GB2614758A

GB2614758A - Shower systems for use with mixer showers and methods for installing mixer showers

Info

Publication number: GB2614758A
Application number: GB2200603.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Beggs Omar; J Gilmore Robert; Brown Niall
Original assignee: Brunswick Corp
Current assignee: Brunswick Corp
Priority date: 2022-01-18
Filing date: 2022-01-18
Publication date: 2023-07-19
Also published as: DE202022100375U1

Abstract

A shower system 1 for use with a mixer shower 2 having a valve 4 for mixing water from hot 6 and cold 8 water lines, the system comprising first and second sensors 30, 32 indicating a flow from the hot and cold water lines to the mixer shower and first and second valves 40, 42 connected between the shower and water lines and configured to control the flow of water to the shower. Further provided is a control system 50 in communication with the valves and sensors and configured to adjust the first valve based on the signal from the second sensor, and to adjust the second valve based on the signal from the first sensor to prevent scalding or cold shock if a water supply is interrupted. Further disclosed is a system comprising a pump 24 to pump water from a shower drain and a current sensor 34 measuring the current of the pump, wherein the control system controls the first and second valves based on the current measurement to prevent flooding in level access showers. Disclosed is a method for installing the system.

Description

SHOWER SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH MIXER SHOWERS AND

METHODS FOR INSTALLING MIXER SHOWERS

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to mixer showers having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The following Patents provide background information and are incorporated by reference in entirety.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 6,174,146 and GB 2,328,719 disclose an electric bilge pump for collecting liquid found in a bottom of a vessel or any other place. The pump is formed of three parts in axial alignment. The assembly is secured to a surface in substantially a horizontal position. An electric motor is enclosed in a cylindrical jacket and has an output shaft with an impeller at its distal end. A second part of the housing is tubular and defines a chamber with the impeller in the chamber. The chamber has an axial inlet with a tangential outlet. A filter is fitted over the inlet to filter out any unwanted debris.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 7,647,860, GB 1792082 & 1846688, and DE 602005024830.7-08 & DE602006021398.0 disclose a diaphragm for a diaphragm pump, which diaphragm is asymmetrical about its longitudinal axis wherein the diaphragm has a central portion and a surrounding annular convolute portion. The convolute portion has a minimum depth and a maximum depth at diametrically opposed positions of the annular convolute. The convolute depth gradually increases from the minimum depth to the maximum depth between the diametrically opposed positions along each opposing half-section of the annular convolute. The invention also provides a diaphragm pump with the asymmetrical diaphragm.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 6,840,745, GB 1222392, and DE 60018089.1 disclose a diaphragm pump including a two part casing formed of a front cover and a back cover. A diaphragm plate extends across the covers and is secured therebetween when the covers are fastened together. The diaphragm plate has a plurality of similarly defined circular regions. The front cover has substantially axially aligned inlet and outlet ports, each leading to mutually exclusive inlet and outlet chambers respectively. A valve housing is securable inside the front cover and has defined therein an outlet dished valve seat with a correspondingly concave resilient valve seated therein. The outlet valve seat has fluid passages therethrough. A plurality of inlet valve seats is provided, equal in number to the number of regions, each being similarly dished and having a correspondingly concave resilient valve seated therein. Each inlet valve seat has fluid passages therethrough. The outlet valve is in fluid communication with the outlet chamber and the inlet valves are in fluid communication with the inlet chamber. A wobble plate is positioned in the back cover and has a central boss and a plurality of similar piston sections equal in number to the number of circular regions on the diaphragm plate. The piston sections and circular regions are correspondingly secured together. The wobble plate is subject to nutating motion to cause reciprocating action by the circular regions and provide a pumping action.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 7,753,291, EP 07119601.8, USD 588683 & 583012, and RCD 000805957-0001/0002/0003 disclose a water outlet apparatus including a hand-held tubular wand in two co-axial rotatable parts in which at or towards the outer end of an outer part water outlet means is provided. A mixing/shut-off valve is housed in an inner end of the outer part. An inner part has secured therein one end of a hosing for delivery separately of two types of water (i.e., hot water and cold water) to the valve for mixing. The other end of the hosing is for integration into two separate sources of water. The water outlet means may be a series of nozzles radially of the outer part of the wand for use as a shower head.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 6,349,978, GB2331564, and EP1032785 disclose a pipe connection with a coupling with one or more socket ends, each of which is defined by a circumferential wall surround in which a plurality of four spaced apertures are provided. An annular seal is provided at the inner end of the or each socket end. A collet is provided for location in the or each socket end, each collet has a corresponding plurality of four spaced resiliently mounted legs. The legs are co-parallel with the axis of the collet and has similar barb portions each to enter and be held in a corresponding aperture of the respective socket end whereby to hold the collet and therefore the seal in portion in the or each socket end.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. 9,937,983 discloses a pontoon boat having an occupancy compartment capable of containing at least one occupant, the occupancy compartment having a floor surface for supporting the occupant. The occupancy compartment may contain a shower connected to a water supply and drain system.

