits, and fifth pipe connecting the first junction to the second junction.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a venturi tube at the first junction, wherein the first pipe is connected to a suction opening in the venturi tube, the second pipe is connected to the outlet of the venturi tube, and the fifth pipe is connected to the inlet of the venturi tube.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a non return valve in the first pipe to prevent flow in the first pipe from the venturi tube to the first tank.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a first pump at a junction in the first pipe to pump liquid from the first tank to the first junction.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a second pump at a junction in the second pipe to pump liquid from the second tank to the second junction.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a pressure activated switch in second pipe intermediate the second pump and the second junction, the switch suitable for activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe above a preselected upper level.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a pressure activated switch in first pipe intermediate the first pump and the first junction, the switch suitable for activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe above a preselected upper level.

According to another aspect of the invention there is a portable cleansing apparatus comprising: a showerhead, a first tank connected by a first pipe at a first junction to a second pipe which is connectable to one of the conduits, and a third pipe connected to the first junction; the third pipe connectable to another of the conduits.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a container in the second pipe, the container is openable to receive a soap capsule and closable to holding a soap capsule in flow of liquid in the second pipe.

Preferably the container comprises a grill to support a soap capsule or bar or sponge or liquid soap, the grill comprising apertures to permit a liquid flowing through the second pipe to mix with the soap.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a one way valve in the second pipe intermediate the junction and the container to prevent flow in the second pipe from the container to the junction.

Preferably the portable cleansing apparatus comprises a pressure activated switch in first pipe intermediate the pump and the first junction, the switch suitable for activating the pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe (760) above a preselected upper level.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising two pumps;

Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising two pumps and a compressor;

Figure 3 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising two tanks formed in a pressure vessel;

Figure 4 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising two pumps with connected outlets;

Figure 5 is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising a venturi tube;

Figure 6 is a schematic view of a sixth embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising a soap container;

Figure 7 is a schematic view of a seventh embodiment of a portable washing apparatus comprising a soap container comprising a grill;

Figure 8 is a plan cutaway view of a showerhead for spraying a jet of a mixed liquids;

Figure 9 is an elevation view of the showerhead shown in Figure 8;

Figure 10 is and elevation cutaway view of the showerhead shown in Figure 9;

Figure 11 is a plan view of the showerhead shown in Figure 8;

Figure 12 is a plan cutaway view through a neck of the showerhead shown in Figure 8;

Figure 13 is an isometric view an elevation cutaway of the showerhead shown in Figure 8; and

Figure 14 is a front and isometric cutaway view through the head and neck of the showerhead shown in Figure 8.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Referring to the Figures, there is shown in Figure 1 a first embodiment of a portable cleansing apparatus 3000. The cleansing apparatus has a mobile or portable unit 2000 which is connected to a showerhead 1000. The cleansing apparatus comprises the showerhead. The showerhead is shown in detail in Figures 8 to 14.

The mobile or portable unit 2000 comprises a first tank 750. The first tank 750 is connectable by a first pipe 710 to a conduit 210 in the showerhead. The unit 2000 comprises a second tank 850 connectable by a second pipe 810 to another conduit 220 in the showerhead 1000. In Figures 1 to 7 the showerhead 1000 connected to the mobile or portable unit. The showerhead may be disconnected from the mobile or portable unit by pulling away the pipes 710, 810 or by releasing pipe connectors.

As shown in Figure 1, in the first embodiment of the mobile or portable unit 2000, there is a first pump 720) at a junction in the first pipe 710. There is also a second pump 820 at a junction in the second pipe 810. The first and second pumps are in parallel fluidic circuits.

There is a first pressure activated switch 722 at a junction in the first pipe 710. The first pressure switch 722 is downstream of the first pump 720 since the pump moves fluid from the first tank 750 to the showerhead 1000. The pressure switch 722 in use activates the first pump 720 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 710 below a preselected lower level. In use the pressure in the first pipe can drop when a user squirts liquid out of the showerhead, drawing the liquid from the first pipe 710. The pump 720 is turned on draw more liquid out of the tank 750, and to squirt it out of the showerhead. The pressure switch 722 de-activates the first pump 720 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 710 above a preselected upper level. When liquid is stopped from spraying through the showerhead the pressure in the first pipe 710 and so the pressure switch 722 will automatically turn the first pump 720 off.

