MXPA00003685A - Drain valve assembly and method of cleansing - Google Patents

Abstract

The present discloses a drain valve assembly for use with an air bath including an air distribution system and a method of cleansing channels of an air distribution system for a bath vessel. The drain valve assembly is located within an opening in the bath vessel to control the flow of water from the bath vessel to an effluent drain, to control the flow of air and water from the air distribution system to an effluent drain and to maintain a fluid pressure within the air distribution system. The drain valve assembly includes a valve housing for extending between the bath vessel and a fluid waste pipe connected to the effluent drain. The valve housing has an upper opening for positioning proximate the bath vessel and a lower opening for receiving fluid from the air bath distribution system. The drain valve assembly also includes a stopper having first and second vertically aligned plungers. The stopper is secured within the valve housing and is capable of moving relative thereto. When the stopper is in a closed position and the second plunger is positioned below a lower surface of the lower opening, fluid from the air distribution system is sealed within the valve housing and fluid within the bath vessel is prevented from entering the valve housing. Conversely, fluid from the bath vessel and the air distribution system flows through the valve housing and into the fluid waste pipe when the stopper is in an open position and the second plunger is above a lower surface of the lower opening.

Description

09373997.081699 ASSEMBLY OF DRAIN VALVE AND CLEANING METHOD Date of presentation of benefit of April 16, 1999 for provisional application Serial No. 60 / 129,628 of the same inventors and entitled "Drainage Valve Assembly" is hereby claimed. The present invention relates to a drain valve assembly for use as a bath container, more particularly, the invention relates to a drain valve for use with a therapeutic air bath to maintain fluid in the bath and pressure vessel of fluid within an air distribution system when in a closed position, and allowing fluid to drain from both the bath container and the air distribution system when it is in an open position. The present invention also relates to a method for cleaning the air distribution system.

Background of the Invention For many years, baths have been used as effective therapeutic tools to alleviate sustenance and increase blood flow. One type of bath known is commonly referred to as an "air bath" and includes a plurality of air jets to agitate the water contained in a bath container. Air baths are based on forced air and agitated water to provide the therapeutic benefit to the user. Air baths typically include a container for receiving a user and water, a plurality of air channels adjusted to the exterior and bottom surface of the container and a source of pressurized air, such as an air blower, connected to the channels. The channels include a plurality of openings aligned with openings in the bottom floor and / or side wall of the container. The fan forces air into the channels and through the openings, resulting in aeration and water infiltration. A well-known type of this bath is described in U.S. Pat. 4,249, 522 for Carrier, which is incorporated herein by reference. The problems with these air baths result from the air distribution channels that are placed below the bottom of the container. These problems include an inability to completely drain the water from the air channels after the air fan has stopped operating. Stagnant waste water within the air channels rots over time and creates health risks, unpleasant odors and unpleasant-looking air baths. Additionally, it is difficult to meet industry water retention standards using the plumbing of conventional air systems. Moreover, conventional methods do not sufficiently clean these air baths and remove dirt, mold and bacteria. Attempts have been made to solve the problems associated with conventional air system baths. One such solution includes a drain valve assembly as described in U.S. Pat. 5,381, 831 for Versland. The drain valve assembly includes a housing, a first valve to drain water from the bath, and a second valve to drain water that has entered the air distribution system. A lever positioned within the housing operates as an actuator means to lift the first and second shanks and open the first and second valves. The lever is activated by turning a knob placed on the side of the bath container.

This prior art drain valve includes many intricate parts that are expensive to manufacture and assemble. Additionally, these parts provide more opportunity for the drain valve to fail. The multiple parts of this drainage and its global size also prohibit • 5 its use in small and compact areas. As a result, a consumer may be forced to choose between air baths based primarily on the installation space required for associated drainage. An objective of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. It is also an object of the present invention to provide a drain valve that is compact and easily operated, so that the fluid pressure within a distribution system is maintained when the valve is closed, and is released when the valve is open. A further object of the invention is to provide a method for effectively cleaning the air channels of an air distribution system.