SUMMARY

[0909] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] From a first aspect the invention provides a shower system for use with a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines. The shower system includes first and second sensors each producing a signal indicating a flow from the hot and cold water lines, respectively, to the mixer shower. First and second valves are operatively connected between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively. The first and second valves are configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines. A control system is provided in communication with the first and second sensors and the first and second valves. The control system is configured to adjust the first valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot water line based on the signal from the second sensor. The control system is further configured to adjust the second valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the cold water line based on the signal from the first sensor.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the control system is configured to close the second valve when the flow of water indicated by the signal from the first sensor is below a sensor threshold. in further embodiments, the control system closes the second valve entirely, and the sensor threshold is 0.5 liters per minute.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the control system communicates wirelessly with at least one of the first sensor, the second sensor, the first valve, and the second valve.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the shower system is further configured for use with a drain and further includes a pump configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain. The pump is configured to indicate a fault condition when the pump is at least partially inoperable, and the control system is further configured to entirely close the second valve and the first valve when the pump is indicating the fault condition.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the control system compares each of the signals from the first and second sensors to a sensor threshold, respectively, and the shower system further includes a timer that counts an elapsed time since the control system determined that one of the signals is below the sensor threshold corresponding thereto. The control system is further configured to wait until the elapsed time exceeds a threshold time before adjusting at least one of the first valve and the second valve.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the first and second valves are operated via solenoids. In further embodiments, the first and second sensors are current sensors that measure an electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves, respectively, and the electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves indicates the flow of water therethrough.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the shower system is further configured for use with a drain and the shower system further includes a pump configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain. A current sensor measures an electrical current of the pump and the control system is further configured to control the first and second valves based on the current measured by the current sensor.

[0017] From a second aspect, the invention provides a shower system for use with a drain and a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines. First and second valves are operatively connected between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively. The first and second valves are configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines. A pump is configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain. A current sensor measures an electrical current of the pump. A control system is provided in communication with the first and second valves, the pump, and the current sensor. The control system is configured to control the first and second valves based on the electrical current measured by the current sensor.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the control system is configured to close the first and second valves when the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside a threshold range. In further embodiments, the threshold range is selected such that when the pump is primarily pumping air the electrical current is outside the threshold range. In further embodiments, the threshold ranges is selected such that when the pump is inoperable the electrical current is outside the threshold range. Further embodiments further include a timer that counts an elapsed time since the control system determined that the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside the threshold range, where the control system is further configured to wait until the elapsed time exceeds a threshold time before adjusting at least one of the first valve and the second valve. In further embodiments, the controller is further configured to stop operation of the pump when the electrical current is outside the threshold range.

[0019] From a third aspect the invention provides a method for installing a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines. The method includes operatively connecting first and second valves between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively, where the first and second valves are configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from one of the hot and cold water lines. The method further includes operatively connecting first and second sensors such that each produces a signal indicating a flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines, respectively. The method further includes operatively connecting a control system to communicate with the first and second sensors and the first and second valves. The control system is configured to adjust the first valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot water line based on the signal from the second sensor, and to adjust the second valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the cold water line based on the signal from the first sensor.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the method further includes configuring the control system to close the second valve when the flow of water indicated by the signal from the first sensor is below a sensor threshold.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the first and second valves are operated via solenoids, the first and second sensors are current sensors that measure an electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves, and the electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves is indicative of the flow of water therethrough.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the mixer shower is installed for use with a drain, and the method further includes operatively connecting a pump so as to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain. The method further includes providing a current sensor that measures an electrical current of the pump, and configuring the control system to control the first and second valves based on the electrical current measured by the current sensor. In further embodiments, the control system is configured to close the first and second valves when the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside a threshold range.

[0023] Various other features, objects and advantages of the disclosure will be made apparent from the following description taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Embodiments of the invention are now described by way of example with reference to the following drawings.

[0925] FIG. I is a schematic view of a shower system installed for use with a mixer

shower according to the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a control system for controlling a shower system

according to the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a first method for controlling a shower system according

to the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a second method for controlling a shower system

according to the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a third method for controlling a shower system according

to the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a fourth method for controlling a shower system

according to the present disclosure.

[0931] FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a method for installing a mixer shower according to the

present disclosure.

DETAILED DISCLOSURE

[0032] The present disclosure generally relates to showers, and particularly installing and controlling mixer showers. FIG. 1 depicts a shower system 1 according to the present disclosure, which is configured for use with a conventionally known mixer shower 2. The mixer shower 2 includes a valve 4 for adjusting a mix of hot water from a hot water line 6 and cold water from a cold water line 8 in a conventional manner. The hot water line 6 may originate from a water heater and the cold water line 8 may originate with an incoming (unheated) water line or water storage tank. The valve 4 includes a hot water inlet 10 and a cold water inlet 12, as well as an outlet 14 through which the mixed water exists the valve 4. The hot water inlet 10 is configured to be fluidly connected to the hot water line 6 and the cold water inlet 12 is configured to be fluidly connected to the cold water line 8.