There is also a second pressure activated switch 822 at a junction in the second pipe 810. The junction is downstream of the second pump 820. The switch is suitable for activating the second pump 820 upon detecting pressure in the second pipe 710 below a preselected lower level. So when the pressure of a liquid in the second pipe 820 drops below the preselected level, the second pressure switch 822 will automatically turn the second pump 820 on. The second pressure switch 822 de-activates the second pump 820 upon detecting pressure in the second pipe 810 above a preselected upper level. A second embodiment of the cleansing apparatus 3000 is shown by the schematic in Figure 2. The portable or mobile unit 2000 comprises a compressor 940. The compressor 940 connectable by a third pipe 910 to one of the conduits 230 in the showerhead 1000. The conduit 230 is a different conduit than either of the conduits 210, 220 to which are connected to liquid pumps 720 and 820. The third pipe 910 is a passageway for compressed gas from the compressor. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2 the compressor is a fan which blows air into the third pipe 910. So the air can be blown out of the showerhead which makes the showerhead useful for blow drying hair or fur.

In the embodiment of the mobile or portable unit 2000 shown in Figure 2 there is a third pressure activated switch 922. It is located at a junction in the third pipe 910 and is downstream of the compressor 940. The pressure activated switch 922 is suitable for activating the compressor 940 upon detecting pressure in the third pipe 910 below a preselected lower level. So the compressor is automatically turned on when a user operates the showerhead to blow air taken from the third pipe. The pressure activated switch 922 de-activates the compressor 940 upon detecting pressure in the third pipe 910 above a preselected upper level. A third embodiment of the portable cleansing apparatus is shown in Figure 3. In the third embodiment there is a pressure vessel 7850 and a compressor 7940 to pressurize the pressure vessel. There is no need for a pump in this embodiment. The compressed gas provided by the compressor urges liquids in the tanks 750 and 850 to flow into pipes 710 and 810 and thence into the showerhead 1000.

As shown in Figure 3 there is a pressure activated switch 9922 at a junction intermediate the compressor 7940 and the tanks 750, 850. The pressure activated switch 9922 is arranged to activate the compressor 7940 upon detecting pressure in the pressure vessel 7850 below a preselected lower level. It also arranged to de-activate the compressor 9740 upon detecting pressure in the pressure vessel 7850 above a preselected upper level. As liquid is drained out of the tanks and is sprayed out of the showerhead, the pressure in the pressure vessel drops. The pressure activated switch automatically turns the compressor on to maintain sufficient pressure in the pressure vessel for good spray of liquid through the showerhead.

In one embodiment the pressure activated switch 9922t is located in the roof 7851 of the pressure vessel. The liquid in the tanks 750, 850 is heavier than the compressed gas in the pressure vessel. So the pressure activated switch in the roof is sensitive to gas pressure.

Another embodiment of the portable cleansing apparatus 2000 is shown in Figure 4. In Figure 5 there is an embodiment which is closely related the embodiment of Figure In these embodiments there a first tank 750 connected by a first pipe 710 at a first junction 713 to a third pipe 711. The third pipe 711 is connectable to one of the conduits 210 of the showerhead 1000. There is also a second tank 850 connected by a second pipe 810 at a second junction 813 to a fourth pipe 811. The fourth pipe is connectable to another of the conduits 220 of the showerhead 1000. These embodiments are characterized by a fifth pipe 7810 connecting the first junction 713 to the second junction 813. The fifth pipe enables the cleansing apparatus to work with just one pump. Alternatively a second pump may be used, but it can be relatively small and inexpensive compared the first pump.

In the embodiment of Figure 5, the portable or mobile unit comprises a venturi tube 735 at the first junction 713. The first pipe 710 is connected to a suction opening in the venturi tube 735. The second pipe 711 is connected to the outlet of the venturi tube 735. The fifth pipe 7810 is connected to the inlet of the venturi tube 735. So liquid from the first tank is sucked into the venturi tube 735 and mixed with liquid from the second tank 850.

The first tank is suitable for holding water and the second tank is suitable for holding concentrated cleaning liquid.

As shown in Figure 5 there is a non return valve 745 in the first pipe 710. It only allows fluid to flow in one direction. So it prevents flow in the first pipe 710 from the venturi tube 735 to the first tank 750.