Brief description of the invention The present invention relates to a drain valve assembly for use with an air bath including a bath container and an air distribution system. The drain valve assembly is located within an opening in the bath container to control the flow of water from the bath container to a drain effluent. As well is securely connected to the air distribution system, so that air and water within the air channels flow through the drain valve assembly into the drain effluent. Additionally, the drain valve assembly seals one end of the air distribution system, so that the air pressure can be established therein and air can be introduced into the water within the container. When the drain valve assembly according to the present invention is closed, the water is retained within the bath container. Additionally, seals are formed within the closed valve to establish and maintain air pressure within the air distribution channels. As a result, the drain valve seals the container and the air distribution system, away from the fan, so that the air pressure can be repeatedly established within the air distribution channels surrounding the tub. When the drain valve assembly is open, the integrity of all the established seals is broken and the water from the bath container enters the valve through a top opening and flows into a drain effluent. Simultaneously, the fluid pressure established within the channels is released and, if the fan is not operating at a sufficiently high speed, the water remaining in the vessel enters the air channels. The water that enters the channels flows, with any remaining air, to the drain assembly. The water in the air channels then flows with the water from the vessel to the drainage effluent. The drain valve assembly comprises a valve housing for extending between the bath container and a fluid waste line. The valve housing has an upper opening for positioning near the bath container and a lower opening for receiving fluid from the air bath distribution system. The lower opening extends at an angle to the upper opening and includes upper and lower surfaces. The drain valve assembly also includes a plug having a first and a second piston aligned vertically. The plug is secured within the valve housing and is capable of moving relative thereto, so that when the second piston is positioned above the lower surface of the lower opening and the plug is in an open position, the fluid flows. from the air distribution system to the fluid waste pipe. Additionally, when the second piston is positioned below the lower surface of the lower opening and the plug is in a closed position, the fluid of the air distribution system is sealed within the valve housing. The present invention also includes a drain valve assembly comprising a valve housing for being positioned within a drainage opening in a bath container. The valve housing includes an upper opening having a diameter and a lower opening having a diameter that extends at an angle to the diameter of the first opening. The lower opening receives fluid from an associated air distribution system. The drain valve assembly also includes a strainer body removably secured within the valve housing, a plug that has a first and a second piston, an internal channel and a longitudinal axis. A guide post including a longitudinal axis is placed inside the internal channel to support the plug. The valve assembly according to the present invention can reduce the amount of space required for drain valve assemblies used with air bath systems. In addition, the present invention can be easily connected to the plumbing of an installed drainage effluent. In addition, the present invention is easier to manufacture when compared to drains of the prior art and includes a minimum of parts. For example, the present invention uses only one cap to seal the container and the one or more ends of the air distribution system. Using fewer parts can increase the life of the drain, its ease of operation and the integrity of its seals. The fewer parts that experience wear, the stronger the seals will remain in the course of time. The present invention further includes a method for cleaning channels of an air distribution system for a bath container having a drain valve for retaining fluid within the bath container and fluid pressure within the air distribution system. The method comprises the steps of introducing a predetermined amount of a cleaning solution into the air distribution system through a fluid inlet when the drain valve is closed, and presenting the bath container with a fluid at a first level. predetermined above the air distribution holes in the bath container. The cleaning solution is then mixed with fluid inside the bath container. The mixture is allowed to fit inside the bath container and the air channels for a predetermined period, so that the cleaning solution can clean the inner wall of the bath container and the air channels. After the soaking step, the drain valve is opened so that the mixed fluid and cleaning solution flows through the air channels and into the drain valve. However, a drain cover is placed over the open drain valve to prevent the mixed fluid and cleaning solution from flowing directly into the drain valve from the bath container. The drain cover is removed after fluid and cleaning solution have been drained mixed at a second predetermined fluid level that is below the first predetermined level. This method removes any bacteria and dirt that may have remained in the bath container or air channels after being used by a swimsuit. Additionally, the method can be used to remove fouling from air channels caused by standing water or the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the drain valve assembly according to the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the valve housing according to the present invention; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the drain valve assembly installed in a bath container with the plug in an open position; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the drain valve assembly installed in a bath container with the plug in a closed position and the shown threaded conduit and fitting removed from the assembly; Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of the valve housing that receives the threaded fitting; Fig. 6 is a cross-section of the strainer body according to the present invention; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the double piston plug according to the present invention; Fig. 8 is a top view of the double piston plug of Fig. 7; Fig. 9 is a cross section of the double piston plug shown in Fig. 7; Fig. 10 is a cross section of the double piston plug shown in Fig. 7, rotated 90 degrees in relation to Fig. 9; Fig. 1 1 is a perspective view of the drain valve assembly including the automatic opening / closing mechanism according to the present invention with the bath container removed and the drain pipes shown in part; Fig. 12 is a front view of the drain valve assembly shown in FIG. 1 1 including the automatic opening / closing mechanism according to the present invention with the bath container removed and the drain pipes shown in part; Fig. 1 3 is a side view of the drain valve assembly shown in FIG. 1 1 including the automatic opening / closing mechanism according to the present invention with the bath container removed and the drain pipes shown in part; Fig. 14 is a side view of the first upper housing of the automatic opening / closing mechanism shown in Fig. 1 1 with the housing and actuator partially shown in cross section; Fig. 15 is a side view of the valve assembly shown in Fig. 1 1 in an open position with the second lower housing of the automatic opening / closing mechanism; Fig. 16 is a partial view of the lower end of the guide post shown in Fig. 1 5 including an internal slot for receiving an arm of a lever mechanism; Fig. 17 is a side view of the guide post and a cap lifting mechanism as shown in Fig. 15; Figs. 18 and 1 9 illustrate the mechanism of rotation within the lower housing for moving the cap lifting mechanism shown in FIG. fifteen; Figs. 20-22 illustrate another embodiment of a cap lifting mechanism according to the present invention; Figs. 23-25 illustrate a bath container according to the present invention that includes a system for cleaning air channels; Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view through the drain valve according to the present invention in a closed position to maintain a cleaning solution within the air channels; and Fig. 27 is a cross section through a channel purge cap positioned over an open drain valve in accordance with the present invention to allow the cleaning solution to flow into the air channels into a drain effluent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Fig. 1 shows a double plug drain valve assembly 1 to maintain and drain water in a bath shell 1 of an air bath system. The drain valve assembly 10 also maintains air within the air distribution channels 7 of an air bath system and allows air and water to drain from the channels 7. The drain valve assembly 10 can already be operated either automatically or manually. A manually operated mode is illustrated in Figs. 1-10 and an automatically operated mode is illustrated in Figs. 1 1 -1 9. In both modalities, the double plug drain valve assembly 1 0 is installed in a drain opening 2 in a bath shell 1. The valve assembly 10 includes a valve housing 1 1, a double piston plug 30, a washer 14 , a guide post 40 and a strainer body 1 2 having a flange 1 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the valve housing 1 1 has a first vertical section 15 including a flange 20 for contacting and supporting a sealing washer 14 below the opening 2 and between itself and the bath shell 1. The vertical section 1 5 also includes an upper opening 17 surrounded by the flange 20 and a lower opening 18 extending through the side wall of the housing 1 1. A bearded or other type of fitting 19 is secured within the opening 18 and delivers fluids, such as air and water, from the air channels 7 to the interior of the valve 10, as discussed above. The fitting 19 can be secured within the opening 18 using threads or any other well-known securing technique. However, in an alternative embodiment, the valve housing 1 1 is formed as a simple unit of injection molded plastic. In this alternative embodiment, the fitting 1 9 is formed integrally with the vertical section 1 5 as part of a single piece valve housing 1 1. The vertical section 15 includes internal threads 27 to cooperate with threads on the outer surface of the strainer body 12. The threads 27 allow the position of the strainer body 12 to be adjusted relative to the valve housing 11, so that the Valve assembly 10 can be used as bath shells having different thicknesses. The threaded colander body 12 in the valve housing 1 1 also allows easy separation of these parts during routine maintenance. The vertical section 15 also includes a hollow, thinner inner sidewall region 28 between threads 27. The region 28 prevents narrowing and allows the fluid exiting the opening 18 to flow around and into the interior of the strainer body 12 with minimal alteration. The vertical section 15 is connected to a horizontal section 16 to provide a continuous waste water flow path. The inner surface of the horizontal section 16 includes a plurality of threads or any other well-known member to secure the valve housing 1 1 to the waste pipe of a drainage effluent. Although an elbow-shaped valve housing 1 1 has been shown, a valve housing having a different shape below the section 1 5 could also be used. The strainer body 12 includes a flange 1 3, a threaded wall top section 21, an open central section 22 and a lower strainer section 23. A plurality of separate, vertically extending side walls 24 connect the sections 21 and 23 to form the section 22. The areas between the side walls 24 are opened to allow air to enter the strainer body 12 and form a pressure in the channels 7. These open areas also allow waste water to flow from the air channels 7 towards the strainer body 12 and through the strainer section 23. As shown in Fig. 3, when mounted, the flange 1 3 is placed on the upper part of an internal wall of the lower wall 6 of the shell 1, so that it overlaps with the opening 2. threaded section 21 extends from the underside of the flange 13 through the opening 2 and the washer 14. The threaded section 21 is received and secured within the valve housing 1 1 by the threads 27. According to the threads of the section 21 advance towards the section 15, the flange 13 comes into contact with the inner wall surface 6 and leads the washer 14 towards the contact with the shell 1 and the flange 20 to seal the opening 2. As discussed above, the section Threaded 21 in section 15 allows valve assembly 1 0 to reach an accustomed fitting each time it is installed. The washer 14 is positioned below the opening 2 and its central opening has a diameter smaller than the opening 2 to form a seal between the housing 1 1 and the shell 1.