[0033] The valve 4 of the mixer shower 2 is adjusted via one or more handles 19, which varies the relative flow of water from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8 (and thus the temperature of the mixed water) exiting the valve 4 at an outlet 14 thereof. The outlet 14 is configured to he fluidly connected to a showerhead 18 within a shower 20 via a line 16 in a conventional manner. The hot water line 6, cold water line 8, and lines 16 may be formed of metal pipes, PVC or other plastic pipes, flexible tubing, and/or the like.

[0934] It should be recognized that mixer showers are distinct from electric showers in that the former receives water from both a hot water line and a cold water line, and the latter receives water from only a cold water line. An electric shower then heats the water from the cold water line to a desired temperature, which then flows into the shower via the shower head in the same manner as a mixer shower.

[0035] The water from the showerhead 18 falls to the floor of the shower 20 and is collected at a drain 22 provided therein. In certain contexts, such as showers 20 in locations in which drainage is not an option (e.g., level access showers in apartment blocks, marine vessels, or recreational vehicles), the shower system 1 includes a pump 24 configured to be fluidly connected to the drain 22 to pump the water away from the shower 20. The pump 24 includes a motor 26 that operates to evacuate the water via an drain line 28 in a conventional manner. Examples of commercially available pumps that may be used as the pump 24 include the Gulper 220 (Trade Mark) and other pump offerings produced by Whale @ of Northern Ireland.

[0036] The shower system 1 of FIG. 1 includes a first sensor 30 and a second sensor 32 that are fluidly coupled in-line to the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8, respectively. The first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 are each positioned upstream of the mixer shower 2 and each generate signals indicating the flow of water from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8 to the mixer shower 2. Examples of commercially available sensors that may be used as the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 include turbine flow sensors produced by SIKATM of Germany, including model VYT10 or the FT-110 Series TurboFlow@ Flow-Rate sensors from GemsTM Sensors and Controls of Connecticut, USA.

[0037] The signals from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 are transmitted via wires, wirelessly via conventional transmitters or transceivers 17, or combinations thereof. Examples of conventional wireless communication protocols (each having a corresponding transceiver 17) include Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Bluetooth @, such as the Bluetooth C:) Low Energy (LE) protocol. The signals from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 are received by a control system 50, which is discussed further below. The present inventors have recognized that using sensors, valves, and/or other devices that communicate wirelessly increases the speed and flexibility of installing a shower system I for use with a mixer shower 2 according to the present disclosure. Wireless connections also reduce the requirements for training of installation personnel, the risk of wire damage during installation or later, and the risk of damage or failure due to incorrect wiring. Likewise, protocols such as Bluetooth CD LE offer communication over long distances, enabling the devices to be installed wherever most convenient.

[0038] The shower system 1 of FIG. 1 also includes a sensor that detects the operation of the pump 24, such as a current sensor 34 that measures an electrical current through the motor 26 of the pump 24. The current sensor 34 generates a signal indicating the measured electrical current, which is again transmitted via wires or wirelessly via a transceiver 17 to the control system 50. An example of a current sensor 34 is provided with Whale's 0 instant match transformers, which senses the current through a pump (e.g., Whale's Gulper @ pump), with other current sensors also being commercially available. It should be recognized that the current sensor 34 or other sensor may also or alternatively be integrated within the pump 24 itself.

[0039] Other types of sensors may be used to detect the operation of the pump 24, for example flow sensors (which may also he connected to the hot water line 6 and cold water line 8 discussed above). In this case, the flow sensor would be operatively coupled to the pump 24 to sense the flow of water being pumped away from the drain 22.

[0040] Some pumps 24 (e.g., the Whale @ Gulper 220) include or communicate with a controller that provides a signal indicating a fault condition when there is an operational issue for the pump (e.g., overheating, high or low voltage conditions, communication failures, and/or the like). The fault condition reported by the pump 24 may be distinct from the signal indicating the electrical current measured by the current sensor 34.

[0041] The shower system 1 of FIG. 1 further includes a first valve 40 and a second valve 42, which are fluidly connected between the mixer shower 2 and the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8, respectively. The first valve 40 and the second valve 42 are each configured to control the flow of water therethrough, and therefore the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8. In particular, the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 each receive control signals (from the control system 50 discussed below) via wires, or via receivers or transceivers 17 such as those as discussed above. The first valve 40 and the second valve 42 then control the flow of water therethrough based on the received signals, specifically by controlling the power delivered to solenoids that open and close the first valve 40 and the second valve 42. One of ordinary skill in the art should recognize that this control includes, hut is not limited, to fully opening and fully closing the first valve 40 and the second valve 42.