As shown in the embodiment of Figure 4 there is a first pump 720 in the first pipe 710 to pump liquid from the first tank 750 to the first junction 713. Thus there is no need for a venturi tube. The first pump can be operated at a preselected pressure to meter a preselected amount of liquid out of the first tank.

In both embodiments of Figure 4 and Figure 5 there is a second pump 820 in the second pipe 810 to pump liquid from the second tank 850 to the second junction 813.

There is a pressure activated switch 822 in the second pipe 810 intermediate the second pump 820 and the second junction 813. The switch 822 is suitable for activating the second pump 820 upon detecting pressure in the second pipe 810 below a preselected lower level and de-activating the second pump 820 upon detecting pressure in the second pipe 810 above a preselected upper level.

There is a pressure activated switch 722 in first pipe 710 intermediate the first pump 720 and the first junction 713. The switch 722 is arranged to activate the first pump 720 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 710 below a preselected lower level. The switch 722 is also arranged to de-activate the first pump 720 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 710 above a preselected upper level.

Figure 6 and Figure 7 show two closely related embodiments of the portable cleansing apparatus 3000. A showerhead 1000 is connectable to the mobile or portable unit 2000 in these embodiments. A first tank 755 is connected by a first pipe 760 at a first junction 763 to a second pipe 771. The second pipe 771 is connectable to one of the conduits 210 of the showerhead 1000. A third pipe 871 is connected to the first junction 763. The third pipe is connectable to another of the conduits 220 of the showerhead 1000.

There is a container 782 in the second pipe 771. The container is openable to receive a product to mix into a stream flowing in the second pipe. For example the product may be a soap capsule. The container 782 is closable to hold the product in the stream flowing in the second pipe 771. Thus a liquid in the tank 775 may be mixed with a product prior to flowing into the showerhead 1000.

The container 782 can comprise a grill to support a soap capsule or bar or sponge or liquid soap. The grill comprises apertures to permit a liquid flowing through the second pipe 771 to mix with the soap.

In the embodiment of Figure 7 there is a one way valve in the second pipe 771 intermediate the junction 763 and the container 782. It prevents flow in the second pipe 771 from the container 782 to the junction 763. Thus liquid flowing through third pipe 871 remains the pure liquid held in tank 755.

There is a pressure activated switch 792 in first pipe 760 intermediate the pump 770 and the first junction 763. The switch 792 is arranged to activate the pump 770 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 760 below a preselected lower level. The pressure sensitive switch 792 is also arranged to de-activate the pump 770 upon detecting pressure in the first pipe 760 above a preselected upper level.

The showerhead 1000 is shown in Figures 8 to 15. The showerhead is suitable for spray a jet of mixed or unmixed liquids be either allowing or preventing fluids in first, second, and third conduits 210, 220, 230 from mixing as they pass thorough valve 300 into a plenum

As shown in Figures 9 and 10 the showerhead comprises a head 100 fixed proximate an end of a neck 200. There are a plurality of conduits 210, 220 though the neck shown in Figure 8. These conduits are connectable to hoses or pipes 710, 810. There is a plenum 110 in the head 100 having an exit 125 through a face 120 of the head 100 which can be seen in Figures 10, 13, and 14.

In the showerhead there is a valve 300 operable by a user. The valve has a neutral state and a plurality of other states. The user operates the valve to select a state. So the user operates the valve from a neutral state to one of a plurality of other states.

In the neutral state the valve blocks passage of fluid though all the conduits. In any of the other states, the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from the conduits. So in the neutral state no fluid can flow from any conduit into the plenum 110 and be sprayed out of the showerhead.

In some embodiments in any of the other states a preselected fluid from one of the conduits 210, 220 is allowed flow into the plenum 110 by unblocking the passage from that conduit into the plenum. In some embodiments a preselected combination of fluids from a preselected combination of conduits 210, 220 is allowed to flow into the plenum by unblocking the passage from the conduit into the plenum 110. So in some embodiments the number of other states is equal to the number of conduits.

The showerhead comprises a tactile device 410, 420 on the head 100 or neck 200 for operating the valve 300. The tactile device can be seen in Figure 8.

The valve 300 is located in the head 100 and/or the neck 200. The valve 300 is mechanism in a block as shown in Figure 10.

In some embodiments of the valve 300, selecting a particular state unblocks a passage 370, 380 to the plenum from only a preselected one of the conduits.