When the strainer body 12 is properly positioned and secured within the housing 1 1, the open section 22 is aligned with the hollow side wall region 28 and the opening 1 8, as shown in Fig. 3. The strainer section 23 is positioned below the hollow side wall region 28 to stop solid waste from entering section 16. Section 23 includes a groove 55 that bears a seal 29, such as an O-ring, to prevent waste water flow between the housing 1 1 and 12. The strainer section 23 also includes a threaded opening 25 at its center to receive a threaded end 41 of the guide post 40, so that the guide post 40 can not move relative to the Strainer section unless unscrewed. This prevents the guide post 40 from separating prematurely and unintentionally from the strainer section 23. Securing the post 40 to the strainer body 12 by means of thread also allows easy separation during service of the valve assembly 10 or breastplate 1 As shown in Fig. 1, the guide post 40 includes a head 43 for gripping during removal. The guide post 40 also includes an elongated body 44 having a vertical guide groove 42 and a threaded end 41. A lock retention groove 47 is formed between the upper shoulder or surface 46 of the body 44 and the lower surface of the head 43. The guide groove 42 extends along the entire length of the body 44 between the upper surface 45 and the lower surface 49. The guide post 40 is secured within the strainer body 1 2 by screwing the end 41 into the openings 25, as discussed above.