[0042] The first valve 40 and the second valve 42 may he configured such that each is normally closed (opened by providing power to the solenoids), or normally open (closed by providing power to the solenoids). The solenoids may also be configured so as to not be limited to opened versus closed states, but also to allow intermediate states of flow through the valve. An example of a commercially available valve that may be used as the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 is model 1175BC produced by RPE Solenoid Valves.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the first sensor 30 and/or the second sensor 32 are current sensors or other devices that measure the electrical current through the solenoids associated with the first valve 40 and the second valve 42. In this manner, the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 determine the flow of water through the first valve 40 and the second valve 42, respectively, by recognizing a known relationship between the electrical current through the solenoid and the extent to which that solenoid opens the valve to allow flow therethrough.

[0044] It should be recognized that the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 control the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8 upstream of, and thus independently from, the valve 4 within the mixer shower 2. Therefore, the mix (and thus, temperature) of water delivered to the showerhead 18 can be controlled by adjusting the first valve 40, the second valve 42, and/or the valve 4 within the mixer shower 2. In this mariner, the shower system 1 may serve as a fail-safe to override the settings of the valve 4, as discussed further below.

[0045] FIG. 1 shows the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 as being positioned between the mixer shower 2 and the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32, respectively. However, the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 may be positioned in other locations upstream of the mixer shower 2. Likewise, the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 may also or alternatively be integrated with the first valve 40 and the second valve 42, respectively. In addition, the first sensor 30, the second sensor 32, the first valve 40, and the second valve 42 may be positioned relatively far from each other, and/or relatively far from the mixer shower 2 while retaining the same functionality (e.g., 2 feet, 5 feet, 10 feet, or farther apart or away from the mixer shower 2).

[0946] The present inventors have identified that this flexibility in positioning is particularly advantageous in that access to the mixer shower 2 and/or lines 16 is often limited (e.g., the spacing behind walls, other obstacles such as electrical lines or structural elements, and the like). Likewise, certain positions may be preferred for serviceability, access to power, and/or access to communication wiring.

[0047] As discussed above, the shower system 1 further includes a control system 50 that communicates with the first sensor 30, the second sensor 32, the first valve 40, the second valve 42, and the pump 24. In the shower system 1 of FIG. 1, this communication is shown to be entirely wireless with each device having its own transceiver 17. However, it should be recognized that devices may be wired or may share transceivers 17 (e.g., the first valve 40 and the second valve 42, or the first sensor 30 and the first valve 40). Power may also be provided to the first sensor 30, the second sensor 32, the first valve 40, the second valve 42, the current sensor 34, and/or the pump 24 via the control system 50. However, power may alternatively be provided independently from the control system 50, for example via connection to 220/230VAC power, 120 VAC power, 12VDC power, or other available power sources.

[0048] FIG. 2 shows a control system 50 such as may be used within the shower system 1 of FIG. 1. Certain aspects of the present disclosure are described or depicted as functional and/or logical block components or processing steps, which may be performed by any number of hardware, software, and/or firmware components configured to perform the specified functions. For example, certain embodiments employ integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, look-up tables, or the like, configured to carry out a variety of functions under the control of one or more processors or other control devices. The connections between functional and logical block components are merely exemplary, which may be direct or indirect, and may follow alternate pathways.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the control system 50 communicates with each of the one or more components of the shower system 1 via a communication link CL, which can be any wired or wireless link. The control module 50 is capable of receiving information and/or controlling one or more operational characteristics of the shower system 1 and its various subsystems by sending and receiving control signals via the communication links CL. Examples of communication links CL include physical wires or wireless protocols such as Wi-Fl, Zigbee, Bluetooth ®, such as the Bluetooth 0 Low Energy (LE). It will he recognized that the extent of connections and the communication links CL may in fact be one or more shared connections, or links, among some or all of the components in the shower system I. Moreover, the communication link CL lines are meant only to demonstrate that the various control elements are capable of communicating with one another, and do not represent actual wiring connections between the various elements, nor do they represent the only paths of communication between the elements. Additionally, the shower system 1 may incorporate various types of communication devices and systems, and thus the illustrated communication links CL may in fact represent various different types of wireless and/or wired data communication systems.

[0050] The control system 50 may be a computing system that includes a processing system 60, memory system 70, and input/output (1/0) system 80 for communicating with other devices, such as input devices 90 and output devices 91, either of which may also or alternatively be stored in or communicated via a cloud 1002. The input devices 90 include the first sensor 30, the second sensor 32, and the current sensor 34 discussed above. The pump 24 may also be an input device 90, for example for pumps that report fault conditions. The output devices 91 include the first valve 40, the second valve 42, and the pump 24. The processing system 60 loads and executes an executable program 72 from the memory system 70, accesses data 74 stored within the memory system 70, and directs the shower system 1 to operate as described in further detail below.