As shown in Figures 8, 12, 13 and 14, the valve 300 comprises a first piston 310 arranged to slide in a cylindrical space 320. The cylindrical space 320 is open to the conduits 210, 220 and the plenum 110.

As shown in Figure 14 a first end 314 of the piston 310 extends from a first end 324 of the cylindrical space 320. Thus the first end of the piston 310 is accessible to urge the piston 310 to the neutral state and to a first one of the other states.

In another embodiment not shown the figures the first end 314 of the first piston 314 protrudes from the head 100 or neck 200 as a tactile device for operating the valve 300 directly.

In another embodiment not shown in the figures the piston has a second end opposite the first end. The second end extends from a second end 326 of the cylindrical space 320 whereby the second end of the piston is accessible to urge the piston to the neutral state and to at least one of the other states other than the first one. In an embodiment the second end of the piston protrudes from the head or neck as a tactile device for operating the valve.

In an embodiment shown in 8, 12, and 14 a second piston 2310 is arranged to slide in the cylinder 320 to a position corresponding to at least one of the states. The second piston 2310 is arranged to slide independently from the first piston 310.

The first 310 piston and the second piston 2310 are arranged to on either side of a cavity 330 centrally located in the cylindrical space 320. Thus the cavity 330 is always intermediate the pistons 310, 2310.

The first piston 310 and the second piston 2310 are located evenly about the cavity 330 as the valve is in the neutral state. The cavity 330 is open to the plenum 110 in all states. This is indicated in Figure 12 by the line from numeral 330 also indicating the cavity and stating ‘to jet’. The jet is at the exit 125 of the plenum 110 as shown in Figure 13.

As shown in Figures 8, 12, and 14 a first lever 510 is connected to the head 100 or neck 200 by a pivot 520 to operate the valve. The pivot 520 is located intermediate a first side 530 of the lever 510 located exterior of the head and neck to operate the valve and a second side 540 of the lever located within the head or neck to engage the first piston 310.

In the embodiment shown and which is evident from Figures 8, 12, and 14 the first end 314 of the piston 310 has the form of a tenon which fits in a mortise of the second side 540 of the lever 510.

There is also a second lever 2510 connected to the head 100 or neck 200 by a second pivot 2520 to operate the valve so as to select a set of the other states exclusive of a first set of the other states selectable by operation of the first lever.

The first pivot 520 and the second pivot 2510 are located on opposite sides of the head or neck.

The first and second levers 510, 2510 meet end to end with the valve in the neutral state. In Figure 12 the levers are shown in the neutral position. In Figure 8 the levers are seen in one of the other states. Either lever 510, 2510 is movable from the neutral state to a position wherein the valve is in one of the other states whereby movement of the other lever is blocked 510, 2510.

The valve comprises a resiliently deformable member 610, 620 to urge the valve to assume the neutral state. As shown in Figure 8 these are coil springs in which the pistons 310, 320 slide. The resiliently deformable member 610 acts directly upon the first piston 310. The first piston comprises a first flange 380 for the resiliently deformable member to act upon. The flange 380 also blocks the first piston from entering the cavity. The flange also forms a portion of a wall of the passage to the plenum from the conduits whereby fluidic pressure urges the first piston toward the neutral state.

The second conduit 220 comprises a one-way gate 700 through which fluid can flow only toward the valve 300 as shown in Figure 8.

The plenum 110 has a wall formed by a sleeve 115 with a wall thickness preselected to withstand fluid pressure supplied though the passage from the conduits. The sleeve 115 is formed of brass or stainless steel. The sleeve 115 is substantially orthogonal to the neck 200 and to the face 120.

At the end of the plenum opposite the valve, there is an exit 125 which is slit shaped for forming a blade of liquid ejected from the exit 125.

The head 100 comprises a connection means connecting a brush 900 to the face 120, wherein the brush is suitable for cleaning a surface. As shown in Figure 14 the brush 900 comprises an opening to lie in register with the exit upon connection to the face.

The invention has been described by way of examples only. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. A showerhead for spraying a jet of liquids and gases, comprising: head fixed proximate an end of a neck, a plurality of conduits though the neck, a plenum in the head having an exit through a face of the head, and a valve operable by a user from a neutral state to one of a plurality of other states, such that in the neutral state the valve blocks passage of fluid though all the conduits, and in any the other states the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from the conduits.

2. A showerhead according to any preceding claim comprising a tactile device on the head or neck for operating the valve.