The double-piston plug 30 includes a handle 32 that can be held by a user to raise and lower the plug. The plug 30 can be manufactured as a single unit or it can be formed of included / individual parts secured together. The plug 30 also / a vertically extending internal chamber 39 for receiving the guide post 40. As discussed above, the plug 30 moves along and in relation to the guide post 40. The plug 30 further includes an upper piston 33, a rod 34 and a lower piston 35. The rod 34 is rigidly connected to the vertically aligned pistons 33 and 35, so that there is no relative movement between them. This rigid connection ensures that both pistons 33, 35 move simultaneously an equal distance when one of the pistons is raised or lowered. The rod 34 includes a threaded channel 31 extending perpendicular to the vertical, longitudinal axis of the plug 30, and an open end providing access to the groove 42, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9. The latch 45 extends through the channel 31 and towards the guide slot 42 to secure the plug 30 to the guide post 40. The latch 45 can be any type of elongate insurable member, such as a screw or other well-known bra. The latch 45 extends toward and travels along the length of the guide slot 42 when the plug 30 is raised and lowered. The plug 30 is held in a raised or open position by a rest latch 45 on the shoulder or upper surface 46. This is achieved by raising the latch 45 above the top of the notch 42 and rotating the plug 30 about its longitudinal axis, so that the safety 45 enters the slot 47.