[0051] The processing system 60 may be implemented as a single microprocessor or other circuitry, or be distributed across multiple processing devices or sub-systems that cooperate to execute the executable program 72 from the memory system 70. Non-limiting examples of the processing system include general purpose central processing units, application specific processors, and logic devices. The processing system 60 also includes timer 62 that counts an elapsed time since an event is identified by the control system 50, as discussed further below.

[0052] The memory system 70 may comprise any storage media readable by the processing system 60 and capable of storing the executable program 72 and/or data 74. The data 74 may include one or more sensor thresholds 75 used for comparison to the signals of the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32, one or more threshold times 76, and one or more current threshold ranges 77 for comparison to the signals of the current sensor 34. The memory system may be implemented as a single storage device, or be distributed across multiple storage devices or sub-systems that cooperate to store computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The memory system 70 may include volatile and/or non-volatile systems, and may include removable and/or non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information. The storage media may include non-transitory and/or transitory storage media, including random access memory, read only memory, magnetic discs, optical discs, flash memory, virtual memory, and non-virtual memory, magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store information and be accessed by an instruction execution system, for example.

r09531 With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the control system 50 controls the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8 without changing the handle 19 position for the valve 4 therein. In particular, the control system 50 controls the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 depending on the signals received from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32, and/or based on the signals received from the current sensor 34 measuring the electrical current through the pump 24.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the control system 50 is configured to adjust control of the first valve 40 to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 based on the signal from the second sensor 32, and likewise to adjust control of the second valve 42 to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the cold water line 8 based on the signal from the first sensor 30. The present inventors have recognized that if the flow rate from the hot water line 6 is low, including having no flow at all, (e.g., due to an obstruction or failure of a water heater, a line 16, or the valve 4), there is a risk of cold water shock for the user, which in some cases may lead to epileptic shock. In this case, the control system 50 is configured to detect this low flow rate of hot water and to adjust the flow of water from the cold water line 8 (e.g., reduced, or entirely shut off) to reduce this cold water shock risk. In certain embodiments, both the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 are entirely closed when the signal from one of the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 is measured to be below a sensor threshold, which is discussed further below. In other embodiments, such as those in which adjustable flow rate valves are used as the first valve 40 and second valve 42, the control system 50 can adjust the temperature of water leaving the mixer shower 2.

[0055] Similarly, if the flow rate from the cold water line 8 is low (including no flow at all), there is a risk of scalding for the user. The control system 50 is configured to identify that this low flow of cold water, thereby adjusting the flow of water from the hot water line 6 by at least partially closing the first valve 40 to reduce the risk of scalding. In this manner, the shower system I acts as a fail-safe to prevent harm to the user, which may he particularly advantageous for children or those with dementia of other cognitive impairments.

[0056] FIG. 3 depicts a first method 300 of controlling the shower system 1 according to the present disclosure, which is configured to prevent both cold water shock and scalding events. Step 302 provides for receiving signals from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32, which as discussed above indicate the rates of flow for the water from the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8, respectively, to the mixer shower 2. The signal from the first sensor 30 is compared to a sensor threshold in step 304. The sensor threshold 75 may be stored in the memory system 70 of the control system 50 as shown in FIG. 2. By way of non-limiting example, the sensor threshold 75 may be 0.5 L/min or 0 L/min when using flow sensors as the first sensor 30 and second sensor 32. It should be recognized that flow rates may also be inferred from other units. For example, a flow sensor output may he 0Hz for a flow rate of 0 L/min. Additionally, as discussed above, the sensor threshold 75 may also be in the form of a current or other unit that corresponds to a flow rate, such as 1.5A of electrical current through the first valve 40 corresponding to a flow rate of 0.5 L/min (OA corresponding to 0 L/min) It should be recognized that a current sensor reading of OA may indicate a failure of the solenoid within the valve, and/or that there is an obstruction or other issue upstream or downstream of the valve.

[0057] With continued reference to FIG. 3, if it is determined in step 306 that the signal from the first sensor 30 is below the sensor threshold 75, the control system 50 may immediately adjust the second valve 42, or be configured to first wait a predetermined amount of time. The method 300 of FIG. 3 provides for starting to count an elapsed time in step 308 (via the timer 62 of FIG. 2) when the signal from the first sensor 30 is found to be below the sensor threshold 75 in step 306. The elapsed time is compared to a threshold time 76 saved in the memory system 70 of FIG. 2 (e.g., 5 seconds) in step 310. If at some point the signal from the first sensor 30 is determined to be at or above the sensor threshold 75, the elapsed time counter is reset to zero and restarted if the signal from the first sensor 30 falls below the sensor threshold 75 again at a later time. However, if the signal is below the sensor threshold 75 for longer than the threshold time 13' 76, the control system 50 takes action by adjusting the second valve 42 to adjust the flow of water from the cold water line 8 to the mixer shower 2 in step 312 (in this case preventing cold water shock). In this manner, the control system 50 may he configured to not take immediate action for signals indicating low flows, as this may be a signal artifact or transient condition that quickly resolves.