3. A showerhead according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the valve is located in the head and the neck.

4. A showerhead according to claims 1 or 2 wherein the number of other states is equal to the number of conduits.

5. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the valve unblocks a passage to the plenum from only a preselected one of the conduits.

6. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the valve comprises a first piston arranged to slide in a cylindrical space; the cylindrical space being open to the conduits and the plenum.

7. A showerhead according to claim 6 wherein the piston is arranged to slide to the neutral position and at least one of the other positions.

8. A showerhead according to claim 6 wherein the piston is arranged to slide to a plurality of positions, each one of the positions corresponding to one of the states.

9. A showerhead according to claim 6, 7 or 8 wherein a first end of the piston extends from a first end of the cylindrical space whereby the first end of the piston is accessible to urge the piston to the neutral state and to a first one of the other states.

10. A showerhead according to claim 9 wherein the first end of the first piston protrudes from the head or neck as a tactile device for operating the valve.

11. A showerhead according to claim 9 or 10 wherein the piston has a second end opposite the first end; the second end extends from a second end of the cylindrical space whereby the second end of the piston is accessible to urge the piston to the neutral state and to at least one of the other states other than the first one.

12. A showerhead according to claim 11 wherein the second end of the piston protrudes from the head or neck as a tactile device for operating the valve.

13. A showerhead according to any of claim 5 to 12 comprising a second piston arranged to slide in the cylinder to a position corresponding to at least one of the states.

14. A showerhead according to claim 13 wherein the second piston is arranged to slide independently from the first piston.

15. A showerhead according to claim 14 wherein the first piston and the second piston are arranged to on either side of a cavity centrally located in the cylindrical space intermediate the pistons.

16. A showerhead according to claim 15 wherein the first piston and the second piston are located evenly about the cavity as the valve is in the neutral state.

17. A showerhead according to according to claim 18 wherein the cavity is open to the plenum in all states.

18. A showerhead according to any one of claims 6 to 17 comprising a first lever connected to the head or neck by a pivot to operate the valve.

19. A showerhead according to claim 18 wherein the pivot is locate intermediate a first side of the lever located exterior of the head and neck to operate the valve and a second side of the lever located within the head or neck to engage the first piston.

20. A showerhead according to claim 19 comprising a second lever as dependent upon connected to the head or neck by a second pivot to operate the valve so as to select a set of the other states exclusive of a first set of the other states selectable by operation of the first lever.

21. A showerhead according to claim 20 wherein the first and second levers meet end to end with the valve in the neutral state.

22. A showerhead according to claim 21 wherein the either lever is movable from the neutral state to a position wherein the valve is in one of the other states whereby movement of the other lever is blocked.

23. A showerhead according to claim 22 wherein the first pivot and the second pivot are located on opposite sides of the head or neck.

24. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the valve comprises a resiliently deformable member to urge the valve to assume the neutral state.

25. A showerhead according to claim 24 as dependent upon any one of claims 6 to 23 wherein the resilient deformable member acts directly upon the first piston.

26. A showerhead according to claim 25 wherein the first piston comprises a first flange for the resiliently deformable member to act upon.

27. A shower head according to any of claims 6 to 25 wherein the first piston comprises a second flange forming a portion of a wall of the passage to the plenum from the conduits whereby fluidic pressure urges the first piston toward the neutral state.

28. A showerhead according to claim 25 as dependent upon any one of claims 15,16, or 17 wherein the resiliently deformable member acts is located in the cavity and acts directly upon both pistons simultaneously.

29. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein at least one of the conduits comprises a one-way gate through which fluid can flow only toward the valve.

30. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein one or more of the conduits is located within another of the conduits.

31. A showerhead according to claim 30 wherein two liquid hoses are located inside a drying hose.

32. A showerhead according to claim 30 or 31 wherein the conduits are arranged concentrically.

33. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the plenum has a wall formed by a sleeve with a wall thickness preselect to withstand fluid pressure supplied though the passage from the conduits.

34. A showerhead according to claim 33 wherein the sleeve is formed of brass or stainless steel.

35. A showerhead according to claim 33 or 34 wherein the sleeve is substantially orthogonal to the neck and to the face.

36. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the exit is slit shaped for forming a blade of liquid ejected from the exit.

37. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the head comprises a connection means connecting a brush to the face, wherein the brush is suitable for cleaning a surface.