The pistons 33 and 35 each include a circumferential groove 36 in their vertical side walls. A washer 37, 38, such as an O-ring, is placed in one of the respective slots 36 to create a strong fluid seal between its respective piston 33, 35 and the internal walls of the strainer body 1 2 when the plug 30 is in place. a closed position. The washer 37 performs two functions when in a closed position: first, it prevents the water from flowing from the bath shell 1 towards the strainer body 12; second, the washer 37 cooperates with the washer 38 to form a fluid-tight region (air) within the strainer body 12 between the pistons 33 and 35 to establish fluid pressure within the air delivery system 7. By providing a firm seal of fluid on both the upper and lower sides of the open section 22, the opening 18 can be in fluid communication with conduits 7 to maintain fluid pressure in the air distribution system during its operation and to receive waste water from the conduits 7 when the air bath system is closed, without destroying the integrity of the air distribution system during its operation. The valve assembly 10 is closed by lowering the plug 30, so that a seal is formed with the strainer body 12. From an open position, the plug 30 is lowered by rotating it around its length axis, so that the latch 45 it aligns with the slot 42. When aligned, the latch 45 and plug 30 are forced vertically downward along the notch 42 until the piston 33 sits itself within the opening of the strainer body 12. plug 30 is secured in an open position as discussed above. When the cap 30 is in the open position, as shown in Fig. 3, the fluid tight seal within the strainer body 12 breaks. Additionally, the water in the bath shell 1 enters the strainer body 12 and flows through the section 1 5 into the section 16 and out through a line 9 into the drainage effluent. Simultaneously, the water entering the air channels 7 from the bath shell 1 flows through the fitting 19 and the opening 18 towards the section 28 and the open section 22. After entering section 22, water from air channels 7 flows through section 23 and into section 16. As discussed above and as shown in Fig. 11, the valve assembly 1 0 it can be operated automatically and remotely using a wire mechanism 100, so that a user does not have to reach into the water and manually raise the plug to open the drain valve. The embodiment shown in Figs. 1 1 to 1 5 is similar to that shown in Fig. 1. According to this, common elements between these modalities are referred to using the same numbers and their description will not be repeated. The cable mechanism 100 includes a first housing 1 1 0, a second housing 120 and a flexible cable 1 30. The cable 1 30 includes an outer cover 1 31 and an inner cable 1 32 that is longitudinally rigid to move the plug 30 and laterally flexible for easy installation. As shown in Figs. 1 to 14, the housing 1 1 0 forms an integral unit with overflow valve 70 and an overflow waste line 71. Overflow valves, such as valve 70, are well known in the art for maintaining the water level in a bathing shell. The housing 1 1 0 can be molded with the overflow valve 70 as a single unit or it can be formed separately and then secured together as an integral unit. The housing 1 10 covers and protects a turning mechanism 1 1 1 pivotally secured therein. The turning mechanism 1 1 1 includes a lever 1 12 pivotally mounted on one end in an axial safety 1 1 3. At its other end, the lever 1 12 includes a groove 1 15 receiving an upper end 133 of the rope 132 to transfer its movement to the internal cable 132. The lever 1 12 is connected to and articulated by an actuator 1 14 that extends into the bathing shell 1. The housing 120 covers and protects a lever mechanism 121 secured therein. The lever mechanism 121 includes a long arm 122 and a short arm 123 formed of plastic or metal materials that resist oxidation. The arms 122 and 1 23 can / are molded from a single bent member to form them or two separate members secured together. Arms 122 and 123 are at least partially coextensive and placed at an acute angle a in relation to one another. A rotation mechanism 124 for actuating the lever mechanism 121 is secured to the arms 122 and 123 at the apex of the angle a. The rotation mechanism 124 includes a crank having a crank handle 126 with a first end 127 rigidly secured to an end 134 of the internal cable 1 32 to receive movement of the internal cable 132 caused by the lever 1 12. The handle crank 126 also includes a second end 128 rigidly secured to a disk 129. A rotatable arrow 125 is rigidly secured to a disk 1 29, so that it rotates when the disk 1 29 is rotated by the handle 126 and the cable end 1 34. There is no relative movement between arrow 125 and disk 129, so that all movement is transferred between these members. As a result, the arrow 125 only rotates when the disc 129 rotates, such as when the lever 1 12 is moved. Other well-known mechanisms can also be used to rotate and operate the lever mechanism 121. In a preferred embodiment of the drain valve assembly, a plug lifting mechanism moves the plug 30 between the open and closed positions, as shown in Figs. 15-17. A guide post 40 ', which is similar to the guide post 40, forms part of the lifting mechanism. The guide post 40 'extends through the strainer body 12 to the horizontal section 16. At the discretion of the guide post 40, the guide post 40' does not include a vertical guide groove. Additionally, the lower end of the guide post 40 'is not secured to the strainer section 23. Instead, the guide post 40' is secured to the plug 30 by a well-known fastener 45 ', so that there is no relative movement between they. The fastener 45 'includes a bolt or lock and is placed within the plug 30, so that it extends towards and is secured within the post 40'. As a result, the post movement 40 'is transferred to the cap 30. The guide post 40' includes a lower end 41 'having a smooth outer surface that slides within a soft wall support surface formed in a central opening 25. 'in strainer section 23'. The lower end 41 'has an internal groove 42' having an opening which confronts the lever mechanism 121 and cooperates with the same to raise and lower the cap 30. As seen in FIG. 1 6, the notch 42 'does not extend through the bottom surface 43' of the lower end 41 '. In operation, the lever 1 1 2 is articulated by a user moving the actuator 1 14 in a well-known manner. When the lever 1 12 is hinged to an up position, the end 1 33 of the cable 132 is raised and a length of the cable 132 is drawn into the housing 1 10, while a length of cable 132 within the housing 120 retracts towards deck 131. This, in turn, results in the end 1 34 of cable 1 32 and crank handle 125 moving in the direction of the cover 131. The disc 1 29 and the arrow 125 are rotated in the counterclockwise direction by the movement of the end 134 and crank handle 1 26. The arrow 1 25 transfers its rotation counterclockwise to the lever mechanism 121 and arms 122, 123, via its rigid connection. As the arm 122 rotates counterclockwise, it comes into contact with the bottom surface of the lower end 41 'and forces the guide post 40' and plug 30 upwards, so that the piston 33 is raised above the opening of the strainer body 12. Conversely, when the lever 1 14 is hinged to the down position, the end 33 is lowered and a cable length 1 32 is forced outside the housing 1 1 0. When the cable 1 32 is forced out of the housing 1 10 and away from the cover 1 31 in the housing 1 20, the crank handle 126 rotates the disk 129 and arrow 1 25 in the direction of the clock hands . This rotates the arms 1 22 and 1 23 in the clockwise direction, so that the arm 1 23 enters the notch 42 'and engages with the floor 43'. As the arm 