[0058] Returning to step 306 of the method 300 of FIG. 3, if the signal from the first sensor 30 is not below the sensor threshold 75, the process continues to step 314, comparing the signal from the second sensor 32 to a sensor threshold 75. The sensor threshold 75 for the second sensor 32 may be the same as that of the first sensor 30, or different (e.g., 1.0 L/min for the second sensor). Having different sensor thresholds 75 may accommodate for different maximum and minimum temperatures of the hot water line 6 and the cold water line 8 (e.g., the temperature settings of a water heater), or provide different levels of prevention for avoiding scalding versus cold water shock.

[0059] With continued reference to FIG. 3, if the signal from the second sensor 32 is also found in step 316 to not be below the sensor threshold 75 corresponding thereto, the process returns to step 302. However, if the signal from the second sensor 32 is determined to he below the sensor threshold 75, the control system 50 may immediately adjust the first valve 40, or be configured to first wait a predetermined amount of time, as discussed above. In the case of waiting a predetermined amount of time, step 318 provides for starting to count an elapsed time since the signal was found to be below the sensor threshold 75. The elapsed time is then compared in step 320 to a threshold time 76, which may be the same or different than the threshold time for compared in step 310 (e.g., 7 seconds). If at some point the signal is determined to be at or above the sensor threshold 75, the elapsed time counted by the timer 62 is reset to zero and is restarted if the signal is below the sensor threshold 75 again at a later time. However, if the sensor threshold 75 is exceeded for longer than the threshold time 76, the control system 50 takes action by adjusting the first valve 40 to adjust the flow of water from the hot water line 6 to the mixer shower 2 in step 322 (in this case preventing scalding). In some embodiments, the control system 50 further causes an alarm (e.g., sounds, displays, and/or lights) if the sensor threshold 75 is exceeded for longer than the threshold time 76.

[0060] FIG. 4 depicts another method 400 for controlling a shower system 1 according to the present disclosure, now incorporating feedback regarding whether the pump 24 is reporting a fault condition. Step 402 is similar to step 302 discussed above, but further includes receiving signals from the pump 24. If it is determined in step 404 that the pump 24 is indicating a fault condition, the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 are closed in step 406 to avoid flooding. In this manner, the shower system I acts as a fail-safe in the event an obstruction or failure prevents proper draining from the shower. Additional steps may also be taken, such as providing visual and/or auditory indications to the user that the pump is indicating a fault condition, and that the valves have been closed as a result. These may include an LED display with text on the mixer shower 2, lights, verbal messages, and/or alarms, for example. If instead the pump is not indicating a fault condition, steps 408 through 426 proceed in the same manner as steps 304 through 322 discussed with respect to FIG. 3.

[0061] Returning to FIG. 1, in certain embodiments the control system 50 is configured to additionally or alternatively control the shower system 1 based at least in part on the electrical current through the pump 24 as measured by the current sensor 34. The control system 50 is configured to use the electrical current received from the current sensor 34 to determine whether the pump 24 is operating. Additionally, the present inventors have recognized that the electrical current measured by the current sensor 34 can be used to determine specifically what the pump 24 is pumping while operating (i.e., water versus air). Specifically, the present inventors have recognized that the load on the motor 26 of the pump 24 is different when pumping primarily (at least 50%) water, versus pumping primarily air. The increased load experienced when pumping primarily water results in higher electrical current flowing through the pump 24 as compared to when pumping primarily air. This difference in expected electrical currents can be identified by the control system 50 via the signals from the current sensor 34. In this manner, the control system 50 can identify whether the pump 24 is operating, and whether it is primarily pumping water or air.

[0062] Circumstances in which the pump 24 may be pumping a substantial volume of air include those in which the pump 24 is pumping at a rate that exceeds the flow of water from the showerhead I 8. In certain configurations, the control system 50 is configured to automatically control the motor 26 of the pump 24 to match the output of the showerhead 18, for example functioning in a similar manner as the Instant Match Transformer produced by Whale ® of Northern Ireland. This provides a quieter and more pleasant experience for the user, and also extends the life of the pump 24.

[0063] However, the present inventors have identified further conditions by which the pump 24 may be pumping a substantial volume of air despite being operated in an attempt to match the output of the showerhead 18. For example, the pump 24 may he primarily pumping air if there is an obstruction or failure of the drain 22, drain line 28, or components within the pump 24. A washcloth partially covering the drain 22, or a mixer shower 2 left running when the pump 24 cannot keep up, can result in flooding and thus causes a risk of slipping for people and damage to the floor and walls in the vicinity. This may be particularly concerning for level access showers in which there is little to no safeguard against flooding.