38. A showerhead according to claim 36 wherein the brush comprises an opening to lie in register with the exit upon connection to the face.

39. A showerhead according to claim 36 or 37 wherein the connection means is a twist and lock type.

40. A showerhead according to any preceding claim wherein the neck comprises a separable part for assembling the valve within the showerhead.

41. A portable cleansing apparatus, comprising: a showerhead according to any one of claims 1 to 38, a first tank connectable by a first pipe to one of the conduits, and a second tank connectable by a second pipe to another of the conduits.

42. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 41 comprising: a first pump at a junction in the first pipe, and a second pump at a junction in the second pipe.

43. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 42 comprising a first pressure activated switch at a junction in the first pipe, where the junction is downstream of the first pump; the switch suitable for activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe above a preselected upper level.

44. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 42 comprising a second pressure activated switch at a junction in the second pipe, where the junction is downstream of the second pump; the switch suitable for activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe above a preselected upper level.

45. A portable cleansing apparatus according to any one of claims 41 to 44 comprising a compressor connectable by a third pipe to one of the conduits other than a conduit in fluid communication with a pump.

46. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 45 comprising a third pressure activated switch at a junction in the third pipe, where the junction is downstream of the compressor; the switch suitable for activating the compressor upon detecting pressure in the third pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the compressor upon detecting pressure in the third pipe above a preselected upper level.

47. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 41 comprising a pressure vessel and a compressor to pressurize the pressure vessel; wherein the pressure vessel contains the first tank and the second tank.

48. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 47 comprising a pressure activated switch at a junction intermediate the compressor and the tanks, the switch suitable for activating the compressor upon detecting pressure in the pressure vessel below a preselected lower level and de-activating the compressor upon detecting pressure in the pressure vessel above a preselected upper level.

49. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 48 wherein the pressure activated switch is located in the roof (7851) of the pressure vessel.

50. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 49 wherein the pressure activated switch is suitable for detecting pressure of a gas.

51. A portable cleansing apparatus, comprising: a showerhead according to any one of claims 1 to 38, a first tank connected by a first pipe at a first junction to a third pipe which is connectable to one of the conduits, and a second tank connected by a second pipe a second junction to a fourth pipe which is connectable to another of the conduits, and fifth pipe connecting the first junction to the second junction.

52. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 51 comprising a venturi tube at the first junction, wherein the first pipe is connected to a suction opening in the venturi tube , the second pipe is connected to the outlet of the venturi tube, and the fifth pipe is connected to the inlet of the venturi tube.

53. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 52 comprising a non return valve in the first pipe to prevent flow in the first pipe from the venturi tube to the first tank.

54. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 51 comprising a first pump in the first pipe to pump liquid from the first tank to the first junction.

55. A portable cleansing apparatus according to any one of claims 51 to 54 comprising a second pump in the second pipe to pump liquid from the second tank to the second junction.

56. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 55 comprising a pressure activated switch in second pipe intermediate the second pump and the second junction, the switch suitable for activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the second pump upon detecting pressure in the second pipe above a preselected upper level.

57. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 54 comprising a pressure activated switch in first pipe intermediate the first pump and the first junction, the switch suitable for activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the first pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe above a preselected upper level.

58. A portable cleansing apparatus, comprising: a showerhead according to any one of claims 1 to 38, a first tank connected by a first pipe at a first junction to a second pipe which is connectable to one of the conduits, and a third pipe connected to the first junction; the third pipe connectable to another of the conduits.

59. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 58 comprising a soap container in the second pipe, the container is openable to receive a soap capsule and closable to holding a soap capsule in flow of liquid in the second pipe.

60. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 59 wherein the container comprises a grill to support a soap capsule or bar or sponge or liquid soap, the grill comprising apertures to permit a liquid flowing through the second pipe to mix with the soap.

61. A portable cleansing apparatus according to claim 59 or 60 comprising a one way valve in the second pipe intermediate the junction and the container to prevent flow in the second pipe from the container to the junction.

62. A portable cleansing apparatus according to any one of claims 58 to 61 comprising a pressure activated switch in first pipe intermediate the pump and the first junction, the switch suitable for activating the pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe below a preselected lower level and de-activating the pump upon detecting pressure in the first pipe above a preselected upper level.

63. A showerhead substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

64. A portable cleansing apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.