123 continues to rotate in the clockwise direction, it forces the guide post 40 'and the plug 30 downward until they close the opening to the strainer body 12 and seal the valve assembly 10. Figs. 20-22 show another preferred embodiment of a lever mechanism 221 according to the present invention. This embodiment can be used in place of the lever mechanism 1 21 shown in Figs. 16 and 17. The lever mechanism 221 includes a guide post 240, which is substantially the same as the guide post 40 'and extends toward the plug 30 in a similar manner. However, the guide post 240 does not include a notch 42 '. The guide post 240 includes a lower end 241 having a smooth outer surface that slides within a soft wall support surface formed in a central opening 25 'in the strainer section 23'. A lock nut 242 is rigidly secured to a lower face of the lower end 241. A bolt 243 with a contact head 244 and a threaded shaft 245 is secured in an adjustable manner to the lock nut 242. The spacing between the head 244 and the lock nut 242 is adjusted by turning the bolt 243 toward, or away from, the bolt 243. , the lock nut 242. In this embodiment, the lever mechanism 221 includes the arms 222 and 223, which are similar to arms 122 and 123, respectively. As a "result, the discussion of arms 222 and 223 will be limited to how they differ from the arms 1 22 and 123. The arm 222 has an elongated shape that allows to contact and transfer force to the head 244. As shown in Fig. 21 ( B), the arm 223 includes a forked end 224 having a U-shaped cut-out 225. The arm 223 receives a portion of the threaded shaft 245 within the shaped cut-out of U 225. During the operation of the lever mechanism 221, the arms 222 and 223 are pivoted in the same manner as described above with respect to the lever mechanism 121 When the arms 222 and 223 rotate counterclockwise (opening stroke), the arm 223 rotates away from the bolt 243 and arm 222 comes into contact with the outer, lower surface of head 244. As shown in Fig. 21 (A), arm 222 applies a force to bolt 243 and guide post 240, which moves the plug 30 to an open position. mo is shown in Fig. 22, when the arms 222 and 223 are turned clockwise (closing stroke), the arm 222 moves away from the bolt 243 and the forked end 224 receives the threaded arrow 245 As the arm 223 continues to rotate, it moves down the length of the threaded shaft 245 and comes into contact with an inner surface of the head 244. The arm 222 applies a force to the pin 243 and guide post 240 which moves the plug 30 to a closed position, as shown in Fig. 22. The lever mechanism 221 can be used with different drainage assemblies and can be adjusted to the particular needs of each assembly. For each drain valve assembly, the distance between the lock nut 242 and the head 244 of the bolt 243 can be adjusted so that the closing stroke of the arm 222 is long enough to seat the plug 30 in a closed position. Additionally, if the space between the open plug 30 and the surface of the bath shell needs to be increased, the distance between the lock nut 242 and the head 244 may be increased. The present invention also includes a method for cleaning the air distribution system to prevent and remove the accumulation of dirt, bacteria and mold, etc. of the air channels 7 and the air distribution orifices 95. The method includes introducing a predetermined amount of a well-known cleaning solution into the air channels 7. The solution is introduced through an aperture 97 in the shell of the air. bathroom 1 A filler cap 90 covers the opening 97. A conduit 91 extends between the filler cap 90 and air channels 7 to deliver the flushed cleaning solution into the aperture 97. The filler cap 90 and the aperture 97 can be located at any point along the length of the bathing shell that allows the introduced solution to enter the air distribution system. A one-way check valve 92 in conduit 91 opens to allow the cleaning solution introduced in opening 97 to flow into conduit 91 and prevents the pressure established within the air distribution system from escaping, regardless of whether the filler cap 90 is placed securely or not over the opening 97. As previously discussed, the air distribution system is enmeshed along the length of the bath shell 1 to the end that includes the drain assembly . As a result, the conduit 91 introduces the cleaning solution into the air distribution system at its highest point 98, so that the solution will enter all the air channels. The cleaning method also includes completely draining the bath plate from any water or fluid and closing the drain assembly. Next, the filler cap 90 is removed and a predetermined amount of the cleaning solution is emptied into the conduit 91. The amount of cleaning solution can vary depending on the size of the bath shell and the air channels and the concentration of the solution. For a standard-sized bathroom breastplate, approximately 248.8 grams of cleaning solution will be introduced. Additional cleaning solution may be required if the air channels 7 and / or air distribution holes 95 require extra cleaning. After the solution has entered the air channels 7, the bath is filled with hot water at a predetermined level that is between 10.16 and 20.32 centimeters above the air inlet holes 95 that extend around the inner surface of the bathroom cuirass 1. In a preferred embodiment, the water is filled to a level that is substantially 1.25 inches above the holes 95. The fan of the air distribution system is then turned on, and the cleaning solution and hot water is mixed. The fan is operated for approximately two minutes and then closed. However, time will vary depending on the amount of water in the bath shell, the amount of cleaning solution and the condition of the air distribution channels. The mixed water and cleaning solution is allowed to remain in the bath shell 1 and the air channels 7 for a predetermined amount of time, such as, thirty to forty-five minutes. Then, the plug 30 is raised and secured in an open position, so that the seals between the pistons 33, 35 and the walls of the counter body 12 are broken. Immediately after the plug 30 is secured in the open position , a channel purge cap 96 is placed on the cap 30. As a result, the mixture of water and cleaning solution only leaves the bath shell 1 through the holes 95 and flows to the drain effluent through the valves. air ducts 7. The channel purge cap 96 is removed when the water within the bath shell goes below the air distribution holes 95, so that the entire bath shell can be drained. The plug 30 is then lowered and the drain valve closed. The bath shell 1 and air channels 7 are then rinsed when closing the drain valve and introducing clean cold water into the bath shell 1. The bath shell is filled to a predetermined level above the air inlet orifices, preferably at or above the predetermined level of the mixture of water and cleaning solution. After the rinse water is allowed to remain for a short period, the plug 30 is raised and the water flows out of the bath shell 1 through the air channels 7 and the upper drain opening. Numerous features, advantages and embodiments of the invention have been described in detail in the foregoing description with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the description is only illustrative and the invention is not limited to the illustrated modes. Various changes and modifications may be made thereto by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For example, the drain valve assembly could be used with a system that distributes other types of fluids in the tub, such as water. In addition, the drain valve assembly could be secured to the ends of more than one channel of distribution systems of the same or multiple fluids.