[0064] As such, the present inventors have identified that flooding may be prevented by monitoring the electrical current through the pump 24, specifically to ensure that the pump 24 is evacuating water as intended. FIG. 5 depicts another a method 500 for controlling a shower system 1 based on signals from a current sensor measuring the electrical current through the motor of the pump at the drain of the shower. While not expressly shown in the process flow, these signals may be considered in addition to any fault conditions reported by the pump, such as shown in the method 400 of FIG. 4. In the method 500 of FIG. 5, step 502 is similar to step 302 discussed above, but further includes receiving signals from the current sensor. The electrical current measured by the current sensor is compared in step 504 with a current threshold range 77 corresponding to the pump functioning properly, and also pumping primarily water rather than primarily air.

[0065] The current threshold range may be stored in the memory system 70 of FIG. 2, which by way of non-limiting example may be 1.0A to 3.0A. If it is determined in step 506 that the pump is properly functioning and primarily pumping water (i.e., the electrical current is not outside the current threshold range), the process of steps 510 through 528 proceeds as steps 306 through 322 discussed with respect to FIG. 3.

[0066] With continued reference to FIG. 5, if instead the electrical current is determined to be outside the current threshold range 77 in step 506, the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 are closed in step 508 to avoid flooding. In particular, this situation corresponds to a pump that is either not fully functioning or is pumping primarily air. As discussed above, this may occur if a washcloth is inadvertently covering the drain 22, thereby preventing the pump 24 from removing water from the shower 20 and risking flooding from continued water flow though the showerhead 18. As discussed above with respect to the method 400 of FIG. 4, additional steps may also be taken, such as providing visual and/or auditory indications to the user.

[0067] As an alternate method to that of FIG. 5, the control system 50 may further compare the signal from the current sensor 34 to those from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 before closing the first valve 40 and the second valve 42. For example, the pump 24 may be allowed to continue pumping despite pumping primarily air if the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32 indicate that the showerhead 18 is still producing water (i.e., to continue draining the shower 20). The control system 50 may also wait for an elapsed time to exceed a threshold time before closing the valves, such as shown in steps 604 through 610 of FIG. 6. In another embodiment, the control system 50 may adjust the current threshold range 77 for comparing to the signals of the current sensor 34 based on the signals received from the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32. This accommodates for differing demands on the pump 24 based on different outputs from the showerhead 18.

[0068] Certain embodiments further include configuring the control system 50 to automatically close the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 after a predetermined shutoff time. The present inventors have identified that this feature may be particularly advantageous for people with dementia or other impairments, whereby a predetermined shutoff time of 30 minutes could be implemented as a further mechanism for preventing flooding and/or avoiding wasted water.

[0069] It should be recognized that controlling a shower system 1 to prevent flooding, as discussed above, may also be performed without also controlling to prevent scalding and/or cold water shock. The method 600 of FIG. 6 provides for steps 602 through 606 to proceed similar to steps 502 through 506 discussed with FIG. 5. If it is determined in step 606 that the electrical current is outside the current threshold range, the method 600 further provides for counting an elapsed time in step 608, which is compared against a threshold time 76 in step 610. The threshold time 76 for the current sensor may be the same or different than those of the first sensor 30 and the second sensor 32. If the elapsed time does exceed the threshold time 76, the first valve 40 and the second valve 42 are then closed in step 612 to prevent flooding as discussed above.

[0070] FIG. 7 shows a method 700 for installing a mixer shower 2 such as shown in FIG. 1. Step 702 provides for connecting a first valve 40 and a second valve 42 between a mixer shower 2 and a hot water line 6 and a cold water line 8, respectively. A first sensor 30 and a second sensor 32 are operatively connected in step 704 to each produce a signal indicating a flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 and a cold water line 8, respectively. Step 706 provides for operatively connecting a control system 50 to communicate with the first sensor 30, the second sensor 32, the first valve 40, and the second valve 42. Step 708 provides for configuring the control system 50 to adjust the first valve 40 to thereby adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the hot water line 6 based on the signal from the second sensor 32, and to adjust the second valve 42 to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower 2 from the cold water line 8 based on the signal from the first sensor 30.

[0071] In this manner, if the flow rate from the hot water line 6 is low (e.g., due to an obstruction or failure), there is a risk of cold water shock for the user, thereby resulting in the control system 50 adjusting the flow of water from the cold water line 8 (e.g., reduced, or entirely shut off) to reduce this risk. Likewise, if the flow rate from the cold water line 8 is low, there is a risk of scalding for the user, thereby resulting in the control system 50 adjusting the flow of water from the hot water line 6 to reduce this risk.

[0072] The present inventors have recognized that the shower systems 1 and methods for installing mixer showers 2 disclosed herein provide safeguards to the user and the vicinity surrounding the shower 20, overriding the settings of a mixer shower 2 where necessary. The shower system 1 nonetheless is fully compatible with conventional mixer showers 2, thereby providing flexibility for retrofitting with existing showers.