Claims (35)

We claim:

1. A drain valve for use with an air bath having a bath container and an air distribution system, said drain valve comprising: valve / a housing / for extending between the bath container and a waste pipe of fluid, said valve housing including an upper opening to be positioned proximate the bath container and a lower opening for receiving fluid from said air bath distribution system, said lower opening extending at an angle to said upper opening and including upper surfaces and lower; a plug including first and second pistons aligned vertically, said plug being secured within said valve housing and being able to move relative thereto, such that said second piston is positioned above said lower surface of said lower opening when said plug is in an open position to allow fluid to flow from the air distribution system to the fluid waste pipe, and said second piston is placed below said bottom surface of said lower opening when said plug is in a closed position to seal fluid from the air distribution system within said valve housing.

The drain valve according to claim 1, further including an elongate housing removably secured within said valve housing, said elongate housing including at least one opening that allows fluid exiting said lower opening to flow toward said valve housing. elongated housing and outside the waste pipe.

3. The drain valve according to claim 2, wherein said elongated housing includes a strainer to prevent solid waste from entering the fluid waste line.

The drain valve according to claim 2, wherein said elongated housing includes an upper flange for being placed inside the bath container and an upper section for engaging said valve housing.

The drain valve according to claim 4, wherein said elongated housing further includes a central section including a plurality of side walls and an opening between each side wall, each opening being aligned with said lower opening in said housing. valve when installed therein to allow fluid to flow from the air distribution system to said elongated housing.

The drain valve according to claim 5, wherein said elongated housing is a strainer housing further including a lower section having a strainer and an opening; and said lower end of a guide post. . it is removably secured within said opening when said drain valve is mounted.

The drainage valve according to claim 6, wherein said valve housing further includes a member which is secured "" second / within said / lower opening and which extends from said valve housing to receive fluid. from the air distribution system.

The drain valve according to claim 2, wherein said valve housing further includes a hollow interior region proximate said second opening for receiving fluid from said air distribution system.

The drainage valve according to claim 1, wherein said first and second pistons each include a sealing member for cooperating with said valve housing when said plug is in said closed position to prevent fluid from flowing between each of said pistons and said valve housing.

The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein said plug includes an internal channel having a longitudinal axis; and said fluid drain valve further includes a guide post positioned within said internal channel for supporting said plug.

The drainage valve according to claim 10, wherein said guide post includes a longitudinal axis, an upper end, a lower end and an elongated slot extending between said upper and lower ends.; and said plug includes a slot extending within said plug at an angle to said longitudinal axis of said internal channel.

The drain valve according to claim 1, further including a latch positioned within said slot in said plug to extend into said slot, when said guide post is placed inside said plug, wherein said latch slides inside said slot when said plug is moved between said first and second positions.

The drainage valve according to claim 2, further including a guide post positioned within said plug, said guide post having a portion for extending through said elongate housing; and said drainage valve further includes a lifting and lowering mechanism operatively connected to said guide post, for moving said plug between said open and closed positions.

The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein said guide post includes a lower end having an elongated opening extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of said plug; and said mechanism for raising and lowering includes a lever mechanism having a pair of arms, by means of which the first of said arms cooperates with a lower surface of said guide post for raising said plug when said lifting and lowering mechanism is moved. to an open position, and the other of said arms cooperates with said elongated opening to lower said stopper when said lifting and lowering mechanism moves to a closed position.

The drain valve according to claim 13, wherein an elongate member having a contact element extends from a lower end of the guide post, said elongated member having a reduced cross section compared to said guide post; and said lifting and lowering mechanism includes a lever mechanism having a pair of arms, whereby the first of said arms cooperates with a lower surface of said contact element for lifting said stopper when said lifting and lowering mechanism is raised. moves to an open position, and the other of said arms partially surrounds a portion of said elongated member and comes into contact with an upper surface of the contact element for lowering said stopper when said lifting and lowering mechanism moves to a closed position.