[0073] The functional block diagrams, operational sequences, and flow diagrams provided in the Figures are representative of exemplary architectures, environments, and methodologies for performing novel aspects of the disclosure. While, for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the methodologies included herein may be in the form of a functional diagram, operational sequence, or flow diagram, and may be described as a series of acts, it is to be understood and appreciated that the methodologies are not limited by the order of acts, as some acts may, in accordance therewith, occur in a different order and/or concurrently with other acts from that shown and described herein. For example, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that a methodology can alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram. Moreover, not all acts illustrated in a methodology may be required for a novel implementation.

[0074] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be inferred therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be broadly construed. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have features or structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent features or structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is: I. A shower system for use with a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines, the shower system comprising: first and second sensors each producing a signal indicating a flow from die hot and cold water lines, respectively, to the mixer shower; first and second valves operatively connected between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively, the first and second valves being configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines; and a control system in communication with the first and second sensors and the first and second valves, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the first valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot water line based on the signal from the second sensor, and wherein the control system is configured to adjust the second valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the cold water line based on the signal from the first sensor.
2. The shower system according to claim I, wherein the control system is configured to close the second valve when the flow of water indicated by the signal from the first sensor is below a sensor threshold.
3. The shower system according to claim 2, wherein the control system closes the second valve entirely, and wherein the sensor threshold is 0.5 liters per minute
4. The shower system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control system communicates wirelessly with at least one of the first sensor, the second sensor, the first valve, and the second valve.
5. The shower system according to any preceding claim, wherein the shower system is further configured for use with a drain, further comprising a pump configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain, wherein the pump is configured to indicate a fault condition when the pump is at least partially inoperable, and wherein the control system is further configured to entirely close the second valve and the first valve when the pump is indicating the fault condition.
6. The shower system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control system compares each of the signals from the first and second sensors to a sensor threshold, respectively, further comprising a timer that counts an elapsed time since the control system determined that one of the signals is below the sensor threshold corresponding thereto, and wherein the control system is further configured to wait until the elapsed time exceeds a threshold time before adjusting at least one of the first valve and the second valve.
7. The shower system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second valves are operated via solenoids.
8. The shower system according to claim 7, wherein the first and second sensors are current sensors that measure an electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves, respectively, and wherein the electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves indicates the flow of water therethrough.
9. The shower system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the shower system is further configured for use with a drain, further comprising a pump configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain, and further comprising a current sensor that measures an electrical current of the pump, wherein the control system is further configured to control the first and second valves based on the current measured by the current sensor.
10. A shower system for use with a drain and a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines, the shower system comprising: first and second valves operatively connected between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively, the first and second valves being configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines; a pump configured to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain; a current sensor that measures an electrical current of the pump; and a control system in communication with the first and second valves, the pump, and the current sensor, wherein the control system is configured to control the first and second valves based on the electrical current measured by the current sensor.
11. The shower system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the control system is configured to close the first and second valves when the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside a threshold range.
12. The shower system according to claim 11, wherein the threshold range is selected such that when the pump is primarily pumping air the electrical current is outside the threshold range.
13. The shower system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the threshold range is selected such that when the pump is inoperable the electrical current is outside the threshold range.
14. The shower system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a timer that counts an elapsed time since the control system determined that the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside the threshold range, wherein the control system is further configured to wait until the elapsed time exceeds a threshold time before adjusting at least one of the first valve and the second valve.
15. The shower system according to any one of claims II to i4, wherein the controller is further configured to stop operation of the pump when the electrical current is outside the threshold range.
16. A method for installing a mixer shower having a valve for mixing water from hot and cold water lines, the method comprising: operatively connecting first and second valves between the mixer shower and the hot and cold water lines, respectively, the first and second valves being configured to control the flow of water to the mixer shower from one of the hot and cold water lines; operatively connecting first and second sensors such that each produces a signal indicating a flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot and cold water lines, respectively; and operatively connecting a control system to communicate with the first and second sensors and the first and second valves; and configuring the control system to adjust the first valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the hot water line based on the signal from the second sensor, and to adjust the second valve to adjust the flow of water to the mixer shower from the cold water line based on the signal from the first sensor.
17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising configuring the control system to close the second valve when the flow of water indicated by the signal from the first sensor is below a sensor threshold.
18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the first and second valves are operated via solenoids, wherein the first and second sensors are current sensors that measure an electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves, and wherein the electrical current through the solenoids of the first and second valves is indicative of the flow of water therethrough.
19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the mixer shower is installed for use with a drain, further comprising operatively connecting a pump so as to pump water provided by the mixer shower via the drain, further comprising providing a current sensor that measures an electrical current of the pump, and further comprising configuring the control system to control the first and second valves based on the electrical current measured by the current sensor.
20. The method system according to claim 19, wherein the control system is configured to close the first and second valves when the electrical current measured by the current sensor is outside a threshold range.