The drain valve according to claim 15, wherein said contact element is adjustable in an adjustable manner from the lower end of said guide post.

17. A drain valve for use with an air bath having an air distribution system, said drain valve comprising: a valve housing for being placed within a drainage opening in a bath container, said housing valve an upper opening having a diameter, and a lower opening having a diameter extending at an angle to said first / said opening / opening diameter, said lower opening for receiving fluid from said air distribution system; a strainer body removably secured within said valve housing; a plug having first and second pistons, an internal channel and a longitudinal axis; and a guide post including a longitudinal axis positioned within said internal channel to support said plug.

The drain valve according to claim 17, wherein said guide post includes a slot extending parallel to said longitudinal axis of said guide post, an upper end and a lower end; and said plug includes a notch extending within said plug at an angle to said longitudinal axis.

The drain valve according to claim 18 further including a latch positioned within said notch in said plug to extend into said slot when said guide post is placed inside said plug, so that said latch slides inside of said plug. said slot when said plug is moved between an open position and a closed position.

The drain valve according to claim 17, wherein said strainer body includes an upper flange for positioning against a surface of the bath container and an upper section for engaging said valve housing. twenty-one .

The drain valve according to claim 20, wherein said strainer body further includes a central section having a plurality of vertically extending openings aligned with said lower opening in said valve housing, when installed therein to allow that the fluid flows from the air distribution system to said strainer body.

22. The drain valve according to claim 21, wherein said strainer body further includes a lower section having a strainer with a plurality of horizontally extending openings and a threaded opening; and a lower end of said guide post is removably secured within said opening of said lower section, when said drain valve is mounted.

23. The drain valve according to claim 22, wherein said valve housing further includes a coupling member extending therefrom and being secured in relation to said lower opening for receiving fluid from the air distribution system. • The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein said valve housing further includes a hollow interior region proximate said lower opening for receiving fluid from said air distribution system and delivering it to said interior. body strainer. 25. The drain valve according to claim 17, wherein said first and second pistons each include a member / to cooperate with said valve housing when said cap is in a closed position, to prevent the fluid flows between each of said pistons and said valve housing. 26. The drain valve according to claim 17, further including a lifting and lowering mechanism operatively connected to said guide post for moving said stopper. 27. The fluid drain valve according to claim 26, wherein said guide post includes a lower end having an elongated opening extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of said guide. 20 cap when mounted; and said lifting and lowering mechanism includes a lever mechanism having a pair of arms, by which the first of said arms cooperates with a lower surface of said guide post to lift said stopper when said lifting and lowering mechanism is moved to a first position, and the other of said arms 5 cooperates with said elongated opening for b, lowering < - said plug when said lifting and lowering mechanism moves to a second position. The drain valve according to claim 26, wherein an elongate member having a contact element extends from a lower end of the guide post, said elongated member having a reduced cross section compared to said guide post; and said lifting and lowering mechanism includes a lever mechanism having a pair of arms, by which the first of said arms cooperates with a lower surface of said contact element for raising said stopper, when said lifting and lowering mechanism. it moves to an open position, and the other of said arms partially surrounds a portion of said elongated member and comes into contact with an upper surface of the contact element for lowering said plug when said lifting and lowering mechanism moves to a closed position. . 29. The drain valve according to claim 28, wherein said contact element is adjustable in an adjustable manner from the lower end of said guide post. 30. The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein _ inferna / said "chamber; - - / ± extends between said first and second pistons. 31 A method for cleaning channels of an air distribution system for a bath container having a drain valve for retaining fluid within the bath container and fluid pressure within the air distribution system, said method comprising the steps of: a) introducing a predetermined amount of a cleaning solution into the air distribution system through a fluid inlet when the drain valve is closed; b) filling the bath container with a fluid to a predetermined first level above the air distribution holes in the bath container; c) mixing said cleaning solution with said fluid and allowing the mixture to settle within the air distribution system and the bath container; d) open the drain valve so that the mixed fluid and cleaning solution flows through the air channels and into the drain valve; e) placing a drain cover over the open drain valve to prevent mixed fluid and cleaning solution from flowing directly into the drain valve of the bath container; and f) removing said drainage cover after the fluid and cleaning solution have reached a predetermined second level below said first predetermined level. 32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising the step of rinsing the bath container and the air distribution system, said rinsing step including: a) closing the drain valve after said drain cover has been removed; b) filling said bath container with water up to substantially said first predetermined level; and c) reopening said drain valve so that said water flows to said drain valve of the bath container and the air distribution channels. 33. The method according to claim 31, wherein a conduit having a one-way valve extends between said fluid inlet and said air channels. 34. The method according to claim 31, wherein said mixing step includes operating a fan of said air distribution system. 35. The method according to claim 31, wherein said first predetermined level is approximately 15.24 centimeters above said air distribution orifices.